As the warm weather returns, there’s nothing better than escaping the stone and asphalt of Paris to relax in one of its green spaces. Far from the tourist hustle, the 13th arrondissement is the perfect area for a nature-filled stroll. Discover the best parks in Paris 13.Why Choose the 13th Arrondissement for a Nature Break in Paris?Away from the most tourist-heavy neighborhoods of the capital, Paris’s 13th arrondissement is both authentic and peaceful. Located on the Left Bank of the Seine, it offers a blend of tradition and modernity, with a family-friendly atmosphere and charming green spaces to recharge. You’ll find locals sunbathing, students relaxing, families enjoying the outdoors, and the occasional traveler soaking in the true Parisian lifestyle.Top 5 Parks to Discover in Paris 13The team at Hôtel B55 has selected the best parks for strolling, relaxing, and enjoying springtime in the 13th arrondissement of Paris.Parc de ChoisyLocated in the heart of the Chinatown district, Parc de Choisy is a rectangular green space covering 4 hectares. Designed with classical inspiration, it features an elegant pond, notable trees, and flower-lined paths—ideal for relaxation. The playground areas are especially popular with families.Parc KellermannBuilt over the former course of the Bièvre River in the 1940s–50s, Parc Kellermann is the largest park in the 13th arrondissement. Spanning nearly 5 hectares along Boulevard Kellermann, it offers sports trails, expansive lawns, and lovely wooded areas—making it a great destination for all ages and preferences.Square René-Le GallAlso known as the Jardin des Gobelins, this quaint garden is nestled in the Butte-aux-Cailles area. Smaller than other parks, it offers a peaceful and intimate atmosphere. Locals love its quiet charm, while kids enjoy the playgrounds. On sunny spring days, the shaded corners are perfect for people-watching in comfort.Jardin James JoyceA symbol of the Paris Rive Gauche transformation, Jardin James Joyce is a modern green space created in 1998. Located in the Tolbiac/Masséna area near the François Mitterrand Library, it offers a more contemporary vibe and an interesting dialogue between architecture and nature.Parc MontsourisTechnically in the 14th arrondissement, Parc Montsouris lies just one street from the 13th, so it earns its place on our list. Covering 15.5 hectares, this park—established in 1875—is one of Paris’s most beautiful. It boasts a lake, flowered pathways, centuries-old trees, and expansive lawns that attract locals from across the 13th.How to Make the Most of the Parks in Paris’s 13th ArrondissementThere are countless ways to enjoy a beautiful Parisian park. Whether you’re a family with young children, a student, a fitness enthusiast, or a retired couple, everyone can find their own way to appreciate these green havens:Have a picnic, picking up fresh, delicious products from local markets;Read, wander, or exercise, whether on shady benches, on open lawns, or along charming walking paths;Explore the park with friends or family, for a friendly, peaceful experience away from the crowds.The 13th arrondissement is the ideal destination for a sunny day in Paris, offering a range of parks to suit every preference. During your stay at Hôtel B55, take time to explore these green spaces and enjoy an authentic Parisian experience.

