little known places to visit in paris

Hidden Gems in Paris: 30 Little Known Places In Paris To Visit

Do you want to go off the beaten path in Paris? This article will give you a list of the best hidden gems in Paris you shouldn’t miss.

There is no doubt that the famous landmarks and stunning magnificent world-known museums are what make Paris what it is .

But besides the Eiffel Tower , the Notre Dame, and the Louvre museum , there is more to the French capital than meets the eye.

Tucked away in the less-walked streets of Paris and away from the famous attractions, there are so many hidden gems in Paris worth exploring.

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If you love taking off the beaten path or have explored all the usual places on your Paris bucket list and want to go where a few tourists go, this article will give you all the hidden Paris attractions worth visiting.

Of course, if you’re traveling to Paris for the first time , or are just in the city for the weekend , in that case, you’ll want to stick to the famous Parisian landmarks , but if you’ve visited a number of times or have more time, make sure to add these hidden gems of Paris to your itinerary.

Ready to take off the beaten path in Paris? Read on to discover all the best secret places in Paris to visit.

Before You Go, Here’s How to Plan Your Visit To Paris: Practical Quick Tips

WHERE TO STAY Best Eiffel Tower Views:  Hôtel Le Walt  (9.0) Luxury stay:  Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel  (8.2) Mid-range stay:  Hôtel Eiffel  (8.7) Budget Stay:  People – Paris Bercy  (8.9) Apartment Rental:  Résidence Charles Floquet  (9.1)  

BEST GUIDED TOURS Louvre Museum guided tour : (4.5/5) Seine River Dinner Cruise : (4.7/5) Montmartre Walking Tour : (4.8/5) Le Marais Walking Food Tour : (4.5/5) Versailles Guided Tour : (4.8/5) Eiffel Tower Guided Tour : (4.4/5) 

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Prepare your trip extensively with this Paris Travel guidebook .
• Don’t forget a universal travel adapter , a travel neck pouch , and comfortable walking shoes .
• Consider getting either the museum pass or the Paris city pass if you plan to visit many attractions. The city pass comes with free transportation and access to the hop-on-hop-off bus. You can read my Paris museum pass review to see if it’s right for you.
• Book this private transfer from CDG airport to Paris to avoid the hustle of figuring out how to get to Paris.

Best Hidden Gems in Paris to Visit

Here is a list of the hidden spots in Paris plus their exact addresses to locate them with ease.

1. Rue Crémieux

First on this list of secret places to visit in Paris is Rue Crémieux , a cobblestoned pedestrian street in the 12th arrondissement that was originally built as housing for workers back in the 1850s.

Today, it is known for its pastel-colored, candy-hued quirky houses that line the street, and has grown in terms of popularity as a spot for taking cute photos.

While more people know of the street now compared to years ago, it remains a relatively secret spot in the city, overshadowed by other more popular streets like Rue de l’Abreuvoir in Montmartre.

Do note though that people live here, so make sure to be respectful when taking photos in the area!

In fact, the residents of this place are starting to get fed up with tourists that they’re asking city officials to install a gate to restrict tourists from visiting in the evening hours and on the weekend so that they get back their “privacy”.

2. Île aux Cygnes

Measuring just about one kilometer (2,789 ft) end-to-end in length and nestled in the middle of the Seine, Île aux Cygnes (Island of Swans) is a small, uninhabited man-made island that was built to support bridges that span across the river.

The island may be small but it’s packed with facilities and sights that are great for a leisurely time, including tree-lined walkways, a free outdoor recreational area with exercise machines and a climbing wall, a 22m-tall Statue of Liberty replica, (the biggest in Paris) and more.

On-site fun aside, the island also offers some great views of the Eiffel Tower !

3. Paris Sewer Museum

Literally located in the sewers of the city, the Paris Sewer Museum (Musée des Égouts de Paris) ranks high on my list of the best unique places in Paris. It is essentially an unusual attraction dedicated to the city’s drainage system.

A rather intriguing hidden Paris secret, the museum brings curious visitors on a journey through the underground tunnels hidden out of view.

Informative guided tours are offered by sewermen themselves and you’ll be fascinated by actual equipment and exhibits arranged in carefully-curated galleries while learning about the history of the city’s sewers.

If you’re into the marvels of engineering and can brave the not-so-great smell for a while, you’ll enjoy spending an hour exploring this Paris hidden gem.

Address:  Esplanade Habib Bourguiba, Pont de l’Alma, 75007.

4. Petite Ceinture

Photo by Pascal POGGI /Flickr

Up for a stroll? Make your way to the Petite Ceinture , an abandoned railway line that no longer serves trains but has turned into a unique attraction in Paris that remains unknown to many, including Parisians themselves.

Stroll along the original tracks and you’ll come across overgrown flowers and greenery, as well as former train stations that have been converted into restaurants, bars, playgrounds, and gardens over the years.

However, not the full stretch of the railway track is open to the public, and some of the stretches may be dark and unsafe to explore, so stick to the safer parts.

Since this track is a long stretch, it can be assessed from various points depending on where you’re coming from.

There are various points of entry in the 12th, 13th, 14th up to the 20th arrondissement. You can check here to find the exact entry points from these areas.

5. Bercy Village

Located in the 12th arrondissement, Bercy Village once housed one of the largest wine markets in the whole of Europe but has now transformed into a favorite shopping village in the city.

Lined with boutiques, bars, restaurants, concept stores, and other places of interest including a secret vineyard, a fairground museum, Parc de Bercy, and an 18-screen cinema), Bercy Village is open and packed with energy 7 days a week.

Many of the rustic storefronts and white stone buildings you can spot here have been standing for decades and have interiors with remnants of old wine cellars.

I’d suggest coming over either for a meal, to shop, or just to soak in some good vibes or picnic in Parc de Bercy.

While it’s charming all year round, the village is especially beautiful during the Christmas season when it’s blanketed with Christmas lights and Christmas markets .

6. Museum of Fairground Arts

Lomita , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Located right around the corner from Bercy Village, the Museum of Fairground Arts (Musée des Arts Forains) is set to take you on a fun adventure.

This Parisian hidden gem delights visitors with nostalgic items from the performing arts scene in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Expect an exclusive collection of carnival setups, costumes, funfair games, original carousels, and all sorts of timeless knick-knacks that will take you down memory lane to the early days of fairground culture.

The museum is not just a show-and-tell space. Many of the items and areas here are interactive.

You can hop on old-school rides, dance to an authentic antique pipe organ, and catch shows by incredibly talented performers.

Guided tours are also available in French, and information pamphlets are available for English-speaker visitors.

Please note that you’ll have to make a reservation ahead of time from the official website to guarantee your spot.

Address:  53 Av. des Terroirs de France, 75012 Paris.

7. Maison de Nicolas Flamel

Fanfwah , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Widely regarded as the oldest house in Paris, Maison de Nicholas Flamel dates back to the 15th century and was a house owned by Nicholas Flamel, Paris’s most famous alchemist who was also a well-known philanthropist.

It wasn’t Nicholas’s family home though! Maison de Nicholas Flamel was built to house the poor. People in need were welcomed to live here for free in exchange for saying a few prayers in the past — at least according to the inscription on the house’s facade.

While the actual house quarters aren’t open for visits, you can pop by to admire the building’s historical facade from the outside or have a meal at Auberge de Nicolas Flamel, Paris’s oldest inn that occupies the ground floor of the house.

Address:  49 Rue de Montmorency, 75003 Paris.

8. Lavirotte Building, Avenue Rapp

If you’re a fan of quirky buildings that don’t conform to regular standards, you’ll love the Lavirotte Building located at 29 Avenue Rapp.

Designed by architect Jules Lavirotte, the building is a rare and precious surviving example of Art Nouveau (an ornamental, free, and innovative style of modern art that flourished between about 1890 and 1910).

In fact, its unique and detailed design won it an award for “the most original new facade in the 7th arrondissement in 1901”.

The building is a true work of art. It’s imaginative, quirky, and irregular, but it has also been controversial and accused of being suggestive.

Look closely at the photo of the Lavirotte Building’s iconic front door above, and you’ll know what I mean!

You cannot enter the building though, but taking in its quirky facade and exterior is still going to be quite a treat for your eyes.

Address:  29 Av. Rapp, 75007 Paris.

9. Arenes de Lutèce

Mbzt , CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Tucked away in the Latin Quarter surrounded by shady trees and hidden from street view, the Arènes de Lutèce is yet another one of my favorite hidden secrets of Paris.

Known as the oldest historic monument built in Paris, it’s a shame that this 1st-century Roman amphitheater rarely makes it to the list of places to visit in Paris by tourists exploring the city. Actualy, even most Parisians have not been here.

The remains of the partially destroyed Arènes consist of restored terraced seating that could once accommodate 15,000 people, a lovely garden filled with trees, and a large stage area that has today become a popular soccer field for French teens and a Pétanque spot for the older ones.

The space is usually deserted except for some locals who come here for a picnic or sports, and you can rest your legs in the calmness between all that sightseeing.

Address : 4 rue des Arènes, 75005 Paris.

10. Montmartre Cemetery

If you don’t get freaked out by taking a stroll in a cemetery, here’s another hidden gem in Paris for you.

Officially called Cimetière du Nord, the Montmartre Cemetery is a necropolis located in the heart of Montmartre.

If you’re imagining a dull, depressing cemetery with a dark atmosphere, you’re imagining it wrong.

Montmartre cemetery feels more like a secret garden and park than a burial ground. The cemetery’s 20,000 burial plots are resting places for many famous individuals including singers, actors, painters, writers , explorers, and poets.

Some popular graves include those of Théodore Chassériau, a French painter , Gustave Moreau, Horace Vernet, Dalida, a famous French singer whose grave is the most visited in this cemetery, Pierre Cardin, a famous French designer , Jeanne Moreau, and many more.

Address:  20 Av. Rachel, 75018 Paris.

11. Atelier des Lumières

While Paris is mainly known for its extensive collection of classical museums, there are plenty of museums dedicated to modern art or other unique art forms, with Atelier des Lumières being one of them.

Atelier des Lumières is a digital art museum that presents classic art in immersive formats, allowing visitors to enjoy popular art not just by staring at frames, but by being surrounded by them.

Installations are projected all over the space while being accompanied by musical soundtracks, adding a breath of fresh air and fun to centuries-old artwork.

You’ll leave with photos that are perfect for the ‘gram or for making your friends back home jealous.

This Parisian museum has held exhibitions with works of famous painters like Dali, Cezanne, Auguste Renoir , Van Gogh, Gaudi, Claude Monet , and many others.

You can book your ticket to Atelier des Lumières here .

Address:  38 Rue Saint-Maur, 75011 Paris.

You can also check out my recommended tours and activities in Paris in the widget below   all offered by my favorite tour provider, GetYourGuide .

12. Parc Floral de Paris

Enchanting in all seasons yet often overshadowed by other more popular parks and gardens in Paris , Parc Floral de Paris located in Bois de Vincennes is a wonderland for nature lovers, especially if you have a soft spot for flowers and plants.

Besides an impressive collection of floral displays that change according to the seasons, Parc Floral de Paris has lots of other fun and educational spaces including many play areas for children, a mini golf course, a medicinal garden, ponds, and greenhouses that you can visit.

The park is also the location of major annual flower shows in the city and plays host to many free events throughout the year such as concerts, festivals, fairs, and circus shows.

You should note that unlike other gardens and parks in Paris which are free to access, you’ll need to pay a few euros to access Parc Floral de Paris. It was around 2 Euros per person the last time I visited.

Address:  Rte de la Pyramide, 75012 Paris.

13. Grand Mosque of Paris

The Grand Mosque of Paris is one of the must-visit hidden gems in Paris!

The mosque is the oldest in Metropolitan France and boasts spacious prayer rooms, a garden, a library, a tea room, a restaurant, a hammam, and more but the star stopper is its courtyard which is fully covered in colorful mosaics, trees, and fountains.

Inaugurated in the interwar years back in the 1920s, the Grand Mosque of Paris played a vital role in promoting the visibility of Islam in the country.

It’s also unique for its Spanish-Moorish style of architecture that isn’t commonly seen in the buildings of Paris.

Besides taking in its architectural beauty, I also recommend popping by the tea room for some warm mint tea and Moroccan sweets!

Doors to the mosque are open to all visitors regardless of faith. And while you can visit the Mosque every day except on prayer days (Fridays), I recommend visiting in May when the Mosque is covered in purple Wisteria creating an incredibly beautiful sight.

Address:  2bis Pl. du Puits de l’Ermite, 75005 Paris.

14. 59 Rivoli Art Gallery

Another one of the Paris hidden gems is the art gallery on Rue Rivoli known as 59 Rivoli Art Gallery .

Located in Chatelet, this art gallery welcomes you with a facade of a rather quirky kind of art with the building covered in an art ensemble made from papers, tubes, plastic bags, and more.

Though it’s located on such a popular street, not many people know about it. You can stop to take photos of the artsy building and its colorful door or even step inside to discover a whole new world of colorful art.

The steps leading to the art gallery are covered in colorful and quirky murals and are Instagram worth if you’re looking for Instagram spots in Paris , and they hold exhibitions (permanent and temporary ones) for up-and-coming artists.

And the best part is that it’s free to access making it one of the unique free things to do in Paris .

Adress: 59 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris.

15. Dodo Manège

Photo by Groume /Flickr

If you like carousels, you simply cannot miss out on the Dodo Manège . Located within the Jardin des Plantes, Dodo Manège is not your usual merry-go-round.

Instead of offering rides on common horses and huge birds, Dodo Manège specifically features animals that are either extinct or endangered.

Some animals you can choose to ride include a panda, gorilla, dodo, horned turtle, sivatherium, thylacine, and even a Triceratops!

Bring your little ones here for a fun yet educational time. You can also pair your insightful visit with the Natural History Museum since they’re located next to each other.

Address: Jardin des Plantes, 75005.

16. Grand Gallery of Evolution

Shadowgate from Novara, ITALY , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Also located in the Jardin des Plantes, the Grand Gallery of Evolution (Grande Galerie de l’Évolution) is part of the National History Museum.

This enormous gallery covers a space of 4 floors and houses a spectacular collection of over 9,500 specimens.

From blue whale skeletons, dinosaur skeletons, an African savannah section that consists of a parade of over 60 taxidermy animals, a room dedicated to endangered and extinct species, to a display of over 460,000 conserved rocks, minerals, crystals, gems, and meteorites, the gallery has them all. There’s also a children’s gallery for curious kids!

Though it’s located with the famous Jardin des Plantes, the Grand Gallery of Evolution is still very much one of the hidden gems in Paris that is usually overlooked by visitors to this park.

Address:  36 Rue Geoffroy-Saint-Hilaire, 75005 Paris.

17. Marché Malassis – Marché au Puces de St-Ouen

If you enjoy flea markets and shopping for antiques, you’ll love the Marché Malassis !

Also simply known as St-Ouen Flea Market, the Marché Malassis is a treasure trove of gems. You can easily spend hours browsing in search of something that tickles your fancy. After all, it’s one of the biggest Flea markets in the world.

Stalls here overflow with unique and unusual items such as antique furniture, retro goods, vintage tableware, accessories, collections of toys, and all sorts of collectibles.

Do note though that the market is open only on Mondays and weekends, so don’t come on a weekday expecting open stalls!

Address:  142 Rue des Rosiers, 93400 Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine.

18. Wine Museum (Musée du Vin)

MDV olivier , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

You know Parisians take their wine seriously when there’s an entire museum dedicated to it.

Nestled in the heart of the 16th arrondissement , the Paris Wine Museum will take you on a journey through the French craft of winemaking that spans centuries of sheer dedication and hard work.

Learn about traditional tools, processes, and the history of winemaking through the museum’s winding galleries. You can opt for a self-exploration or guided tour, or even a wine-tasting tour led by an expert.

To enjoy a full experience, have lunch at Les Echansons, the museum’s quaint restaurant housed within old cellar walls. The restaurant serves a vast array of French wines as well as fine traditional French cuisine .

Address:  5 Sq. Charles Dickens, 75016 Paris.

19. Fragonard Perfume Museum

If there’s another craft the French are proud of, it’s perfume. The Fragonard Perfume Museum (Musée du Parfum) is a true gem if you love fragrances.

It may not be the best-selling museum in Paris , but it’s definitely the best-smelling one (pun intended).

Housed within a beautiful 19th-century townhouse, the Perfume Museum will open your eyes and senses to the world of enchanting fragrances, and you’ll leave with a greater appreciation for them after learning about the secrets of its history and complex production.

You’ll also be able to see several perfumery objects both from the olden ages and current ones.

The best part? Entrance is completely free, and they also offer free guided tours!

You should note that the museum is quite small and will take you less than an hour to go through.

You can also purchase perfumes for yourself or your loved ones to take back home as a Paris souvenir , but if you want to make your experience even more memorable, then I recommend signing up for this Perfume making workshop where you’ll create your own perfume.

Address:  9 Rue Scribe, 75009 Paris.

20. The Great Pagoda

Located in Bois de Vincennes, The Great Pagoda is the largest Buddhist temple in the city, and home to the largest gold Buddha in Europe, standing at 9-meters (29.5ft) tall.

Events are held frequently at The Great Pagoda, especially on weekends and public holidays, and I’d highly suggest coordinating your visit when there’s something special going on!

Otherwise, you can pop by anytime since it’s open for a peaceful visit. Some people even bring their pillows and come here to meditate.

Address:  40 Bis Rte de Ceinture du Lac Daumesnil, 75012 Paris.

21. Paris Zoological Park

Commonly called the Vincennes Zoo, the Paris Zoological Park is home to over 3,000 animals that live in biozones that are thoughtfully designed to replicate their natural habitats to allow them to thrive and live comfortably while maintaining a sustainable environment.

The zoo is spacious, well-kept, and great for a day out with friends or family.

Besides the usual animals such as lions, giraffes, and birds, the Paris Zoological Park also houses some pretty exotic and even endangered “tenants”, including gentle manatees, tapirs, jaguars, penguins, antelopes, and vultures.

Address:  Av. Daumesnil, 75012 Paris.

22. Hôtel de Sens

Camlamb , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

No, the Hôtel de Sens is not a hotel, so you can’t book a room for an overnight stay. Instead, it’s a former residence built for Tristan de Salazar, the archbishop of Sens.

The building is an architectural beauty with its Gothic and French Renaissance features and remains one of the very few medieval residences that remain standing in Paris after enduring the passage of time.

One of the favorite parts of the building is the Forney Library, the building’s impressive library that holds a vast collection of books and catalogs dedicated to arts, fashion, and design.

This historical Parisian landmark also has a small but well-maintained garden that impresses its visitors.

Address : 7 Rue des Nonnains d’Hyères, 75004 Paris.

23. Cloître des Billettes

Cloître des Billettes is the only Middle-Ages cloister still standing in Paris.

Nestled in the heart of the fashionable Le Marais district in the 4th arrondissement, this Lutheran church is often overlooked in a neighborhood full of fun bars, hip boutiques, cute Parisian cafes , and interesting galleries.

Cloître des Billettes may have a long history but it’s today a spiritual and cultural center — more than just a religious site.

Depending on when you visit, the church hosts plenty of events regularly, including spiritual concerts, gospels, exhibitions, and sales.

You can swing by to witness or be a part of authentic Lutheran worship if you visit on a Sunday.

Address:  24 Rue des Archives, 75004 Paris.

24. Musée de Montmartre

Musée de Montmartre , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

There are just so many hidden places in Paris but one you shouldn’t miss is the Musée de Montmartre .

This Parisian museum is filled with fascinating items from paintings to installations, poster art, and even actual rooms and studio spaces where famous French painters like Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Suzanne Valadon once lived and worked.

While it’s not a huge museum, it has an intimate and calm vibe that I love. Also, the museum and its gardens overlook Clos Montmartre, a hidden vineyard that’s one of the final remaining ones in the city!

If you have time, be sure to pop by the cafe known as Café Renoir (named after the famous painter) in the garden to enjoy a cup of coffee. You can also stroll in the garden (known as Jardin Renoir) to take in its charm.

So, whether you’re looking for things to do in Montmartre or best kept secrets in Paris, Musée de Montmartre is one not to miss.

To access the museum and the gardens, you’ll need to purchase this entry ticket .

Address:  12 Rue Cortot, 75018 Paris.

Related Post: Best restaurants in Montmartre Cool hotels in Montmartre

25. Tour de l’horloge

Keep your eyes peeled if you’d like to catch a glimpse of another Paris unknown attraction!

Also more simply known as the Paris Clock Tower, Tour de l’horloge is France’s very first public clock, having reported time to Parisians tirelessly since 1371.

Built between the years 1350 and 1353, the clock tower is located at the end of the Conciergerie building and is quite a remarkable piece of work.

The antique, timeless clock is a lovely contrast of blue and gold as it stands elegantly at the junction of a busy, modern street.

Address:  Bd du Palais, 75001 Paris.

26. Parc Monceau

Looking for nontouristy things to do in Paris ? Here’s a spot that ranks high on my list of hidden romantic places in Paris.

Forget about other overcrowded parks in the city, like the Tuileries or Luxembourg gardens, Parc Monceau is a tranquil green space in the 8th arrondissement that more locals frequent than tourists.

Get your zen on here and people-watch on one of the benches scattered across the park or pack a picnic to experience a true Parisian picnic !

The park exudes secret garden vibes, making it a romantic hangout spot for couples and a group of friends and friends.

Take your time to stroll through the park and you’ll be delighted to come across many secret surprises, from a charming Renaissance archway, elegant Corinthian pillars, beautiful bridges, an Egyptian pyramid, statues, to a pond, and more.

Address:  35 Bd de Courcelles, 75008 Paris.

27. Merci Concept Store

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Merci Paris (@merciparis)

Designer boutiques, luxury stores, and huge shopping centers are plentiful in Paris, but the fashionable city also has its share of quirky concept stores that will delight those who prefer unique items that can’t be easily whisked off common shelves.

Merci Concept Store is a gem of a concept store located in the heart of the Le Marais neighborhood.

This trendy 3-story boutique is hidden behind an unassuming door, noticeable usually because of the iconic vintage bright red mini parked in its courtyard.

Besides three levels of curated items (from vintage clothing to coffee, home goods, furniture, bags, and jewelry), there are also two cafes and a restaurant in the store.

If it’s cold or raining and you’re looking for rainy day things to do in Paris , Merci is a great place to stay dry for a bit and pick out unique finds.

Address:  111 Bd Beaumarchais, 75003 Paris.

