20 of the Prettiest Streets in Paris

Europe . France . Paris

20 of the Prettiest Streets in Paris

Last Modified: February 19, 2023

Table of Contents

1 Overview of the Prettiest Streets in Paris
2 Map of the Prettiest Streets in Paris
3 Conclusion
4 Pin it for Later

Paris is one of the most romantic and charming cities in the world. There is a surprise at every corner and new things to discover no matter how many times you visit. Each neighborhood is full of unique places and some of the prettiest streets in Paris.

There is no shortage of beautiful photo spots or historic buildings here. And the best part about Paris is that every one of its arrondissements, or neighborhoods, has its own unique personality.

One of the most exciting ways to explore the city is just to start walking! However, being so large, deciding where to start can be a little daunting. For that reason, I have come up with some of the prettiest streets in Paris to help get you started.

Some of these streets, like the Champs, are iconic Paris locations, while others few people know about and can be hard to find if you don’t know what to look for.

This guide includes the prettiest streets in Paris, where they are located, and popular things to do nearby. And if you can’t get to them all, that is okay! The City of Lights is one of those magical places that you will want to return to again.

Bon voyage!

Overview of the Prettiest Streets in Paris

Here is a list of the prettiest streets in Paris by Arrondissement. I’ve also included some popular attractions and restaurants nearby!

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Map of the Prettiest Streets in Paris

To make your exploration a little easier, here is a map of the different streets and locations I will be talking about. In addition, I’ve included some famous restaurants and attractions close to each location in case you are looking for other things to do while in Paris. Download the Paris Metro App to help you navigate the city.

Rue de l’Abreuvoir – 18th Arrondissement

Probably one of the most famous streets on the list is the highly photographed Rue de l’Abreuvoir. The quintessential Parisian street is located in the 18th Arrondissement and is one of the oldest streets in Paris. Though there are several famous streets in Montmartre, Rue de l’Abreuvoir is hands-down the most visited, especially after being featured in the Netflix Series “Emily in Paris.”

The stunning road has a lush wall of trees on one side and dozens of ivy-covered homes on the other. The views of Sacré-Coeur in the background and the pretty pink buildings are what most people think of when they hear about Rue de l’Abreuvoir. So it is no wonder that it is called the prettiest street in Paris.

The buildings that stand here today are on the newer side (by European standards), but the street itself is said to date back to the early 1300s. The most popular building is La Mansion Rose, sitting at the corner of Rue de l’Abreuvoir and Rue des Saules. The famous pink and green building is a coffee shop once said to be a frequent hangout for writers and artists such as Renoir and Picasso.

Walking down the cobblestone road, followed by a drink in the cozy La Mansion Rose, is sure to make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the 1920s.

Start at the bottom of the hill and make your way to the top for beautiful views of Sacré-Coeur. Go as early as possible for the best pictures and to avoid the crowds. Unfortunately, it gets very busy during the day!

From there, spend the day exploring Montmartre. There are so many beautiful things to see here. For some of the prettiest views of Paris, climb to the top of Sacré Coeur. Since the church sits high on a hill, you have terrific views of Paris, including that of the Eiffel Tower. It is one of the best things to do in Montmartre, especially during the summer.

Address: Rue de l’Abreuvoir, 75018 Paris, France

Getting to Rue de l’Abreuvoir: Lamarck-Caulaincourt Metro

Things to do Nearby: Sacré-Coeur, Moulin Rouge, Musée de Montmartre

Rue des Rosiers – 4th Arrondissement

In the center of Le Marais is Rue des Rosiers. It is one of the busier streets on the list due to its location in one of Paris’ most loved neighborhoods. The “street of the rosebushes,” which is what Rue des Rosier means, is in the center of the Jewish Quarter.

The street is said to have been constructed in the 13th century, around 1230. The oldest section has been left intact, with parts of the medieval wall still visible in le Jardin des Rosiers. If you’d like to see the historic wall, there is access at 10, rue des Rosiers.

Rue des Rosiers is the perfect example of why Le Marais is one of the most popular places to stay in Paris. The cobbled road is bursting with energy and stays busy from morning to night. Packed with cafés, restaurants, and shops, you have many things to do here.