With the return of spring and its beautiful sunny days, Paris’s 13th arrondissement reveals a whole new face. A mix of green spaces and festive vibes, the neighborhood buzzes with energy, inviting visitors to stroll and explore. Make the most of spring in the 13th arrondissement with tips and recommendations from the team at Hôtel B55.Why Discover the 13th Arrondissement of Paris in Spring?Though not among the most touristy areas of Paris, the 13th arrondissement is undergoing a transformation that blends tradition with modernity, giving it a unique and authentic atmosphere. Modern architectural projects stand alongside historic districts, while green spaces and striking street art murals create an ideal setting for wandering through contrasts. From urban art to contemporary design, this part of Paris is also notably more peaceful, far from the usual tourist trails.Must-See Walks in Paris 13It may not be as famous as the 7th arrondissement (home to the Eiffel Tower) or the 8th (with the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées), but the 13th hides some lovely treasures.Butte-aux-Cailles: A Village Within the CityBetween Parc Montsouris and Place d’Italie lies Butte-aux-Cailles, a preserved micro-neighborhood full of charming spots. With its narrow, quaint streets and low houses, it feels like a village from another era—but it’s also one of Paris’s most vibrant hubs for street art. The charm of this diversity reveals hidden gems: a historic café, an art gallery, or a unique boutique where you can find great deals.François Mitterrand Library DistrictIn sharp contrast to the old-world charm of Butte-aux-Cailles, the Bibliothèque Nationale de France – François Mitterrand presents a modern and spacious setting. Strolling along the nearby Seine or across the wide esplanade lets you admire the building’s contemporary architecture. Inside, cultural and reading areas are freely accessible to the public.Parks in the 13th ArrondissementAs spring arrives, fresh air and sunshine are irresistible. The green spaces in Paris 13 are perfect for that. Among the best spots for a picnic or a walk, Parc de Choisy—near Chinatown—is the district’s green lung. Smaller but just as delightful, Parc Kellermann and Square René-Le Gall offer peaceful retreats away from the tourist crowds.Urban Art in the Heart of the 13th ArrondissementNestled between green spaces and picturesque streets, Paris 13 also shines thanks to its impressive street art and vibrant art scene.Monumental Street ArtAs you stroll through the 13th arrondissement, keep an eye on the building facades. While the massive murals will immediately catch your attention, smaller hidden pieces scattered across the neighborhood might surprise you. Like an open-air museum, the area—particularly around Boulevard Vincent-Auriol—features works by world-renowned artists such as Obey, Inti, and Seth.Itinerrance Art GalleryA true institution in the 13th, the Itinerrance Gallery is dedicated to urban art. Since 2004, it has showcased works by leading street artists and hosts numerous events that allow visitors to meet and engage with those who’ve helped transform the neighborhood.Les Frigos: A Living Artistic SpaceHoused in a former refrigerated warehouse, Les Frigos is now a creative haven filled with artist studios. Home to a wide community of artists and craftsmen, it’s a key symbol of the 13th arrondissement’s cultural energy and a legacy of its industrial past.Explore the 13th Arrondissement DifferentlyTo truly soak in the authenticity of Paris 13, consider different ways to experience the neighborhood.Contemporary Architecture and Urban ContrastsThe urban landscape of the 13th offers striking contrasts that are worth discovering and photographing. Towering modern buildings coexist with older structures, forming a living example of urban renewal. Highlights include cutting-edge developments like the Cité Chevaleret and the ZAC Rive Gauche. For architecture and photography enthusiasts, the area is an endless source of inspiration.Markets and Neighborhood LifeThere’s no better way to dive into local life than through a neighborhood market. In the 13th, the bustling energy of the markets reflects its rich cultural diversity. You can enjoy authentic Paris through the Auguste-Blanqui market with its fresh local produce, or take a culinary journey through one of Europe’s largest Asian districts.Walking or Biking ToursWhether on foot or by bike, exploring Paris 13 promises exciting discoveries. Well-maintained cycle paths make getting around easy and safe, and walking from the François Mitterrand Library to Parc de Bercy along the Left Bank offers a pleasant, scenic route.Vibrant, artistic, and peaceful, the 13th arrondissement of Paris offers countless ways to experience spring differently. Whether you’re an urban art enthusiast, a fan of hidden gems, or a casual wanderer, this neighborhood will surprise and inspire you. Book your stay at Hôtel B55 now and explore a different, authentic, and inspiring side of Paris.

