Square des Batignolles
A romantic square with a village feel.
The story of the place
Until 1860, Les Batignolles were not part of Paris: they formed an independent commune, absorbed into the capital by Napoleon III. Two years later the city turned the village's main square, behind the church of Sainte-Marie, into a public garden. Haussmann and his team applied the Second Empire formula: winding paths, a grotto, a waterfall, a stream and a miniature lake, in the English garden style Napoleon III had discovered across the Channel. The square kept that village scale, away from the main avenues.
Getting there
Nearest metro station: Brochant (13). The spot is in the 17th arrondissement of Paris. Open walking directions.
The light
Decent golden hour (3/5): the golden light works, but surrounding buildings can cut it short depending on the season.
Where to go after the shoot
A few addresses within a short walk, to make the moment last.
Neighbourhood brasserie open every day from 8am, terrace on the church square: all-day service and weekend brunch.
Neighbourhood bistro serving French cooking at lunch and dinner, closed Sundays, about ten minutes' walk from Square des Batignolles.
Dining room set inside a 1925 Orient-Express carriage, Corsican cooking, open in the evening past midnight.
Addresses checked in 07/2026. Places change — check opening hours before you head out.
Photo spots nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Square des Batignolles?
Nearest metro station: Brochant (13). The spot is in the 17th arrondissement of Paris.
When is the best time to photograph Square des Batignolles?
Decent golden hour (3/5): the golden light works, but surrounding buildings can cut it short depending on the season. The bandstand under the trees, in autumn.
Can I book a photographer for a shoot at Square des Batignolles?
Yes. SnapSpot Paris connects you with Paris-based photographers who know the location. A single session can cover several nearby spots — the photographer adapts the route to the light of the day. Moulin Rouge, Le mur des Je t'aime, La Maison Rose — rue de l'Abreuvoir, Sacré-Cœur.