If you get hungry, stop by the Boulangerie Murciano for a sweet pastry or grab a falafel at L’as du Falafel.

Address: Rue des Rosiers 75004 Paris, France

Getting to Rue des Rosiers: Get off at Saint-Paul Metro. From there, it is a short 5-minute walk.

Things to do Nearby: Musée Picasso, Notre Dame

Rue Norvins – 18th Arrondissement

Rue Norvins is another Medieval Paris street. It was built in the 1400s but did not officially appear on city plans until 1672. Over the years, it has stayed mostly unchanged, except for its name, which was initially “Rue Trenette.”

The old road is known for its charming shops and popular café, Le Consulat. The area is a wonderful contrast to the more modern parts of Paris. If you stand at the end of the street, you can also see the top of Sacré-Coeur looming over the tops of the buildings.

There are several other charming restaurants on the street with the quintessential outdoor seating areas, perfect for people-watching.

Address: Rue Norvins, 75018 Paris, France

Getting to Rue Norvins : Lamarck – Caulaincourt Metro

Things to do Nearby: Musée de Montmartre, Sacré-Coeur

Rue Crémieux – 12th Arrondissement

One of the most colorful streets in Paris is Rue Crémieux. The street is lined on both sides with brightly colored houses. Looking at it may give you a sense of deja-vu. That’s because the street looks similar to the iconic Portobello Road in Notting Hill, London.

These homes were not constructed until later in Paris’s history. Before that, a 1,500-seat Imperial Arena was a place of entertainment here during the Second Empire. The outdoor arena was used for numerous events until the 1850s. Now the land has become a picturesque row of 35 pastel-colored houses that have become popular attractions in recent years.

At only 144 meters in length, the pedestrian street is not very long, but it is quite stunning, and unlike many other streets in Paris. Lined with potted plants and perfectly manicured homes, Rue Crémieux is not the hidden gem it was just a few years ago.

Due to the street’s popularity, the inhabitants have requested to put some limitations on visitors. If you stop by, please respect the people who call this beautiful part of town home.

Address: Rue Crémieux 75012 Paris, France

Getting to Rue Crémieux: You can either take the Gare de Lyon RER or RER or Quai de la Rapée Metro

Things to do Nearby: Bastille Opera and Jardin des Plantes

Rue Lepic – 18th Arrondissement

Another Momtmarte street to make the list is Rue Lepic. Home of artist Vincent Van Gogh, Rue Lepic is one of the cutest streets in Paris. The painter lived here during his time in Paris at number 54 from 1886 to 1888.

Rue Lepic has some other famous connections. Not only is it the birthplace of the Renault car, but the street is also rumored to have been commissioned by Napolean.

The road winds its way through the 18th Arrondissement and is packed with little restaurants and eclectic shops.

It is the historic windmills that make Rue Lepic so highly visited. At one point in the history of Montmartre, there were dozens of windmills here. Now, only a few remain, including Moulin de la Galette.

Address: Rue Lepic, 75018 Paris, France

Getting to Rue Lepic: Blanche Metro

Things to do Nearby: Sacré-Coeur, Moulin Rouge, Musée de Montmartre

Rue Chanoinesse – 4th Arrondissement

Another picturesque street in Paris is Rue Chanoinesse. Located in the île de la Cité, the street has a blend of the quintessential Haussmann-style buildings and medieval architecture.

The Cité is the oldest part of Paris, with its first inhabitants being of Lutèce, long before the left and right banks were developed. Though most of the area has been renovated, Rue Chanoinesse is one of the remaining places that still holds onto its historic charms.

It is easily recognizable by the wisteria-covered restaurant Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole. The best time to visit is between April and May when the wisteria is in full bloom.

The historic house was built in 1512 as a canon house for Notre Dame. It was later turned into a wine bar. Today, it is a cute and cozy restaurant and one of the most photographed places in Paris.

Address: 24 Rue Chanoinesse, 7500 Paris, France

Getting to Rue Chanoinesse: Saint-Michel Notre-Dame

Things to do Nearby: Notre Dame, Pont Neuf Bridge, Square du Vert-Galant

Champs-Élysées – 8th Arrondissement

The most famous street in Paris is the extravagant Champs-Élysées. This is probably already on your Paris itinerary, but it is still worth mentioning.

