This comprehensive Street Art Travel Guide of Paris delves into the rich mosaic of street art spanning all 20 arrondissements of Paris and even stretches beyond, into the city’s outskirts and suburbs, offering a glimpse into the multifaceted urban canvas that is the French capital.
Paris’ street art scene is a dynamic blend of history, politics, and avant-garde urban creativity, reflecting the city’s pulsating life and ever-evolving cultural landscape. From the iconic murals in the bustling heart of the 1st arrondissement to the underground art movements in the quieter, outer districts, each piece tells a story of its own, contributing to the grand narrative of Paris as a global street art capital, a flourishing center for urban art worldwide.
This Paris Street Art Guide invites you to experience the lesser-known side of Paris, where every street holds a story waiting to be told. This is also a recap of the first-ever street art trip I led for this blog’s readers and a glimpse into my book As Seen on the Streets of Paris. This book combines the depth of a travel guide with the visual splendor of an art photography collection, revealing why the city holds a pivotal role in the European urban art scene.
What makes this book even more special is that it reflects not only my perspective but also the voices of the Parisian street artists I interviewed. Their insights and contributions infuse the guide with an authentic local flavor, leading readers to both iconic landmarks and hidden gems. It’s a richer, off-the-beaten-path glimpse into the city’s life through the lens of its thriving street art culture.
And now, get ready to explore Paris beyond the tourist path, seeing the city through a unique lens where each corner could reveal an undiscovered masterpiece.
- How to Use This Paris Street Art Travel Guide
- Paris Street Art Map
- Graffiti at the Tunnel des Tuileries (Paris 1)
- Street Art in Paris' 4th Arrondissement
- Street Art in Paris' 5th Arrondissement
- The Urban Art Center in Paris' 7th Arrondissement
- Street Art in Paris' 11th Arrondissement
- Street Art in Paris' 12th Arrondissement
- Street Art in Paris' 13th Arrondissement
- Paris Street Art Map
- Murals around Paris' 14th Arrondissement
- Murals at the Necker Hospital (Paris 15)
- Street Art in Paris' 19th Arrondissement
- Street Art in Belleville and the 20th Arrondissement
- Explore Paris with my Street Art Books:
- Urban Art Hotspots Beyond Paris
- Paris Street Art Map
- Explore Paris with my Books!
How to Use This Paris Street Art Travel Guide
In this Paris Street Art Travel Guide, I’m breaking all my knowledge of Paris’ street art into Arrondissements, because this is how Parisians think about their city. Paris’ arrondissements are 20 administrative districts spiraling clockwise from the city center, so the lower the number, the closer to the city center you are (put simply, Paris 1 is where the Louvre Museum is).
As usual here at BLocal street art travel blog, I’m offering two ways to explore: reach out for a custom Paris itinerary tailored to your unique interests, or take the DIY route with my free Paris street art map. The Paris google map, which is the same map that guided BLocal’s first-ever street art trip, not only helps you find key murals and more artworks but also leads you to alternative Parisian gems, including eateries, breweries, bookstores, galleries, unusual museums, and hidden spots. It’s an essential resource for those looking to dodge tourist traps and immerse themselves in Paris like a local.
Paris Street Art Map
Graffiti at the Tunnel des Tuileries (Paris 1)
At the heart of Paris, right next to the Louvre, there’s this tunnel that has been taken back from cars and is now a traffic-free pathway where people bike, skate, run, stroll and do graffiti. The original artworks commissioned by the city to well-known urban artists have been painted over by now, because dozens of artists come to paint here every week, and so this place also provides the opportunity to witness artists in action.
Perfect spot to enjoy Parisian street art and graffiti, even in the harshest winter weather, the Tunnel des Tuileries stands as a dynamic underground art gallery, continuously showcasing the evolving face of contemporary urban art.
Street Art in Paris’ 4th Arrondissement
Honestly, even without the murals, I’d still be drawn here because of my deep appreciation for the Centre Pompidou, which ranks as one of my all-time favorite museums. Moreover, right beside the museum stands the remarkable Stravinsky Fountain by Niki de Saint Phalle, an artist I hold in the highest regard.
Unveiled in 1983, this fountain features sixteen sculptures that draw inspiration from Stravinsky’s compositions. These mechanized sculptures are alive with bright colors and dynamic movement, turning the fountain into an engaging spectacle for all who visit.
And now, the murals!