28. Cathédrale de la Sainte-Trinité

The magnificent Cathédrale de la Sainte-Trinité with its golden domes is a hidden gem when it comes to cathedrals in Paris.

The building is the most important Russian Orthodox Church in the city, and unlike other solemn, classical churches in Paris , Cathédrale de la Sainte-Trinité is spacious, bright, and modern.

It’s just a stone’s throw away from the Eiffel Tower on the left bank of the Seine, so definitely consider adding it to your Paris itinerary if you’re keen to take a glimpse of an orthodox church in all its magnificence.

Address:  1 Quai Branly, 75007 Paris.

29. Hôtel de la Marine

Though located at the famous square of Place de la Concorde, Hôtel de la Marine is usually ignored by most tourists or some don’t even realize it can be visited.

Easily confused to be a hotel due to its name, Hôtel de la Marine is actually a museum that displays the restored 18th-century apartments of Marc-Antoine Thierry de Ville-d’Avray with luxurious household furniture.

Besides the apartments, this museum also has luxurious Salons that are worth strolling and various heritage objects.

To visit this museum, you’ll need to purchase this entry ticket .

Address:  2 Pl. de la Concorde, 75008 Paris.

30. Rue Mouffetard

Last on the list of Paris lesser known attractions is Rue Mouffetard . Also called  la Mouffe  by the locals, the lively Rue Mouffetard is one of the oldest and most picturesque  streets in Paris .

Unlike other bustling streets in central Paris, Rue Mouffetard is charming, vibrant, and laid-back.

The long street is lined with cozy bistros, bakeries, cheese shops, and stores selling fresh foods.

Pop by in the morning if you’d like to check out the Mouffetard Market, or at night for a glass of wine at one of the quaint bars.

Address:  5th Arrondissement, 750085 Paris.

Final Thoughts on the Best Hidden Gems in Paris

The Eiffel Tower and the Louvre are beautiful, but there’s more to Paris than places filled with tourists trying to take selfies against backdrops full of people.

Thankfully, it’s easy to explore Paris off the beaten path. So, if you’re open to discovering the little known places in Paris, I hope that this article has given you a number of options to consider.

Add some of these secrets of Paris to your Paris itinerary and you’ll leave the city more acquainted with it than you might have imagined.

NEVER TRAVEL TO PARIS WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE One of the biggest mistakes you’ll ever make when planning a trip to Paris is to forego Travel Insurance ! You might think that it’s expensive, but when you think of how much it will save you when you lose your valuables or even get sick, then you’ll know that it’s NOT that expensive! Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Paris

• Fun things to do in Paris on a Rainy day
• Famous Paintings in Paris
• Where to Find the Best Macarons in Paris
• Famous Paintings at the Louvre Museum
• Best Covered Passages of Paris
• Most beautiful neighborhoods of Paris
• Fun free things to do in Paris
• Famous Churches to Visit in Paris
• Best Museums in Paris
• Tips for Visiting the Eiffel Tower
• How to spend One day In Paris

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Esther is the face and voice behind Dreams in Paris! She has always been obsessed with Paris even before she moved there. She has lived in Paris for a couple of years, and that obsession has not changed! That love for Paris, plus her passion for writing led to the birth of Dreams in Paris! She now shares all the practical tips and guides she’s picked along the way to help you plan a memorable trip to the city of love! You can learn more about her here !

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40 Paris Hidden Gems You’ll Love to Discover

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Paris hidden gems are my favorite thing to discover in the city! But don’t get me wrong, if you are visiting for the first time there are dozens of touristy spots to put on your Paris itinerary first.

If you are in the city, for 1 day, 3 days, or even a week, you will have plenty of things to tick off your Paris bucket list (and you likely won’t have time for all of these Paris secret spots and hidden places)…

But if you get the chance to stay a bit longer, or you keep coming back to this beautiful city, this list of hidden gems in Paris will take you beyond the guidebooks. Explore secret passages, micro-arrondissements, forgotten windmills, and more unique places even locals often don’t know about.

Here are 40 Paris hidden gems you will absolutely love to discover…

The passage des panoramas.

Where to find it: 11 Boulevard Montmartre, 75002 Paris, France

The oldest covered walkway in Paris makes for an amazing place to get some photos in. The glass roof provides amazing lighting and the hanging lanterns give a vintage feel that takes you back a hundred years. The Passage des Panoramas is full of eclectic boutiques and ethnic restaurants. It is one of my favorite Paris hidden gems: the perfect stop for a quick bite and coffee on a rainy day!

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Rue Cremieux

Where to find it: Rue Cremieux, 75012 Paris

One of the most colorful spots in Paris, Rue Cremieux is a beautiful cobblestone street nestled in a residential area. Rue Cremieux was a true Paris hidden gem but it has become a popular Instagram spot in the past few years. Even so, many Parisians still don’t know about it! You can take some gorgeous shots walking through the pastel-colored houses but be mindful not to disturb the residents or sit on people’s front stoops.

The Flower and Bird Market

Where to find it: 37 Place Louis Lépine, 75004 Paris, France

This pretty Flower Market is located along the River Seine between Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle. Take a stroll through the green cast iron pavilions and admire the colorful flowers and planters. Every Sunday, the Flower Market transforms into a Bird Market filled with the tweets of thousands of birds. It is a true Paris hidden gem you shouldn’t miss when you explore the  Île de la Cité .

The Zadkine Museum Courtyard

Where to find it: 100 bis Rue d’Assas, 75006 Paris, France

The beautiful courtyard attached to the museum comes to life in Summer and Fall, bronze mythological statues are hidden amongst the foliage making for a magical setting. It’s free to enter the courtyard and museum so wander through this overgrown romantic space and admire the pure artistry, a real hidden gem in Paris.

Dalida Square

Where to find it: Place Dalida, 75018 Paris, France

This is possibly one of the prettiest spots in Paris, the secluded Dalida Square in Montmartre is a lovely escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Featuring cobbled, tree-lined streets and quaint buildings it’s at its most beautiful in the Summer and the frosty Winter. You’ll find it at the intersections between rue Girardon and rue de l’Abreuvoir, a wonderful area for wandering around after.

The Columns of Buren Palais-Royal

Where to find it: 8 rue de Montpensier, 75001 Paris, France

The 260 striped columns within the courtyard of the Palais-Royal are an amazing sight and make for some really interesting photography opportunities. The columns aren’t new but they contrast with the palace beautifully, particularly as they’re all different heights so you can catch some fun angles. The courtyard and palace are free to enter. 

The Passage Verdeau

Where to find it: 6 rue de la Grange-Batelière, 75003 Paris

The Passage Verdeau is one of the covered passages in Paris many locals don’t know about. With its classic design, glass roof, you will find some quaint boutique shops in Passage Verdeau.

The Hidden Red Car at MERCI

Where to find it: 111 Boulevard Beaumarchais, 75003 Paris, France

The little red FIAT at MERCI Concept store has become an iconic Instagram spot. But it’s still relatively hard to find if you don’t know where to look which makes it a Paris hidden gem. Merci Concept Store is tucked away in the high Marais district at the end of a hidden cobblestone street. Don’t miss the little red car on your next trip to Paris!

The Sacre Coeur Carousel

Where to find it: Place Saint-Pierre, 75018 Paris, France

Montmartre and the Sacre Coeur are one of the top sights to visit in Paris. But most people head directly to the stairs leading to the Basilique or take the funiculaire up. One of the best views of the Sacre Coeur is actually by the beautiful Carousel in the Square Louise Michel (next to Metro Anvers). It’s one of the best hidden gems in Paris that many tourists totally miss.

Villa Léandre

Where to find it: Villa Léandre (off Avenue Junot) 75018 Paris

Another hidden spot in Montmartre, Villa Léandre is a colorful art deco street with real old English vibes. Think vines crawling up colored buildings, cobbled streets, beautiful classic doors, and classic lantern street lamps. This is one of the most stunning hidden gems in Paris that you won’t want to miss.

The Montmartre Windmills

Head to Rue Lepic in Montmartre and discover the ‘Moulin de la Galette’ and its two windmills. Paris used to be full of wooden windmills but very few remain today. Many people visit the Sacre Coeur and Place des Tertres but few know to take the detour and see these adorable wooden windmills. One of the true hidden gems in Paris!

The Cloitre des Billettes

Where to find it: 22 to 26 rue des Archives, 4th arrondissement

A magical medieval spot just waiting to be found is the Cloitre des Billettes, one of the last medieval cloisters in the city. The entrance is free and the cloisters are now used as an art gallery, you can take some amazing pictures here and show a completely different lost side of Paris.

L’Oasis D’Aboukir

Where to find it: 83 Rue d’Aboukir, 75002 Paris, France

L’Oasis D’Aboukir is a true hidden gem in Paris because lots of locals don’t even know it exists! This vertical garden or mur végétal is located at the corner of rue des Petits Carreaux and covers 250 sq metres in greenery. This  Hymne à la Biodiversité  was planted by French botanist Patrick Blanc and features 7600 plants from 237 different species. The vertical is one of those unique unknown spots that is really worth a stop!

The Great Mosque of Paris

Where to find it: 39, rue Geoffroy Saint Hilaire, 75005 Paris 5

Perhaps not what you were planning to find on a Paris itinerary but The Great Mosque of Paris is a must-visit. It’s not only grand in the way it looks outside but inside you’ll stumble into a magical courtyard and lush garden area. Doors created in flower patterns, sculpted arches, colorful carpets, and there’s even a tea shop, library, and hammam to enjoy. One of our favorite Paris hidden gems.

The Damoye Court

Where to find it: Cour Damoye near Place de la Bastille 75011 Paris

This cute, paved pedestrian alley in the Bastille district is lined with boutique shops and looks quintessentially Parisian. There are some serious Madeline vibes here. If you’re shopping, or just want to sit at a quaint cafe looking for a perfect photos spot, this is it. Court Damoye is gorgeous in the Fall when all the vines start to turn.

Rue des Thermopyles

Now that’s a true Paris hidden gem… literally, no one knows this street even exists. Tucked away in the 14th arrondissement of Paris, Rue des Thermopyles comes alive in Spring and Summer when the vine is bright green and the flowers in bloom. This little street is far less popular than Rue Cremieux but equally as picturesque.

Saint Serphani Church of Sarov

Where to find it: 91 Rue Lecourbe, 75015 Paris

This tiny hidden tiny ecclesiastical building with a blue dome has a beautiful wooden aesthetic, ornate interior, and an overgrown courtyard. It’s like stepping back in time and is such a tranquil spot you’ll be happy to just take a moment to enjoy the atmosphere. A real hidden gem in Paris’s 15th arrondissement.

Boat at La Villette

Bassin de la Villette, 37 quai de la Seine, 75019 Paris

Head to Marin d’Eau Douce at the Bassin de la Villette to rent a license-free boat and sail the canals of the Bassin. Going boating is one of the most fun things to do in Paris in Summer . Such a fun and unique way to see Paris from a totally different vantage point!

Abbey Bookshop

Where to find it: 29 Rue de la Parcheminerie, 75005 Paris

Is there anything more romantic than a cluttered old local bookshop, full from floor to ceiling with second-hand books? With its old wooden shelves and ladders and over 35,000 English titles inside, this is a bibliophile’s paradise. Beautiful inside and out, don’t miss this Paris photo opportunity and pick up a good book while you’re there!

Courtyard of Carnavalet Museum

Where to find it: 16 Rue des Francs Bourgeois, 75003 Paris, France (please note that the museum is currently closed for renovations and is set to re-open in Spring 2020)

the Courtyard of the Musée Carnavalet is one of the most beautiful Paris hidden gems on this list, specifically in the Fall when the vine turns all shades of reds. This museum dedicated to the history of Paris is never really crowded so it can be enjoyed without a lot of tourists.

Church of St-Etienne-du-Mont

Where to find it: Place Sainte-Geneviève, 75005 Paris

With its carved wooden stairs, stunning facade, and surrounding paved streets the Church of St-Etienne-du-Mont is a beauty inside and out. It’s also much quieter than other more famous churches in Paris so you’ll be able to get some stunning historical shots.

Square Marcel Bleustein-Blanchet

Where to find it: Rue de la Bonne, 75018 Paris

Ready to get lost in a secret garden tucked behind Parvis de Sacré Coeur? Square Marcel Bleustein-Blanchet is particularly stunning when the wisteria is in bloom. A walk through the square is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris . It’s also lovely in the Summer and the perfect spot for a picnic. You’ll also get some of the best shots of Sacré Coeur from inside the park so it’s worth going for that alone.

Nef du College des Bernardins

Where to find it: 18-20 rue de Poissy 75005 Paris

One of the biggest and oldest medieval buildings in Paris, with vaulted ceilings and a gothic style hall, this a dream for anyone who loves architecture photography or wandering atmospheric buildings.

La rue du Chat-qui-Pêche

Where to find it: Rue du Chat Qui Peche, 75005 Paris, France

A real quirky secret place in Paris, it translates to the ‘Street of the Fishing Cat’ and is the narrowest street in the city. It dates back to 1540 when the local people would use it to go to the Seine. Make sure you find the cute cat street art inside.

Passage Mouffetard

Where to find it: Au 52, rue Mouffetard, 75005 Paris

Rue Mouffetard is one of the most famous streets in Paris: full of adorable restaurants and lively bars, it’s a hot spot for tourists and locals alike. But hidden behind the hustle and bustle of La Mouffe is a secret passage virtually no one knows about. You can access the passage by walking through a narrow door by a souvenir shop located at 52 rue Mouffetard. Past the door, you will find a hidden cobblestone street full of potted plants and hanging vines. This secret passage is a true hidden gem in Paris!

Le Square des Peupliers

Where to find it: 75013 Paris, France

Wander down this secret mews-like side street brimming with character and traditional charm leading to a gorgeous courtyard that looks like a tiny French town. It’s a photographer’s dream, catch it before it gets busy!

Where to find it: Rue de la Mouzaia, 75019 Paris

A tiny neighborhood that could rival Montmeatre for its old-warm charm except it’s far less busy. If you fancy a tranquil walk around a picturesque, residential area of Paris then this is perfect. It’s particularly welcoming the Spring when the trees are green and the blossoms are out.

Square René-Viviani

Where to find it: 25 Quai de Montebello, 75005 Paris

This public square, adjacent to the Church of Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre, sits along the Seine and offers an unbeatable view of Notre Dame Cathedral. You’ll even find the oldest tree in Paris inside! It’s also a great starting point to explore the Latin Quarter.

Les cités du Figuier et Durmar

Where to find it: 104-106 rue Oberkampf, 11th

Escape busy Oberkampf to wander flowery green side streets with uneven cobblestones, Paris is full of secret impasses like this just waiting to be discovered. Colored house fronts and a real-life of local life, this is a street photographer’s dream.

Le quartier de “la Campagne à Paris”

Where to find it: 210 Rue des Pyrenees, 75020 Paris

A tiny city in the heart of Paris complete with gardens, quaint brick houses, cobbled streets, and traditional street lamps, and buckets of charm. It’s a place to get lost and take photographs and wish you could live there yourself. It can only be accessed by car from one street (Pierre Mouillard street) so it’s a wonderfully peaceful city escape.

The Japanese Garden, Albert Kahn Museum

Where to find it: 10 Rue du Port, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France

This museum has its own authentic, traditional Japanese garden. It’s complete with a flowing brook, red bridges, ginkgo trees, and cherry blossoms that make for a stunning place to take the most colorful floral photos.

La promenade plantée

Where to find it: 1 Coulée verte René-Dumont, 75012 Paris, France

An abandoned elevated railway line has been transformed into a romantic walkway covered in gorgeous vegetation. You get views of the surrounding cityscape as well as a dramatic blend of the natural and the abandoned.

La Butte Bergeyre

Where to find it: 76 Rue Georges Lardennois, 75019 Paris, France

This is a quiet neighborhood park that’s situated on the side of a hill – it’s a thick, wild place to take amazing photos. Butte Bergeyre blends rugged woodland style with gorgeous Parisian architecture for a real treat.

Square Saint-Gilles Du Grand Veneur

Where to find it: 9 Rue du Grand Veneur, 75003 Paris

The buildings surrounding this square are the epitome of traditional baroque Parisian architecture. Mix that with the wrought iron gates and perfectly maintained flower beds and you have the ultimate in Parisian photo opportunities.

La Butte aux Cailles

Where to find it: 10 Rue Daviel, 75013 Paris

Simply known as Little Alsace, this is a quiet and quaint suburban-style neighborhood that offers photographers the chance to feel like they’re in an old Disney film of singing birds and happy elves. Make sure to stop by La Villa Daviel. This charming lane features terraced houses, a cobbled street, hanging ivy, stone walls. In short, everything you need for a romantic Parisian photo shoot.

Le Cabaret du Lapin Agile

Where to find it: 22 Rue des Saules, 75018 Paris

Lapin Agile, meaning ‘Intelligent Rabbit’ is an old cabaret club made from stone that looks like an old French cottage in the heart of Paris. It’s a little eerie and extremely tranquil; a photo opportunity like no other you’ll find in Paris.

Le passage de l’Ancre

Where to find it: 30 Rue de Turbigo, 75003 Paris, France

A beautiful and romantic passageway lined with trees, where each little shop is painted a different color. Under a blue sky, the place glows, and there are potted plants dotted around everywhere. This is one of the few remaining Paris hidden gems because it’s truly a secret spot you can’t stumble upon unless you really look for it.

Gallerie Vivienne

Where to find it: 5 Rue de la Banque, 75002 Paris

This is one of the grandest and dazzling places in all of Paris. Golden walls and a glass ceiling turn this gallery into a photogenic palace that you can explore and photograph to your heart’s content.

Musée de la Vie Romantique de l’Hôtel Scheffer-Renan

Where to find it: 16 Rue Chaptal, 75009 Paris

The Museum of Romantic Life pretty much sums up this gorgeous space at the foot of Montmartre hill. Evoking the Romantic era in this former artist’s residence you can enjoy the permanent exhibitions for free and wander the paved courtyard and greenhouse. It’s picturesque in every way.

Marie De Médicis Fountain

Where to find it: Rue de Médicis in the Luxembourg Garden, 75006 Paris

Commissioned by King Henry IV’s widow in Luxembourg Garden, this impressive carved fountain and surrounding statues are impressive, to say the least. Italian renaissance vibes at their finest, you’d never believe this was in Paris.

Whether you are spending a romantic weekend in Paris , searching for the best Paris photo spots , or looking to indulge in some of the world-famous Parisian desserts , these beautiful places to visit will fit into any itinerary.

And if you love to find more unusual things to do when exploring a new city, check out my Venice Hidden Gems !

Know any other Paris hidden gems? Share them in the comments!

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37 comments.

I am OBSESSED with this list! So many incredibly spots in Paris. I wish I’d read this before I went to Paris! I visited some of them like Rue Cremieux, but most of them I’ve never heard of! I guess that means I have to go back to Paris…. 🙂

Paris seems like such an amazing city. It’s definitely on my bucketlist for 2020. I pinned this post so I can refer to it when I start planning my itinerary

You have the *prettiest* photos ever! Thanks so much for this guide! Saving this for my next trip to Paris.

WOW – so many gorgeous places to visit. I’ve put them ALL on my list for the next time I visit Paris. Thanks for sharing.

Very charming guide! I don’t feel like I saw that much on my last trip to Paris, but would love a redo with more hidden gems like these!

What beautiful suggestions. I love exploring Paris. Sure need to go and check out a few of them, thanks for the ideas

I wish I’d known about these places before I visited Paris, you have shared some incredible places Julie! Jaz

A whole different perspective from Paris! Awesome!

Absolutely love your photos, I’ve being 2 times to Paris and I feel like I haven’t seen the magic. Just rainy days and it’s such a big city that 2 or 3 days is not enough.

You have put this list together beautifully. There is enough variety to attract different people. Paris is on my bucket list and I hope to be able to visit a few of these places someday!

Thanks Jean-Marie. I’m around for tips whenever you make it there!

What a great list, Julie! I lived in Paris for several months during college on an exchange term – wish I had known about these places then! Love your pictures, and your outfits – those skirts are divine!

Thanks for such kind words, Smita. I’m sure you’ve found many other gems on your own accord – Paris has a never ending supply!

I was just back from Paris… ohhh I wish I have read your post earlier!!!!! (luckily, I find that I checked in The Sacre Coeur Carousel at least!!! by chance) haha 😀

Ready to book your next flight then, I’d say 😉 Did you find other spots as the highlight of your visit?

I always wondered where the red car was! And that mosque looks almost as picture perfect as Marrakech. Oh how I desperately need to visit Paris!!

I want to go to all these places! These looks like they will make an incredible trip to Paris!

Spring is a great time to visit Paris, wink wink 😉 Oh who am I kidding, any time is a good time.

So many wonderful things to do and places. I spent two weeks in Paris and a few of them look familiar but I missed so many others! I´ll need to go back to check them out! Thanks for sharing!

Oh my, sounds like the perfect excuse to revisit, Pia! That’s the tricky part about Paris: 10 years of sightseeing wouldn’t be long enough.

OH EM GEE!! Wow! Paris is a place I’ve been wanting to visit for awhile now and wow these pictures are just stunning! Paris is so cute! I will save this! <3

I was supposed to be in Paris right now -_-. But I’ll get there one day!! I love finding off the beaten path types of places, so I love this list!!! I’ve never heard of most of these – L’Oasis looks SO cool, and that church with the wooden stairs! Definitely going to use it for whenever I rebook my trip!

These hidden gems are so pretty. Some of the little known streets are just gorgeous. Definitely pinning for next time.

What an amazing list! I was just in Paris for a long overdue second trip to this city back in late January. A full week. And it wasn’t enough! I’m not a city person, but I do love Paris and imagine staying for a month … or more! That way I can explore all these places with my camera! I’m definitely saving this list for my next trip to Paris.

Great post! All these places look so magical. I cannot wait to return to Paris and see them myself. Thanks for sharing.

I haven’t been to Paris yet! Need to remember all of this for when I finally get there. All about those hidden gems 🙂

Ahh these are all so gorgeous, Julie! Definitely took me down memory lane when I spent my 20th birthday in Paris (how was that already 6 years ago?!) Thanks for the awesome guide! I can’t wait to go back one day soon. XX

Absolutely love this post! I have been to Paris multiple times but you have so many cool places on here I have never seen! I especially love the Great Mosque of Paris!

What a lovely list! I’ve been to Paris a few times but there are some I’ve yet to see. Now I have an excellent excuse to go back as it’s an amazing city!