The iconic road starts at the Arc de Triomphe and continues past a long strip of luxurious shops and high-end stores. It is one of the most popular shopping areas in Paris and home to some equally lavish hotels.

The Jardin des Champs-Élysées is a large park close to the avenue where you will find the Grand Palais. There are several other art museums in the vicinity as well if you are interested in exploring the area further.

Many people do not know this, but you can climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe and see down the tree-lined Champs-Élysées and steal glimpses of the nearby Eiffel Tower.

The Champs-Élysées is also where the annual Bastille Day parade takes place. In the morning, the street is lined on either side with thousands of people ready to partake in the festive parade that starts under the Arc de Triomphe and works its way down the long boulevard.

Address: Av. Des Champs-Élysées 75008 Paris, France

Getting to Champs-Élysées: Ch. De Gaulle Étoile Champs-Élysées

Things to do Nearby: Petit Palais and Grand Palais Art Museums, Arc du Triumph

Avenue Rapp – 7th Arrondissement

For the perfect views of the Eiffel tower, walk through Avenue Rapp. Like many older streets in Paris, Avenue Rapp is a cobblestone street lined with cafés and old Parisian buildings.

Tucked between the large buildings is Square Rapp, a small garden area where you can see the entire silhouette of the Eiffel Tower. Decorated with a large iron gate and fountain, Avenue Rapp is the perfect place to peer up at the iconic monument.

Other popular attractions here include the Lavirotte Building at 29 Avenue Rapp. Standing out from many other Parisian buildings, this particular one has a unique facade with a large, striking door and exterior design elements. The Art Nouveau building was designed by Jules Laviolette, who actually lived in one of the apartments for some time.

Address: Av. Rapp 75007 Paris, France

Getting to Avenue Rapp: École Militaire Metro

Things to do Nearby: Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars

Rue Galande – 5th Arrondissement

Rue Galande is an old Roman street in Paris named after the Galande family of winemakers. Records show that the road dates back to the 13th century, if not longer.

There are still several medieval buildings intact, and most of the road has been left untouched. If you venture to no. 42, you can even see the remains of a sculpture of Saint Julien the Pauper from 1380.

The medieval road is known mainly for its delicious Odette pastry shop. Although not as old as some other buildings, the picture-perfect boulangerie dates back to the 1600s. The small patisserie is known for its decadent puff pastries and is the perfect stop during your explorations.

Once you are done with your mid-day coffee and desserts, continue along to Shakespeare and Company, followed by a walk along the Seine to Notre Dame.

Address: Rue Galande 75005 Paris, France

Getting to Rue Galande: Maubert-Mutualite

Things to do Nearby: Shakespeare & Co., Notre Dame

Rue Lamarck – 18th Arrondissement

Rue Lamarck is another pretty street in Montmartre. It was named after the scientist Jean-Baptiste de Lamarck. Rue Lamarck starts at the base of Sacré-Coeur and continues down to Avenue de Saint-Ouen.

It is not as old as many other streets in Paris, but it is one of the longest. After you have explored the Sinking House and Sacré-Coeur, take the steps down Rue Lamarck for lunch at the delectable Le Refuge restaurant.

Address: Rue Lamarck 75018 Paris, France

Getting to Rue Lamarck: Lamarck- Caulaincourt

Things to do Nearby: Sacré-Coeur, Musée de Montmartre

Avenue du Maréchal Gallieni – 7th Arrondissemont

The Avenue du Maréchal Gallieni is one road you will probably venture across at some point during your time in Paris. The street crosses the beautiful Pont Alexandre III bridge over the Seine river.

Most people are too focused on the lavish gold-embellished bridge and overlook the equally beautiful street. One attractive section is the tree-lined Esplanade des Invalides.

All you need to make the setting perfect is the Eiffel Tower, which you too, can see from here. Step onto the Pont Alexandre III bridge for some uninterrupted views of the Eiffel Tower in the distance.

The one drawback to Avenue du Maréchal Gallieni is the large number of people that come here daily, especially on and around the bridge. For the best experience, take a stroll early in the morning or even late at night for views of the Eiffel Tower lit up.

