The Eastern District

Traditionally working class, with a history of radical and revolutionary activity, the gritty Eastern districts of Paris, particularly the old villages of Belleville, Ménilmontant and Oberkampf, are nowadays among the most diverse and vibrant parts of the city, home to sizeable ethnic populations, as well as students and artists, attracted by the low rents. The main visitor attraction in the area is the Père-Lachaise cemetery, final resting place of many well-known artists and writers. Visiting the modern Parc de Belleville will reveal the area’s other main asset – wonderful views of the city below. Another park well worth seeing is the fairy-tale-like Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. Oberkampf is well-known for its nightlife, lots of bars, clubs and cafés.

Hôtel des Métallos is at the heart of The Eastern District, between le Marais and République.