These places look so incredible! Can’t wait until travel is possible again so I can go check them out! Thanks for sharing, I will save this for sure!

Oh wow there are so many places in this list I’ve never heard about! Such a great post, thank you for sharing it! Now I can’t wait to go to Paris again 🙂

I LOVED this blog post on the hidden gems in Paris! I haven’t been to most of them. I’m particularly excited about finding the carousel near Sacre Cour. I love carousels!

You just made me wanna go back to Paris! Lovely pictures and great tips!

I LOVE this list!! Thank you for posting all of these lovely places. I’ve been to Paris several times, but often I just hang out with a friend who lives there. I also usually have a ‘things to see & do’ list for when he’s busy.

This gem has been on my list for a ‘minute’ but I haven’t made it there yet: an ancient Roman amphitheater that dates back to 1st century BC. RIGHT?! There is no ‘cute’ factor, but if you love history, you’ll love this spot.

Arènes de Lutèce

this is a great list. I have an addition. At Jardin des Plantes, there is small garden thats’ not easy to find. I think it’s called Alsase or something like that. You have to go thru one of the little tunnels and you have this beautiful small garden. Most people don’t look for it as the Jardin des Plantes offers enough beauty walking from one end to the other. Promise if you find this you’ll love it. a creek or two, some gorgeous trees, it’s a great find. You, I miss Paris so much!!

Absolutely stunning! Thank you on a detailed impressive guide!

What a great list of hidden gems. There is always something new and beautiful to discover in Paris. And I don’t know why but the Le Cabaret du Lapin Agile is giving me Alice in Wonderland vibes.

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18 Unusual and Off-the-Beaten Track Things to Do in Paris

Millions of people visit Paris each year, so you'd be forgiven for assuming there's no stone left unturned here, no unexpected or quiet places to stumble upon, no oddly charming corners that haven't been photographed and shared a thousand times over on social media. For all its astounding popularity, the French capital retains any number of mysteries, refusing to be entirely cataloged or pinned down. It's a wonderfully complex place with a messy and often dark history. Carve out a unique experience on your next trip by seeking out some of the unusual, weird, and offbeat things to see and do in the City of Light.

Explore a Few "Out of the Way" Neighborhoods

 TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

After you've chased the ghosts of Sartre and De Beauvoir in the Latin Quarter,  tried to capture an old magical feeling by strolling along the Champs-Elysées , and gone people-watching, falafel-eating, and boutique shopping in the Marais , it's time to scope out some of the city's quieter streets and neighborhoods.

Explore some of the less touristy neighborhoods in Paris to pull yourself firmly off the beaten track. Plus, the city even has five isolated villages that most tourists have never even heard of.

Peruse Wacky Collections at Odd Parisian Museums

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

The Louvre has its undeniable appeal—but massive crowds and overwhelmingly large collections certainly don't contribute to it. Why not take a breather by delving into some of the decidedly odd collections at some weird Parisian museums? From uncannily realistic wax figures at the  Musée Grevin to medical instruments straight out of a horror film, automata, early model airplanes and steampunk-style tools (like those pictured here at the Musée des Arts et Métiers ), to sewer tunnels and catacombs filled with millions of human remains, these odd collections will either have you grinning with delight or wincing in terror—or maybe somewhere in between.  

Gawk in the City's Most Eccentric Shops

To continue your self-guided tour of all that is weird and wonderful in Paris, check out some of the city's strangest shops and old-world curiosity cabinets. Let's face it: You won't likely come home with a taxidermy rat or ostrich, nor with a collection of rare beetles in your suitcase, but you might find a limited edition of a medieval cookbook from a local bookseller , or an odd trinket from a vintage shop or flea market. There are some great, endearingly old-fashioned places to gawk, even if you have no intention of ever pulling out your wallet.

Take a Boat Tour, But Not on the Seine

Boat tours of the Seine River rank high among activities visitors find the most appealing, especially on a first visit. But on second, third, or thirteenth trips to the city, it's far more worthwhile to take a tour of Paris's extensive network of canals and waterways. If you don't mind going further afield, explore the Marne River, the banks and guinguettes of which Impressionist painters immortalized in many of their works.

Take a Day Trip, But Not to Versailles

TripSavvy / Leopoldine Bauer

If you've already been to Versailles, why not visit Provins, a UNESCO World Heritage medieval village just an hour from Paris? Or Vaux-le-Vicomte, a magnificent chateau rivaling Versailles? Into cathedrals? Try  St-Denis Basilica , a stunningly beautiful gothic-style pilgrimage site and burial place for dozens of kings and queens, located just north of the city limits. Get out of the city to see something most tourists have never heard of—it's easier than you think. 

Enjoy a Film in a Historic Parisian Cinema

Ashley Byock

Adventurous visitors will be rewarded if they spend some time exploring the city's rich cinematic offerings—there are hundreds of new releases and retrospectives every week! The city's charming old "picturehouses" are a great getaway from the crowds, the heat, the cold, and the banal "best of" lists. Parisians take cinema very seriously. If you're interested in film history and the origins of celluloid, visit the Cinémathèque Française film center .

Attend a Diverse Festival

Paris hosts an extraordinary number of annual events, many of which are free or quite accessible from a budgetary standpoint and many that are well-known to locals but remain curiously off-radar for visitors. Paris's Sri-Lankan community celebrates a unique "Ganesh" festival, while the Banlieues Bleues Jazz Festival takes the northern suburbs by storm each year. Whether you're visiting artists' studios in Belleville or  wine-harvesting ( vendanges ) in Montmartre , there are many ways to experience the city and joyfully connect with others in ways you'd never think of.

Have Dinner at a Parisian Host's Home

To take a break from the doldrum fare of your typical Parisian brasserie, why not jump aboard the bandwagon of pop-up restaurants or dining with a local host? As food website  Paris by Mouth charts, the pop-up restaurant phenomenon has been gaining ground. Meanwhile, local hosts such as Jim Haynes open their tables to tourists for hearty, traditional French meals at "supper clubs" in Paris. Adventurous travelers and eaters will devour the concept. 

Explore the Darker Side of Paris History

The City of Love might seem sparkling and idyllic, but there's a tumultuous and dark history lurking underneath. If you seek to get beyond Paris' glossy veneer to probe a bit deeper, you'll find unique sites and places you can still visit today, like the Catacombs. All of these places will give you a better sense of how bloody and awful events shaped the French capital just as much as nice ones did. 

Visit a Quirky Parisian Urban "Farm"

Seeking a bit of bucolic peace laced with urban grit? Check out one of the city's quirky urban gardens. Scattered around Paris, but concentrated in the city's arty, bohemian northeastern districts, these small plots—some qualify as bonafide little farms—mingle greenery, animals, and sometimes, street art or other forms of local expression. At Jardins Passagers de la Villette you'll find both well-manicured flower boxes and open, untamed green space, filled with native plants.

Learn About Wine History

Stuart Dee/Getty Images

If you're a wine fan, you're in luck: Even if Paris isn't a noteworthy wine-making region (and never really was), you can still enjoy plenty of great wine at local museums like the Musée du Vin , or strike out on your own in some of the city's best wine bars, like the jovial, rollicking Au Rendez-vous des Amis . Don't bother with tourist traps and their overpriced, mediocre bottles.

Stroll Along "the Green Walkway"

Fans of New York City's High Line Park will love Paris's equivalent, La Promenade Plantée. Like the High Line, this three-mile-long green space was built atop an abandoned viaduct in 1993. Today, it's a beloved part of the city and its shaded canopies make it a prime spot for picnicking, napping, or reading a book. In the morning, it's a popular spot for joggers. La Promenade Plantée begins in the 12th arrondissement and exits in the Bois de Vincennes. 

Pay Your Respects at Père Lachaise Cemetery

TripSavvy / Leopoldine Bauer 

If you expect a visit to a cemetery to be macabre and depressing, you haven't been to Père Lachaise. Located in the 20th arrondissement, the stunning cemetery is home to the graves of Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Marcel Proust. The cobblestone paths are lined with trees and it's especially beautiful during the fall.

Explore the Paris Sewer System

Bruce Yuanyue Bi / Getty Images

There aren't very many cities where we would recommend touring a sewer system, but Paris is one of them. The Sewers of Paris Museum, located in the 7th arrondissement, is an unusual museum that delves into the history of this engineering marvel. When the city streets were paved in 1200, a central drain was installed. Then, in 1370, the first stone-walled sewer was built in Montmartre. Today, you can tour approximately 500 meters of damp, dark sewer.

Tour Real Artists' Studios at 59 Rivoli

This notorious artists' squat has been revitalized as a cool art space that's open to the public. The Haussmann-era building illegally housed artists in the 19th century, but now 30 artists (15 permanent and 15 temporary) call the 59 Rivoli their home studio. Since the space opened, more than 500 artists have contributed their talents. 

See the Eiffel Tower's Secret Apartment

When Gustave Eiffel built his eponymous tower in 1889, few people knew that he had also built a secret apartment for himself within. Perched nearly 1,000 feet in the air, the hidden apartment is a departure from the tower's industrial style, rather decorated in warm wallpaper and dark woods. Eiffel intended it to be a respite for the respected scientific community, but today the apartment is perfectly preserved for visitors to peer into. 

Go for a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Parc André-Citroen

But not just any hot air balloon! The balloon in André-Citroën Park , in the 15th arrondissement, is officially the largest hot air balloon in the world. A ride is just 14 Euro for adults (as of 2020) and will take you nearly 500 feet above Paris. 

Pick Up a Souvenir at the Flea Market

 TripSavvy / Leopoldine Bauer

Paris has countless flea markets to browse and while it may be tempting to go to Paris's largest Marché aux Puces , in St. Ouen, there are tons of smaller markets, specializing in more unique wares. Try Marché du Livre Ancien et d'Occasion, which specializes in ancient and rare books, or Marché aux Puces de la Porte de Vanves, a less-overwhelming version of the original. 

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98+ Exciting Hidden Gems: non-touristy things to do in Paris

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Are you looking for hidden gems and non-touristy things to do in Paris ? Then I wrote this article for you. I have been living in Paris for more than 16 years and today I am sharing with you my favorite local secrets in Paris. Come along and discover a Paris that you won’t find in the guidebook.

⪼ see this fun wishlist with plenty of unusual tours and activities that I created for GetYourGuide

Paris is a city of monumental architecture, important sights, and imposing buildings. But Paris is also a city with many hidden gems and secret attractions, that are hidden from the eye of most visitors. But also many locals aren’t aware of the treasures that are concealed off the beaten path in Paris.

If you are traveling to Paris for the first time, it’s easy to go for a “straightforward been-there-done-that city escape”. Please do take time to do so: visit the Eiffel Tower ( don’t miss our guide !) and climb up the stairs to Sacré Coeur in Montmartre . Even have a stroll on the Champs Elysées! It’s lovely and despite all the hype, you haven’t been to Paris if you didn’t see this part of the city.

You also might like these articles:

• 8 lovely English Bookstores in Paris you shouldn’t miss

The 14 most charming Arcades in Paris (+ Covered Passages Map)

• The Human Zoo of Paris – a dark secret uncovered!
• 7 Best Speakeasy Bars in Paris for your Paris Agenda

When you’ve seen all the obvious attractions, go and look for the secret Paris attractions. To make it a bit easier for you, I assembled a wide list of unusual things to do in Paris.

CHECKLIST for your Paris Trip

✔ Hotel booked?

• Budget: Hotel France Albion (8.6)
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• Upscale: Millésime Hôtel (9.2)
• Luxury: La Demeure Montaigne (9.1)
• My Favorite: Hôtel Monte Cristo

✔ Tickets booked?

• Eiffel Tower ( book here )
• Paris City Pass ( book here )
• Louvre ( book here )
• Arc de Triomphe ( book here )
• Hop On Hop Off Bus ( book here )

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Paris Survival Tips

• Buy your SIM card in advance
• Get a Travel Adapter
• Book your airport transfer
• Download the free survival guide

Fun Activities

• Explore the Covered Arcades
• Discover the quaint Bookstores
• Find Paris Hidden Cocktail Bars
• Take an easy Day Trip by train

Paris Hidden Gems – Discover the Secrets of Paris

Here we go, without further ado, I will introduce you to a real plethora of secrets in Paris off the beaten path. Enjoy.

#1 Parc de Bercy

Looking for a little oasis in the hustle and bustle of Paris? The Parc de Bercy may just be what you’re looking for. The Parc de Bercy is in the 12th arrondissement . It’s located on the grounds of a former wine depot and compared to other parks in Paris, it’s rather a young one.

It opened to the public only in 1997. However, the park has different areas and combines a variety of concepts. If you want to see a tourist-free part of Paris, Parc de Bercy is a good place to start your quest to discover the hidden Paris.

#2 Rue de Lévis

This little pedestrian street is just a few steps off the beautiful Parc Monceau. It’s one of the non-touristy secret things to do in Paris. The villagelike neighborhood comes with plenty of bakeries, butchers, little cafés, and of course a cheese shop!

#3 visit the Human Zoo of Paris

Yes, you’ve read this correctly, a human zoo. This secret of Paris is tucked away in the Bois de Vincennes and is one of the most unusual things you can do in Paris. Most Parisians have no idea that this place even exists.

The backstory of this zoo is linked to the area when France was a colonial empire. They frequently held colonial exhibitions, to show off their empire. On display were plants, spices, treasures, and unfortunately as well people.

The Human Zoo is certainly one of the most non-touristy things to do in Paris . If you want to know more, also read my article about it: The Human Zoo of Paris – a dark secret uncovered!

#4 Cour Saint-Émilion

Just a stone’s throw away from the Parc the Bercy, the Cour Saint-Émilion is a popular spot to have dinner and drinks, or for shopping. Like the Parc de Bercy, the cour is also part of the former wine and spirits depot and due to its industrial flair, it has a special charm. Especially by night. It’s a lovely spot if you are keen on discovering Paris for locals.

#5 Discover Street Art in Belleville

Read also my article about the best things to do in Belleville

Belleville is the Street Art hotspot of Paris and a very fascinating neighborhood that has almost nothing in common with the rest of Paris. I was lucky enough to join the Street Art Tour of Kasia in September 2021 and had a wonderful time. I can only recommend it. Read my review here or check it out directly here .

#6 See the Rodin Sculptures in the Tuileries

The Tuileries garden originally belonged to the Tuileries Palace but became a public park with the French Revolution. The former royal garden is conveniently located right between the Champs Elysées and the Louvre. Besides the truly pretty landscape, it’s also a good place to see some free art. Amongst the numerous sculptures, there are 4 statues made by the famous Auguste Rodin . You can find them close to the Musée de l’Orangerie.

→ 4 Statues are not enough? Visit the Rodin Museum! You can reserve your spot here.

#7 Rent a Vélib Bike to find Paris secret spots

That’s one of the nicest things you can do on a sunny day. Either rent a Vélib shared bike and cycle on your own or take a guided bike tour as a sightseeing trip. The latter is certainly the better option if you are a bit weary of the Parisian traffic. It can get messy at times.

This is Paris’ most popular Bike Tour and here’s the best value-for-money bike tour in Paris!

#8 See a movie at the Grand Rex Cinema

→ Book a Grand Rex Studio Tour here!

The Grand Rex Paris is a real movie-lovers paradise! Originally built in 1932, it still stands today as the biggest movie theatre in Europe and its Art-Deco architecture just adds to the romance of a night out at the movies. Frankly, the interior is mind-blowing.

You can catch all the newest releases on their big screen and if ever you wanted to feel tiny – then this is your place! With an incredible 2,800 seats, the Grand Rex will certainly let you feel like one of many today.

For a peak behind the scenes, → Book your Grand Rex Studio Tour here!

#9 The Statue of Liberty in the Jardins du Luxembourg

The garden in the very center of Paris is one of the biggest gardens in Paris. It’s a classical french park with water basins, statues, and plenty of free-to-use chairs to relax, have lunch or watch people. And of course, find the Statue of Liberty!

#10 Champ de Mars

Ok, the Champ de Mars is not one of the most secret places in Paris, but one that comes with a priceless view: the Champ de Mars is just in front of the Eiffel Tower. Hence, a perfect location for picnics, morning runs or just to marvel at the beautiful tower.

Non-touristy things to do in Paris: discover the real Paris

#11 parc des buttes-chaumont.

Buttes Chaumont, located in the 19th arrondissement of Paris, is a public park full of exciting activities that the savvy traveler can pay a visit to. One of the highlights is its extension bridge that spans over a little lake and gives a great feel of the area. Even though the lake is artificial, the rocky island in its center is made from a gypsum quarry that is so distinctive for this part of Paris.

But the absolute centerpiece of the Buttes-Chaumon is the Temple de la Sybille , which is throning on top of the island. It was inspired by the famed Temple of Vesta in Tivoli, Italy. To top it off, it’s the 5th largest public park in Paris and where you can get a spellbinding view of Sacre Cœur.

Visiting this park is one of the non-touristy things to do in Paris, not only if you are looking for an amazing viewpoint !

#12 Look for wild green parakeets in Parc Montsouris

The Parc Montsouris is just next to the Cité Universitaire, the big student residence in the south of Paris. The relaxed atmosphere, the many sportives and families make this park one of the non-touristy things to do in Paris.

As a special highlight: there’s a colony of green parakeets living in the Parc Montsouris and it’s fun to look out for them.

#13 See a screening at Cinema Arlequin

Address:  76 Rue de Rennes, 75006 Paris

This independent cinema on Rue de Rennes is the perfect location for a night at the movies if you are not up for big blockbusters. The Cinema Arlequin shows mainly classic movies but also foreign pieces in the original version, sometimes even with the film director present. Check here to see their recent schedule.

#14 Cours de Commerce Saint André

This little half-covered alley between Odéon and Rue de Buci is a wonderful place to stroll through and to have drinks – it’s not on the cheap though. A pint of beer costs easily 10€ and more. However, if you are looking for Paris secrets, you should at least take a peek.

#15 Enjoy Live Music at Fête de la Musique

Every year on the 21 of June, Paris becomes one big stage. You basically have concerts everywhere: in Parks, bars, venues, or simply on the streets. Most of them are free and it’s one of the very Parisian and local things to do in Paris.

#16 Secret Paris: Rue Nansouty

While Rue Nansouty is admittedly not very interesting, however, it’s a good starting point to discover some of the cutest streets in Paris. Every alley that branches off Rue Nansouty is worth a walk-through and is perfect for pretty Instagram pictures!

Also interesting: These are the 41 most Gorgeous & Famous Streets in Paris

#17 See the Rocky Horror Picture Show

Address: 42 Rue Galande, 75005 Paris

Just next to St.Michel, you can see Brad and Janet. Know that there is no advance sale at the Studio Galande Be there 45 minutes early and queue to get admission tickets. Don’t forget the rice.

Be in the know of unique things to do in Paris

#18 the gardens of albert kahn (secret of paris).

Address : 2 Rue du Port, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt (Metro Line 10)

The Jardin d’Albert Kahn is one of my favorite hidden spots in Paris. The 4 hectares garden is especially nice if you are visiting Paris in the Spring – it’s a patchwork of different gardens and architectural styles. Hence,  you find Japanese, French, and English gardens, but also rosaries, orchards, and forests.

The Albert Kahn Garden is truly a hidden spot in Paris and also a great alternative if you can’t make it to the Gardens of Monet in Giverny.

#19 Paris for Locals: Open-Air Cinema at Parc la Villette (free)

Grab a picnic cover and a bottle of wine and enjoy a warm summer night at Parc la Villette. The cinema sessions are usually taking place in July and August.

#20 La REcyclerie

La REcyclerie in the north of Paris is a bar, restaurant, shop, and sustainability workshop that uses parts of the old railway ring around Paris for its projects. It’s a pretty cool and inspiring place. It is one of the cool places in Paris, that rarely is visited by tourists.

During winter, you find here as well themed Christmas markets such as a Japanese Christmas Market, which is perfect to pick up some presents.

Add some hidden spots in Paris to your itinerary for the best experience

#21 vineyards & beehives at parc georges brassens.

When looking for non-touristy things to do in Paris, the Parc Georges Brassens can’t be missing from your bucket list. It’s a gorgeous park in the south of Paris, in the 15. Arrondissement and perfect to mingle with the locals.

On the weekends, it’s a hotspot for families thanks to the many playgrounds . But it’s also great for a stroll because in Georges Brassens you find one of the secrets of Paris: a hidden vineyard. But also a couple of beehives and lots of shady spots for an early evening Apéro . And an apéro, my friend, is one of the most non touristy thing to do in Paris.

#22 Open-Air Concerts in Parc Floral

Throughout summer plenty of concerts are happening in Parc Floral , mainly Jazz and Classic. Many of them are free, however, the park charges a small admission fee during high season. It’s one of the coolest unique things to do in Paris for music fans.

Tip: See our guide with more than 70 ideas on what to do in Paris for free

#23 Chinese New Year Parade at Place d’Italie

The Asian community in Paris is the biggest in Europe and with more than 50.000 members, the Parisian Chinatown in the 13th Arrondissement is absolutely worth the trip. But as not many tourists are coming by, you can consider it an activity in Paris off the beaten path.

Of course, the Chinese New Year celebrations are outstanding. The most significant is the parade that leads through China Town and starts around Place d’Italie. Get there a bit early to get to a good place.

#24 Fnac Summer Festival (free)

The Festival “Fnac Live” happens every year in June on the esplanade of the Paris town hall. The 3-day Festival is free of charge.

#25 Wander the prettiest street in Paris

There are of course many pretty streets in Paris, but the rue de l’Abreuvoir  in Montmartre is supposed to be the prettiest one. It is not so much of a hidden Paris gem anymore since it was a filming location of Emily in Paris , but it still deserves a place on this list, I think.

But as you know, there are quite a few beautiful spots in Montmartre and you’ll be happy to know that walking tours in Montmartre are great for budget travel – they start at 15€!  Click here to see their schedules!

#26 Eat at L’as du Falafel

Address : 34 Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris

This restaurant in the heart of the Marais is supposedly the favorite Falafel place of Lenny Kravitz. You can either try to get a seat inside or you simply get a Falafel Sandwich as a takeaway. Don’t get put off by the queue though, they are pretty fast.

Interested in the best food in Paris? Check our food guide and know which treat not to miss in Paris!

#27 Visit the Emily in Paris filming locations

With the confinement, the travel ban, and all this pandemic madness, the Netflix Series “Emily in Paris” hit the scene like a bomb. And it’s adding a nice itinerary to your next Paris trip! Check out all the original filming locations of Emily in Paris here .

