Abandoned places to explore in Paris
La Petite Ceinture
We all know it. It has always drawn us in, but with a little tug at the heartstrings related to the idea of transgression. We've never dared to climb over the fences. Well, now's the time! Between the Alésis station and Porte d’Orléans, there’s an entrance behind a wall that’s almost at waist level, leading to a lush pathway lined with tracks. If we venture a bit further, we stumble upon an abandoned building whose purpose is hard to guess, but it feels like a sanctuary of silence and serenity. Perfect for a cozy evening drink or an intimate picnic, away from the noisy construction that’s deafening the capital this August. It’s a spot that’s becoming more and more popular with Parisians looking for something different. Just like us!
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The Mausoleum
At the Porte de La Villette, not far from the ring road, there’s a massive former supermarket that has since 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 key is in the book by those who discovered this graffiti temple, Lek and Sowat. It's technically off-limits, of course, but that’s part of the allure of this place. Inside, each room is transformed by playful perspectives, anamorphoses, and lettering. In this rapidly growing and increasingly trendy neighborhood, the Mausoleum stands as a testament to a time when strolling around after 11 PM wasn’t exactly safe. Times have changed, but the journey is well worth it, both for the symbolism of the place and the magnificent works of art that can be seen there, despite all efforts to hide them from the world.
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The Abattoir of Nausea
Don’t let the uninviting name of this impressive place fool you! The Abattoir of Nausea has almost become a transit spot. There are hardly any objects left related to its original purpose. It has been taken over by paintball and graffiti enthusiasts, as well as many photographers, because its structure and the light filtering through the huge windows give it a somewhat unique atmosphere. If you’re okay with strolling through an old abattoir and seeing it as a place a little out of time and the world, then head over to Nozay in the 91, and continue to the end of Rue du Ruisseau, preferably during the day. At night, it can feel quite spooky… And it's definitely not the best-served location in the world.
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The Fort of Buc
Located behind Versailles, at the end of Fort de Buc street, in the commune of the same name, this abandoned fort is a favorite spot for free party organizers as well as a wonderfully bucolic place, surrounded by a large forest. You can enter as if it were a door to a windmill, but watch out for the law enforcement who have caught on to the potential of the area. Whether it’s a forest picnic or an underground rave beneath the vast alcoves, Fort de Buc is one of those charming and forgotten places that no longer give off a gloomy vibe, but instead, radiate a rare and privileged beauty. Take advantage of the weekend unlimited Navigo pass and pay it a visit, it’s worth it, we promise!
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The Bunker Under 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 the SNCF, this 120 m² shelter was used during bombings and is still in very good condition. A journey back in time as incredible as it is surprising.
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The Unofficial Catacombs
Beyond the catacombs overrun by tourists and curious visitors, there are the underground "cata" that remain hidden. These unofficial ones, just beneath our feet, are explored by a daring crowd of night owls who aren’t afraid of the dark (or the cold, for that matter). Once you find yourself wandering through these secret underground passages, be careful not to get lost: rooms, graffiti, very narrow tunnels, and encounters that are a bit quirky… in short, they’re better experienced than described!
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