Address: Avenue du Maréchal Gallieni 75007 Paris, France

Getting to Avenue du Maréchal Gallieni: Invalides Metro Station

Things to do Nearby: Pont Alexandre III Bridge, Rodin Museum, Musée de l’Orangerie, Musée d’Orsay.

Avenue de Camoëns – 16th Arrondissement

A popular Eiffel Tower photo spot, the Avenue de Camoëns is another one of the prettiest streets in Paris. The street is named after a Portuguese poet by the name of Luís Vaz de Camões.

The road connects Boulevard Delessert and Rue Benjamin-Franklin by way of a staircase. First, climb down the stairs for the marble sculpture of Luís Vaz de Camões. Then, climb to the top of the stairs for Eiffel Tower views.

Address: Av. de Camoëns 75116 Paris, France

Getting to Avenue de Camoëns: Tracadéro Station

Things to do Nearby: Tracadéro Gardens

Rue des Barres – 4th Arrondissement

The cobblestoned road is one of the most picturesque parts of le Marais. The short 150-yard street was first found on maps in the 1500s but is much older, dating back to at least the mid-13th century.

Although Rue des Barres is not that well-known and easily passed by, it has some fascinating historic buildings that are still in use today. One of which is the medieval Church of Saint Gervais.

A few other old buildings still in use include number 12, built in 1540, and the slightly newer address of number 15, which was built in 1624.

Grab a seat outside at café L’Ébouillanté and enjoy some of the best views of the Church of Saint Gervais and the medieval street.

Address: Rue des Barres 75004 Paris, France

Getting to Rue des Barres: Take the Saint-Paul Metro stop

Things to do Nearby: Notre Dame, Musée du Louvre, and Pont Neuf

Boulevard St. Germain – 6th Arrondissement

Although it may not be as unique as some other streets in Paris, Boulevard St. Germain is one of my personal favorite areas. The Parisian street is located in the Latin Quarter in the 6th arrondissement. The entire area screams classic Paris.

There is everything you could need here. With a large selection of antique stores, art galleries, high-end department stores, cafés, and bars, you don’t ever need to leave. It is also the location of my favorite restaurant Brasserie Lipp.

While in St. Germain, stop into Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, two of the most well-known cafés in Paris. Both were popular places for writers and artists to meet and are still two of the busiest restaurants in the area.

Address: 172 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris, France (This is the address of Café de Flore, in the center section of the street)

Getting to Boulevard St. Germain: The closest stop is the Saint-Germain-des-Prés Metro Station

What to do Nearby: Musée du Luxembourg, Théâtre de l’Odéon, and the St-Germain-des-Près Church

Avenue de l’Opéra – 1st & 2nd Arrondissement

The delightful avenue connects two of Paris’ neighborhoods. The street runs from the Louvre museum up to the Palais Garnier.

The gold-gilded building reminds me a lot of a mini Versailles and is one of my favorite places to visit in Paris. The inspiration behind the book The Phantom of the Opera, the Palais Garnier is an exciting place to visit, with exquisite surprises at every turn. The opera house also still hosts musical events at night.

The long avenue is one of the newer roads in Paris, having been constructed as part of the Haussmann renovations in the 1860s. Originally intended as a way to connect the wealthier areas in Paris and a place to put the opera house, it is now the location of high-end jewelry and clothing stores.

One thing you may notice that makes Avenue de l’Opéra quite different from the other Haussmann streets is its lack of trees. This was due to the Palais Garnier’s architecture, Charles Garnier. He felt like trees would hinder the views of the opulent opera house, and therefore none were planted.

Address: Pl. de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris, France

Getting to Avenue de l’Opéra: Take either the Tuileries or Opéra Metro Stations

What to do Nearby: Palais Garnier, Tuileries Gardens, Place de la Concord, Musée de l’Orangerie

Rue de l’Université – 7th Arrondissement

Another popular Eiffel Tower viewing spot is the west end of rue de l’Université. You can get extremely close to the monument from here.

From there, you can also access Avenue Rapp, another of the prettiest streets in Paris, with spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower.

Although this is a far less crowded spot for a photo opportunity, it has become increasingly popular. For the best chance of getting a few photos without anyone else around, try to go earlier in the day.