A cultural and artistic capital, Paris welcomes bold and visionary artists. Several current temporary exhibitions explore the human body from multiple perspectives. Discover six unique and immersive events dedicated to the human form.1. Corps In•visibles: An Inquiry into Balzac’s Dressing GownWith its new exhibition Corps In•visibles, the Musée Rodin invites visitors to delve into why Rodin chose to portray Balzac in a dressing gown, concealing the writer’s physique. The show raises questions about aesthetic norms of the time and our perceptions of the body, connecting to today’s themes of diversity and inclusion. Through paintings, sculptures, and photographs, it challenges and fascinates, examining identity, norms, and the silence surrounding human bodies.Location: Musée Rodin – 77, rue de Varenne (7th arrondissement)Dates: October 15, 2024 – March 2, 20252. Suzanne Valadon: Pioneer of Modern Art and Emancipated MuseThe Centre Pompidou celebrates Suzanne Valadon, a self-taught artist who defied the conventions of her time. With nearly 200 works on display, visitors will explore her vivid portraits, raw depictions of life, and unapologetic nudes. Her singular view of the world and her bold self-expression highlight the rare artistic freedom of a woman in early 20th-century France.Location: Centre Pompidou – Place Georges Pompidou (4th arrondissement)Dates: January 15 – May 26, 20253. Faisons corps: Art Examines the Link Between Body and IdentityThe MAIF Social Club presents Faisons corps, a free exhibition exploring the intimate dimensions of the human body. Fourteen artists showcase installations, sculptures, and photographs that challenge societal norms and explore social, political, and personal themes. The body becomes a powerful space for expression.Location: MAIF Social Club – 37, rue de Turenne (3rd arrondissement)Dates: November 10, 2024 – March 15, 20254. Corps et âmes: Exploring the Soul and the SensesHosted at the Bourse de Commerce, this exhibition explores the duality between the spiritual and the physical. Featuring around twenty international artists from the Pinault Collection, including Deana Lawson and Ana Mendieta, Corps et âmes reflects on the body in various forms—film, painting, sculpture—blending poetics and politics.Location: Bourse de Commerce – Pinault Collection, 2 rue de Viarmes (1st arrondissement)Dates: March 5 – August 25, 20255. La Mode en mouvement: When Style Meets MotionAt Palais Galliera, La Mode en mouvement continues with a focus on winter sports. This edition explores the evolution of clothing and accessories that liberated bodily movement, from the 18th century to today. It’s a fascinating look at how fashion adapts to physical expression and activity.Location: Palais Galliera – 14, avenue du Président Wilson (16th arrondissement)Dates: February 8 – September 7, 20256. Touching You | Catch Midnight: The Sensory and the InvisibleThis poetic exhibition at the Cité Internationale des Arts immerses visitors in a world where emotion and time intersect. Through visual and interactive works, it explores themes of touch, closeness, and distance, blurring the lines between reality and the intangible. Each installation invites an intimate sensory and emotional journey.Location: Cité Internationale des Arts – 18, rue de l’Hôtel de Ville (4th arrondissement)Dates: January 23 – March 1, 2025These six immersive exhibitions offer diverse and enriching perspectives on the human body. For the full Parisian cultural experience, book your stay at Hotel B55, the ideal base for exploring the city’s artistic treasures.

Located in the lively and cosmopolitan 13th arrondissement of Paris, the Cité Universitaire attracts students, their families, and even researchers. Staying nearby allows guests to enjoy this unique atmosphere while discovering both academic and cultural landmarks. Hotel B55 offers the ideal setting for a stay close to the Cité Universitaire in Paris.Why choose a hotel near the Cité Universitaire?Travelers booking a hotel room near the Cité U of Paris come to this neighborhood for various reasons, most commonly for work or to explore the 13th arrondissement.A strategic location for students and researchersStaying near the Cité Universitaire makes it easy to access various libraries and the campus. Researchers and students benefit greatly from booking a room in this area, allowing them to attend classes, lectures, conferences, or events without hassle.Exploring the neighborhood and its highlightsTourists, on the other hand, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, close to Paris’s most iconic sites. The nearby Parc Montsouris, located in the 14th arrondissement, offers a perfect spot to unwind, while the artistic charm of the picturesque alleyways encourages exploration and enjoyment.Hotel B55: a peaceful retreat near the University of ParisJust a 10-minute walk from the Cité U, Hotel B55 Wine & Spa is the perfect base for discovering Paris’s 13th arrondissement.A modern 4-star establishmentHotel B55 offers spacious, tastefully decorated contemporary rooms inspired by the theme of wine. Guests enjoy high-end amenities for maximum comfort: private bathrooms, quality bedding, flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and unlimited Wi-Fi.Wellness areas for ultimate relaxationWhether you’re staying at B55 for business or leisure, you’ll love the hotel’s wellness area. After a long day, unwind in the heated indoor pool or the sauna for a truly relaxing experience.Personalized and friendly serviceThe multilingual staff at the 4-star Hotel B55 guarantees a warm welcome and remains available throughout your stay to meet your needs. The concierge service can even help you plan your visits around the Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris.All the advantages of a stay at Hotel B55Beyond comfortable rooms