The Coulée Verte René‑Dumont, formerly the Promenade Plantée, is a 4.5 km linear park reimagined from the old Paris–Vincennes railway, running from Bastille to Porte de Montempoivre near Bois de Vincennes. Launched in 1993 after conversion from 1988, it was the world’s first elevated park and seeded inspiration for projects like New York’s High.

Beginning behind the Opéra Bastille, access is via stairs and lifts to the elevated section atop the Viaduc des Arts. Beneath its 71 restored brick arches (1989) are more than fifty artisan workshops—from luthiers to silversmiths—creating a vibrant artisan gallery. Elevated 10 m above street level, the path offers a unique outlook over Avenue Daumesnil and the historic Quinze‑Vingts district.

Further along, you’ll find the Vivaldi walkway, lush tunnels, a suspended bridge over Jardin de Reuilly, and tranquil green trenches. The route winds through the Hector‑Malot Garden, Gare‑de‑Reuilly Garden, and Square Charles‑Péguy, all featuring play areas, seating, and spots for rest. The lower section, open to cyclists, passes through dense plantings including lime trees, roses, bamboo, agapanthus and eucalyptus.

The ambiance shifts between refined urban spaces and wild greenery, with rooftop views, contemporary architecture, hidden sculptures, and street art diversions. It also serves as an ecological corridor for city wildlife (foxes, bats, hedgehogs).

Ideal for families, joggers, wanderers, or photographers, the Coulée Verte draws a diverse crowd seeking urban escape. Open year‑round—7 AM to 9:30 PM in summer, 8 AM to 8:30 PM in shoulder seasons—and partially accessible to mobility‑impaired visitors. Leashed dogs welcomed.