abattoir-de-la-nause-e

8 abandoned places to explore in Paris

undefined undefined 19 mai 2020 undefined 00h00

undefined undefined 25 avril 2025 undefined 15h39

The Editor

Once upon a time, abandoned places were shelters for desperate crackheads or dark alcoves where not-so-catholic things happened. Today, these spots are at the forefront of the hype when it comes to strolls, parties, or quirky aperitif spots. Paris is full of them! Le Bonbon will take you on a tour of all that...

The Abandoned Places to Explore in Paris

The Petite Ceinture

We all know it. It's always called to us, but with that little heart tug related to the idea of transgression. We never dared to climb over the gates. Well, now’s the time! Between the Alésia and Porte d'Orléans stations, there's an entrance behind a wall that nearly reaches our waist, leading to a lush pathway lined with tracks. If we venture a little further, we stumble upon an abandoned building whose purpose is a bit of a mystery, but it’s what you might call a haven of silence and serenity. Perfect for a cozy drink or a little picnic, away from the noisy construction that fills the capital this August. It’s a place that is becoming increasingly popular among Parisians looking for a change of scenery. Just like us!

The Mausoleum

At the Porte de La Villette, not far from the périphérique, there’s a huge former supermarket that has been transformed into a true underground exhibition space for graffiti artists of all kinds. We won't tell you how to get in, but the answer can be found in the book by those who discovered this graffiti temple, Lek and Sowat. It’s definitely forbidden, but that’s part of what makes this place so appealing. Inside, every room is transformed by perspective tricks, anamorphoses, and lettering. In this area, which is rapidly expanding and becoming increasingly trendy, the Mausoleum stands as a reminder of a time when wandering around after 11 PM wasn’t the safest idea. Times have changed a lot, but the journey is worth it, not just for the symbolism of the place but also for the gorgeous artworks you can see, despite all the efforts to keep them hidden from the world.

Voir cette publication sur Instagram

Une publication partagée par Sowat (@sowat_dmv)


The Slaughterhouse of Nausea

Don't be fooled by the uninviting name of this impressive place! The Slaughterhouse of Nausea has practically turned into a transit spot. There’s almost nothing left that relates to its original purpose. It has been taken over by paintball enthusiasts and graffiti artists, as well as many photographers, because its structure and the light filtering through the huge windows give it a unique vibe. If you're okay with strolling through an old slaughterhouse and seeing it as a place that's a bit out of time and reality, then head over to Nozay in the 91 area. Just keep going down Rue du Ruisseau, preferably during the day. It can be pretty spooky at night… Plus, it's not the easiest place to get to!

Voir cette publication sur Instagram

Une publication partagée par Robin Huré (@urbex_trotter)

Le Fort de Buc

Located behind Versailles, at the end of Rue du Fort de Buc in the commune of the same name, this abandoned fort is a beloved spot for free party organizers and a wonderfully picturesque place, surrounded by a vast forest. You can enter as if you’re walking into a charming old mill, but be cautious of the authorities who have caught on to the place's allure. Whether you're enjoying a forest picnic or a clandestine rave under the grand alcoves, Le Fort de Buc is one of those delightful, forgotten spots that radiates a sense of rare and cherished beauty rather than gloom. Take advantage of the weekend's discounted Navigo pass and go for a visit, it’s well worth it, we promise!

The Bunker Beneath the Gare de l'Est

Amazing! At the Gare de l'Est, beneath the thousands of travelers rushing to catch their trains, lies a bunker dating back to World War II. Still owned by SNCF, this 120 m2 refuge was used during bombings and is still in very good condition. It's an astonishing and incredible journey back in time.

Voir cette publication sur Instagram

Une publication partagée par Ludovic Martina (@ludomoski)


The Unofficial Catacombs

Beyond the tourist-packed catacombs and the curious explorers, there are the "cata" in the shadows. These unofficial ones, right beneath our feet, are trod by a brave crowd of night owls who are not easily scared (and certainly not cold!). Once you find yourself in these hidden underground alleys, be careful not to get lost: rooms, graffiti, extremely narrow tunnels, and a few quirky encounters… in short, it's definitely more fun to see than to tell!

Voir cette publication sur Instagram

Une publication partagée par D'oz Kroniker (@dozkroniker)

The Fort of Vaujours

Vaujours is a rather quirky name for this former military zone near Paris. Why do they call it the French Chernobyl? Simply because from 1951 to 1997, they developed detonators for atomic bombs here. Wow!


©Christophe Nédélec


Ghost Metro Stations

Did you think you knew everything about the Paris metro and could name all the stations by heart? Well, did you know that there are closed stations hidden beneath our feet? Once places of debauchery, sometimes film sets (like Porte des Lilas), they’re simply fascinating!