Coulée Verte René-Dumont, also called the Promenade Plantée, is a nearly five-kilometre linear park in Paris’s 12th arrondissement. It follows the route of the former Vincennes railway, with raised paths, tunnels and gardens above the streets. Walk or jog between leafy sections, pause on a bench, and look down into Parisian streets and courtyards. The western end has landscaped gardens, ponds and curved structures; farther east, the path reaches disused railway tracks. Go early for a quieter walk, and bring a picnic to enjoy along the way.
A railway route turned into a park
The Coulée Verte follows the old Vincennes railway through the 12th arrondissement. The line dates to 1859 and was abandoned in the 1960s. In 1988, it was reworked as a public greenway by architects Philippe Mathieux and Jacques Vergely.
The route uses the old railway’s viaduct and tunnels, carrying walkers above streets and through parts of the city that are usually hidden from view. It is also known as the Promenade Plantée. The elevated path gives a different perspective on Paris, with views down to avenues and into courtyards along the way.
Gardens, tunnels and former tracks
The walk stretches for almost five kilometres, from the Bastille area east toward Bois de Vincennes. It changes character along the way. Around the western end, planted gardens include ponds, benches and curved structures. Elsewhere, the path passes through tunnels and over raised sections. Frequent stairs connect it with street level.
Farther east, the landscaped promenade gives way to unused railway tracks. This stretch can be muddy, so choose footwear with that in mind. The route also has playground equipment, a hedge maze and restrooms. Some facilities and activities, including an open-air gym, are down at street level rather than on the raised path.
Planning a walk
You can use the promenade for a short break or follow it as a longer walk or jog. Its length and multiple access points make it possible to join or leave the route at different places. The path runs through the 12th arrondissement, linking the Bastille area with eastern Paris.
For a calmer visit, set out early in the day. The walkway is narrow in places, and it can be busier at weekends. Benches provide places to rest, and you can bring food for a picnic. Dogs are allowed. If you want to see how the route changes, explore both ends: the western section has more formal planting, while the eastern end follows the old tracks.
FAQ
How long is the Coulée Verte René-Dumont?
The park stretches for almost five kilometres through Paris’s 12th arrondissement.
Where does the Coulée Verte start and end?
It starts in the Bastille area and runs east toward Bois de Vincennes.
Are dogs allowed on the Coulée Verte?
Yes, dogs are allowed.