#28 Melon Bread or Matcha Brioche from Aki

Address : 16 Rue Sainte-Anne, 75001 Paris

Aki is a Japanese bakery at Rue St.Anne and it’s here where you find some of the yummiest baked goods of Paris . On Rue St. Anne, you find the Japanese Quarter of Paris, and Aki Boulanger is a Japanese-French Bakery.

But this corner of Paris, close to Opèra Garnier, it’s also the place in Paris to have the best Ramen.

#29 Enjoy an Apéro on the Seine River Banks

A very popular – and low-budget – activity for basically everyone. As soon as the sun comes out and the weather gets milder, the banks are filling up. It’s a Paris activity, that everyone enjoys, locals and tourists alike.

It is maybe not a secret, but certainly one of the most authentic and unique things to do in Paris. Just grab a few nibbles from a nearby grocery store, some beers or wine, and enjoy that you are in Paris.

#30 Eat chocolates at Patrick Roger

If you are having sweet tooth, don’t miss this chocolatier. It is one of the best in Paris. You don’t need to buy a ton though, you can just buy two or three chocolates, it’s not weird.

• For the chocolate and pastry lovers : don’t miss the Chocolate and Pastry Tasting Tour through the beautiful 1st arrondissement and enjoy tastings in some of the most exclusive chocolate and pastry boutiques of Paris. Click here for more info !
• If you want more than just chocolate, check out A Taste of Paris: Le Marais Food Experience . During this 3-hour tour, you’ll sample yummy wines, cheeses, meats, bread, jam, chocolate, and macarons in a small group – a great way to have lunch! Click here for more info

#31 Treat yourself at Lafayette Gourmet

Address : 35 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris

If you want to try some of the best foods in Paris , plan to have lunch at the food court of the Galeries Lafayette. It is just across the street from the department store and I assure you, you’ll have a hard time choosing. It is all so yummy. My favorite store at the Lafayette Gourmet is Babka Zana, their sandwiches are just wonderful.

#32 Le Pont des Arts

Le Pont des Arts is one of the many bridges in Paris and it is really one of the nicest. It’s a pedestrian bridge that is a popular spot to have an apéro and some wine in the evening.

#33 Find a Speakeasy Bar

There are a few secret bars in Paris, hidden behind stores, launderettes, or restaurants. A cool thing to do in Paris that you shouldn’t miss when on a mission to discover secret places in Paris. read more about secret bars and speakeasies here

If you are generally. interested in Cocktails, also read our post about the best Cocktail Bars in Paris .

#34 Go Vintage Fashion Shopping in a Kilo Shop

The kilo shop is probably the most known vintage store, but there are plenty! Check out the Marais, where you find most of the thrift stores in Paris .  Or head over to the famous Galeries Lafayette : they have a decent vintage section as well!

#35 Find the graves of Jim Morrison & Oscar Wilde

.. who are – amongst many others – buried in the famous Père Lachaise Cemetery . This graveyard is a wonderful maze of old tombs, mausolea, trees, and cobblestones. To enjoy it to the fullest, and to make sure not to miss anything of its interesting history, save your spot on a walking tour! It’s pretty budget-friendly! Click here to know more

#36 Eat Currywurst at Café Titon

Address : 34 Rue Titon, 75011 Paris

This is probably one of the least Parisian things to do (and eat) in Paris but if you are fond of Germany (or soccer matches or Jägermeister or said Currywurst), you should check out this charming little Bar . I as a german girl, approve.

Paris off the beaten path: Make sure to add a few hidden gems to your itinerary

#37 visit the flower market at île-de-la-cité.

This every day and all-day  market is famous for flowers and it’s a wonderful place for a stroll. The real name of this hidden Paris gem is Marché aux Fleurs Reine Elizabeth II. Hence, named after the former Queen of England to honor the Queen herself, but also the 70th anniversary of the Allied Forces.

#38 Buy Cheese at Fromagerie Quatrehommes

You can’t travel to Paris without tasting some cheese. If visiting a market is not fitting your itinerary, check out the Fromagerie Quatrehommes. They have 5 shops all over Paris and they are a good address.

#39 Le Petit Bain (non touristy Paris for nightlife)

Address : 7 Port de la Gare, 75013 Paris

A rather unique place in Paris; the Petit Bain is a barge on the Seine that got converted to a bar and little concert venue. All over the week and the weekend, you have concerts of local and international artists. But the Petit Bain is also a club, where you can dance until 6 am.

#40 Chinatown in the 13th Arrondissement

I mentioned above already the Parades for the Chinese New year, but Paris Chinatown is of course as well an excellent place to eat Asian food in Paris. Well, the term Chinatown is a bit misleading. It’s rather Indochinatown, as it has a very high Vietnamese and Laotian population.

And also excellent Phò and other treats from the region. My recommendation here is: try the Vietnamese sandwiches from Tang Frère , they are the best you can get in Paris! If you are more up for a seated lunch or dinner,  try the Thai restaurant Lao Lane Xang – it’s my favorite I am not alone, it is even mentioned in the Guide Michelin.

#41 Attend a reading at Shakespeare & Company

Shakespeare and Company are one of the most iconic and famous anglophone bookstores in Paris and they are hosting free reading sessions on most Mondays. Be there early to get a seat inside and stay a bit late to share a glass of wine with the author. (2023 update: on hold for the time being)

#42 Find the House of Serge Gainsbourg

Serge Gainsbourg is the most iconic musician, singer, actor , author, painter, and filmmaker of the 20th century. Polarising and controversial, he provoked the French like no other. He was born in Paris and died there as well. Even though the house where he lived can’t be visited from the inside, the outside is already cult. You find it at Rue de Verneuil.

Add some of the unique things to do in Paris to your itinerary

#43 eat an authentic crêpes bretonne.

Montparnasse is the train station that serves trains arriving from the west of France. Hence, folks from Bretagne arrived here back in the day and settled down within the area. That’s why the Montparnasse area it’s the best place in Paris to eat authentic Breton Crêpe and Galette.

Just stroll down rue Odessa or Rue Montparnasse and find a spot in a Crêperie. There are plenty.

#44 Have a coffee at Hexagone Café

Address : 121 Rue du Château, 75014 Paris

This coffee house is a truly hidden Paris gem if you like coffee. I would even go so far as to say that you get there some of the best coffee in Paris.

#45 Eat Ramen at Rue Sainte-Anne

The Rue Sainte Anne is famous for being the Japanese Quarter of Paris and therefore as well the location, where you get by far the best Japanese food. You can easily find the best restaurant by just checking the lengths of the queue!

You find non-touristy things to do in Paris all over town, you just need to know where to look

#46 explore the covered book market.

Address : 104 Rue Brancion, 75015 Paris

This is one of the best hidden gems of Paris – the covered book market. If you are searching for old books, this Paris gem is your place! The little covered book market is next to Parc Georges Brassens, a nice place to have a walk or relax in the sun.

It’s located in old market halls that belonged to a slaughterhouse that was here back in the day. But not just any slaughterhouse, the only one in Paris that specialized in horse meat. It’s long gone, but if you watch out, you still see a few horse heads engraved on the nearby buildings. Visiting the nearby park is one of the non touristy things to do in Paris , as it’s a rather residential area.

Also, if you want to discover the 15th and 14th arrondissement more in-depth, check our post about the Vanves Flea Market and the Petite Ceinture.

#47 Eat Macarons at Pierre Hermé

Besides Ladurée you find the best Macarons in Paris at the shop of Pierre Hermé . They are insanely popular and you most likely have to queue a bit to get some … however, they are as delicious as expensive. But it’s completely acceptable just to buy a couple.

#48 Have drinks at Rue Mouffetard

A cobbled stone street with about a trillion bars and restaurants. It is a bit off the tourist center of Paris and is mainly frequented by locals and students and a good Paris gem to tick off your “Secret places to visit in Paris” list.

#49 Sample Rum at La Rhumerie

Address : 166 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris

Did you know that rum is a bit part of French culture? Thanks to the many oversea departments, the French love a good rum, and Paris is a good place to taste some of the finest sugar cane spirits. A perfect place for a rum tasting is at La Rhumerie , an institution in Paris amongst rum lovers . If you are there, also try Accras. They go perfectly with white rum and ti’punch.

Do you think it’s a coincidence that many non tourist things to do in Paris are about food?

#50 the museum of modern art.

With more than 11000 œuvres the MAM is one of the biggest museums in Paris and: it’s free! However, you are kindly asked to donate 5€. See my post about free museums in Paris to know where to see art on a budget.

#51 Attend the Salon des Vignerons Indépendants

Each year in November independent winegrowers from all over France are gathering at the Paris Exposition Centre at Porte de Versailles to present and sell their grape juice. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, you can taste A. LOT.

There are hundreds of wineries present though, and it can be difficult to get an overview and find the good spots. My favorite is the wine from Saint Amant. So if you want to explore one of the most non-touristy things to do in Paris related to wine, the Salon des Vignerons is a good idea.

#52 Get the creeps at the Vampire Museum of Paris

Address : 14 Rue Jules David, 93260 Les Lilas (Metro 11)

The Parisian Vampire Museum is a privately run museum, owned by a vampire enthusiast. Or a vampire, who knows? You need to book ahead to get access.

#53 Visit the flea market at Porte de Vanves

This flea market is an excellent location to explore unknown places and secret spots in Paris. The flea market is in the south of Paris, near Porte de Vanves. The market lies in the 14th arrondissement, in a very non-touristy and off-the-beaten-track neighborhood.

It’s a great spot to stroll through Paris that has very little to do with the impressive center. The flea market is known for all sorts of collectibles, little furniture pieces, and knick-knacks. Not too much for vintage clothing though.

Check our recommendations and get more info about the Puces de Vanves here

#54 See photography at Galerie de l’Instant

Address : 46 Rue de Poitou, 75003 Paris

If you like photography, then the Galerie de l’Instant is a good tip for you. It is a tiny gallery, in fact just a little store, but the exhibition is wonderful. Admission is free and you are probably in and out in 5 minutes, but if you are in the Marais, step in.

#55 Visit the Salon d’Agriculture

The Salon d’Agriculture is a big trade fair and exhibition, where producers from all over France are presenting their products. It’s mainly a big feast of cold cuts, wines, and sweets (to buy and sample for free), but also a massive exhibition of animals, machines, and merchandise.

It’s a yearly event that takes place by the end of February / early March

Hidden Paris: Be in the know of the secret places in Paris

#56 the grand mosque.

Address : 2bis Pl. du Puits de l’Ermite, 75005 Paris

Visit La Grande Mosquée and be amazed! A stunning sight to behold, this mosque is like nothing you’ve ever seen before. And it comes quite unexpectedly in the center of the Latin Quarter.

Stroll through an oasis of lush foliage, admire the beautiful wisterias blooming during spring, or take a break at the café. It’s a place of tranquility. You also could make it a spa day by visiting the hammam – it’s truly paradise found!

#57 Visit a farmer’s market in Paris

With food playing such a central role in French culture, you can be sure to find the freshest and most delicious treats at the daily farmer’s markets in Paris. There are plenty of markets all over town, some in covered halls, like the Marché des Enfants Rouges, but many are just street markets that get set up in the morning.

You see a complete list of markets in Paris and their opening times here . Visiting one of the markets is a lovely non-touristy thing to do in Paris. It’s also a great opportunity to stock up on yummy treats for your evening apéro.

#58 Explore the covered passages

Check my post about the most beautiful arcades in Paris to know where to find them

Probably one of the nicest walks you can have in  Paris. Especially if you want to see Paris through the eyes of a flâneur of the 19th century. Once, more than 180 glass-covered arcades were existing in Paris. Today, only 20 of them remained , and are more popular than ever!

They are wonderful to explore and are indeed some of the best hidden gems in Paris. Thanks to their glass ceiling, they are also perfect if you are finding yourself in Paris under the rain, or on a cold winter day.

My tip : If you are up for a really good drink, stop by Danico, a cocktail bar in the Galerie Vivienne and one of my favorite bars.

#59 visit the free museums

Budget tip and well-kept paris secret.

One of the best kept secrets in Paris is that on certain days, most museums are free. Ok, maybe labeling that as best kept secret is a bit brave, but in fact, not many visitors are aware. So if you are in Paris on the first Sunday of the month during winter you will have free entrance for example to the Arc de Triomphe or the Panthéon.

But then there are as well wonderful museums, that are always free. Wanna see art for free? Check out our post about free museums in Paris !

#60 See Street Art at la Butte-aux-Cailles

The Butte-aux-Cailles is an elevated area just next to Place d’Italie. The area is covered with street art, little alleys, and many affordable bars and restaurants. It’s one of the secret places to visit in Paris, if you are up for drinks with locals, far off the tourist areas.

#61 View from the Rooftop at Galerie LaFayette

If you are keen on fantastic views over the Palais Garnier with the Eiffel Tower in the backdrop, then the Rooftop at the Galeries LaFayette is your place to be. Just take the stairs or the lift up to the rooftop on the 7th floor and enjoy one of the best views over Paris – for free!

#62 See the oldest house in Paris

Did you ever hear of Nicolas Flamel? Maybe. Especially if you are familiar with the Harry Potter universe. Because it was Nicolas Flamel who supposedly created the philosophers stone in the first part of the series. However, Nicolas Flamel was once a real living person, who lived during the 14th century in Paris.

While it is not known if he really discovered the philosopher’s stone that granted him immortality, we know for sure where he lived, at 51 rue de Montmorency in the Marais. The house exists still today and is even the oldest house in Paris. And a Michelin Star restaurant.

#63 Visit the market & Stores at Rue Montorgueil

Yet another cobblestone street with a lot of delis, bars, and restaurants. A good place to either have lunch or to buy lunch to take away and have a picnic somewhere. For example at the Seine or in one of the many parks in Paris .

Hidden Gems in Paris – Many are a bit outside of the busy center

#64 find as many space invaders as you can.

If you are wondering what the heck I am talking about, I can explain. Since the mid ’90s, Paris is full of Space Invaders. No, I am not losing my mind. I am talking about a street artist, who calls himself Invader, and who attached more than 1400 little mosaics to walls, houses, and bridges. All over Paris.

Some are huge, some are tiny and you can collect them. It’s a fun activity for you to discover Paris, especially if you are visiting Paris with kids or teenagers . Download the App FlashInvaders and you’re ready to go!

#65 Village Flair at Rue de Commerce

If you want to do some shopping in Paris, but are keen on discovering a low-key area, head to Rue de Commerce. Many popular stores are having boutiques here but you find also some upscale stores.

#66 visit the Sewers of Paris

That might sound odd, but you can actually visit the Sewers of Paris. The museum is open to the public and shows you the underground and the hidden secrets of Paris.

Good news for holders of the Paris Museums Pass: Admission is free for Paris Museums Pass owners ! Click here for more info on the Paris Museums Pass and learn which are the more than 60 Museums around Paris that are included. (Spoiler: Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Sainte Chapelle and Versailles are in)

#67 Join La Nuit Blanche

La Nuit Blanche is a cultural event in Paris with installations and events all over town. Most of it is free – as is public transportation that evening!

#68 Walk on the Coulée Verte

If you want a see the 12th arrondissement from an unusual perspective, get up the Coulée Verte and walk from Bastille 4.7km east until you reach the Parisian city limits.

The walkways are wonderful and very diverse. You start at the elevated promenade on top of the Viaduct des Arts. Along your way you pass lush gardens, and interesting areas and you can even prolong your walk until the Bois de Vincennes.

Secret Places: Paris is full of them

#69 visit the circus museum: musée des arts forain.

Are you in for a ride to the good old times of fun fairs and circuses? Then add this hidden Paris gem to your itinerary. The museum is only open a few days a week and you need a reservation to get in. Best to check here if there is a free spot available during your time in Paris.

If this museum seems familiar, it’s possibly because you’ve seen it in Emily in Paris .

#70 Visit the Museums Atélier of Ossip Zadkine

Address : 100bis Rue d’Assas, 75006 Paris

Make your way to the Musée Zadkine, located in Paris near Jardin Luxembourg. This museum is a tribute to Russian sculptor Ossip Zadkine and his stunning works of art! Here you’ll find over 300 sculptures along with drawings, photographs, and tapestries – it’s worth more than just a casual glance!

#71 Île Saint Louis

Ile-Saint-Louis offers the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle. This Island on the Seine lies just next to the famous Ile-de-la-Cite, where you can find sights like Notre Dame and Sainte Chapelle. It’s mostly residential, so expect it to be quieter and less touristy.

#72 The Berges de Seine

The Berges de Seine is a riverside promenade that runs along both sides of the Seine, offering stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and much more. What used to be a typical city freeway is now a leisure paradise.

During the warmer months, bars and beer gardens pop up all over the place. Plus, if that’s not enough to keep you occupied there’s always Paris Plage, an urban beachside complete with sand (not every year), and deck chairs.

Watching the sunset while sipping a cold beer, or having a picnic on the embankment overlooking the Notre-Dame cathedral – sounds like the perfect evening escape from city crowds!

#73 Street Art at Belleville

If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key and non-touristy to do in Paris, then head over to Belleville’s neighborhood . Located in the east of Paris, this working-class area is the birthplace of Edith Piaf and also a true street art paradise.

You’ll come across graffiti, tags, and stencils all over the walls, with many bars and restaurants as well for when it comes time to refuel. Whether you’re looking for inspiration on your next piece of art or just want to explore local culture beyond tourist spots, Belleville has got something special that you can’t find anywhere else in the city!

#74 Read a Manga in Fnac

Fnac is a chain that is specialized in cultural products: books, DVD, games, TVs etc. Their book department has a great Manga section and even though it’s probably not intended,  you always have plenty of people just sitting around on the floor and reading their favorite books for free. Join them 🙂

#75 See the Statue of Liberty at Allée des Cygnes

Did you know about Allée des Cygne, the artificial island on the Seine? You may not have heard of it, but at 850 meters long and 11 meters large, it is an interesting hidden spot in the city of Paris! One major attraction of this tiny island is the Statue of Liberty which stands 16 meters tall- a gift from a french community in the United States. If you’re looking to do something other than typical touristy things while in Paris, Allée des Cygne is a great option.

#76 .. and the Flame of Liberty at Pont d’Alma

You probably know by now that the Statue of Liberty was built in France by no one less than Gustave Eiffel (the name rings a bell, right? :)) and then shipped over to New York City where the lady got assembled.. however, a replica of the Flame of Liberty can be visited in Paris until today – close the Métro Station Alma Marceau!

It’s just below the tunnel in which sadly Lady Di died and the flame became a memorial for the Princess of Wales.

#77 The Petite Ceinture

Being the city that never sleeps, Paris abounds in curiosity, offering hidden historical gems like Petit Ceinture; an old railway belt around the Grande Dame. Constructed back in 1851, it operated until 1934 before falling into disuse only to be recently revitalized with parts of it now open for people to explore. This makes Petit Ceinture one of those off-the-beaten-track activities that particularly thrill visitors who prefer exploring non touristy things to do while they’re in Paris!

#75 Walk up Belleville for a fabulous view

Read our complete review and guide to the wonderful Belleville area here and make sure not to miss the amazing street art that is covering the quartier. Are you rather have a local show you around and get valuable insider views? Click here to see all available Street Art Tours in Paris! 

#76 Take Metro Line 6 from Trocadero to Bir Hakeim

For a very special Paris-Metro-moment, take the Metro from Trocadero to Bir Hakeim, or the other way around. Because while crossing the Seine you are getting the most fantastic view of the Eiffel Tower .

It’s probably the nicest Metro track section of Paris, with a stunning view, especially at night. It’s the best way to approach the Eiffel Tower – read more about it here

#76 Stroll along the Canal St.Martin

Looking for a place in Paris that’s totally unique? Look no further than Canal St. Martin! This underrated channel is full of locks and bridges that connect it to the northern channels of the Seine. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot for a relaxing picnic or an opportunity to explore some of the best bars in the city, Canal St. Martin has something for everyone!

As a bonus, it’s nestled away in one of the most alternative parts of this vibrant city—so you won’t find yourself surrounded by too many tourists. Make sure to check out Canal St. Martin on your next visit to Paris!

#78 See Street Performers at Sacre Cœur

If you’re looking for an unique Paris experience, head to Sacre Coeur for stunning views and lively street entertainment. Perched on top of Montmartre , the hilltop cathedral provides breathtaking views and the artist-lined streets will keep you entertained.

Grab a beer to enjoy the early evening and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a whole new world! There’s something almost magical when visiting Sacre Coeur.

#79 Visit the vineyard in Montmartre

It’s hard to believe such a hidden gem of Paris exists, but just behind Sacre Coeur in Montmartre lies a particularly special vineyard truly worth exploring. You see it best from the Musée de Montmartre, but also from the street.

The wine that the vineyard produces is up for auction each year and all proceeds from the auction benefit local social projects, giving back to the community and making sure everyone can enjoy their share of this hidden little piece of Parisian history.

#80 Buy chocolates and other treats at the Bon Marché

Address : 24 Rue de Sèvres, 75007 Paris

What better way to experience the quintessential Parisian life than by indulging in the delicious treats this beautiful city has to offer? Be sure to visit the Bon Marché for all your gastronomic must-haves.

From freshly-baked pastries such as croissants and tarts, to artisanal cheeses or fine charcuterie, you can treat yourself (or someone special) to something they wouldn’t expect while exploring the City of Light. Whether you’re looking to give a taste of Paris to your friends and family back home or want something new for yourself – look no further than the Bon Marché! Bring a well-filled wallet though.

#81 Paris’ famous university La Sorbonne

well.. you can’t just walk in unless you are a student, but you can try to get into one of their tours that are held almost daily. However, even if you just walk around its walls, it’s a nice promenade through the Latin Quarter, a quirky area with typical student vibes. Fun Fact: La Sorbonne is one of the oldest universities in the world, founded in 1253!

#82 Find one of the Banksy Graffitis

Paris secret spot near la Sorbonne: find the Banksy Graffiti in Rue Victor Cousin! The artist left his mark on Paris in 2018 when suddenly 10 Banksy stencils popped up all over town.

#83 See the colorful Houses at Rue Crémieux

Rue Crémieux is a hidden gem tucked away between Bastille and Gare de Lyon in Paris that’s Instagram-worthy! The street is lined with sweet pastel-colored homes, which makes it one of the most unique places in Paris.

If you’re lucky enough to wander down Rue Crémieux, be sure to keep your admiration respectful – these homes are actually real people’s residences! So take as many pictures as your heart desires but just remember – being considerate to the local community should always be a top priority.