Urban Art Legends in Place Stravinsky (Paris 4)
The first mural created in the square is “Chuutt” by Jef Aérosol, a large-scale black and white stencil mural where the only colored element is the red arrow, the artist’s signature. The artwork depicts a man with his finger on his lips, suggesting silence with a “Shhh!” as an invitation to pause and reflect amid the urban chaos. Created in 2011, this mural stands as a true technical challenge: a gigantic stencil measuring 22 meters in height and 15 meters in width, making it one of the largest ever created by this pioneer of French street art.
Next to it stands a mural by Shepard Fairey, the renowned American street artist known as OBEY. This piece was unveiled in 2019 to coincide with his exhibition at the Itinérrance Gallery in Paris’ 13th arrondissement. The mural delivers a poignant message about the consequences of apathy and ignorance, which have eroded civil discourse and meaningful civic participation, fostering an environment ripe for fear, division, and nationalism. Highlighting the critical role of education in shaping our future, the mural features an open book with the phrase “The future is unwritten.” Fairey underscores this narrative by including “Knowledge + Action = Power” at the mural’s base, emphasizing the equation as a call to action.
Finally, Paris’ street art legend Invader has created here the biggest Invader mosaic in the world!
Moreover, Invader has installed his 1500th mosaic in Paris on one of the distinctive tubes of the Centre Pompidou’s iconic architecture designed by Renzo Piano: don’t miss it!
Street Art by Monsieur Chat in Paris 4
Next to Centre Pompidou, you’ll also spot the iconic cats by Monsieur Chat, who has been hitting the streets of Paris since the late 1990s, becoming a key figure in an emerging movement of young artists who began to showcase their art in public spaces—a realm previously dominated exclusively by graffiti writers.
His iconic cat, frequently shown in action and representing joy, has turned into a symbol of happiness within the cityscape. Its simple design, combined with its enigmatic smile, has made M. Chat a beloved figure within the Parisian street art scene.
Street Art by Ememem in Paris 4
Originally from Italy but residing in Lyon, France, from a young age, Ememem is known for ‘fixing’ cracks and potholes in cities around the world. Using colorful ceramic tiles and grout sourced locally, he crafts miniature mosaics that turn urban flaws into art, encouraging people to see their city in a new, poetic light.
Street Art by Jace in Paris 4
Jace’s Gouzous are small figures the French street artist paints across Reunion Island, where he lives, and on his travels worldwide. These characters, known for altering appearances and engaging in a range of often humorous scenarios, spark a genuine “Gouzou hunt” among fans eager to discover them.
Street Art by C215 in Paris 4
Here Christian Guemy (C215) portrayed the magistrate and deputy Jean Pierre Michel, one of the authors of the law creating the PACS, the civil union contract, hence the sentence “Pour l’égalité des droits.”
Street Art in Paris’ 5th Arrondissement
Paris’ 5th arrondissement, also known as the Latin Quarter, is one of the city’s oldest and most historically rich districts, celebrated for its intellectual and academic heritage, with numerous educational institutions, libraries, and bookshops.
Street Art by Seth on Rue Mouffetard, Paris 5
“La Maison de Cécile” is Seth’s homage to Cécile, the owner of the souvenir shop right in front of the mural. A dear friend of the artist, Cécile wished to see one of Seth’s murals from her shop.
Street Art by Invader (Paris 5)
In Paris’ 5th Arrondissement, you simply cannot miss the mosaics by Invader. Here, you’ll find an abundance of them (just as in the rest of Paris), but my favorite is this Duffy Duck located on Rue Rollin.
Extra tip: while you are wandering around the Latin Quarter, don’t miss the beautiful Mosque of Paris!
The Urban Art Center in Paris’ 7th Arrondissement
Paris’ 7th arrondissement hosts several prominent landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d’Orsay, and Les Invalides. You’ll probably stroll around its iconic streets if this is your first visit to Paris, and so why not also pay a visit to Paris’ floating urban art center Fluctuart?
Opened in 2019, Fluctuart serves as a vibrant gathering space for cultural events, while showcasing the work of prominent urban artists. My favorite corner is the well-stocked bookshop on the second floor, next to the panoramic café.
Street Art in Paris’ 11th Arrondissement
Known for its eclectic mix of cultures and activities, Paris’ 11th Arrondissement has become one of the city’s most fashionable areas, particularly popular among young professionals and artists. The 11th arrondissement is characterized by a lively atmosphere, bustling with cafes, restaurants, bars, clubs, and music venues buzzing with activity well into the night, making it a magnet for nightlife enthusiasts.
Paris’ Urban Art Project Le M.U.R. (Paris 11)
Launched in 2003 in the 11th Arrondissement, specifically on Rue Oberkampf, the urban art project Le M.U.R. (standing for Modulable, Urbain, et Réactif) offers legal and prominent spaces for street artists from both local and international backgrounds to showcase their talent.
