A Walk Along the Since 1934 Abandoned Paris Inner City Railway

If you want to escape the bustling Parisian summer crowds and discover a hidden gem, I have just the place for you. Let me introduce you to the “Little Belt” railroad, La Petite Ceinture. This charming relic from a bygone era has been closed since 1934, but with perseverance, you can still enjoy pleasant summer strolls along its train tracks.

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Built-in 1862, the Petite Ceinture offers a unique and alternative way to experience the beauty of Paris. As you wander along the tracks, you’ll be treated to captivating views of the city’s boulevards from the railroad’s bridges, which peek out every few hundred yards. What makes this experience even more remarkable is that the tracks wind their way behind artist ateliers, hidden from the view of the average passerby.

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Originally designed as a circular route, the Petite Ceinture was a vital connection between the main train stations and Paris’s old fortified city walls. Its name, “the little belt,” stems from this circular layout. One preserved remnant of this historic railroad is the Gare de Charonne, which has been transformed into a charming café and rock’n’roll music venue called La Flèche d’Or. While the construction of the metro ultimately led to the decline of the Petite Ceinture, its legacy lives on.

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Despite more than 150 years since its closure, the Petite Ceinture has blossomed into a vibrant haven. The once-wooden tracks, laid down during Baron Haussmann’s time, now boast an array of colorful graffiti art, beautifully intertwining with the over 200 species of flora and fauna that have taken root. As you traverse the tunnels of this obsolete railway, you may be intrigued to know that they serve as some of the most accessible entry points to the famous Paris catacombs, offering a unique blend of history and adventure.

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While the Petite Ceinture is officially off-limits to the public, the national rail service, SNCF, has left this enchanting relic largely untouched, preserving its charm and allure. If you’re eager to embark on your adventure along the Little Belt, start your journey near Rue Florian. This small street, opposite Philippe Starck’s Mama Shelter Hotel, offers tantalizing glimpses of the railroad, and you can even enjoy refreshing cocktails on the hotel’s terrace while overlooking the tracks.

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Behind a grand gray gate, which may or may not be ajar when you visit, lies a hidden gem. Residents with a deep passion for gardening have transformed a portion of the land alongside the railroad into a beautiful oasis. Occasionally, they even host special events like brocades, inviting anyone who happens to stumble upon their charming world. While an invitation may not always be guaranteed, the warmth and hospitality of these gardening enthusiasts create an atmosphere that beckons the curious traveler.

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_{Image by: messynessychic.com}

_{Image by: messynessychic.com}

If you’re seeking a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience in Paris, the Petite Ceinture is an absolute must-visit. This great railway, brimming with history, art, and nature, offers an unparalleled city perspective. As you wander along its tracks, you’ll find yourself immersed in a captivating world where time seems to stand still. So, lace up your walking shoes, unlock the secrets of La Petite Ceinture, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting heart of Paris.

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