#84 Find Point Zero

Supposedly in the epicenter of Paris. The plate in the ground is close to Notre Dame and can be easily overseen as it’s .. well just a round plate in the ground. However, it’s traditionally the point that functions as a reference to anywhere else around France. It’s also one of those spots that are known to be granting wishes-

#85 Play board games at “Le Dernier Bar Avant la Fin du Monde”

One of the geekiest places in Paris . Apart from playing board games and enjoy yummy dishes and interesting cocktails, you can take a seat on the Iron Throne or take a selfie with R2D2. If you’re into E-Sports and gaming in general, pass by the Meltdown  Bar. Both are great spots if you are visiting Paris with kids or teens.

looking for street art in Paris is a great way to engage in non-touristy things to do in Paris.

#86 watch out for miss.tic.

Miss.Tic was a Parisian street artist and poet, who died in 2022. She left her beautiful stencils all over Paris and with a bit of luck, you can find a few of them. Look out for stencils of dark-haired women, it could be an artwork of Miss.Tic.

#87 Relax at Paris Plage

Summer in Paris means Paris Plage! During July and August, the Seine river transforms into a laid-back urban beach scene … with changing cultural and sportive offers, pop-up bars, music, and all sorts of animation. Click here to know more about it! 

#88 Find Simone de Beauvoir’s grave

The famous French philosopher and feminist Simone de Beauvoir died in 1986 and got buried in the Montparnasse cemetery. She shares a grave with her partner Jean-Paul Satre, who died in 1980.

#89 Take a picture of the Arc de Triomphe from La Défense

La Defense is the bustling business center of Paris and certainly an impressive sight in the cityscape. It’s a great photo opportunity with its unique architecture providing an excellent view of the famous Arc de Triomphe.

Shopping enthusiasts needn’t worry either, as La Defense houses a large shopping mall featuring all of your favorite stores! In short, it’s a great place to spend a few hours in Paris – don’t forget your camera!

#90 Sneak in Hotel Dieu – a truly secret place in Paris

Just next to the famous cathedral Notre Dame lays one of the truly hidden places in Paris. Most people just walk by, not knowing what they’re missing! Curious? Check here to know more !

#91 Bibliothèque François Mitterand and Avenue de France

The new 13th arrondissement is nothing like Paris as you know it. It’s rather a business and student district with modern glass facades, hip coffee, and Bagel stores. If you visit Paris and would like to get it as a total; you shouldn’t miss this area.

#92 Go for a swim on the Seine in the Piscine Josephine Baker

If you’re a swimming enthusiast looking, don’t forget your swim trunks! Taking a dip in Piscine Josephine Baker is a great way to get some exercise and experience the city like a local. It’s one of the less touristy places in Paris.

This pool is located on a boat at the banks of the River Seine, which makes it even more special to visit. Not only can you enjoy splashing around the outdoor pool, but you can also admire views of the Seine and the Parisian cityscape. Visiting Piscine Josephine Baker offers visitors something unique in Paris that they won’t find elsewhere!

The old palaces in the Marais are real hidden places in Paris

#93 visit the hôtel de sens.

Address : 7 Rue des Nonnains d’Hyères, 75004 Paris

If you’ve ever wanted to find out some of the secrets of Paris, the Hôtel de Sens is a great place to start. Located in the Marais – one of the oldest parts of the city – this old palace has quite a few stories to tell!

It was abandoned after the French Revolution, and if you keep your eyes peeled, you can even spot a cannonball that got stuck in one of its walls. A souvenir from the revolution. Pay a visit to Hôtel de Sens if you’re looking for a real peek into Parisian history!

#94 Find the Arène de Lutèce

Who knew that one of Paris’ best-kept secrets was hiding out in plain sight? It’s none other than the Arène, an ancient amphitheater constructed by the Romans when they called the city Lutèce.

Today, it resides in the city’s bustling Latin Quarter and serves as a popular past-time spot – of late, it has been seen filled with locals engaged in a game of boules. Check this guide to get mor e offbeat tips for the Quartier Latin

#95 Explore the underground vault below the Bastille

Did you know about the hidden Parisian gems that lie beneath the Bastille? It’s true, there’s an underground vault that connects the Seine and the Canal Saint Martin. And it’s still extremely accessible for those looking to explore – all you need to do is take a boat tour.

there are non touristy things to do in Paris for everyone and every taste

#96 find the rue des thermopyles.

If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Paris, then I’d highly recommend heading to the 14th arrondissement and checking out the fabulous Rue des Thermopyles. While not a typical tourist spot, there is an undeniable charm to this street that gives it real character and an old-school feel. Not only that but during spring in Paris you can also watch stunning wisterias blooming along its cobblestone pavements, adding splashes of color to its already enchanting ambiance.

All in all, if you’re looking for some of the more romantic places to check out in Paris then make sure you explore Rue des Thermophyles – you won’t be disappointed!

#97 Check on the oldest tree in Paris

It’s no secret that Paris is an incredible city with a long, rich history — but one of its few secrets is the 400-year-old tree that stands in Viviandi Square! Believe it or not, this majestic locust came all the way from North America centuries ago.

The garden itself is situated right by the Seine in the Latin Quarter— right next door to the iconic Shakespear and Company bookshop.

#98 Discover the beautiful Bookstores of Paris

If you’re looking for the best unique places to go while in Paris, sparkling and grand bookstores should be at the top of your list. The French city is home to a plethora of old-world stores, none more breathtaking than its bookstores.

Within them, you can find rare editions and hidden gems tucked between delicate pages and age-old covers – perfect for any book lover! Not to mention there are a handful of stunning anglophone bookstores in Paris too, making it easier to wander around without needing to brush up on your French translation skills.

Voilà, my favorite non touristy things in Paris and a bucket list of Secrets of Paris. I guess you have a few things to add to your itinerary now.

It’s well worth your time to leave the beaten path in Paris, and if it’s just for a couple of interesting points. The good thing here is that Paris is very small and you can add most of the hidden gems above buy just taking a little detour. If at all!

If you have any questions about Paris or need some advice and how to plan your trip, don’t hesitate to reach out!  I created a Facebook group for this matter and I am available to help you out! Click here to join the Salut from Paris Facebook group !

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PS: Check out these posts, they will help you plan your trip to Paris

• 20 Arrondissements in Paris (Quick Guide + Map)
• Paris hidden gems: 80+ well kept secrets you shouldn’t miss
• What NOT to do in Paris -23 (costly) Paris Mistakes you need to avoid!
• 14 Hotels with stunning Eiffel Tower views- for (almost) every budget!
• Your Perfect 2 Days in Paris! Itinerary & Insider Tips
• 5 ways to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris – THE complete guide!
• Scams in Paris! How to avoid the most common cons

Pin this awesome list with non-tourist things to do in Paris NOW – and find it back later!

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10 Comments

Are you booking a yvtours the next 3 days…..wildly excited from your site and info

Thank you. Quite helpful

I am happy that you like it! 🙂 Thank YOU for taking the time to leave this comment!

Where in Paris is that beautiful street with all the colorful homes?

Hi Daniel, it’s Rue Crémieux in the 12th arrondissement. Have fun visiting!

Be careful, as some of this info is outdated, even tho it was supposedly updated in July 2019. For example, the Sewer museum closed over a year ago for renovations and won’t reopen till mid-2020.

Hello Annette 🙂 Thanks a lot for the heads up! I added a disclaimer about the renovation of the Sewer Museum a while ago to other posts of mine (for example at my Paris mistake but completely missed this one. In case of doubt or just to double check, I am always adding the link to the relevant activity. Even though I am working on my blog daily and I am doing my very best to keep information up to date, it can always happen, that some info slipped my attention. Thank you for pointing this one out and helping! Have a nice day 🙂

Super helpful thanks!

I am happy to hear that! 🙂

Thank you Lena. I am collecting info for our trip to Paris in April 2024 & this was some good information.

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Lesser-known Attractions to Visit in Paris

The beautiful and vibrant city of Paris is a much-loved and hugely popular destination among visitors from around the globe. The French capital has plenty to offer in terms of culture, great cuisine, excellent shopping, rich history, and a host of world-famous sights and attractions.

It is well worth exploring some of the lesser-known sights that are off the beaten path. While popular sights like the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe are well worth visiting, there are also other places that you should explore, that will make your Paris experience unique.

There is no doubt that Paris has some amazing attractions and stunning sights, some of which have become iconic and are known around the world. To make your Paris itinerary a little more diverse, consider visiting and exploring some of the following places of interest.

Gaite Lyrique

This fascinating museum is located in a grand former music hall dating back to the 19th century. The focus of the museum is creativity and arts in a digital era, and it is a great place for both adults and children to explore. While the exhibits are modern because they are linked to digital technology, the building itself is stunning and in classic baroque style, so you can also take in the wonderful architecture during your visit.

You will be able to explore the displays and exhibits at this museum as well as access a range of events and workshops. There are plenty of activities for younger visitors, so your kids can have fun as well.

If you are considering catching a movie while you are in Paris, La Pagode is the place to be. You can enjoy a unique experience in stunning surroundings as you relax and enjoy a movie in this breathtaking venue. In the room with the largest screen, you will find yourself surrounded by ornate and decadent décor including silk hangings, painted ceilings, and candelabras.

In addition to this, you can also spend some time in the venue’s beautiful Asian garden, where you can enjoy a sweet treat and a cup of tea after your movie.

Le Ballon de Paris

Most people who come to Paris are keen to get a bird’s eye view of this stunning city, and many do this by heading to the top of the Eiffel Tower. However, there is another option that involves less queueing and still ensures you get incredible views as well as a unique experience.

The permanently anchored  Le Ballon de Paris  is a towering balloon that rises upward to give you the most fabulous views of the city. The balloon is operated by cable by the balloonist, and it takes you up into the air to dizzying heights so you can get the best view.

Passage Brady

When you visit Paris, you will be able to explore a variety of cultures thanks to the multicultural makeup of the city. One of the places you should definitely pay a visit to is Passage Brady. This small passage brings you out into the thriving heart of the city’s Indian and Pakistani communities.

The passage itself dates back to the mid-1800s, and the atmosphere as you step into the surrounding environment is vibrant and authentic. You will find an array of shops selling a variety of Indian and Pakistani goods including fashions. You can also sample some delicious cuisine at one of the many eateries.

Sainte-Chapelle

Considered one of the most beautiful churches in the city, Sainte-Chapelle can be found nestled in the court of the  Palais de Justice . Because of its location, you will have to pass through security and checks before you go into the chapel, but it is well worth the effort.

This chapel is not only stunning, but it also boasts a rich and fascinating history. It is a great place to explore, and you will enjoy soaking up the enchanting ambiance as you look around the interior.

Make the most of your time in Paris

By adding some of these lesser-known attractions to your Paris itinerary, you can look forward to an even more exciting and memorable vacation. Exploring a mix of both popular attractions and places that are off the beaten path will enable you to enjoy the diversity and magic of this vibrant and beautiful European city.

If you want to make your trip to Paris a truly unique one, there are various ways you can do this. You could even consider taking a  LiveLingua French  course and learning some French basics to make your trip all the more enjoyable and immersive!

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There are so many things to see in Paris – the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre Dame. The list goes on.

But there are plenty of places where you can escape the tourist mayhem. Here are 12 lesser-known spots, hand-picked from our Paris city guide, momondo places. Download it now for free!

Gaîté Lyrique

Focused on art and creativity in a digital age, La Gaîté Lyrique is a museum for adults and children alike. Housed in a former 19th century music hall, the classic baroque architecture contrasts beautifully with the hyper-modern subjects being exhibited.

Events range from interactive concerts to workshops, imaginative storytelling and drawing, dance performances and more. There are also a variety of activities for children, so don’t shy away from bringing the little ones along.

The futuristic, free library on the first floor is open to everyone and worth a browse – besides a wide-ranging collection of books and cultural publications, a handful of consoles are available for the video game-fanatics.

Where: 3bis Rue Papin, 3rd arr. Tel: +33 1 53 01 52 00 Nearest station: Réaumur Sébastopol

Read more: How to get from Paris airports to the city centre

Paris just loves the movies! Having said this, there is only one single movie theater in the 7th arrondissement but, in exchange for its exclusivity, it is truly the most beautiful in the entire city.

La Pagode is a real Japanese pagoda (a tiered tower), where the walls in the biggest screen room are hung with silk, the candelabras are held by golden dragons and elephants, and warriors stand poised for battle on the painted ceiling.

It also has a wonderful Asian garden, which has been given a protected cultural status for its beauty, where you can enjoy a ginseng tea and delicious tarts after the film viewing.

Find the schedule on the cinema’s website or buy the weekly guide Pariscope.

Where: 57 Bis Rue de Babylone, 7th arr. Tel: +33 1 45 55 48 48 Nearest station: Saint-François-Xavier

Le Marché de Belleville

You’re greeted by the smell: the spices, the fish, the oil and the strange edible roots, the stalls with yams and freshly roasted chicken.

The market in Belleville is one of the most popular and ethnically diverse in Paris, and can take you for a journey around the world in just one morning, when Chinese, Orthodox Jews, Middle Eastern and African women with wax printed head wraps buy groceries for the week, and a little bit of added bric-a-brac.

The customers in Belleville aren’t rich, in fact it is the poorest neighborhood in the city and as a result the prices are low. If you can shimmy your way through the crowd, you can find some really good bargains in Belleville.

Where: Boulevard de Belleville, 11th arr. Tel: n/a Nearest station: Belleville

Le Ballon de Paris

For children and high-flyers, Le Ballon de Paris is a really good alternative to the Eiffel Tower. Why wait in a claustrophobic queue to get nudged and pushed, when you could float in the air, looking over the entire city?

The balloon is as tall as a twelve-story building, and it is a dizzying feeling when the balloonist lets go of the cable and it rises into the air. Suddenly you are up there, at a height of 490 feet, swaying in the wind.

The balloon is permanently anchored in the Parc André Citroën , which is worth a visit in itself. From the first sunny spring days, the park is filled with Parisians who picnic, read or sunbathe on the grass. A special attraction is the fountain with its many springing jets of water that kids love to race through.

Where: Parc André Citroën, 15th arr. Tel: +33 1 44 26 20 00 Nearest station: Javel

Le Carreau du Temple

As its name suggests, this location has been central in French history from the time of the Templars and Crusades.

Today, the lofty market hall is a cultural centre open to the public. Though it is closed for a month during the summer, Le Carreau du Temple more than makes up for it the rest of the year. A contemporary program of theater, concerts, exhibitions, festivals and fairs – with themes as diverse as shoes, street-food, dance, cultural identity, sport and jazz music – make it a dynamic and stimulating space.

Its community-focused environment offers a contrast to the tiny art galleries and fashion stores in nearby Marais.

Where: 4 rue Eugène Spuller, 3rd arr. Tel: +33 1 83 81 93 30 Nearest station: Temple

Musée Rodin

The Musée Rodin is without a doubt the loveliest museum dedicated to a single artist in Paris. It is crammed with the sculptor’s sensual and moving works such as The Thinker, The Kiss, The Gates of Hell and The Burghers of Calais.

Auguste Rodin began drawing when he was ten-years-old, and his talent was so obvious that he was admitted to an art school at the tender age of 14. He became both celebrated and infamous at a relatively early stage of his career, and he was often thought of as a bit too advanced for his time.

You should go there on a sunny day, as the garden is an important part of the experience. Outside the museum you can find a series of Rodin’s masterpieces between wide lawns, shadowy avenues and 2,000 rose bushes.

Where: 79, Rue de Varenne, 7th arr. Tel: +33 1 44 18 61 10 Nearest station: Varenne

Palais de Tokyo

The Palais de Tokyo is one of the largest sites for contemporary and modern art in Europe.

It is not a museum in the traditional sense – the Palais de Tokyo refers to itself as an anti-museum. The exhibitions play with the question, “What is art?”, and challenge you to take part in the debate. It is a face-to-face experience with some of the most brilliant works of art of our time. Children will find it exciting as well.

The adjacent restaurant, Tokyo Eat , will tempt you with its inventive cuisine and interior design.

Where: 13, Avenue du Président Wilson, 16th arr. Tel: +33 1 81 97 35 88 Nearest station: Alma Marceau

Passage Brady

In a neighborhood as trendy and multi-cultural as the Grands Boulevards, one curious turn down the small Passage Brady and you will find yourself immersed in Paris’ thriving Pakistani and Indian communities.

The passage is from 1854 and is not nearly as pretty as many other passages in Paris, primarily as a result of poor maintenance and holes in the glass ceiling letting in rain on bad days. The atmosphere, however, is 100% authentic, and you can buy colorful saris, try the best chicken vindaloo in town, or visit a traditional New Delhi barber and beard trimmer.

Passage de Pondichéry at no. 84 is also a good place to eat, but remember to choose the correct side when you look for Passage Brady: it is divided by Boulevard de Strasbourg and the part that isn’t roofed has somehow become home to shops renting party clothes and costumes, which isn’t nearly as interesting.

Where: 33 Boulevard de Strasbourg, 10th arr Tel: n/a Nearest station: Strasbourg – Saint-Denis

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Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain

With a knack for zooming in on the contemporary art scenes of different regions around the world, Fondation Cartier expertly tailors special events to complement the themes of its exhibitions. From concerts and radio broadcasts to poetry readings and dance acts, there is something for every taste.

An impressive all-glass, cube-like structure, the museum is also surrounded by a charming garden, accessible to the public between July and September.

Not sure the kids will appreciate contemporary art? Fondation Cartier also offers tours and workshops specifically aimed at translating the space and its exhibits for the younger ones.

Where: 261 Boulevard Raspail, 14th arr. Tel: +33 1 42 18 56 50 Nearest station: Raspail, Denfert-Rochereau

Restaurants at the flea market

Tired after browsing through antiques? Take a lunch break and recharge your batteries. There are a number of excellent restaurants hidden around the outskirts of Paris in Saint-Ouen, which also hosts a fantastic flea market Saturday through to Monday.

At Le Biron on 85 rue des Rosiers in Saint Ouen you could be lucky enough to meet the American superstar Lenny Kravitz or the French actress Mireille Darc, eating artichoke tureen or preserved veal.

And at no. 136 Avenue Michelet, you will find the kitschiest eatery at the market – Chez Louisette has colored lamps and French Yé-Yé (a genre of twee pop music) coming out of the speakers. At this place the food almost serves as garniture, while Le Paul Bert is the place to go to if you want to rub shoulders with the antique dealers.

Where: Marché aux Puces de Paris, 93400 Saint-Ouen Tel: +33 (0)1 40 11 77 36 Nearest station: Porte de Clignancourt

Sainte-Chapelle

It is not particularly well-known, and many Parisians have never even been there, but Sainte-Chapelle is hands down the most beautiful church in Paris.

You can find it tucked away in the middle of the court of the Palais de Justice, currently home to courtrooms and court registries. As a result, you have to go through security checks and have your bag checked before entering the chapel.

Originally, Sainte-Chapelle was the private church of the French kings, and although it is less spectacular than Notre Dame, the atmosphere is nothing short of magical. The upper chapel, dominated by huge glass mosaics, is particularly mesmerizing. The light shines through the panes, illuminating more than a thousand scenes from the Bible in rich and vibrant colors.

Where: 6 Bd. du Palais, 1st arr. Tel: n/a Nearest station: Cité

Musée Eugène Delacroix

Musée Eugène Delacroix is a little museum in the apartment where the painter lived and worked until his death in 1863. The museum is situated on Place Furstenberg, which is one of the most romantic squares in Paris with its Paulownia trees and beautiful buildings.

Although many of his best-known works are currently displayed at the Louvre, you get a special, intimate experience from walking around the artist’s red-colored rooms and studying the sensuous paintings and drawings on display.

The museum opens up to a little garden, where you find Delacroix’s atelier. Today, the garden has been recreated to resemble what it must have looked like in his day.

Where: 6, Rue de Furstenberg, 6th arr. Tel: +33 1 44 41 86 50 Nearest station: St. Germain des Près

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Top 10 Unusual Things to Do in Paris

The French capital has the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and the Louvre, but if you are a seasoned traveller or just someone who is looking for something different from the Parisian streets then there are other options. Check out an in depth selection of the lesser known activities, tours and sights that make up our 10 unusual things to do in Paris.

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Ballroom dancing at the waterfront at the Jardin Tino Rossi

On warm summer nights the quai along the left bank of Port St Bernard comes alive with people strolling, picnicking and ballroom dancing. Every evening, starting June 1 through the end of August, dancers gather along the river bank near the Institut du Monde Arabe , in the Jardin Tino Rossi, to perfect their salsa, tango, waltz and swing.

Unusual museums

Spend time in some of the other Paris museums. The Museum of Comparative Anatomy and Paleontology provides an amazing look into a the world of 19th-century science with rows and rows of animal skeletons marching shoulder to shoulder against walls lined with old wood and glass cabinets. Within the Jardin des Plantes where the museum resides there is also a botanical garden, zoo and an array of other natural history museums. Other favorites include the Musée de Quai Branly , Musée du Moyen Age and Musée des Arts et Métiers . Check out our full guide to museums in Paris .

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Hunting for Roman ruins in Paris

The beautiful capital is still riddled with numerous timeworn traces of its ancient Roman past: a coliseum, baths, and various remains of walls, pillars and carved stones lie strewn about the city, waiting to be discovered by those with an observant eye. While the Roman Baths at Cluny are plausibly the most impressive architectural remnant from the Roman era, the Archaeological Crypt near Notre Dame reveals the center of the old Roman city of Lutetia, right on the Île de la Cité.

Stroll along the Promenade Plantée and Viaduc des Arts

A long, narrow stretch of trees and flowers flourish on what once was an elevated railway track. The promenade, also referred to by locals as La Coulée Verte , stretches from Bastille through the area around Gare de Lyon and Bercy, all the way to the west entrance of the Bois de Vincennes. When you’ve finished enjoying the gardens, drop down to street level and wander along the Viaduc des Arts where ateliers, workshops, cafes and galleries have taken up residence in the vaulted arches below the garden. The main section of both can be found at Avenue Daumesnil, near Bastille.

French 19th-century covered passages

Explore the 19th-century covered passages of Paris: remnants of the post-revolution rise of the middle-class in France, these precursors of today’s department stores and malls have mostly disappeared. Less than 30 still exist today. Some of the most impressive lie strung in a line stretching from Passage Vivienne, behind the Palais Royal, continuing northbound, where they end at rue Cadet, a charming, bustling little street. Passage hopping is perfect for a rainy day in Paris.

