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Last Updated on 27 April 2026 by Vanessa
If you’re planning a trip to Paris, you might want to add Rue Crémieux in the 12th arrondissement to your itinerary.
Often described as the prettiest street in Paris, Rue Crémieux is lined with two-story houses painted in yellow, blue, green, pink, and red. It’s like walking through a real-life painting!
And since this is a residential, pedestrian-only street, it’s also a sure spot to meet some Parisian cats. You’ll even see several cat-themed decorations, reminding us that this is a place where cats are loved.
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting this beautiful street in Paris.
Rue Crémieux: the prettiest street in Paris
Quick info
- Location: 12th arrondissement, near Gare de Lyon (Lines 1 & 14, RER A & D)
- Other nearby metro stations: Quai de la Rapée and Ledru-Rollin
- Who will love it: Photographers, cat lovers, travelers looking for a quieter side of Paris
- Time needed: 5 minutes
A short history of Rue Crémieux: from orchards to street art
Run Crémieux started out in the 1860s as Avenue Millaud.
Back then, the area was mostly orchards and gardens. But as the city expanded, it turned into a residential neighborhood—thanks in part to Baron de Reuilly, a key figure in shaping the urban layout of this part of Paris.
Name change
In 1897, the street was renamed Rue Crémieux to honor Adolphe Crémieux, a lawyer and politician who fought for human rights, including the emancipation of Jews in France.
Architectural renaissance
By the late 1800s, Paris was seeing a wave of architectural creativity, and Rue Crémieux followed suit. Artists and architects worked together to design the two-story homes you see today. Each house stands out with its own bold color, giving the street a cheerful and distinctive character you won’t find elsewhere in the city.
A favorite spot for local artists
This street in the 12th arrondissement of Paris is so much more than just cats and colorful houses, though.
Local artists have turned this quiet pedestrian street into an open-air gallery. If you pay attention, you’ll see several murals and bits of street art pop up on walls and windows.
If you like photography or just want a cool backdrop for Instagram, this street delivers. Pastel facades, street art, and cats stretched out on doorsteps… you’ll find plenty of ready-made photo moments.
The cats
Rue Crémieux is where felines rule the roost. You’ll spot all kinds of feline-themed decorations—murals, cat-shaped planters, little sculptures—all proudly on display in front of the houses.
And it’s not just art. You might even catch several real cats lounging in a window or prancing along the prettiest street in Paris.
Best time to visit Rue Crémieux in Paris
Spring and summer
Rue Crémieux transforms with the seasons. In spring and summer, the facades come alive with blooming flowers and foliage, and they infuse the street with a burst of even more color.
Around Christmas
During the Christmas season, the inhabitants adorn the street with lots of festive decorations, and it becomes the perfect magical winter wonderland.
Late morning and early evening
If you’re hoping to see a lot of cats, try visiting in the late morning and early evening, when the street is calm and the temperature is comfortable. Midday—especially in warmer months—is when they tend to disappear indoors or nap out of sight.
Avoid visiting on rainy days, because the cats will hide, and the colors will feel visually flat.
How to get there?
Rue Crémieux is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest metro stations are Gare de Lyon (Lines 1 and 14) and Quai de la Rapée (Line 5), both just a short walk away.
Additionally, Ledru-Rollin station (Line 8) is approximately a 6-minute walk from the street.
For RER services, Gare de Lyon is served by lines A and D.
Several bus lines also stop nearby, including 20, 29, 57, 61, 63, 72, 87, and 91 .
Things to do near Rue Crémieux
Rue Crémieux is a residential street, so there’s nothing you can “do” there, apart from taking photos and cuddling the cats. However, there are many famous Paris landmarks and attractions nearby, and they are all worth adding to your itinerary:
Coulée Verte René-Dumont
This elevated park offers a peaceful green walkway with unique views over the city.
Viaduc des Arts
Located beneath the park, this former railway viaduct is now home to artisan workshops, galleries, and boutiques.
Opéra Bastille
A major venue for opera and performing arts, known for its modern architecture and high-quality productions.
Le Café des Chats
A French-style bistrot where you can have lunch or dinner in the company of resident cats. Le Café des Chats was the first cat café to open in France, and it’s still one of the most unique things to do in Le Marais.
Parc de Bercy
This nearby park features gardens, ponds, and open lawns, making it a pleasant spot for rest and relaxation.
Cinémathèque Française
A well-known film museum that hosts exhibitions and screenings focused on cinema history and culture.
Seine Riverbanks
The nearby riverbanks offer scenic walking paths with views of Paris landmarks and historic bridges. Make sure to stop by L’Oisellerie du Pont Neuf and greet its four resident cats.
Père Lachaise Cemetery
One of the world’s most famous cemeteries, it is the burial place of cultural icons such as Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde. There are several fascinating guided tours available if you’re interested in visiting:
- Haunted Père Lachaise Cemetery Guided Tour
- A Guided Cinema Tour of the Père Lachaise Cemetery
- Famous Graves of Père Lachaise Cemetery Guided Tour
Bastille Market (Thu & Sun)
This lively street market is one of the prettiest in Paris and offers fresh produce, cheeses, and local specialties in a vibrant setting. Visits with a local guide are possible (find out more here).
Where to stay: apartments and hotels
Rue Crémieux is a residential street, so there are no hotels or apartments to rent. However, there’s plenty of accommodation in the surrounding area.
Looking for Paris accommodation with a resident cat? Then Le Bristol Hotel may be just what you’re looking for.
Related: Top hotels with cats in France.
Important to know
Because this is the prettiest street of Paris, you’ll want to take lots of photos.
But don’t forget that people live here, and they have to deal with a constant flow of visitors who forget this basic fact.
In fact, Rue Crémieux faces constant pressure to stay true to its character while protecting the privacy of its residents. It was officially designated a “voie privée” (private road) in 1993 to help preserve its unique atmosphere.
So, if you visit, remember it’s a residential street—keep noise down, be respectful, and the inhabitants (both human and feline) the space they deserve.
Conclusion
Will you be adding Rue Crémieux to your itinerary? Do you agree that it is the most beautiful street in Paris?
Explore more articles about Paris:
Dreaming of meeting even more cats in Paris? Start with The Ultimate Cat Enthusiasts’ Guide to Paris for the full experience. Here are just a few highlights:
- Le Chat Mallows: The most colorful and quirky of the four cat cafés in Paris.
- Shakespeare & Company: Browse classic books with the shop’s resident cat by your side.
- Montmartre Cemetery: Spot quiet, wandering cats among the ivy-covered tombs.
- Le Chat-Rivari Café: A vegan restaurant in Paris.
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