Paris 19th

Paris's 19th arrondissement, in the north-east of the capital, stands out for its generous green spaces and a more residential feel than the historic centre. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, with its rugged terrain, grottoes and lake, makes for a pleasant spot for a stroll. Parc de la Villette, another green lung of the district, hosts a popular open-air cinema in summer, along with temporary exhibitions at the Cité des Sciences and the Grande Halle, depending on the current programme. The arrondissement is also well connected to Paris's iconic landmarks, such as the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower or Sacré-Cœur, just a few Metro stops away. On the food front, the Japanese restaurant Koko is a well-regarded choice for its carefully prepared dishes, while fans of halal street food will enjoy chamax tacos. Between walks along the Canal de l'Ourcq, breaks in the parks and cultural outings at La Villette, the 19th offers an authentic, lively side of Paris, well away from the tourist bustle of the central districts.