and a warm welcome, a stay at B55 comes with many benefits.Close to public transportationHotel B55 is well connected by bus, metro, and RER lines. Reaching any train station in Paris, including Montparnasse, is easy, and you can also access iconic tourist attractions such as the Latin Quarter, Butte-aux-Cailles, or the Eiffel Tower. Business travelers can easily reach the Porte de Versailles exhibition center thanks to direct lines.Cultural and culinary discoveriesFrom cultural venues to gourmet hotspots, the 13th arrondissement is full of must-see places. Wander through the vast halls of the François-Mitterrand Library, and for a culinary journey, head over to the nearby Chinatown district.Tips for booking your hotel near the Cité UniversitaireTo get the best rates and enjoy your stay at Hotel B55, it’s recommended to book early and compare different offers. The hotel staff also suggests booking directly through the B55 website or by phone to secure the best prices. Be sure to check cancellation policies and included services to avoid surprises and ensure a great stay.Choosing Hotel B55 means opting for a high-end hotel ideally located near the Cité Universitaire. With 4-star comfort, quality services, and a strategic location, everything is in place for a unique experience. Book now and enjoy an unforgettable stay in Paris!

Known for its street art and Asian district, Paris’s 13th arrondissement is also home to fascinating museums. Spring is the perfect time to explore the area’s rich cultural offerings and discover the must-see museums of Paris 13.Why Explore the Museums of the 13th Arrondissement?When people think of Parisian museums, iconic names like the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay come to mind. However, in the 13th arrondissement, the museum scene is more intimate yet equally captivating.A dynamic district where urban art meets cultural institutionsA playground for art lovers, the 13th is renowned for its stunning murals and smaller-scale street art. Simply wandering its streets reveals creative gems. The district’s vibrant Asian community, especially around Avenue de Choisy, adds a rich international flair to its cultural identity.A diverse museum scene mixing modern exhibitions and historical heritageWhile the 13th may not be packed with historical monuments, its cultural offerings are impressively varied. From the elegant Avenue des Gobelins and its historic tapestry factory to contemporary art galleries near Italie Deux, Paris 13 caters to all interests.Top 5 Must-Visit Museums in Paris’s 13th Arrondissement1. Fondation Jérôme Seydoux-Pathé: A Unique Cinema MuseumLocated on Avenue des Gobelins, this museum is dedicated to the history of cinema. Film buffs and curious minds can explore rare posters and archives, especially focused on the silent film era. Its permanent collection and temporary exhibitions offer a deep dive into film’s golden age.2. Musée d’Art Ludique: When Games and Animation Become ArtSituated on the Quai d’Austerlitz, the Musée d’Art Ludique celebrates the world of entertainment: video games, comics, animated films, manga, and set design. Through interactive and immersive exhibitions, visitors—young and old—can discover the creative processes behind popular culture.3. Cité de la Mode et du Design: An Open-Air MuseumDesign and fashion lovers will adore the Cité de la Mode et du Design, located along the Seine. This cutting-edge venue houses designer boutiques, rotating exhibitions, and trendy restaurants. In the evening, the site comes alive with parties and events, capturing the 13th’s creative spirit.4. MAC VAL: A Temple of Contemporary ArtJust outside the 13th, in Vitry-sur-Seine, the MAC VAL is a must-visit. Entirely dedicated to contemporary French art, it features over 2,500 works in its permanent collection. Visitors can also attend workshops, guided tours, and meet-the-artist events.5. Alternative Galleries and Museums Worth ExploringArt lovers flock to the 13th for its alternative cultural spaces. Near the French National Library, Lavo//Matik gallery showcases urban art through exhibitions, exclusive posters, and books.Another standout is Galerie Itinerrance, which emerged from the Street Art 13 project and bridges modern and contemporary art through dynamic shows.Finally, Château des Rentiers, housed in a former factory, is a vibrant cultural hub spotlighting emerging artists and creative innovation.Practical Tips for Visiting Museums in the 13th ArrondissementOpening Hours and Free Entry DaysMany public museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month, such as the Fondation Jérôme Seydoux-Pathé. Others offer discounted rates on select days or times—check before you go to make the most of your visit.Best Itineraries for a Day of Museum-HoppingFrom Hotel B55, you can easily explore several cultural spots in one day. Start with the Fondation Jérôme Seydoux-Pathé on Avenue des Gobelins, head to the Cité de la Mode et du Design, and wrap up with a dive into street art at Lavo//Matik gallery.Where to Stay to Enjoy the Museums of Paris 13Nestled in the heart of the 13th arrondissement, Hotel B55 is the perfect base for a cultural stay. Its location lets you visit the top museums at your own pace, and with excellent access to public transport, you can venture to other parts of Paris as well.After a full day of museum visits, return to the hotel’s peaceful and stylish ambiance. Spacious, well-equipped rooms ensure restful nights, and you can unwind in the wellness area with a pool and sauna—or enjoy a glass of wine from the self-serve wine dispenser.Exploring the museums of the 13th arrondissement offers a unique experience, blending cultural outings, urban art, and local heritage. For the ultimate cultural weekend in Paris, book your stay at Hotel B55, a charming retreat at the center of it all!

