Pere Lachaise Cemetery
Build a trip to Paris
About
Established by Napoleon in 1804, this is the most visited cemetery in the world and serves as a sprawling open-air museum of funerary art. Its 44 hectares of wooded hills are the final resting place for luminaries like Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf, Chopin, and Jim Morrison. The atmosphere is a hauntingly beautiful mix of melancholy and peace, with winding cobblestone paths and moss-covered Gothic tombs. Expert recommendation: Visit the 'Mur des Fédérés' to pay respects to the history of the Paris Commune. Pro tip: It is very easy to get lost in the labyrinthine sections; download a digital map or buy a paper one at the entrance shops before entering. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain is hilly and uneven.
Highlights
- Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde tombs
- World's most visited cemetery
- Hauntingly beautiful funerary art
- Peaceful wooded hillside paths
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Septime
Septime is the poster child for the 'neo-bistro' movement in Paris, holding a Michelin star and a high ranking on the World's 50 Best Restaurants list. The vibe is industrial-chic with polished concrete floors, wooden tables, and a high-energy open kitchen. Chef Bertrand Grébaut focuses on creative, vegetable-forward plates that are visually minimalist but packed with complex, earthy flavors. The atmosphere is unpretentious yet sophisticated. Expert recommendation: The wine list is exceptional, focusing on natural and biodynamic producers—ask the sommelier for a pairing. Pro tip: Reservations open exactly three weeks in advance at 10:00 AM Paris time and disappear in minutes. If you can't get a spot, try their sister seafood spot, Clamato, right next door which is walk-in only.
Clamato
The seafood-focused little brother of Septime, Clamato is a casual, no-reservations spot that serves some of the freshest and most creative fish dishes in Paris. The interior is rustic and warm, with a long bar and wooden tables. The menu changes daily based on what comes in from the coasts of Saint-Jean-de-Luz and Concarneau. The vibe is laid-back, hip, and focused entirely on the quality of the ingredients. Expert recommendation: Order the maple syrup tart for dessert—it’s a cult favorite. Pro tip: Since it’s walk-in only, arrive either right at opening (6:30 PM for dinner) or late in the evening. On weekends, they are open all day from 12 PM, which is the best time to snag a table without a long wait.
Mokonuts
Mokonuts is a tiny, soulful bakery and lunch spot run by a multi-cultural couple that has taken the 11th arrondissement by storm. The menu is a vibrant fusion of Levantine flavors and French technique, changing daily based on market finds. The atmosphere is intimate, sun-drenched, and incredibly welcoming, feeling more like a private kitchen than a restaurant. It is famous for its creative cookies and sophisticated vegetable plates. Expert recommendation: The labneh with seasonal vegetables and their legendary miso-tahini cookies are essential orders. Pro tip: They are only open for breakfast and lunch on weekdays. Reservations are mandatory for lunch and should be made weeks in advance; for breakfast, you can often walk in for coffee and world-class pastries.
Buttes-Chaumont Park
Commissioned by Napoleon III and designed by Baron Haussmann, this is one of the most dramatic and hilly parks in Paris. Built on a former limestone quarry, it features a massive central lake, a 63-meter-high cliff, and the Temple de la Sibylle perched atop an island. The atmosphere is rugged yet romantic, with waterfalls, suspension bridges, and grottos. It is a favorite among locals for its unpretentious, lively vibe. Expert recommendation: Cross the suspension bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel for a thrilling view of the lake. Pro tip: Head to 'Rosa Bonheur,' a popular guinguette (open-air tavern) located inside the park, for drinks and dancing with a trendy local crowd as the sun sets.
Reviews
Visited this place? Share your experience and help other travelers.