There are several public walls across Paris that are integral to this urban art initiative, with some more spread throughout France and even globally. These walls transform every three weeks, serving as a stage for a new artist and continuously injecting their area with fresh artworks.
Tribute to Hyuro by Axel Void and Escif (Paris 11)
In 2015, the 11th arrondissement’s residents voted to have a mural created at this spot, and commissioned it to Argentine street artist Hyuro. Originally scheduled for spring 2021, the project’s start was delayed due to Hyuro’s health issues and was further put on hold after her passing in November 2020.
Yet, the project didn’t end here. Axel Void, who had collaborated with Hyuro on the project’s initial sketch, committed to realizing the mural, enlisting help from Escif, another Spanish artist and friend of Hyuro. In this way, two of Hyuro’s close friends honored her memory by bringing to life the mural Parisians had chosen through her original sketch.
Street Art in Paris’ 12th Arrondissement
During my latest visit to Paris, I made my home in this neighborhood. From this vantage point, I delved deeply into its corners, ultimately writing an article that showcases its stunning murals, hidden street art treasures, and other unique spots that give the 12th Arrondissement its distinct charm.
Click the button below to discover the best urban art in Paris’ 12th Arrondissement!
Street Art in Paris’ 13th Arrondissement
The 13th Arrondissement, characterized by its high-rise residential buildings, has evolved into Paris’ premier showcase of large-scale murals, and arguably one of the most notable in Europe, thanks to the municipality’s dedication and investment in commissioning urban art projects with a grand, monumental flair.
There are so many XXL murals in Paris’ 13th district that I wrote a separate article dedicated to this area, exploring the stories behind each mural, along with offering extra alternative travel tips for Paris’ 13th Arrondissement. Click on the button below to explore urban art in Paris’ 13th Arrondissement!
The article on Paris’ 13th Arrondissement includes street art around Butte-aux-Cailles, my favorite area in Paris!
Evoking the charm of the French countryside within Paris, Butte-aux-Cailles boasts art-deco architecture, cobblestone streets, and dynamic street art. This area is truly something you don’t want to miss!
Paris Street Art Map
Murals around Paris’ 14th Arrondissement
Paris’ 14th arrondissement is known for its bohemian atmosphere and rich history. This district is home to the famous Montparnasse area, once the heart of intellectual and artistic life in Paris during the early 20th century, attracting figures like Pablo Picasso and Ernest Hemingway.
The district is also characterized by its charming residential streets, lively markets, and parks, representing a blend of Parisian culture, history, and everyday life.
Mural by Agostino Iacurci in Paris 14
Italian artist Agostino Iacurci sought to weave the essence of the Porte de Vanves neighborhood into his urban mural, making it a welcoming gateway to the city and a representation of homecoming for the locals. The artwork endeavors to “break the wall,” revealing a glimpse of “the other side,” as described by Olivier Landes, the artistic director of the Art en Ville association, which curated the project.
Mural by Pastel in Paris 14
Titled “Aster et Symphorine,” this striking mural by Argentinian street artist Pastel adorns a building facade adjacent to “La Petite Ceinture,” the abandoned circular railway encircling Paris, constructed in 1852 for freight trains and closed down in the 1930s. The closure turned the tracks into a vivid example of urban nature’s resurgence. The mural stands as a homage to the enduring power of nature.
Murals at the Necker Hospital (Paris 15)
In 1987, street art pioneer Keith Haring brought his vibrant and meaningful art to the hospital’s pediatric ward, creating a mural that infused the space with hope, joy, and solace for the young patients.
Also gracing the same courtyard are three captivating child portraits by Portuguese street artist Vhils, showcasing his signature technique of etching into wall surfaces to produce textured, compelling portraits that unveil hidden narratives.
The restoration of Keith Haring’s mural in 2017 ignited the launch of an urban art initiative that attracted around 100 urban artists from around the globe. Yet, the majority of their artworks are displayed within the hospital’s corridors and underground passages, areas not accessible to the public.
Street Art in Paris’ 19th Arrondissement
Besides having been the hotspot of Parisian graffiti in the 1980s, with the legendary “Stalingrad” Hall of Fame located near the metro station with the same name, this area keeps boasting some amazing street art, including a piece by Banksy (the only one left from the artist’s 2018 spraycation in Paris).
Street Art by Banksy at La Villette (Paris 19)
“Liberté, Égalité, Cable TV” by Banksy offers a modern twist on Jacques-Louis David’s iconic “Napoleon Crossing the Alps,” a cornerstone of French art history. Here, Napoleon is covered by his red cape to symbolize the government’s misleading leadership, suggesting those in power blind people with propaganda.
