Pantin is a trendy neighbourhood with an industrial edge, nicknamed the “Brooklyn of Paris”. Factories and warehouses converted to bars, bistros and community spaces are reminiscent of the famous New York City borough. Paddle a boat along the urban canal, enjoy live music and visit one of the top contemporary art galleries in the city.
Things to do in Pantin
Galerie Thaddaeus Ropac occupies a former copper factory and showcases thought-provoking modern art. The 5,000 square metre space is perfect for larger-than-life installations and interactive artwork. In the past, the gallery has showcased works by contemporary masters like Tony Cragg, Robert Rauschenberg and Anselm Kiefer.
La Cité Fertile is an urban oasis housed in a former SNCF freight station. The complex has been reimagined as an eco-friendly public space, complete with a community-run vegetable garden. Listen to live music, relax in the beer garden and work up a sweat on the beach volleyball court.
The Ourcq Canal flows through the neighbourhood and is lined with industrial buildings, many repurposed as cafes and restaurants. Stroll along the waterside trail or rent a bicycle. Electric boat rentals are a fun way to cover more distance.
Restaurants in Pantin are avant-garde and often moonlight as venues for live music, poetry slams and wine-tasting evenings. There are plenty of hip chef-driven bistros in Pantin, as well as casual establishments where you can enjoy Parisian classics like steak tartare, French onion soup and duck confit.
Getting around Pantin
Pantin is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The neighbourhood is in the north-eastern corner of Paris, a 25-minute drive from the city centre. Public transport access is via Porte de Pantin on Line 5 of the Paris Metro. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is a 45-minute drive away.