New Sidewalks of Paris: smoother, safer, and more accessible

New Sidewalks of Paris: smoother, safer, and more accessible.

Have you noticed the sidewalks in Paris getting … better? You’re not imagining it. Across the city, sidewalks are being widened, flattened, and beautified and it’s one of the most pedestrian-friendly urban updates happening quietly, yet profoundly, across the French capital.

Paris has long been known for its charming (but often challenging) pavements. Traditional Parisian sidewalks slope steeply toward the street, a design originally meant for efficient rainwater runoff. While picturesque, this steep curvature has posed issues for wheelchair users, people pushing strollers, elderly pedestrians, and even distracted tourists.

But things are changing. Recent years have seen a municipal push for walkability, accessibility, and urban sustainability. Sidewalks – street pavements – are a key part of that strategy.

Before (left) and after (right) the restoration

Driven by both European Union accessibility mandates and local initiatives under Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo’s administration, the city has been transforming its public spaces to prioritize “people over cars” which includes:

Barrier-free crossings, with curb cuts and tactile paving to assist people with visual impairments and mobility aids.

Wider sidewalks, giving more space to pedestrians, street cafés, and shared mobility, such as for scooters.

Flatter, more even paving, significantly reducing trip hazards and the stress on ankles, knees, and wheels.

This renovation project is great news for travelers, whether you’re strolling with luggage, pushing a pram, walking with limited mobility, or simply wearing your most stylish shoes. The new sidewalks make exploring Paris smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. For many people, the ability to navigate a city with dignity and independence is fundamental. These changes show that Paris is slowly, but steadily, becoming a more inclusive destination.

You’ll notice these upgraded sidewalks in central arrondissements like the Marais, parts of the Latin Quarter, around République, and increasingly in outer districts like the 14^th, 15^th and 18^th. They often appear alongside the city’s eco-street efforts: more greenery, fewer parked cars, and expanded bike lanes. The ongoing sidewalk upgrades are just one piece of a larger vision: a greener, safer, and more accessible Paris for all.

For example, in the photo, taken in the 14th arrondissement, you can see how the newly leveled surface benefits everyone, especially wheelchair users.

Top 5 Paris Arrondissements with the Best New Sidewalks

Looking for smooth, wide, walkable streets in Paris? These districts are leading the way in sidewalk renovations — perfect for relaxed strolling, accessible travel, or café-hopping without dodging cobblestones.

3rd and 4th Arrondissements (Le Marais): widened sidewalks, plenty of benches, and improved surfaces, especially around rue des Archives and Place des Vosges.

10th Arrondissement (Canal Saint-Martin and République): an urban renewal hub with leveled pavements, more greenery, and easy wheelchair and stroller navigation.

13th (Bibliothèque and Butte-aux-Cailles): major sidewalk projects near the Seine and François Mitterrand Library. Great for long riverside walks.

15th (Vaugirard and Convention): family-friendly and flat underfoot, the 15th boasts some of the widest and smoothest sidewalks in the city.

11th (Oberkampf and Bastille): buzzing with life but newly renovated for better flow, and ideal for nightlife and street markets without tripping hazards.

These districts also feature upgraded crossings and café terraces with more room. Whether you’re walking, rolling, or exploring with children, these are the most accessible and pedestrian-friendly arrondissements in Paris.