Fine wine at the Canal St Martin

Share a bottle of wine at the edge of the Canal St Martin with a friend on a warm evening. Many Paris first-timers (and a lot of long-timers) have yet to experience the Canal St Martin, but it is a popular treat with in-the-know Parisians, artists and the Bobo-Chic crowd. Use a Canal St Martin walking tour to find the most charming areas.

Free Paris street art

The best spot for a graffiti-viewing urban safari is the Canal St Martin in the 10th arrondissement , one of the most exciting and up-and-coming areas in town. Chock-full of wonderful restaurants , artistic shops and great graffiti , the area is a great place for leisurely strolling. To be sure not to miss the best spots for viewing graffiti, try Localers, who offer a space invader tour appropriate for the whole family. Alternatively, do a self-guided tour of Canal St. Martin that will allow you to detour and linger as you like. Check out our full list of places to find street art in Paris .

Trendy Paris neighborhoods

For a hip, off-the-beaten-path neighborhood, visit Belleville’s renowned flea markets and produce stands, filled with bustling shoppers, colorful products, and heckling merchants. Get lost in the tree-lined, picturesque rues of Caulaincourt – a perfect stroll for those seeking a more authentic French atmosphere. Food lovers will want to stroll the charming rue des Martyrs in the 9th arrondissement , one of the best market streets in Paris, where bakeries, cheese sellers and gourmet shops mix with cafés and hot, new restaurants. Visit our guide on the coolest neighbourhoods in Paris to find out more.

Parisian art and culture events

A trip to Paris is best accompanied by a visit to a typically Parisian event. Nuit Blanche, held every autumn, is the one night a year when galleries, museums, and other art and cultural institutions are open all night, free of charge. Those traveling in June should not miss the Fête de la Musique, when the streets will be filled with dancers into the early morning hours. The Journées du Patrimoine (or heritage days celebration), which usually takes place in late summer, is a great opportunity to visit all the government buildings in France, including the Elysée Palace, the National Assembly building and the French Mint.

Local classes

Bring a piece of Paris back home with you by learning a skill you can recreate for friends and family. Sometimes the most memorable experiences arise when you dial back the pace of your visit and take time to view Paris through the lens of a class, whether it’s cooking , photography, calligraphy, writing, or language. Taking a class in Paris is a wonderful way to make some great memories.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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20 Little Known Gems In Paris You'll Be Glad You Looked Up

Paris has so many secret attractions; things that the guidebooks don’t always tell us about.

There’s not much doubt that Paris is one of the top destinations in the world for tourism. But after you’ve done the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Sacré Coeur, or the Palace of Versailles, it’s time to see the other, albeit alternative, side of Paris. The capital has so many secret attractions; alleyways that lead to hidden venues and unique architectural beauty that the guidebooks don’t always tell you about.

The streets of Paris hide some arthouse restaurants and bars and unusual museums. Deep underneath the city, there are even some secrets to uncover. While some of the places in the list below may not be a total surprise, they are often overlooked in favor of more popular attractions and have not been entirely explored but nevertheless reveal Paris in a different light.

If you’re looking for something different next time you’re in the City of Lights, check out a film in an old theater, have a drink at a Japanese pagoda, chill out in a local park, or visit a museum that isn’t going to be crowded with tourists. Every place has its own hidden gems. It’s just up to you to find them and discover a different perspective on the city.

20 Montparnasse Cemetery - The Catacombs Aren't The Only Spectacular Thing

Most people have heard of Père Lachaise. But how many know about the Montparnasse Cemetery where some of the artistic and elite of bygone Paris have their memorials? Opened in 1824, there used to be three farms on the land and you can still see a surviving stone windmill from the 17 th Century. It was opened up to try and cater for more than six million diseased Parisians, most of whom finally ended up inside the Catacombs.

Amongst the cemetery’s 35,000 tombs, it has many famous dead buried in the cemetery including Charles Baudelaire, Susan Sontag, Man Ray, and France's most iconic couple: Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. The sculptures and monuments offer interesting perspectives on the people who are buried here—the innovator of the gasoline lamp, Charles Pigeon, is illuminated as he sits up to read on his deathbed and or Adolphe Pégoud, a pilot of WWI, proudly stands above an eagle.

Before you enter the cemetery, you will receive a map, without which you'll very possibly get lost if you’re looking for specific tombstones. Alternatively, a visit here can be equally enjoyable by just meandering around and admiring the many monuments, mortuary chapels, artwork, and pretty gardens.

19 Maison Deyrolle - No, There's No Need To Be Concerned

When you walk into this building, you’ll wonder if you’re in a museum or a shop (with the surrealist vibe)! Whether you’re an aspiring taxidermist or simply curious about the strange collections of animals, it won’t fail to disappoint. Expect to get up close to exotic animals such as brown bears, zebras, lions, giraffes, or domestic pets like chickens, peacocks, and rabbits. Butterflies, insects, and small animal skeletons are pinned to boards, and there’s even a unicorn!

If you’re concerned about the death of these animals, you can relax in the knowledge that they were all donated from farms, zoos, or circuses and died of old age or illness, and it also happens to be a cultural hub for sustainability and conservation.

Deyrolle’s combination of the natural science of mixed taxidermy and entomology with fantasy has been around since the 1830’s. He guaranteed his reputation with some of the world’s greatest artists, from Dali to the Dubuffet painters, and is famed within the realms of filmmakers looking for a unique setting for their films including even woody Allen who filmed some scenes here for Midnight in Paris . Additionally, Deyrolle’s passion for all things natural has also aroused inspiration from modern-day artist Damian Hirst.

18 Le Musee Du Vin - Need We Say More?

In the country where wine is honored so highly, it shouldn’t be a surprise to have a museum dedicated to the education of it. Le Musee du Vin will take you on a historical tour of the techniques for winemaking in France through underground cellars dating back to the 15 th Century.

The place is a perfect stop-off for the wine lover as the displays show the winemaking process from centuries ago to the modern day through using through wax models housed in a medieval underground cave and limestone tunnels.

The collections also include wine glasses, bottles, corkscrews, and old farming tools used in plantations and wine production during the 18th and 19th centuries through to the present day. You’ll also learn some historical facts; such is the enthusiasm of your guide.

If you have the time, you can eat at their restaurant or book your visit with a wine tasting event. The latter of which you’ll sample a minimum of three wines along with cheeses to compliment them and explanations from a friendly sommelier. Either way, a glass of vin is complimentary with your entrance fee, and it’s a great way of spending afternoon if you’re a lover of wine, especially if it’s raining!

17 Parc Des Buttes-Chaumont - Breathtaking Views

Choose to visit the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont as an alternative to Jardin des Tuileries or Jardin du Luxembourg which are more likely to be busy with tourists, especially during the warmer weather. In contrast, this little-known park located on a hilly setting in the north-eastern 19th arrondissement is a more relaxed piece of greenery and can be found by taking the metro, which bears the same name.

Created on the site of a former limestone quarry and gypsum, it was designed by Adolphe Alphand as an integral part of the Universal Exhibition celebrations in 1967. Not only does this magical park boast a suspension bridge, grotto, 30-meter waterfall but it also houses the Temple de la Sybille, a regal 50-meter structure based on the Temple of Vesta in Tivoli in Italy. It has its own island which can be accessed via two bridges above an artificial lake below where numerous birds such as moorhens and mallard ducks live.

When you’re finished meandering along the many pathways, enjoy a picnic to watch the sun down or pop into Rosa Bonheur or Pavilion Puebla, the park’s hip and trendy hangouts which are open until midnight and where you can take in the breathtaking city views below.

16 Paris Sewers Museum - The Smell Isn’t As Pungent As You Think

Okay, so it might be one of the weirdest collections on this list and you might be thinking why would you bother hanging around some dirty sewers in Paris, but it’s a proper adventure tour in the depths of the city. Whether you’re a fan of engineering or an urban explorer, the Paris Sewers Museum, or Musée des égouts de Paris, is an intricate part of Parisian history and offers an insight into the labyrinth of tunnels under the capital.

Paris Sewers Museum is hidden under the Quai d'Orsay on the Left Bank and is home to numerous Gothic arches and tunnels that inspired Victor Hugo’s novel and subsequently, the musical Les Misérables .

As you walk along the underground path, you follow the history of the sewers which have been in operation since the 1200’s and form a network of nearly 1500 miles. But surprisingly, the smell below isn’t as pungent as you might think.

From the days of Lutèce, these sandstone tunnels are a unique way of discovering the water cycles of the capital through to the present day. There are plenty of exhibits and information to read along your way and you can even pick up a stuffed sewer rat as a souvenir if you fancy it!

15 L'Entrepôt - More Than Just Music

Off the beaten track, this arts center has reinvented itself inside a former factory to combine a cinema, gallery, live music, and a delicious dining experience. It’s well worth the effort to find it as this small multicultural venue packs a punch with regular events on offer. Plus, you get to have a meal in the outdoor courtyard if you time it right with the good weather.

From arthouse to mainstream and world cinema, the three small cinemas show a large number of films per week; most of which are shown in their original form so you don’t necessarily have to be fluent in French to appreciate. In addition to films, you’re able to observe regular poetry nights, literary workshops, and debates or have a peek at the contemporary art in the gallery.

Many visitors who come here often arrive to listen to some great live music which can range from Jazz to African or classic acoustic all played out in an intimate and friendly atmosphere. Whether you choose to eat one of their popular Sunday brunches or pass by for a cocktail or two, the Avant-garde and often young vibe here are sure to make you feel like a local Parisian.

14 Georges Fouquet Jewelry Store - Overflowing With Beauty

If you want to immerse yourself in the styles of Art Nouveau, then step inside Georges Fouquet Jewelry Store designed by Alphonse Mucha because it’s sure to impress and entertain you. The shop was first created in the early 1900’s and was later donated to the museum bit and bit and then recreated.

Stained glass with portraits of stunning women adorn the images within the room overflowing with color and displaying the very best of Belle Epoque works of art. In addition to some of the finest Belle Epoque works of art, the upper floor is dedicated to the arts from Paris from XIXth to XXth centuries and includes the rooms of Marcel Proust and Paul Léautaud to exhibits such as Napoleon’s toiletry bag. Continue on a tour of this museum and you’ll follow the turbulent history from the Third Republic right through into into the pre-WWII years with impressive collections of artifacts.

Before you leave, have a browse in the museum’s bookstore and maybe pick up a book about the history of Paris. Coming out of the free museum will bring you close to the Place des Vosges and the rest of the Marais area which is worth exploring further.

13 Passage l’Homme - If You Don't Feel Like Being Sandwiched Between The Busy Streets Of Paris

Paris has numerous street and passage markets selling anything and everything! But Passage l’Homme is one that you might not have heard of as you have to put some effort into finding it. Located in the 11th Arrondisement, it’s tucked away in a small countryside setting, and despite being sandwiched between the busy streets all around, it has a quiet calm about it.

What would once have cobblers, blacksmiths, and woodworkers grafting away in these streets as far back as the days of the French Revolution is now filled with modern-day artisans carrying on the legacies from their predecessors.

During the 18 th and 19 th Centuries, these hidden arcades were once commonplace but now there’s less than a third of them left from the original 150. Elegant and nostalgic, they’ll transport you back to of the bygone days of the Paris bourgeoisie and culture where you can glimpse into what French life was like.

While you won’t find tacky souvenirs here, you can pick up some unique gifts to take home with you, including clothes, ornaments, and jewelry within the alcoves and quirky shops of the former workshops.

12 Bees At The Jardin Du Luxembourg - For A Little Bit Of Sweetness

While there’s no doubt that the Jardin du Luxembourg is one of Paris’ most popular parks, not many people know that it also happens to house a spectacular collection of beehives! Situated near the Rue de Fleuris entrance in southwest corner of the park, these bees are busy making Parisian honey which is then sold on to some of the best pastry chefs in Paris.

Although they are now housed in modern hives with copper roofs, you can also see a beautiful collection of antique wooden bee boxes and their attractively-designed water fountain. For those who are seriously into bees, you can sign up for beekeeping classes which are held on Wednesdays and Saturdays and observe the production of the unique honey firsthand.

And you won’t be alone, as honey and beekeeping enthusiasts from across the globe come to study these buzzing beauties as France has a long history of beekeeping. It might even be said that Paris is leading the world in urban beekeeping, and if you notice, they’ll be clustered in hives above the chimney pots throughout the city, including the Notre Dame.

If you’re visiting Paris during the autumn, take advantage of their annual event. The Festival of Honey and learn more about how honey is made from these busy bees.

11 Paris’ Little Jaffna - Authentic Indian Everything

Walking down the streets of Paris’ Little Jaffna, you’d be forgiven for thinking that you’re in South India because of the aromas of spices and sights of vibrant saris in this melting pot of cultures. You’ll find this La Chapelle quarter between the Gare de Nord and La Chapelle metros at the end of Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Denis and is a world apart from traditional Paris.

Since the 1980’s, when thousands of ethnic Tamils fled the civil wars in Sri Lanka and landed in France, the majority settled in this neighborhood and integrated their culture and character into the area. Well-known is their Ganesh Festival which usually takes place at the end of August. An enormous statue of this beloved Hindu god joins in the colorful and joyous parades through the local streets.

If you’re visiting at a different time of the year, you can shop for authentic products ranging from spices to silks in streets filled with Bollywood music and Tamil language. Stop and watch people with a chai tea or have a chance to eat in one of the many Sri Lankan and South Indian eateries where they serve up some delicious authentic cuisine such as coconut-flavored savory fritters or samosas.

10 Parc Floral - Snap That Perfect Pic

Be prepared to lose yourself through a walk in the woods, gardens bursting with orchids, and Japanese pavilions on your visit to the Parc Floral. These collections of botanic beauty and rich vegetation will lead you over the Japanese footbridges and through exotic plants, over 60 bonsai trees, valleys of flowers, and medicinal plants. Spanning more than 35 hectares in the Bois de Vincennes, it was first created in the 13th Century as a royal hunting ground.

Nowadays, it’s a popular picnic spot with Parisians and offers a fantastic photo opportunities for the tourist.

Kids will also have a great time in one of the many playgrounds, a climbing wall, at a theatre, admiring the peacocks and flamingos, or a round of mini golf with each hole representing a Parisian monument.

If you’re visiting in the summer months, you’ll also catch a free concert which take place every weekend and are dedicated to jazz and classical music. Plus, in the month of June, filling the air with music is the Paris Jazz Festival which, although is free, has a small charge into the park. However, it attracts thousands of visitors to enjoy the sounds of international jazz singers and musicians.

9 Musée Marmottan Monet - For True Art Lovers

In the neighborhood of the Passy district in the 16th Arrondissement is situated the Musée Marmatton Monet, which houses the biggest collection of Monet’s paintings and includes the very painting (Sunrise) that coined the Impressionists their name. A small and intimate personal collection of works, there’s much to inspire lovers of art.

Made up of over a hundred of paintings, not just limited to Monet but also the works of Manet, Pissarro, Renoir, and Rodin are displayed. Even the rooms are decorated by Napoleonic elements from the original Marmottan collection of art and plush furniture. It first opened in 1934 and has since been visited by thousands of Monet’s fans who go looking for something different that other more popular galleries in Paris offer.

The building itself, the private home of Marnottan, is well-preserved which has many historic attributes and includes The Wildenstein Collection of illuminated manuscripts. Temporary exhibitions are highly popular and usually take place twice yearly. Pick up a unique memento from the gift shop before you leave.

While you’re in the area, meander through the local streets filled with interesting shops and chic cafes and take a walk through Parc Ranelegh and even catch an open-air concert in the summer.

8 Au Lapin Agile - a true bohemian experience, without all the fanfare of the Moulin Rouge

If you want a true bohemian experience and without all the fanfare of the Moulin Rouge, then head along to this tiny cabaret, Au Lapin Agile (The Agile Rabbit), in Montmartre. Little has been changed since the era of Picasso and Matisse who used to frequent the place back in the day and allegedly paid their drinking bills with paintings.

It has an enormous heritage and was also frequented by Erik Satie, Henry Miller, and Annie Girardot and more recently, the likes of Lawrence Olivier, Lauren Bacall, and Paul Newman. It debuted in 1860 and has since then undergone various owners and legendary stories but has always retained its attraction for struggling artists, writers, and alternative Montmartre locals.

Once you enter the surreal setting of the dark red room filled with old furniture and paintings which date back to the 1920’s, be prepared to be immersed by enthusiastic French singers with fantastic voices.

While the entrance fee might be high for some people’s budget, they offer a student discount and the price includes a drink while you engage in the music, poetry, humor, and guaranteed fun inside this little village house. After seeing the performance and you’re back outside, you’ll get an extra sight of Montmartre and Sacre Coeur all lit up at night.

7 Place Dauphine - Typical Paris Feel

Situated on the oldest bridge in the city is a haven of beauty and tranquility that is Place Dauphine. A visit here is for when you just feel like sitting outside with a good book, want to do some Parisian people watching, or have a romantic picnic.

The beautiful and peaceful Place Dauphine is situated off Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Paris. It would be easy to walk past it without noticing; while only a few steps from the Notre Dame, don’t pass up the opportunity to relax a little in this little spot in Ile de la Cite, the small island between both the right and left banks.

It was created for the son of Henri IV, Louis the XIII, and is the city’s second Royal square. You’d never believe that this little secluded chilled-out space that’s so rich in history is right in the center of Paris!

Surrounding the triangular sides of this little setting are typical Parisian shops, galleries, and cafes to properly throw yourself further into Parisian culture to soak up the local vibes and get some respite from the busy streets nearby. It’s also great for shooting photos of the surrounding architecture, the pétanque, and Bocce players.

6 Catacombs - not for the fainthearted

Lying deeper than even the sewer systems and Metro are the Catacombs of Paris which house the remains of around six million people. The walk, nearly 20 meters deep, will take you on a creepy journey beneath the streets of Paris and go on for hundreds of intricate miles into old caves and quarries.

Also known as France’s Empire of the Dead, you can enter this dark labyrinth from Place Denfert-Rochereau but it should be said that it’s not for the fainthearted! Full of the remains of centuries ago, Parisians were placed here due to the overflow in the cemeteries that could not make room for the bodies, and so the bones were exhumed and arranged deep inside the city’s ancient quarry.

Inside the cool air of the dark tunnels are an extraordinary amount of bones, neatly piled high along walls and walls. However, it is said that behind the neat piles on skulls, the remainder of the bodies have been slung messily to make room for them all.

As you walk through, look out for graffiti from the days of the French Revolution. Although you do not take a tour into all the areas, an hour is plenty enough time, especially if you’re claustrophobic!

5 The Montmartre Vineyard - It grows nearly two thousand varieties of grape

If you didn’t know these vineyards were there, you might end up walking straight past it! A few blocks from the Sacre Coeur and the busy streets that surround it is the Montmartre Vineyard tucked away on a quiet corner.

Montmartre has been used to grow wines from the Romans to evidence that the Benedictine nuns in the 12th century produced wine in the area too. After their abbey being destroyed during the times of the French Revolution, the vines were later run by the church to supply local drinking holes.

After urbanization, the last remaining bit of land was issued to a group of artists during the 1930’s between rue des Saules and rue St-Vincent. Led by the famous illustrator, Francis Poulbot, they convinced the then Albert Lebrun’s government to give up a piece of the land to reincarnate the vines.

Fast-forward to the present day and their annual grape-picking ceremony in October has taken place every year except during the Second World War. It grows nearly two thousand varieties of grape which are then fermented in the cellars of the local town hall. Once ready to be sold, every year’s wine labels are designed and painted by a local artist.

4 59 Rivoli - Set over six floors exhibiting works of art and workshops

Paris is a plethora of galleries and museums but nothing is quite like a visit to 59 Rivoli for a glimpse into the underground art scene in Paris.

An alternative squat for artists, the building dates back to the 1800’s but has been renovated in line with its artistic background in mind to create part gallery and studios. Colorful images, prints, and texts adorn the walls while a spiral staircase towers through the building’s center, a piece of art of its own accord.

After lying empty for many years, it was resurrected by a trio of artists in 1999, and although it was evicted a few years after, it now sits (ironically) on one of the hectic streets in Paris, opposite McDonald’s and H&M! The façade of the building often changes according to the changing trends of art and is a welcomed relief from the drab commerciality that surrounds it.

Set over six floors exhibiting works of art and workshops from resident artists, you can even watch them at work in their creative spaces. There’s a gallery on the top floor and they often host small concerts of an evening which are free to see. If you like what you see, you could be leaving with an original piece of art.

3 La Pagode - Just The Visit Is Worth It

Film lovers, young and old, are going to be enthralled by the historic beauty of this little gem of a cinema. La Pagode might be hard to find but you won’t be disappointed once you track it down! Designed as a replica of a stunning 1896 Japanese pagoda, it was originally built by the director of Le Bon Marché, the department store owner and was a gift to his wife. Unluckily for him, she deserted him after it was built!

La Pagode has been an integral part of film in France. In 1959, Jean Cocteau had the premiere of Testament d’Orphée here, and the Cinema also promoted the films of Ingmar Bergman and Sergei Eisenstein in France.

Although in need of restoration, the authentic décor with its beautiful silk wallpaper and ornate interior is laden with old charm despite its kitschy feel; carved flowers and birds made from gold lacquer and ceiling murals all make up this experience of authenticity.

It even comes with their own old-school usherette who takes tickets and sells snacks from a tray! They show a mix of independent films, many of which are in English with French subtitles. Even if you don’t end up seeing a movie, you can still visit this incredible place for afternoon tea in their enchanting oriental garden but only during the summer months.

2 Le Comptoir Général - for a laid-back, unpretentious vibe

If you sneak into an alleyway close to Canal Saint Martin, you could be very surprised by what you’re entering into! Lurking inside these large barn houses is a shabby chic bar that attracts all kinds of Parisians from hipsters to chic families. Akin to the Ruin bars that dominate the drinking scene in Budapest, Le Comptoir Général offers a taste of the same but in the heart of Paris.

The eclectically-furnished rooms with a touch of colonial style, stuffed animals, red carpets, extravagant chandeliers, and Franco-African souvenirs open up into two enormous rooms cluttered with curiosities. These rooms are connected by a tropical garden with a greenhouse that creates light in the center.

