Paris Belleville: Street Art Walking Tour with Artist Guide

Summary

Paris street art walk in Belleville with artist sharing stories murals and hidden corners

You’ll wander through Belleville with an artist who knows every twist and mural, hearing stories of squats turned studios and neighbors greeting each other mid-tour. Expect to spot works by legends like Nemo and Mesnager, feel the creative pulse of Paris’ most dynamic neighborhood, and maybe even catch a new piece going up before your eyes.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the first thing I’d notice in Belleville to be the smell of fresh bread — not paint. But as soon as we met our guide (she had paint on her shoes, which felt right), we were already spotting color splashed across shutters and old stone walls. She waved at a neighbor walking a dog and started talking about how artists used to squat here in the ‘80s. It’s wild to think these quiet streets once echoed with parties and protests, you know?

We stopped under a wall covered in black-and-white figures — apparently by Jérôme Mesnager, whose name I probably mispronounced. Our guide grinned and told us about how the neighborhood’s art scene is always shifting, like “a living sketchbook.” I liked that. Sometimes she’d pause mid-story because someone from a café would call out hello or show us something new that popped up overnight. The whole area just feels alive — even the trash cans have stickers layered so thick you can’t see the metal anymore.

The best part was turning a corner and seeing this huge mural by Nemo — bright yellows against gray Paris sky. There was this moment where nobody said anything; we just stared. Someone’s phone buzzed but nobody moved. I still think about that view sometimes, especially how it felt standing there with strangers who suddenly weren’t so strange anymore. If you’re into street art or just want to see a different side of Paris, this Belleville street art tour is worth it for those little moments alone.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Belleville street art and history

• See great panorama of Paris
• Explore lesser known city parts
• Learn about local art scene

Top questions

Is this Belleville street art tour led by an artist?

Yes, your guide is an artist with over six years of experience in the local scene.

How big are the groups for this Paris street art tour?

The combined group can have up to 15 guests.

What will I see on the Belleville street art tour?

You’ll see murals by artists like Nemo and Jérôme Mesnager, plus evolving works throughout Belleville.

Is public transportation available near Belleville?

Yes, there are public transportation options nearby for easy access.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Service animals are allowed during the tour.

Do I need to be physically fit for this walking tour?

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended since it’s a walking tour.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided walk through Belleville led by an experienced artist who shares personal stories behind the murals and neighborhood history—no need for extra tickets or pickups; just meet up ready to explore on foot alongside locals and fellow travelers.