Address: Rue de l’Université 75007 Paris, France

Getting to Rue de l’Université: The closest stop is th Invalides Metro Station

What to do Nearby: Eiffel Tower, Trocadero Gardens, Invalides

Rue Nicolas Flamel – 4th Arrondissement

For you Harry Potter fans, Rue Nicolas Flamel is a must-see. Most people know this historical figure from the books, but he was a real person who lived in Paris and owned property on the street.

Flamel was a scribe who did, in fact, dabble in alchemy and thought he had discovered the philosopher’s stone (so people say).

One of the prettiest parts of this street is the view of the Saint-Jacques Tower. The beautiful structure of a medieval church destroyed during the French revolution is all that remains.

Once you wander around the area, make a pit stop at Maison Nicolas Flamel, the oldest stone home in Paris! The old 1407 house is located at 51 Rue de Montmorency. The house was built by Flamel and his wife as a place for the poor to live, and they never actually resided there themselves.

Although you cannot tour the property, the bottom floor of the house has been transformed into the restaurant, Auberge de Nicolas Flamel. From there, continue to Rue de Rivoli, another pretty street nearby.

Address: Rue Nicolas Flamel 75004 Paris, France

Getting to Rue Nicolas Flamel: Take Châtelet Metro Station is the closest stop.

Things to do Nearby: Musée Picasso, Musée du Louvre, Notre Dame

Rue Saint-Dominique – 7th Arrondissement

Rue Saint-Dominique is another famous street in Paris. Rue Saint-Dominque is home to some of the best places to eat and shop and some expensive real estate.

Not to mention, you are within walking distance of some of Paris’s most iconic monuments, such as the Eiffel Tower and Arc du Triomphe.

The road is named after a Dominican monastery in the 1600s. It is attached to another favorite street of mine, Boulevard Saint Germain.

Address: Rue Saint-Dominique 75007 Paris, France

Getting to Rue Saint-Dominique: The Invalides is the closest Metro station

Things to do Nearby: Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars, and Musée d’Orsay

Rue Saint-Rustique – 18th Arrondissement

Last on the list is another Montmartre street. It was initially called rue Notre Dame and is rumored to be the oldest street in Paris.

One of the few remaining areas of medieval Paris, Montmartre a fascinating historic place to explore, which is why there are so many pretty streets in the area. Rue Saint-Rustique is no exception.

The small cobblestone pedestrian path connects to rue Norvins, one of the other Montmartre streets I mentioned earlier. It is easy to miss if you don’t know what you are looking for!

Address: Rue Saint-Rustique 75018 Paris, France

Getting to Rue Saint-Rustique: You can take the Metro to the Anvers or Lamarck-Caulaincourt stations. From there, Rue Saint-Rustique is about a 7-minute walk.

Things to do Nearby: Sacré-Coeur and Moulin Rouge.

Rue de Rivoli – 1st Arrondissement

If you plan on visiting the Louvre Museum, you will cross the rue de Rivoli. The street is home to several souvenir shops and the popular Carrousel du Louvre. Shops here range from touristy souvenir spots to high-end fashion boutiques.

Rue de Rivoli was built in the 19th century to replace a series of 70 smaller streets, squares, and gardens. The original street was contracted by Napoleon and named after his victory over Austria in the battle of Rivoli. During the Haussmann renovations, it was made longer, totaling 3 kilometers.

Now, it is home to some of the most visited attractions in Paris and a great place to shop. Start your day with a visit to the Louvre, followed by shopping and a walk in the lush Tuileries Gardens. From there, you have dozens of popular attractions to explore.

Address: Rue de Rivoli 75004 Paris, France

Getting to Rue de Rivoli: The closest stop is the Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre Metro Station

Things to do Nearby: Louvre, Pont Neuf Paris, and Musée de l’Orangerie

Conclusion

Paris is such a magical place and one of the most visited cities in the world. No matter where you turn, you are rewarded with historic charm, delightful cafés, and exquisite sites. I hope you enjoyed this list of the prettiest streets in Paris. Discovered one that I’ve missed? Please share it in the comments!

Enjoyed this post? Here are some other posts about Paris.

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Hey, I’m Ally! Welcome to Cafes and Getaways. I’ll be sharing details on my latest travel destinations, as well as tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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