Take a seat on one of the many mismatched armchairs and enjoy a freshly-made cocktail or taste a global-inspired cuisine which is both delicious and relatively inexpensive. The drinks, food, and even décor change on a regular basis in accordance with the theme of a temporary exhibition. If you’re thinking of coming here in the evening, make sure you arrive early as the venue gets busy, particularly when they host film shows.

Come here if you like a laid-back, unpretentious vibe and where you can dance and drink the night away!

1 Musée Des Arts Forains - enjoy similar experiences to those in the 1850’s to the 1950’s

This Paris museum is like no other in the whole of the city! The Musée des Arts Forains is filled with antique carnival objects which can only be visited through a reservation or on one of its seasonal tours. Opened in 1996, the contents inside this brick warehouse belong to a private collection from the actor and dealers of antiquities, Jean-Paul Favand.

The highlight of the museum is that you get to ride on century-old carousels and enjoy similar experiences to those in the 1850’s to the 1950’s. These are vintage amusement attractions that are made from wood and included games, German swings, a Hooghuys Organ, a carousel of bicycles powered by the pedaling of its riders, and of course, the wooden carousels with prancing horses.

The carnival fairgrounds of Musée des Arts Forains make up just one part of The Pavilions de Bercy, the other three being The Théâtre du Merveilleux (cabinets of curiosity), The Salons Vénitiens (carnival), and The Théâtre de Verdure’ amazing gardens. The Pavilions were initially wine cellars which date back to the 19 th Century but now house this crazy bit of fun instead.

So, if you want to be a child for a few hours, make sure you add this to your list of hidden gems in Paris.

16 top local tips on what to do in Paris

Aug 10, 2023 • 12 min read

From cruising the Seine to strolling the city with the locals, here are the best things to do in Paris © Christopher Ames / Getty Images

Packed with iconic museums and monuments, together with low-key treasures cherished by locals,  Paris is a city that emanates "la belle vie"  (the good life).

Away from the highlights – the Louvre, Notre Dame and Eiffel Tower – Parisian life ticks along with a coffee on a terrace, a bike ride along the Seine, and wine-fueled lunches with friends in noisy bistros. Blending the blockbuster experiences with these local delights is the key to experiencing the best of Paris.

Here are the top things to do according to a local.

1. See the Eiffel Tower at night

Dodge the habitual daytime crowd zig-zagging up the Eiffel Tower ’s southern-pillar staircase or cruising by lift to the top-floor champagne bar, and experience Paris’ signature spire after dark instead. Even better: book at the Michelin-starred   Le Jules Vernes  and dine in the company of the most beautiful city panorama ensnared within Eiffel’s hypnotic metal web on the 2nd floor.

Detour : For smouldering, eyeball-to-eyeball views of the  Dame de Fer  (Iron Lady) herself, illuminated at night, enjoy a date night beneath the stars at the summer rooftop bar atop La Shangri-La Paris . Can't be in there? See it from the Seine, with Eiffel Tower views from fine-dining bateau   Ducasse sur Seine .

2. Be surprised by the artworks at Bourse de Commerce – Pinault Collection

There’s a secret to exploring the city’s recent art venue  addition, which opened in May 2021 in an 18th-century rotunda where the city’s grain market and stock exchange once were. Reserve tickets online, book lunch in the top-floor Halles aux Graines restaurant run by legendary French chefs Michel and Sébastien Bras, and keep your wits about you when admiring the contemporary art in this world-class collection by French billionaire François Pinault.

The exquisite "marble" replica of a late-Renaissance Giambologna sculpture in the central hall (actually a gargantuan, slow-burning wax candle by Swiss artist Urs Fischer), the pesky "pigeons" perched on the balustrade above, the "cushions" strewn on the occasional chair throughout are not what they seem. This mischievous new gallery has been designed to shock and surprise.

3. Sample local life at Paris' food (and flea) markets

Nothing reveals the backstreet grit and grind of local life quite like Paris’ stash of intoxicating markets. Most neighborhoods have one and Bastille’s morning street marché on Blvd Richard Lenoir is a brilliant introduction.

When hunger strikes, swing through the inconspicuous green metal gate on rue de Bretagne, 3e, in nearby Le Marais to uncover  Marché des Enfants Rouges . This is the city’s oldest covered market, dating from 1615, with a maze of food stalls cooking up Moroccan couscous, Japanese bento, Thai curries and other world cuisines. Order a stuffed- and sizzled-to-order toasted sandwich or galette (savoury crêpe) from gregarious Alain at  Chez Alain Miam Miam , then grab a pew to lunch with locals around communal tables.

To peek into the makings of a Parisian home, ride metro line 13 north to  Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen . A village in itself, this gargantuan nine-hectare flea market – Europe’s largest – is where thrifty Parisians gravitate at weekends to hunt down chintzy Louis XVI lamps, rare and wondrous vinyl, avant-garde fittings and furniture, antiques and other second-hand treasures for their city-sleek apartments.

4. Wander through Paris' history at Musée Carnavalet

With its photogenic twinset of hôtels particuliers (private mansions) smacking of 17th-century Parisian aristocracy and labyrinth of lavish rooms spanning time, the  Musée Carnavalet in Le Marais is an enchanting rendezvous with history. The architecture alone at Paris’ oldest museum, open since 1880, plunges you straight into the Renaissance.

Thanks to a four-year redesign costing more than €55 million, visiting the Musée Carnavalet is a sharp, immersive, chronological waltz through the glittering story of Paris, from prehistory to the terrorism-troubled 21st century. Some 3800 of 625,000 historical pieces – paintings, sculptures, furniture, signs, posters, models, coins, toys, musical instruments, erotica – adorn rooms perfectly styled to reflect each era. The most spectacular – the lavish painted ceilings, gilt and stucco of the Salons La Rivière (1652–56), Hôtel Wendel’s Art Deco ballroom, Fouquet’s Art Nouveau jewelry shop – are the Real McCoy, uprooted from their original location to the museum for safekeeping.

Planning tip:  Admission to the permanent collection is free and doesn't need to be booked in advance. End in the museum cafe, with tables enchantingly scattered in the manicured courtyard garden.

5. Explore Monet's artworks at museums across the city

Which art lover can resist Monet’s signature water lilies? Exhilaratingly gargantuan and immersive, his lilies fill two oval rooms – designed by Monet himself in the 1920s – at the  Musée de l’Orangerie in the  Jardin des Tuileries .

More Monet masterpieces rub shoulders with paintings by Cézanne, Degas, Renoir and Van Gogh in the  Musée d’Orsay , displaying world-class art from 1848 to 1914 in a resplendent 1900-built train station by the Seine. But the real gold lies off the trodden tourist trail, at the unsung  Musée Marmottan Monet . Quietly at home in an intimate, Empire-style hôtel particulier in the residential 16e arrondissement , this is where the world’s largest collection of canvases by Monet can be found.

6. Go on a treasure hunt at the Louvre

It would take nine months to simply glance at all 35,000-odd masterpieces at the  Musée du Louvre , home to one of the world’s finest collections of Western art. Instead you can join a  ThatMuse scavenger hunt to make best sense of the overwhelmingly gargantuan palace-gallery, built as a fortress for Philippe-Auguste in the 12th century and rehashed as a swish royal residence in the mid-16th.

Hunts are themed, a huge hit with families, and lead you into quieter rooms well beyond the over-crowded likes of Da Vinci’s celebrity Mona Lisa or Michelangelo’s Dying Slave . Count between two and three hours to track down, and snap a photo as evidence, up to 30 artworks – the "pieces of treasure".

Local tip: Decamp afterwards to  Café Le Nemours , one of Paris’ most mythical cafes with an elegant terrace beneath arches, for a coffee or organic Alain Millat peach juice and classic Parisian jambon et fromage baguette sandwich (or something fancier).

7. Admire Paris' iconic rooftops

Talk of inscribing Paris’ iconic rooftops on Unesco’s World Heritage List has been rumbling for years. Begin your rooftop foray at ground level on  place des Vosges , laid out as Place Royale in Le Marais in 1612. It's the city’s oldest square – and the most handsome. This is an ideal spot to admire Paris’ signature roofs from below, originally tiled in slate from the nearby Loire Valley and, from the mid-19th century, with cheaper sheets of shiny seagull-grey zinc.

A 10-minute walk away on trendy Rue Vieille du Temple, 3e, fashionistas hobnob over cocktails, barbecued meats and weekend brunch at  Au Top , a hidden rooftop with an insane 360-degree panorama.  Le Perchoir Marais is the other unmissable rooftop in the neighborhood.

Local tip:  Other Parisian-packed venues to swoon over the city’s romantic skyline: the viewing terrace of department store  Galeries Lafayette , Perruche above  Le Printemps , cocktail and DJ hub  Le Perchoir in the 11e, and farm-to-fork  Le Perchoir , at home on Europe’s largest urban farm in the 15e on – guess what – a rooftop.

8. Take a leisurely stroll like a Parisian flâneur

When 19th-century town planner Georges Eugène Haussmann bulldozed the medieval city’s cobweb of dank, narrow alleys in the 1850s to create an elegant, light-filled capital of broad tree-shaded boulevards and squares, he clearly had Parisian flânerie (strolling at leisure) in mind. Left-bank  St-Germain des Prés , right-bank  Le Marais and  Jardin du Luxembourg are classic areas for slow, indulgent walks.

For monumental grandeur around every corner, kick off on the viewing platform of  Arc de Triomphe , stroll shop-lined  Champs-Elysées to obelisk-pierced  Place de la Concorde , and cut through  Jardin des Tuileries to arch-pierced Place du Carrousel. Admire the Louvre, with its striking glass pyramid, then duck beneath the arches to Place Colette with its flashy metro-station entrance threaded with 800 Murano glass beads.

Continue into  Jardin du Palais Royal to frolic around Daniel Buren’s signature black-and-white striped columns, browse its upmarket boutique-clad arcades, chill over freshly roasted coffee at hidden  Café Kitsuné , and flop on a park bench to watch Paris go by in gorgeous slow motion.

Planning tip: Join up with  Explore Paris on a wildly creative themed walking tour of Paris such as operatic strolls with a singer in Montmartre, Chinese Belleville, or gourmet walks in Goutte d’Or.

9. Experience village life in Montmartre

Gorging on the spectacular Paris vista that unfolds from the steps of the pearly-white domes of the  Sacré-Coeur Basilica – or atop the 300 more steps spiraling up inside the church dome – is a veritable Montmartre moment. But to get under the skin of this fabled quarter of ivy-clad cottages, windmills and artist cafes, it pays to duck down hidden alleys and squares, and explore less-visited streets on the backside of the Butte (as the Montmartre hill is known).

Local tip: Reserve a table at clandestine cocktail bar  Le Très Particulier , with walled summer garden, in a 19th-century mansion on Ave Junot. Mooch a couple of doors downhill to Villa Leandré at No 23, one of the picturesque cul-de-sacs in Paris with flowery cottage gardens fronting 1920s, terraced brick houses. Another 15 minutes brings you to La Cité Pilleux (45 rue Ganneron, 18e), an equally bucolic dead-end lane with old industrial workshops re-spun as pretty little dwellings.

10. Tour the historic Cimetière du Père Lachaise

Gawping at ornate tomb art while paying your respects to 70,000 rich, famous and infamous buried in the world’s most-visited  cemetery is a riveting urban walk. The historic graveyard, open since 1804, is one of central Paris’ biggest green spaces, with 5300 trees and shrubs, and magnificent 19th-century sculptures by artists such as David d’Angers, Hector Guimard, Visconti and Chapu.

To scout out the iconic graves of 1960s rock star Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf et al, scan the QR code inside the cemetery’s Blvd de Ménilmontant entrance to access a map; or hook up with entertaining cemetery historian Thierry Le Roi. His two-hour  guided tours are legendary in their own right.

Local tip:  Visit on a sunny day after the rain to experience this unexpected green oasis at its most lush.

11. Take in the views from Arc de Triomphe's viewing platform

The Arc de Triomphe 's sky-high viewing platform is dramatically less crowded than the Eiffel Tower, but with views to rival. The 50m-high (164ft), Roman-style, triumphal arch commemorating Napoléon’s 1805 victory at Austerlitz is also the best spot to get your head around Paris’  Axe Historique (Historical Axis) – a line of historical monuments forming a perfect east-to-west axis through central Paris.

Admire astonishing vistas stretching from the Louvre, Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Elysées (all east), to the Arc de Triomphe’s modern counterpoint, 1980s-built  Grande Arche de la Défense (west). Peer down to watch cars twirling around the city’s busiest roundabout encircling the arch and spinning off along one of eight leafy Haussmannian avenues.

12. Cruise the Seine

Paris’ geographical and spiritual heart is the Seine – it all began on its island twinset after all, with early settlers arriving on Île de la Cité around the 3rd century BCE. Cruising the river with Bateaux-Mouches or aboard a hop-on-hop-off  Batobus river boat – part of the city’s public transport system – is a memorable experience. Admire scenic Unesco World Heritage-listed riverbanks, islands, summertime beaches and 37 bridges spanning every architectural era.

Sunset drinks are a rite of passage at floating bar and guinguette (dance hall),  Rosa Bonheur sur Seine – as is a dose of contemporary street art a short walk west along the quay to bohemian barge-gallery  Fluctuart . To stay on the Seine 24/7, check into floating hotel,  Off Paris Seine .

Local tip: Hopes are high that parts of the river will be clean enough to swim in by 2025. Until then, cool off on hot summer days at floating outdoor pool  Piscine Joséphine Baker .

13. Be intoxicated by Paris' cocktail culture

From glam hotel bars to clandestine speakeasies and upcycled hostess bars in South Pigalle, the craft-cocktail scene in Paris is intoxicating.  Paris Cocktail Week , held each year in January, is a brilliant introduction. Otherwise, DIY your initiation with a signature Serendipity at  Bar Hemingway in the Ritz – a teeny, chic, wood-paneled space where British-born bartender Colin Field has mixed cocktails for more than 25 years. Legend says Hemingway, wielding a machine gun, helped liberate the hotel bar during WWII – following which he knocked back 51 consecutive dry martinis.

Local tip:  Forgotten French liqueurs, zany homemade infusions and inventive syrups are at their finest at  Le Mary Céleste , one of Paris’ first bars to pair cocktails with modern French tapas dishes. For summer cocktails, follow a clued-in crowd to  Le Pavillon Puebla , a guinguette -styled party space in a rambling 19th-century mansion in beautiful offbeat city park  Parc des Buttes-Chaumont .

14. Eat quality local produce at grassroots restaurants

Grassroots produce – seasonal, locally grown, invariably organic and so freshly harvested that earth still clings to the roots – has never been so important in French cuisine. Chefs in Paris are working harder than ever with small regional producers to elevate taste and quality to even greater heights (not to mention supporting local economies).

The untouristed 10th arrondissement is becoming increasingly foodie with wildly successful, bistronomie addresses such as  Les Résistants and  L’Avant Poste .

15. Go shopping at designer boutiques

Be it your own made-to-measure Louis Vuitton trunk, a heavenly fragranced candle from the world’s oldest candlemaker , or the season’s latest from eco-conscious fashion store  Sézane , shopping in Paris is exuberant and exotic. Pick your quartier depending on personal style and goût (taste): Le Marais for workshop boutiques of independent upcoming designers and mainstream fashion, or around  Canal St-Martin in the edgier 10e for concept stores, pop-ups and alternative design boutiques.

Detour: After 15 years of restoration, to the tune of €750 million, historic department store  La Samaritaine is breathtaking in size and beauty. Drooling over the Seine-side building’s original art nouveau and art deco features, including the glass-topped central hall – all impeccably restored by Pritzker Prize–winning Japanese firm Sanaa – is completely fine.

16. Watch movies beneath the stars

Paris is one of the most  cinematic cities on earth. Film buffs can poke behind the scenes of art deco movie theater  Le Grand Rex , lose their soul in a silent B&W movie accompanied by a live pianist music at the  Fondation Jérôme Seydoux-Pathé , or follow in the footsteps of screen star Amélie Poulain in Montmartre.

Summer raises the curtain on romance with movies beneath the stars – deckchairs are scattered on the grass in Parc de la Villette during free film screenings mid-July to mid-August. MK2’s ground-breaking cinema hotel,  Hôtel Paradiso in the 12e has designer rooms sporting private cinema screens and a lush green rooftop garden hosting screenings after-dark.

Local tip:  Films screened on a 24m-long screen in the Louvre’s magnificent 16th-century courtyard during July’s four-day Cinéma Paradiso Louvre open-air film fest are always a rip-roaring success.

This article was first published July 2019 and updated August 2023

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12 famous places in Paris and what makes them iconic

Known as one of the fashion capitals of the world, Paris also tops the list when it comes to entertainment and culture. Many flock to the city’s renowned landmarks, museums, and historic sites. From lofty towers and busy boulevards to its iconic museums and grandiose palaces, Paris has a way of romancing its visitors to return time after time.

Tick off these 12 famous places in Paris and discover what makes them so alluring.

1. Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower ​​has been a national icon for over 130 years. You’ll see it in every skyline photo and box-office hits like Midnight in Paris , Rush Hour 3 , and Monte Carlo .

Looming over 1,000 feet above the city, many still try to capture this architectural marvel in a single frame—whether it’s from Les Jardins du Trocadéro or the sprawling lawns of Champ de Mars . To get ahead of the crowd, buy skip-the-line tickets or opt for a guided climbing tour (a pro-tip to beat the elevator lines). The picture-perfect views from the summit are absolutely worth it.

2. Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is the most visited museum in the world. Millions of tourists make the trip not just to pose in front of its sleek pyramid entrance, but to see masterpieces like Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa first-hand.

Housing an extensive collection of over 380,000 exhibits, the museum can’t be covered in a day. Check out our guide to the Louvre's must-see paintings or maximize your visit with a skip-the-line guided tour of the Louvre’s highlights .

3. Arc de Triomphe

Located at the western end of Champs Élysées , Arc de Triomphe is the most emblematic attraction in Paris. It was constructed in 1806 to commemorate some of France’s biggest victories, and memorialize noble soldiers who lost their lives tragically.

Don’t just admire it from the ground: climb up to the viewing platform and revel in unobstructed views of the city—you might even be able to see La Défense and Montmartre in the distance. After that, conquer the scores of boutiques, department stores, and fancy restaurants along bustling Champs-Élysées.

4. Notre-Dame Cathedral

The 800-year-old Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of Paris’ most revered monuments. This esteemed church is also the most famous Gothic cathedral of the Middle Ages, and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Formerly the location of major events like coronations, weddings, and funerals, the Notre-Dame also became a common tourist pit-stop. Inside, visitors would marvel at the stained-glass rose windows and massive bells. Although it remains closed after the devastating fire, you can still appreciate its resplendent architecture along the banks of the Seine River.

5. Moulin Rouge

Moulin Rouge is a world-renowned and legendary cabaret in Montmartre. Catch glamorous evening shows full of music and dance, and enjoy the rambunctious atmosphere. Though usually held at night, there are several matinees throughout the year to look out for.

Learn about the story of Moulin Rouge while enjoying the fast-paced French Can-Can with performers in dazzling rhinestone costumes is certainly a feast for the eyes. Parents, save Moulin Rouge for date nights—the performances are not for kids under six. Also, check the dress code to avoid being turned away.

6. Champs Élysées

Whether you’re planning a sightseeing bus tour or a shopping spree, add Champs-Élysées, Paris’ famous shopping street, to your itinerary. This tree-lined boulevard is one of the most beautiful spots in Paris. It also connects Arc de Triomphe with Place de la Concorde , so include some photo-taking along the way. Better still, get a tourist pass and save on entry fees.

Known as the Beverly Hills of Paris, Champs-Élysées is home to upscale boutiques, posh restaurants, and swanky hotels. There are wallet-friendly options too, like Starbucks and McDonald’s. If the little ones are tagging along, the Disney store warrants a detour.

7. Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris is the only Disneyland in Europe, and that makes it worth a trip. Start your day early and revel in the magic of both parks: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park . Check out the best Disneyland rides , heartwarming shows, nostalgic Disney merchandise and dazzling fireworks, this fun-filled outing will excite the young and young at heart.

Don’t miss the Disney Village nearby—a great shopping and dining hub, especially if you need to bag more souvenirs. There’s also a wonderful hot-air balloon ride, PanoraMagique , which boasts spectacular views over Lake Disney (weather-permitting). Read our guide to Disneyland Paris for more tips and tricks before you go.

8. Seine River

Seine River is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris. Soak in the lovely scenery from the comfort of a bateaux (flat-bottomed riverboat). Whether it’s day or night, prep your cameras for the regal Grand Palais , Ponts des Arts , Île Saint-Louis , and the Eiffel Tower.

Surprise someone special and take them on a lunchtime sightseeing cruise . Or pick a sunset sail and watch the monuments shimmer beneath the night sky.

9. Basilica of Sacré-Cœur

The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur is a striking Roman Catholic church nestled on Montmartre hill. It’s one of the most noticeable landmarks in Paris and attracts many for its gleaming-white marble architecture and special aura.

For the best vantage point, head up to the esplanade area—after climbing over 200 steps—and be rewarded with mesmerizing views of the city. Avoid golden hour though, when it’s teeming with photo enthusiasts. After your visit, explore the neighborhood and visit Place du Tertre , Le Consulat (for coffee lovers), and Musee de Montmartre , which celebrates the art and history of the area.

10. Musée d'Orsay

Musée d'Orsay is renowned for housing the world’s largest collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist paintings. Most of these brilliant artworks span the period between the 18th and 19th centuries. With thousands of paintings (some of which are rare), and hundreds of sculptures, make a beeline for famous pieces first like Vincent Van Gogh’s Starry Night or Claude Monet’s The Magpie .

This opulent museum sits in a century-old railway station. Come on weekday mornings when it’s less crowded, and take advantage of the photo ops starting with the Musée d’Orsay Clock.

11. Tuileries Garden

Once you’ve wrapped up your Musée d’Orsay tour, stroll to the nearby Tuileries Garden . This popular French garden is the ideal spot for a lazy afternoon picnic, amidst the manicured trees and statues. Alternatively, admire the colorful shrubs from the park benches or cafes.

If you visit Paris during the summer between June and August, enjoy Fête des Tuileries. The kids will love this traditional carnival with over 60 attractions, a 1900s carousel, and treats like cotton candy and toffee apples.

12. Panthéon

The Panthéon honors revolutionary French citizens like Victor Hugo, Marie Curie and Voltaire. Built in a neoclassical style, this national mausoleum was originally a church. Today, you can pay homage to some of the most distinguished people whose final resting place is in the Crypt.

