3rd Arrondissement

Beaubourg is a district in Paris, France that boasts of both old and modern attractions. It is a vibrant neighborhood that represents the best that Paris has to offer.

The Musée Picasso is located in the nearby Marais district. As the name suggests, it showcases most of the works of the well-known artist.

Sights & Activities

The most popular attraction in Beaubourg is the Centre Georges Pompidou, also known as the Pompidou Centre. Located within the IVe arrondissement, it houses several institutions of the city, including a public library, a center for music and acoustic research, and a museum of modern art, the Musée National d’Art Moderne. During its construction, the architecture of the building raised more than a few eyebrows, as its design was considered revolutionary. The structure features exposed utility pipes in its façade, elevators of different colors, clear plastic tunnels, and steel supports. The establishment was named after former President Georges Pompidou. The center has long evolved into a popular landmark in the area, with visitors and locals frequently dropping by not just to view the exhibits but also to enjoy the light and airy interiors of the building. The open space fronting the building is called the Place Georges Pompidou and is where visitors can find a lot of street performers who will showcase their talents in front of interested audiences. The area is also ideal for rest and relaxation.

Right next to the centre is the Stravinsky Fountain, which actually features 16 mechanical sculptures that move and blow out water. The fountain was so named because artists Niki de Saint Phalle and Tinguely derived much of their inspirations from the music of Igor Stravinsky.

Still located within the neighborhood of Beaubourg is the Church of Saint-Merri, situated along Rue Saint Martin. The structure was constructed in the early part of the 16th century and is of Gothic style of architecture. The church also features a bell tower containing the oldest bell in the city, said to be cast in 1331.

The Musée Picasso is a well-known art gallery situated on Rue de Thorigny. The museum itself is housed within the Hôtel Salé, built during the 17th century. The museum showcases the works of Pablo Picasso in all media, numbering to more than 3,000. It also contains artworks collected by Picasso that were made by other notable painters. Apart from showcasing works of art, the museum also strives to impart knowledge to visitors regarding its collections. There is also a small yet formal garden located at the back of the hotel, called the Jardin de l’ Hôtel Salé, where visitors can take strolls in.

Eating Out

Beauborg is known to be full of terrace cafes that allow their patrons to enjoy the open air. The Centre Georges Pompidou itself contains a café in its mezzanine area to provide refreshments and light snacks to its visitors. Among the dining establishments located near the center are the Ozo Restaurant and the Dans le Noir, both located in the quirky and trendy Rue Quincampoix. Near the Musée Picasso is the A Deux Pas du Trois, located along Rue Vielle du Temple. Along Rue Rambuteau are the Le Potager du Marais and the Le Soleil en Cave, both offering delicious meals at affordable prices.