The Promenade Plantée, officially known as the Coulée Verte René-Dumont, is Paris’s pioneering elevated park, stretching nearly five kilometers through the 12th arrondissement. Opened in 1993 atop the defunct Vincennes railway line, it predates New York’s High Line and offers a lush, linear escape above the city streets. Beginning near the Opéra Bastille and ending at the Bois de Vincennes, the walkway winds through gardens, tunnels, and viaducts, including the Viaduc des Arts, now home to artisan studios and galleries. Designed by architect Philippe Mathieux and landscape artist Jacques Vergely, the park features cherry trees, bamboo, roses, and seasonal blooms, with benches and alcoves adorned by street art. It provides unique views of Haussmannian architecture and hidden urban details, making it a favorite for joggers, picnickers, and quiet wanderers. The Promenade Plantée is a poetic blend of nature and urban renewal, offering a tranquil, elevated perspective on Parisian life.
Paris FrancePromenade Plantée, also known as the Coulée Verte René-Dumont, is an elevated green walkway in Paris’s 12th arrondissement. Its main entrance is at 137 Avenue Daumesnil, starting just behind the Opéra Bastille and stretching nearly 5 kilometers east to the edge of the Bois de Vincennes. Built on a former railway viaduct, this unique park offers a lush, tree-lined path above the city streets, with sections that pass through gardens, tunnels, and over bridges, providing scenic views and a tranquil escape from urban bustle. Beneath the elevated section, the Viaduc des Arts houses artisan workshops and galleries, making it a vibrant cultural destination. Along the route, you’ll find the Jardin de Reuilly, a popular spot for picnics and relaxation, as well as modern residential neighborhoods and local cafés. The Promenade Plantée is easily accessible via several metro stations, including Bastille, Daumesnil, and Montgallet, and is close to major attractions like the Opéra Bastille and the bustling Aligre Market. This innovative park inspired New York’s High Line and is a favorite for walkers, joggers, and anyone seeking a different perspective on Parisian life.