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Charonne

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City
—°84
Charonne (France)
ℹ️

Practical info — Charonne

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • The Saint-Germain-de-Charonne church is a rarity in Paris as it still has its original parish cemetery.
  • Take bus 76 or walk down from Metro Gambetta to avoid walking up the steepest cobblestone streets.
  • Wander off the main roads into the narrow passages and ancient workers' courtyards around Rue des Vignoles.
  • Late afternoon is the best time to explore, as the golden light beautifully highlights the village-like architecture.
  • The neighborhood feels very different from central Paris; respect the quiet residential atmosphere in the narrow alleys.

🍽 Food

🍽
Parisian Bistro Classics

Grab a traditional meal at one of the historic cafes along Rue de Bagnolet.

🍽
Artisanal Bread and Pastries

Try a freshly baked croissant from an independent boulangerie on Rue Saint-Blaise.

🍽
Natural Wine and Tapas

Look for a modern 'cave à manger' near Place de la Réunion for an evening drink.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Place de la Réunion Market

A bustling open-air market operating on Thursday and Sunday mornings, great for fresh food.

🛍
Independent Bookstores

Browse the small, characterful bookshops and local craft stores dotted along Rue d'Avron.

🧘
Jardin Naturel Pierre-Emmanuel

A unique botanical garden designed to let native plants grow wildly, near Père Lachaise.

🧘
Square de la Salamandre

A serene, somewhat hidden residential square providing an excellent spot to rest.

Charonne is a unique and historic neighborhood in the 20th arrondissement of Paris, located on the city's eastern side. Until its incorporation into Paris in 1860, it was a rural village known for its vineyards and market gardens. Today, it stands out as one of the few places in the French capital that has managed to retain its original village atmosphere. The heart of the area is the Saint-Germain de Charonne church, an 11th-century foundation that remains the only church in Paris still surrounded by its ancient parish cemetery. The history of Charonne is deeply intertwined with the social movements of the 19th century and the Paris Commune, lending it a rebellious and proud identity. Its narrow, winding streets, such as the Rue des Vignoles, are famous for their hidden passages and leafy courtyards that once housed artisan workshops. Modern Charonne is a blend of traditional working-class roots and a newer, artistic population. It gives a wealth of independent cinemas, local bistros, and small parks, making it a favorite for those looking to experience an authentic, less-touristed side of Paris. The neighborhood perfectly exemplifies the concept of a 'village within a city.'

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C3471014171919161274
Rain mm545052396460555942576169

Geography

Population
185,140
Coordinates
48.85250, 2.40320

Facts

  • Charonne was an independent commune until January 1, 1860.
  • Parts of the Saint-Germain de Charonne church date to the 12th century.
  • The Charonne cemetery contains approximately 650 graves.
  • Rue de Bagnolet is the historic main street of the neighborhood.
  • Charonne is located on a ridge in the east of Paris.
  • The name likely derives from a Gallo-Roman estate called 'Cadrana'.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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Sights in the town Charonne (8)

Saint-Germain de Charonne Church⛪ religious

An easy on the eye church that has kept its village character and is one of the few in Paris with an adjacent parish cemetery.

Charonne Cemetery🏺 historical

A small, historic parish cemetery where figures such as Malraux's sons are buried, offering a peaceful, rural atmosphere.

Place de la Réunion🏙 civic

The bustling heart of the neighborhood, known for its market and authentic Parisian vibe, away from the main tourist paths.

Pierre-Emmanuel Natural Garden🌿 nature

A wild garden dedicated to preserving the native flora and fauna of the Île-de-France region, a quiet green oasis.

Rue Saint-Blaise🏺 historical

The former main street of the village of Charonne, which retains its old-world charm with cobblestones and low houses.

Réservoir de Charonne🌿 nature

Réservoir de Charonne is a lake located in Charonne, offering a peaceful setting for nature walks and scenic views.

Square Maurice-Gardette👨‍👩‍👧 family

Square Maurice-Gardette provides a lovely playground environment for families visiting Charonne.

Les Jardins Suspendus👨‍👩‍👧 family

A rooftop garden with panoramic views in Charonne.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Charonne located in Paris?
Charonne is a former village located in the 20th arrondissement of Paris, preserving its village-like charm around Rue St-Blaise.
What is special about the Saint-Germain de Charonne church?
It is one of the few churches in Paris that still has an adjacent old cemetery, giving it a unique atmosphere.
Which metro station is closest to Charonne?
The 'Gambetta' (Line 3) or 'Porte de Bagnolet' (Line 3) stations are good starting points for exploring the neighborhood.
Is the Charonne Cemetery worth visiting?
Yes, it is small, intimate, and far less touristy than the nearby Père Lachaise, handy for a quiet walk.
Are there good restaurants in Charonne?
Around Rue des Vignoles, you will find appealing bistros and cafes offering an authentic Parisian atmosphere away from the crowds.
Charonne: where is it located?
Charonne is located in Île-de-France, France.
Charonne: what is there to see?
Highlights include Saint-Germain de Charonne Church, Charonne Cemetery, Place de la Réunion.
Charonne: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Charonne: why is it worth visiting?
Charonne is a unique and historic neighborhood in the 20th arrondissement of Paris, located on the city's eastern side.
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