The Hall of Fame in Rue Aubervilliers (Paris 19)
Running next to the train tracks, this long Hall of Fame boasts many excellent pieces by both French and international graffiti writers.
Mural by Zoer and Taxis at Rosa Park Train Station (Paris 19)
At the end of Rue Aubervilliers lies the Rosa Park train station, and on its wall is “Rivière poétique,” a long mural created by Zoer and Taxis in 2022 celebrating the themes of travel and daydreaming along the train tracks.
Street Art around Ourcq Area (Paris 19)
On the other side of the canal, within the 19th district, lies the Ourcq area, undisputed realm of street artist Da Cruz.
Here, Da Cruz has created numerous colorful murals, orchestrated various graffiti jams, and organized the annual street art festival “Ourcq Living Colors.” His efforts have attracted many renowned street artists, both French and international, to paint in the streets of the Ourcq district.
Street Art in Belleville and the 20th Arrondissement
Belleville stands out as one of the best neighborhoods to discover street art in Paris, embodying the city’s spirited vibe through a diverse collection of street art. It’s a place where everything from large-scale murals to tiny street installations captures the imagination.
Belleville’s streets are a testament to the skill of many local artists, including works by some of the most celebrated and globally recognized Parisian street artists. This rich tapestry of urban art offers a window into the creative heart of Paris, making Belleville a focal point for those keen to experience the artistic pulse of the city.
There is so much to see around Belleville and its surroundings that I dedicated a separate article to all the street art in Belleville and the 20th Arrondissement, alongside more cool spots to explore; click the button below to discover Paris’ best street art neighborhood.
Explore Paris with my Street Art Books:
True to the ethos of “Be Local”, this book reflects not only my perspective but also the voices of the Parisian street artists I interviewed. Their contributions infuse the guide with authentic local flavor, leading you to both iconic landmarks and hidden gems—offering a richer, non-touristy glimpse into the life of the city.
Urban Art Hotspots Beyond Paris
Street Art in Vitry-sur-Seine
Embracing both murals and spontaneous artworks, this suburb just outside Paris has become a cornerstone of Europe’s street art scene. The transformation of Vitry-sur-Seine began in 2008, when French street artist Christian Guémy, known as C215, relocated here, eventually inviting over his friends and fellow street artists from all over the world.
Today, Vitry-sur-Seine showcases nearly 100 pieces of urban art, with the work of local artists C215 and Bebar particularly standing out. The artworks are so many that I dedicated a separate article to the rich street art in Vitry-sur-Seine, click the button below to discover the suburb that C215 calls home.
Urban Art in Pantin
Pantin, often likened to Paris’s version of Brooklyn, has transformed its industrial past into a hub of cultural dynamism. Situated in the former industrial belt of eastern Paris, this town has witnessed profound urban transformation, marking its territory in music, contemporary art, and urban art.
There’s so much street art in Pantin, and even more alternative things to do in this suburb just a stone’s throw from Paris’s bustling tourist heart, that I wrote a separate article about it.
Click the button below to discover the best urban art in Pantin, alongside more cool things.
Street Art Avenue Grand Paris
Street Art Avenue Grand Paris is an urban art trail along the Canal Saint-Denis, stretching from the Parc de la Villette in the 19th Arrondissement of Paris to the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, connecting the municipalities of Aubervilliers and Saint-Denis.
Launched in 2016, Street Art Avenue Grand Paris aims to enhance the urban landscape through a diverse range of artworks, including murals, sculptures, and installations by both French and international artists. Each year, new works are added, contributing to the ever-evolving tapestry of urban art along the canal.
My favorite murals along the canal in the municipality of Saint-Denis are the intricate calligraphic arabesques by Tarek Benaoum and the powerful mural by the Dutch duo Telmomiel, which captures the journey of migrants. through the image of a couple whose backpack brims with clothing, symbolizing their life on the move.
In the municipality of Aubervilliers, I loved the artwork by Mexican street artist Paola Delfin and Joachim Romain’s powerful mural commemorating the massacre by French police of a demonstration in Paris by the Algerian National Liberation Front (FLN) organized in October 1961 to protest against the curfew newly imposed on North Africans alone.
Paris Street Art Map
Explore Paris with my Books!
- The Art Photography Book (left): A hardcover edition printed on premium-quality paper showcasing vibrant images, perfect for art lovers.
- The Travel Guide (right): A portable A5 paperback with lightweight paper, perfect for travelers exploring Paris’ urban art scene on foot.
Both editions feature the same content: 278 pages that blend visual storytelling with practical tools for exploring Paris’ most compelling street art locations.
