Best Places For Wisteria In Paris
Did you know that Paris is home to some spectacular displays of wisteria? I didn’t know either until I was there in April to see the Cherry Blossoms!
Here are my favorite spots to enjoy wisteria in Paris:
Grande Mosquée de Paris
One of the most spectacular and unique displays of wisteria is located at the Grande Mosquée de Paris.
The mosque's Andalusian-style garden is home to a stunning wisteria-covered pergola, where you can sit and enjoy the fragrant, purple blooms during springtime.
It’s really the perfect escape from the bustling streets of Paris, with the sound of the central courtyard fountain and birdsong adding to the atmosphere.
Don't forget to treat yourself to some delicious North African pastries and mint tea at the mosque's café.
Important: As it’s a mosque, you should be dressed conservatively. Ladies should have their shoulders and legs covered. Men should also have their shoulders and knees covered, but they are a bit more open with the men’s rules as I entered with shorts just above the knees.
Hours are 9-6 pm daily, except for Fridays which the mosque is only open to worshipers. The entry fee for non-worshipers is 3 Euro.
Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole
This charming cafe, tucked away on the Île de la Cité (the island which the Notre Dame sits on), is a beautiful spot to enjoy beautiful wisteria while having a bite to eat and a glass of wine.
The striking exterior of the cafe is lined with wisteria two floors high and provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable photo!
It’s just a few steps away from the Notre Dame Cathedral, making it a fun stop on your Paris sightseeing tour.
Fun fact: Vieux Paris d'Arcole is named after the Battle of Arcole, a significant victory for Napoleon Bonaparte in 1796.
Location: 24 Rue Chanoinesse
Port Debilly
A bit of a local secret, this viewpoint right off of the banks of the Seine provides a dazzling view of the Eiffel Tower with loads of wisteria in the foreground!
This can be combined with a walk to the Pont de Bir Hakeim, which is another fantastic viewpoint of the Eiffel Tower and where many films are shots due to the interesting architecture of the metro bridge.
There are some houseboats parked here but it’s usually not a problem to pose along the flowers.
La Cite Florale
Ah, La Cite Florale! This charming neighborhood has a village-like atmosphere and is a local secret for one of the best displays of wisteria!
It’s located in the 13th arrondissement and is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of central Paris. In fact, this neighborhood was designed to be a haven for plants and therefore the houses here are all named after flowers!
As it’s a residential area, take care to respect the residents while exploring and taking photos.
Here is my favorite spot for wisteria in the neighborhood.
A little fun fact about La Cite Florale: it was created in the 1920s, a period when Paris was heavily influenced by the Art Deco movement. So, while you’re marveling at the wisteria, do take a moment to appreciate the unique architecture of the houses. It’s like stepping back in time!
Maison Européenne de la Photographie
The Maison Européenne de la Photographie, located in the Marais district, is not only a fantastic place to explore contemporary photography exhibitions, but it's also home to a lovely wisteria-covered courtyard.
The museum's ever-changing exhibitions, featuring works by both established and emerging photographers, are a great way to immerse yourself in the world of photography while enjoying the stunning wisteria display.
Trivia: did you know that the Maison Européenne de la Photographie was established in 1994 and has since become one of the leading photography museums in Europe?