When the iconic monuments and the hordes of tourists start to tire you, there's Charonne, the "real" Paris to some, where people from many corners of the globe call home. Disparate cultures, incomes, and ages collide to bring you a Paris that is different from the postcards. Spanning from the 11th arrondissement to the 12th, Charonne is young and energetic. Local business owners are friendly, always available, and in a perpetually relaxed state of being. With its trendy, boho clientele, Charonne offers a truly eclectic and unique Parisian experience in the north-eastern part of the city.
First of all, it’s not creepy. An oasis of peace in Charonne, the tombs of La Cimetière du Père-Lachaise bear the names of major figures in literature, theatre, and music. It is both the largest park and the largest cemetery with open spaces in Paris. For a moment, you'll feel like you've left the city entirely.
