15 Reasons Why Bercy Village Is Worth Visiting (Totally Underrated!)

Bercy Village, also known as Cour Saint-Émilion, is located in the 12th arrondissement and was once the largest wine market in the world. Today, it’s a cultural and leisure hotspot beloved by Parisians. Should you go? Yes, you should! Here’s why:

 

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1. A shopping center open 7 days a week

Open from Monday to Sunday, from 10 am to 8pm for shops and from 11am to 2am for restaurants, Bercy Village is probably the shopping center to go to.

You can therefore enjoy these stores on weekdays and on weekends.

An idea for a Sunday outing!

 

2. Its easy access by metro and proximity to the Seine

 Cour Saint-Émilion métro station on ligne 14
Cour Saint-Emilion metro station (Credits Clicsouris / Wkimedia Commons under CC BY-SA 3.0)

Bercy Village is an easy place to reach in Paris. The Cour Saint-Émilion metro station (Line 14) drops you off right at the entrance, making it a quick and convenient stop.

Plus, it’s just a short walk from the Seine, so you can combine your visit with a scenic riverside stroll.

 

3. A pedestrian-only zone

 

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One of the best things about Bercy Village is that it’s completely car-free.

The charming cobblestone streets are made for walking, exploring, and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere without worrying about traffic.

This makes it a peaceful escape from the busy city, where you can stroll at your own pace, sit at an outdoor café, or browse shops without the noise of cars.

 

4. A great location

Bercy Village is only a few minutes from the Accor Arena, the third largest arena in the world, which hosts international tours and sporting events.

The Village is also close to Bercy and the Gare de Lyon stations.

You can even reach the Bibliothèque Nationale de France by crossing the ultramodern Simone de Beauvoir footbridge.

 

5. The unique charm of its historic wine warehouses

 

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Bercy Village was once the biggest wine market in Paris, where merchants stored and sold barrels of wine.

Today, the old stone warehouses have been transformed into stylish shops, restaurants, and cafés, but they still keep their historic charm.

Walking through, you’ll notice wooden beams, cobblestone paths, and a vintage feel that makes this area special.

It’s a mix of history and modern life, creating a unique atmosphere you won’t find elsewhere in Paris.

 

6. Special seasonal decorations and Christmas lights

 

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During the holiday season, Bercy Village transforms into a magical winter wonderland.

Twinkling fairy lights cover the trees, festive decorations fill the streets, and special Christmas-themed events make the area even more inviting.

You’ll find giant glowing ornaments, artistic light displays, and charming pop-up stalls selling seasonal treats.

It’s the perfect spot for a cozy winter evening, whether you’re shopping, dining, or just soaking in the festive atmosphere.

 

7. The lively atmosphere of outdoor terraces

 

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One of the best things about Bercy Village is its many outdoor terraces where you can sit, relax, and enjoy the lively vibe.

Whether you’re having a coffee, a glass of wine, or a full meal, the pedestrian-only streets make it a peaceful escape from the busy city.

Street performers, musicians, and friendly crowds bring a warm and welcoming energy, making it a great place to people-watch and enjoy a long afternoon in true Parisian style.

 

8. Shopping at boutique stores and concept shops

You’ll find unique boutiques and concept shops that sell stylish clothes, home decor, and gifts you won’t find everywhere.

Nature & Découvertes is perfect for nature lovers, offering eco-friendly products, books, and wellness items. Fnac has books, music, and gadgets for tech fans. If you love French beauty brands, check out Fragonard, Ikks, or Sephora.

Whether you’re looking for a special souvenir or just browsing, shopping here is a fun and relaxing experience!

 

9. A must-visit spot for Harry Potter fans

 

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If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ll love La Boutique Aux 2 Balais in Bercy Village.

This magical shop is packed with wands, Hogwarts robes, collectibles, and rare merchandise from the Wizarding World.

You can browse items from Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw, and even find replicas of famous objects from the movies.

Whether you’re looking for a unique souvenir or just want to soak in the magical atmosphere, this shop is a must-visit for any Potterhead!

 

10. Eating in renowned restaurants

 

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Bercy Village is a great place to enjoy a meal, with restaurants offering everything from classic French dishes to international flavors.

  • Chai 33 – A stylish spot known for its amazing wine selection and modern French cuisine.
  • L’Atelier Artisan Crêpier – A cozy crêperie serving delicious sweet and savory crêpes, perfect for a casual meal.
  • Partie de Campagne – A charming countryside-inspired bistro offering fresh, seasonal French dishes in a warm setting.
  • Factory & Co – Perfect if you’re craving New York-style bagels, burgers, or cheesecakes.
  • Paradis du Fruit – A paradise for healthy eaters, with fresh fruit juices, salads, and light, refreshing meals.

Whether you want fine dining or a quick bite, Bercy Village has something for every taste!

 

11. Sipping craft beer at The Frog

If you love craft beer, Bercy Village has a great spot for you—The Frog at Bercy Village.

This lively British-style pub is known for brewing its own beers on-site, offering a variety of flavors from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts.

Alongside your pint, you can enjoy classic pub food like juicy burgers, crispy fish and chips, and loaded nachos.

With a cozy indoor setting and a spacious terrace, it’s the perfect place to unwind after exploring Bercy Village.

 

12. Bercy Park – A beautiful green space perfect for a stroll

 

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A few steps from Bercy Village, find the Parc de Bercy, which combines several gardens with various themes.

The closest to the Village is the romantic garden that will surprise you with its grasslands, dunes and ponds.

 

13. The quirky Fairground Museum

Hidden near Bercy Village, the Musée des Arts Forains (Fairground Museum) is one of the most unusual and magical places in Paris.

Inside, you’ll find antique carousels, vintage carnival games, and beautifully restored fairground attractions from the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Unlike a typical museum, this one is interactive, meaning you can actually ride some of the attractions during a guided tour.

It’s a fun and nostalgic experience that feels like stepping into a storybook, perfect for both kids and adults.

 

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    14. The impressive Cinémathèque Française for movie lovers

     

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    If you’re a movie fan, the Cinémathèque Française is a must-visit. This famous film center is dedicated to the history of cinema, with a museum full of props, old cameras, and iconic movie costumes.

    They also show classic and rare films from all over the world, making it a great place to discover hidden gems.

    The building itself, designed by architect Frank Gehry, is unique and worth seeing.

    Whether you love old Hollywood, French cinema, or just want to learn more about movies, this place is a paradise for film lovers.

     

    15. Watching a movie at the huge UGC Bercy Cinema

     

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    This massive cinema has over 20 screens, showing the latest blockbusters, independent films, and even some movies in their original language with subtitles.

    The seats are comfy, the sound is top quality, and the experience feels way better than watching at home.

    It’s a great way to relax after exploring Bercy Village, especially on a rainy day or in the evening.