Best metro stop for discovering Paris' 12th arrondissement?

Question

I'm going to Paris for a few days in June. I know most of Paris well as I lived there for 4 months and got around a lot, but don't know the 12th arrondissement very well. I've heard that it's largely residential and less touristy, which is what I want to show my fiance for a few hours one day. Which would be the best metro stops to get off at to discover residential Paris with some good boulangeries/cafes/little shops along the way?

Answer 1

Either one of "Nation" or "Oberkampf" or "Republique" will get you into the 12eme arr.  Nation is on the A3 and is basically the south end of the 12th and Oberkampf is in the centre.  My advice is to just walk around these main metro stations as that is where you will find most restaurants, shops etc in residential areas are located.  There is an interesting flea market in the 12th as well as the Marche Aligre.  Good luck on exploring - you'll soon discover local favourites and many of your own off the beaten track!

Answer 2

The best metro station for the XII e is Picpus on southern half-circle line  or Reuilly-Diderot on line n°1  - (Oberkampf and République are in the Xth and XIth) - It is a popular arrondissement with normal people, and many normal shops -

Go to the Mairie d'arrondissement - it is always a place full of resources and information - people there are nice and they will give you many tips about the arrondissement -