Place d’Italie is more than just a roundabout—it’s a strategic junction connecting several major surrounding districts via Boulevard Vincent-Auriol, Avenue des Gobelins, Avenue de Choisy, and Boulevard Auguste-Blanqui. Once a landscape of quarries and fields, it became a vital urban hub of the Left Bank during the 19th century, playing a central role in the development of Paris’s 13th arrondissement.A Neighborhood of Contrasts: Tradition Meets ModernityFrom medieval times to today, the Place d’Italie area has undergone profound transformations. This corner of Paris blends modernity with remnants of the past, reflecting the neighborhood’s remarkable evolution.History of the Place d’Italie DistrictUntil the 17th century, the area was a rural zone known as Campo di Fiore (“field of flowers”) and belonged to the town of Gentilly. It later became a strategic route for travelers heading south or entering Paris. In 1860, it was annexed by the city, transforming farmland into a vibrant urban district. The area saw major modernization: Haussmannian boulevards emerged, factories were built, and a working-class population settled in—shaping the district’s social identity.Architecture and UrbanismThe Place d’Italie district is defined by striking architectural contrasts. It’s home to the Super-Italie Tower, one of the few skyscrapers in Paris and a remnant of the 1970s Italie 13 urban project. Another key site is the Italie Deux shopping mall, with over 130 stores and restaurants, making it one of the largest malls in Paris.Cultural and Historic Highlights Around Place d’ItalieThe Asian Quarter: A Cultural Journey in ParisThe southern part of the 13th arrondissement is famous for its vibrant Asian neighborhood, centered around Avenue de Choisy, Boulevard Masséna, and Avenue d’Ivry. Exotic grocery stores, traditional temples, and authentic restaurants line the streets. Every year, the area hosts a grand Chinese New Year celebration with dragon dances and colorful parades. But it’s worth visiting year-round for a delicious taste of Asia and cultural immersion.Butte-aux-Cailles: A Village Within the CityJust steps from Place d’Italie, Butte-aux-Cailles is a peaceful oasis in bustling Paris. With cobbled streets, colorful houses, and a warm atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. The neighborhood is also a haven for street art lovers, featuring many murals and artistic surprises along its paths. Come evening, the area’s bars and terraces attract a lively and youthful crowd, adding to its bohemian charm.Avenue d’Italie: Shopping and LeisureOne of the main shopping streets in the 13th arrondissement, Avenue d’Italie offers something for everyone. Big-name stores, local shops, trendy eateries, and green spaces like Parc de Choisy and the quaint Jardin du Moulin de la Pointe make it ideal for shopping, dining, and relaxing.Where to Stay to Explore Place d’ItalieTo fully experience the 13th arrondissement and the Place d’Italie district, Hotel B55 is the perfect base. Ideally located near all the key attractions, this 4-star hotel is just minutes from the Gobelins Tapestry Workshop, the charming streets of Butte-aux-Cailles, and the Italie Deux shopping center. With easy access to public transportation, you can explore other parts of Paris effortlessly.At Hotel B55, you’ll stay in an elegant, comfortable room—perfect for restful nights between days of discovery. And to make your visit even more memorable, the hotel offers a wellness area complete with a pool and sauna.The Place d’Italie neighborhood is a destination full of history, culture, and vibrant urban life. For an authentic and immersive experience in Paris’s 13th arrondissement, book your stay at Hotel B55 and set off to explore this fascinating district!

Located in the 14th arrondissement of Paris, the Fondation Cartier is a private art institution dedicated to contemporary art. Founded by the Maison Cartier, it is also an architectural gem that combines boldness and innovation. Discover this landmark of modern art.History and Architecture of the Fondation CartierFor over 40 years, the foundation has supported contemporary artistic creation. Its architecture reflects its mission—ambitious and innovative.A contemporary art venue since 1984Founded by Alain Dominique Perrin in 1984, the Fondation Cartier has always aimed to promote contemporary artistic creation. Emerging artists from around the world are given a unique platform to express themselves, thus encouraging cultural diversity. Regardless of nationality or discipline, all artists contribute to shaping a rich, international art landscape. Since its inception, the foundation has hosted countless events, from group projects to solo exhibitions.An architectural masterpiece by Jean NouvelIn 1994, the Fondation Cartier moved to Boulevard Raspail, into a building designed by architect Jean Nouvel. Made of glass and steel, the structure plays with transparency to create a seamless interaction between interior and exterior, between nature and art. The surrounding garden, designed by Lothar Baumgarten and called “Theatrum Botanicum,” is a living artwork, home to 240 plant species that change with the seasons.Must-See Exhibitions at the Fondation CartierReflecting the foundation’s broad artistic vision and global reach, its programming is rich and diverse.Artistic programming and variety of worksAll forms of art are showcased at the Fondation Cartier for Contemporary Art. The lineup is eclectic, spanning painting, video, and photography. Notable recent exhibitions include Australian Aboriginal artist Sally Gabori and Bruce Nauman, whose work blurs the lines between art and performance. The foundation also explores unexpected disciplines, like textile art, with current exhibitions such as that of Colombian textile artist Olga de Amaral.2025 exhibitions not to missIn 2025, the Fondation Cartier presents captivating exhibitions. Olga de Amaral is highlighted with her innovative gold and silver weavings. But the programming goes beyond textiles—Yann Kebbi’s exhibition “Chantier” immerses visitors in a vibrant world blending painting with storytelling.An Immersive Experience: A Museum That Stimulates the SensesThe Fondation Cartier strives to offer a sensory and immersive experience. From its architecture to its exhibitions, everything is designed with that goal.A place where art and nature coexistThe foundation has long emphasized the strong link between nature and art. Its architecture opens onto a lush garden, creating a harmonious balance between natural surroundings and artistic creation. Throughout the museum visit, a dialogue unfolds between the environment and the artworks, encouraging contemplation and reflection.Events and artistic performancesBeyond traditional exhibitions, the Fondation Cartier hosts a variety of cultural events:Live dance, theater, and music performancesTalks and debates featuring contemporary artists, philosophers, and scientistsConcerts and film screenings blending art and pop cultureVisitor InformationPlanning to visit the Fondation Cartier? Here are some practical details.Opening hours and pricesOpen daily from 11 AM to 8 PM, except Mondays. Late-night openings on Tuesdays extend until 10 PM, offering a more peaceful atmosphere to explore the exhibitions.Admission: €11 full price, €7 reduced (under certain conditions). Free entry for children under 13 and specific eligible groups.Location and accessThe Fondation Cartier is located at 261 Boulevard Raspail in the 14th arrondissement. From Hotel B55, you can take metro line 6 and reach the site in just 20 minutes.Important: In celebration of its 40th anniversary, the Fondation Cartier will relocate from Boulevard Raspail to 2 Place du Palais-Royal in the 1st arrondissement by the end of 2025.The metro ride from Hotel B55 to the new location will then take a bit longer.Why visit the Fondation Cartier during your stay in Paris?The Fondation Cartier is a unique space where art, nature, and architecture come together in a stunning setting. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious, this enriching immersion in contemporary art offers a memorable experience with diverse disciplines and engaged artists.To make the most of your visit, book your stay at Hotel B55 now and discover the cultural wealth of this exceptional place.