Inside, you’ll find many statues on the main floor, breathtaking artworks, and sculptures of illustrious scientists and politicians. The Panthéon may not be suitable for young kids or the elderly (due to the lack of elevators), so make this a brief pit-stop before exploring the rest of Paris’ Latin Quarter .

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13 Secret Spots In Paris To Visit

A visit to Paris , whether it’s for the first, second or fifteenth time will most likely include sites like  The Eiffel Tower , The Louvre and Notre Dame Cathedral. That being said, there are heaps of secret spots in Paris to visit that are sometimes hidden in plain sight. 

There are heaps of lesser-known places in Paris. From gorgeous markets , free things to see and the kind of places that portray Paris in a different light and give you a new perspective on this gorgeous French city. 

So, to help you along the way, take a look at some of the secret spots in Paris to visit. Have the most amazing time in the city and have loads of fun! 

1.) Ride the Curious Dodo Manège

The Dodo Manège is a beautiful and unique carousel comprising of extinct and endangered animals. This attraction is relatively new to Paris and we actually didn’t take a pic of it when we saw it. I have no idea how that happened! 

Only erected in 1992, Dodo Manège is situated relatively close to the Natural History Museum. Jump on board this traditional carousel with a difference and ride a dodo, an aepyornis (imagine Big Bird from Sesame Street… just not yellow) and even a panda.

Read more: Best markets in Paris to visit

2.) Rub the rather cheeky Victor Noir 

Almost 150 years after his death, Victor Noir has become a legend of sorts after a bronze statue was erected over his tomb.

I did a double-take when looking at this tomb! Take a look at his trouser line… you will see why.

Urban legend suggests that if you place one single flower in his top hat, kiss his lips and (if you dare) a little rub of his excited trouser hump – you will be forever granted the perfect husband and amazing ‘in the bedroom’ activities for the rest of eternity.

A very cheeky tradition, wouldn’t you say?

3.) Catacombs of Paris

These Catacombs of Paris house the remains of up to six million people.

This curious site is located right beneath the Parisian streets which you’ll walk and was set up by city officials to solve the growing problem of full cemeteries.

Take an eerie journey into the infamous catacombs, something that is becoming increasingly well known. I would definitely recommend visiting on a weekday morning when queues are less and footfall is lower.

It’s not uncommon to be waiting for at least two hours if you visit on a weekend.

4.) The Montmartre Vineyards

The Montmartre Vineyard has been in this area of Paris for over 800 years and is now the last active vineyard in the whole city How could I have not known?

Wine and Paris are two of my favourite things. Take a trip to visit around October when grape picking seasons kicks off at the annual,  Fête des Vendanges .

Read more: Best times to visit the Eiffel Tower

5.) Sewers of Paris

Fancy seeing some underground sites in Paris?

Quite literally, I might add. Then take a unique tour through the vaulted labyrinthine ceiling sewer system – complete with a sewer boat and even a sewer wagon… intrigued?

6.) Dome of Sacré Coeur Basilica

The famous Sacré Coeur Basilica is one of the city’s most iconic sights but few people realise that once you’ve climbed the terraces for a beautiful view across Paris you can continue your journey to the very top of the Dome.

If you’re feeling fit and raring for more step climbing, you can climb the narrow 300 stairs to see a breathtaking panoramic view across the whole city.

7.) Flame of Liberty

Fancy seeing an iconic piece of New York City while in Paris?

As you may know, France offered the Statue of Liberty as a gift to the United States, with the Flame of Liberty showcasing this friendship on French soil.

If you’re planning a visit, get off at a Subway stop, ‘Alma-Marceau’ – with the Flame of Liberty being close by.

8.) 59 Rivoli 

If you’re an art fantastic, chances are that you’ve been to the Louvre to see Mona Lisa amongst other famed pieces of art on offer in the city.

When next you’re in Paris, take a step away from the path well trodden and see a more ‘fringe’ art scene in Paris – 59 Rivoli.

For so many years 59 Rivoli was an artists’ squat dating back to the 1800’s. Nowadays, 59 Rivoli has been fully renovated and returned to its original artistic ethos. 59 Rivoli is now a welcoming space to freely see and exhibit art.

9.) Witness the French Revolution via the cannonball in a wall

For a bit of a reflective reminder of the French Revolution, head over to Hotel De Sens.

At the hotel, there’s a rather unassuming Cannonball still lodged in the hotel walls.

Fired during the revolution, it can easily be seen by passers-by with a date of ‘impact’ etched on the side of the wall.

10.) Visit Point Zero

Point Zero is the traditional epicentre of Paris and this point marks the point of distance to anywhere else around the country.

Nowadays, it has become a sort of legendary spot to ‘wish’ or request certain things. Although centrally located, most visitors miss the plate as it is sunken right into the ground.

If you do decide to go looking for this in Paris, it’s located right next to Notre Dame, visit here to drop a coin, kiss a loved one, perform a dance and hopefully be granted a wish.

11.) Let Salvador Dali tell you the time

Based above Rue Saint-Jacques, this curious sundial was designed by famed artist, Salvador Dali.

There’s lots of interpretation around what this piece means, which I’m still yet to fully understand… then again that’s surely the point of Dali’s work.

12.) Find one of Paris’s elusive medallions 

Peppered across the city are 135 unassuming bronze Arago medallions that most visitors fail to notice.

Although they look random and seem to follow no order, they denote the traditional Paris Meridian Time (just like the Greenwich Mean time in London ).

Try on your next trip to Paris to see how many you can spot.

13.) Visit the man stuck in the wall

“The passer through the wall” is a statue that is seemingly half in and half out of the wall’.

Although, popular in French literature most people may not have heard the story of “Le Passe-Muraille” by Marcel Aymé. It is all about a man named M. Dutilleul who discovers that he can walk through walls.

The story goes that he became far too cocky and headstrong, getting himself stuck in between walls which has people, to this day, still trying to ‘pull him out’ of the wall (which you can probably tell by his polished hand) to no avail as alas he is truly stuck.

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Paris' most beautiful secret gardens and squares, a must-see!

The sun is shining where it's mild in Paris and you're looking for a true haven of peace to enjoy the beautiful days? While Parisians and tourists alike flock to the capital's most famous parks and gardens - such as the Tuileries , the Luxembourg Gardens , the Palais Royal or the Place des Vosges - there are still some little-known green spaces and secret gardens where you can enjoy a bucolic break , far from the hustle and bustle of Paris.

Hidden behind buildings or lush vegetation , far from the hustle and bustle of the city, these little-known places have everything to please you. You will be able to read quietly without being disturbed in your novel, to picnic in the shade of big hundred-year-old trees, or simply to recharge your batteries by doing nothing, just to bask in the sun with your toes in the air. You are not dreaming, all this is possible, even in the middle of the city, yes! So, would you like to discover these little-known squares, parks and gardens of Paris ? Follow the guide!

• The most beautiful parks, squares and gardens in Paris and the Ile-de-France region to stroll in the sunshine
• Where to read in Paris? Parks and gardens to read in peace
• The most unusual parks and gardens in Paris

The secret squares and gardens of Paris :

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15 Top Things to See and Do in Paris

Last Updated:  9 July 2022

I am pleased to introduce Marco Santos from Travel-Boo who has chosen to tell us about the 15 Top Things to See and Do in Paris. I hope this article will give you some great ideas for discovering Paris, especially if you are coming to the City of Light for the first time!

Paris is a city filled with so many charms, character, and pure elegance that a lifetime won’t suffice to barely scratch the surface of this magical city. Just when you think you have seen it all, another different and exciting layer unfolds.

It’s no wonder then that so many who visit fall in love with Paris, a city now personified by love and romance. It’s captured many a heart and inspired writers, travellers, and many famous personalities to coin intriguing quotes about Paris , such as when the famous French playwright and novelist Honoré de Balzac exclaimed: “ Whoever does not visit Paris regularly will never really be elegant. “

Understandably, planning a visit to such a popular destination may seem overwhelming given the range of incredible sights to explore and things to do in Paris.

Thankfully in this guide, we will share with you 15 top experiences and things to do whilst visiting Paris to hopefully inspire and provide you with a good balance of everything the City of Lights has to offer.

Where to stay in Paris

Paris is split into several different and unique neighbourhoods, known as arrondissements . There are 20 in total starting with the 1st and 2nd arrondissements being at the heart of the city and then moving outward from there to the outskirts of the city.

Each arrondissement has its own personality and charm and is uniquely different from each other. If you’re yet to decide on where to stay on your trip to Paris, you may consider the popular neighbourhoods of Le Marais (set in the 3rd and 4th arrondissement), Ile Saint-Louis, Montmartre, or St-Germain-des-Prés to name but a few.

Be sure to read French Moments’ comprehensive guide on the best neighbourhoods and hotels to stay at in Paris , to help you narrow down your search for your trip.

Top Sights to Explore in Paris

Paris probably has the largest concentration of tourist attractions in France and is known for its incredible selection of French landmarks and sights to explore. Here is a selection of the best sights in Paris to visit.

Visit the Eiffel Tower

Dominating the Parisien skyline since its opening in 1889, the Eiffel Tower which was initially detested by many Parisians is today perhaps the most iconic of all attractions in Paris.

This wrought-iron tower that’s been nicknamed ‘ La dame de fer ‘ (translated as the ‘Iron Lady’) also happens to be the most visited (paid) attraction in the world, with close to 7 million visitors scaling the tower annually to get a glimpse of the incredible views of Paris from above.

The Eiffel Tower is also exceptionally beautiful at night when the light show, installed in 1985 by Pierre Bideau, illuminates the tower and provides onlookers with an impressive light display.

Head across to the Place du Trocadero viewing platform for the best views of the Eiffel Tower both during the day and at night.

If you want to head up, then make sure to book your tickets ahead of time for the Eiffel Tower as this is an extremely popular Paris attraction.

Admire the Louvre Museum

Home to thousands of masterpieces, around 38,000 to be exact, from the Mona Lisa to Venus de Milo, the Louvre Museum is without a doubt one of the finest art galleries in the world.

This institution, which fronts on to the gorgeous Tuileries Gardens, understandably enjoys the highest footfall and can become extremely crowded on most days of the week.

Apart from the classic paintings, the Egyptian Antiquities section is a must-visit for its huge collection of artefacts, from ancient Egypt to the Byzantine era which includes mummies, scrolls and jewels among others. You can’t miss the iconic glass pyramid-shaped structure in the courtyard in the front that has become a favourite Instagram-worthy photo-op spot.

Save time and book your fast-track entry tickets to the Louvre before your visit!

Cathedral of Notre Dame

The wealth of the history and culture of Paris can be found in the many museums and monuments scattered throughout the city. And, Notre Dame is yet another example of this.

Visitors can admire the imposing architecture complete with intriguing gargoyles and beautiful stained glass windows at this 13th century Gothic French Cathedral. Now considered to be one of the most recognised of all churches across the globe, Notre Dame enjoys an impressive location on IIe de la Cité .

Thanks to Victor Hugo, author of the iconic Hunchback of Notre Dame, the building is a favourite for both adults and children alike. The two towers on either side offer breathtaking views of central Paris and the river Seine.

Note: On the 15th of April 2019 the world looked on in shock as the Notre Dame lit ablaze. The fire sadly caused large-scale destruction but thankfully the restoration project kicked off in 2021 with the goal of completing it in time for the Paris Olympics in 2024.

Opera Garnier

If you are an admirer of historic architecture and have a penchant for the lavish and the opulent, then you simply have to take a tour of the extravagant Opera Garnier , one of the most famous Opera Houses in the world.

This will give you an opportunity to go behind the scenes at the Opera House, the most stunning Beaux-Arts building in Paris by far. Admire the grandeur of the architecture and intricate decor which dates back to the 19th century and see the stage that inspired the book and theatre production, Phantom of the Opera.

Book your tickets to enter the Opera Garnier for a chance to admire the grandiose marble staircase (named the Grand Escalier), the 1979-seater Auditorium, as well as the ornate and gold gilded Salon du Glacier Foyer with its imposing chandeliers. You’ll no doubt be bowled over the incredible craftsmanship that has gone into creating such a masterpiece.

Visit the Montmartre and the Sacré Cœur

Bohemian Montmartre with its charming cobbled streets, squares and boutique shops has long since attracted artists and visitors. A neighbourhood of Paris packed with personality, you simply cannot miss out on wandering through the quaint streets of Montmartre.

Visit the Place du Tertre square and let one of the local artists paint your portrait for you. Whilst there, you’ll definitely want to pop into one of the pâtisseries on the square and get your hands on a delectable Parisian crêpe!

From Place du Tertre it’s a short 200-metre walk around the corner to the grand Sacré Cœur Basilica , towering out over the city. This gorgeous Romanesque-Byzantine style basilica is equally as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside. Whilst you can enter the basilica free of charge, access to climbing to the top of the dome does come at a cost.

Do note that to get to the top of the dome will require you to go up roughly 300 steps with no access to an elevator at all.

After you’ve admired the basilica inside and out, grab a seat on the steps down below and enjoy the sweeping views out over Paris!

Stroll Along The Champs-Élysées

Another iconic area of Paris worth visiting is the beautiful tree-lined Champs-Elysées avenue of Paris that stretches along for 1.9 kilometres, connecting Place de la Concorde and the Place Charles-de-Gaulle.

Originally built under the orders of King Louis XIV, the avenue has become synonymous with high-end shopping, thanks to various fashion brands hosting their flagship stores here, including the likes Cartier, Zara, Louis Vuitton and many more. The Champs-Elysées also feature on the final stretch of the Tour de France cycling race, as well as playing host to events and festivities such as the Bastille Day celebrations .

Today you can browse through the various shopping outlets, dine at the restaurants that line this strip or even attend a theatre show.

The Arc de Triomphe

Heading upward and away from the Place de la Concorde towards the western end of the Champs-Elysées, you’ll arrive at the grand and imposing Arc de Triomphe monument.

This impressive monument, another famous attraction in Paris, was completed in 1836 under the order of Napoleon and sits smack bang in the centre of a busy 12-lane roundabout. Thankfully, visitors can access the arch through an underground tunnel that exits out at the base of the monument.

Here, at the grave of the “Unknown Soldier,” you can pay your respects to all the fallen soldiers who died to defend France in the Napoleonic and Revolutionary wars.

You can also opt to scale the 30-metre high monument to the top, to admire spectacular views out over the city.

Make sure to pre-book your skip-the-line entrance tickets with rooftop access for the Arc de Triomphe ahead of time.

Romantic Things to See and Do in Paris

Experience a romantic parisian evening.

Seeing Paris by night is just as magical, if not more, than by day! There are scores of operators offering guided tours of the city by night, but the best way to take in the sights and sounds of Paris is on foot.

Just amble across Champs-Elysées or along the banks of the Seine to admire the illuminated French landmarks in the distance. Pop into one of the numerous sidewalk cafes to sit and enjoy a meal or sip some excellent local wine as you watch the world go by.

For a completely unique experience, you may want to head to the ‘red-light district’ of Paris, Quartier Pigalle. This is where you’ll be able to enjoy the now world-famous Moulin Rouge cabaret show.

Dating back to 1889 when the Moulin Rouge was first founded, this decadent show features over 80 artists and over a thousand costumes, and will no doubt dazzle and delight viewers and is a must-see when visiting Paris!

Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise

What better way to explore Paris and its remarkable sights than by river cruise down the Seine. Glide along the Seine and admire the various Parisian attractions for a completely different perspective.

One of the most popular options is to book a one hour Bateaux Parisiens cruise where you’ll get to pass along notable sights including the Eiffel Tower, The Notre-Dame cathedral, the Louvre, as well as passing under the famous Pont-Neuf and other bridges.

Picnic in the Tuileries Gardens

If you are looking for a breath of fresh air in the heart of Paris, the play areas and activities at the picturesque Tuileries Gardens are perfect for couples, families and children.

This beautiful setting with its formal French-style gardens that separate the Louvre from the Place de la Concorde offers visitors a wide range of activities and facilities to enjoy.

The gardens are punctuated by several sculptures and ponds and play host to the annual Paris Fashion Week as well as the funfair named “Fête des Tuileries” which runs between the months of June to August.

Art enthusiasts should make sure to head over to the southwest corner o the Tuileries to visit the Musée de l’Orangerie which features works by Monet, including his work titled the Nymphéas, a stunning set of 8 large water-lily paintings.

Create Your Own Perfume Workshop

French perfumes are revered the world over, especially known for their high quality and excellent crafting and are known as a cultural symbol of France .

If you want to know about the history and tradition which goes into making these awesome fragrances then consider booking a workshop to learn about the history of French perfumes.

Head over to the Candora Boutique in the centre of Paris, located nearby Notre-Dame, and learn how to identify the different notes, as well as how to mix and make your own classic perfume to take home with you. A perfect romantic keepsake to remind you of your visit to Paris.

Other Top Things to See and Do in Paris

Visit the catacombs of paris.

For a somewhat eerie yet fascinating experience, consider visiting the Catacombs of Paris .

Set roughly 20 metres underground, the catacombs were originally used to help the city cope with the overflow from the city’s cemeteries. Today, it houses the remains of over 6 million deceased and has become a popular tourist attraction for those brave enough to venture beneath the streets of Paris and explore this fascinating maze and galleries.

If this sounds like your cup of tea, then consider booking a guided tour of these fascinating catacombs of Paris.

Enjoy a Whirlwind Tour of Paris

There is a wide range of tours which highlight the best of Paris for you and your family to enjoy from walking tours of Paris, sightseeing tours, as well as various other experiences you can book to make your trip that much more memorable.

One of the most popular is the open-top Hop on Hop off bus tour which covers the most iconic landmarks like Louvre Museum, Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, the stunning Opera Garnier and much more.

These tours are especially great for travellers who may have limited time in the city. You’ll be able to pass along all the major sites across the city, stopping off at the ones you’d like to spend more time at.

Day Trips from Paris

Marvel at the opulence of the palace of versailles.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the largest and most opulent palaces in the world, as well as one of the most visited in all of France.

The sprawling Palace of Versailles is located roughly 18 miles / 29 kilometres southwest of Paris with millions making the trip each year to admire the grandeur of the Chateau in person.

This extravagant former residence of King Louis XIV (nicknamed the Sun King) is adorned with gold figurines, dramatic frescoes, and beautifully manicured gardens. Particularly impressive is the Hall of Mirrors (the Galerie des Glaces), a 75-metre long ballroom that features over 357 mirrors in total, large imposing crystal chandeliers, beautiful ceiling frescoes and intricate gold gilding and decorations.

Be sure to book your tickets for Versailles in advance as this is an extremely popular sight to visit. Try to avoid weekends which is the most popular time of the week and sees the most visitors. Also, try to get to the palace as early as possible, just before opening time, to beat the crowds.

Go on a Wine Tasting trip

What better way to end your trip to Paris off on a high note than by embarking on a day trip to France’s famed Champagne country, to sample some of the best ‘bubbly’ produced in France.

The region of Reims is situated 46-minutes by train from Paris’ Gare de l’Est train station and is where you’ll find some of the best wine estates to visit.

One such winery is the world-renowned Veuve Clicquot which is located roughly 3 kilometres from the Reims train station. Visitors can learn all about the estate’s Champagne production as well as sample the famous Yellow Label when booking a guided tour of the cellars.

Cellar tours are set for €30 per adult in groups of 6 people and are only available between Tuesdays to Saturdays. You must book in advance as walk-ins are not accepted.

For an especially romantic outing, you can also opt to book an idyllic gourmet picnic lunch in the beautiful Parc du Manoir de Verzy manor grounds (weather permitting), currently costing €65 per adult.

Do note that the Parc du Manoir de Verzy is a further 20 – 25 minutes drive by car. Do include this in when considering the picnic option.

About the author!

Born and raised in South Africa, Marco Santos from Travel-Boo , currently resides in sunny Lisbon, Portugal.

With an absolute love for Europe, he is on a mission to rediscover his own Portuguese & European heritage along the way.

Marco has set out to blog and share his passion for travelling through and exploring Spain, Portugal and other parts of Europe, sharing what he’s learned through his travel blog Travel-Boo.

Check out Marco’s blog: Travel-Boo

And follow him on:

About the author

Pierre is a French/Australian who is passionate about France and its culture. He grew up in France and Germany and has also lived in Australia and England. He has a background teaching French, Economics and Current Affairs, and holds a Master of Translating and Interpreting English-French with the degree of Master of International Relations, and a degree of Economics and Management. Pierre is the author of Discovery Courses and books about France.

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Hidden Gardens in Paris

Say Paris and the Eiffel Tower or Louvre automatically comes to mind for most people as it’s the monuments and museums that help to define the City of Light.

For me, it’s the hidden gardens in Paris that steal my heart every single time. Some are well-known and easy to find. Others are hidden and tucked away like a best-kept secret waiting to be discovered. Until now.

On my many, many trips to Paris (8, and counting) I am always looking for those lesser-known places in the city. I spend days just wandering the streets, getting a little lost to discover places that are a little off the beaten path.

So, if you like to go to those types of places too, you’ve come to the right place. Let this be your guide to the best ones!

Table of Contents

Best hidden gardens in paris to visit.

I’m often asked ‘what’s my favourite thing to do in Paris’. My answer is always, ‘nothing’. I’ve become a real flâneur – the French term for being a stroller. That means I love nothing more than wandering through the Paris streets to see what I might uncover.

The best way to get to know Paris is to walk. Going from one arrondissement to another and noting the subtle differences along the way. I savour every little detail. Taking long breaks in a café or garden, never rushing, always watching.

Tucked away from the busy Paris streets are some of the best hidden gardens. They are your very own private sanctuary. You just have to know where to find them. I’ll share a few of my favourite hidden gardens in Paris begging you to sit and stay awhile.

Let’s start with those that are a little off the beaten path, shall we? Here are those hard-to-find secret and pretty places in Paris.

Hidden Gardens Paris: Right Bank

Square du temple – elie wiesel (3rd arr).

Features a pretty rock garden and a small pond with a waterfall. Lined with lots of fruit-blooming trees makes it is especially pretty to visit in the springtime. There’s even a bandstand, where concerts are held in fairer weather in this neighbourhood park with a children’s play area.

Tips for Visiting: 

• Entrances : rue du Temple, rue de Bretahne, rue Perre, rue Eugene-Spuller
• Metro : Temple, Arts et Metiers
• Nearby things to do: the oldest covered food market Marche des Enfants-Rouges, Picasso Museum, and the adjacent gardens of Berthe Weill and Hôtel-Salé-Léonor-Fini are worth visiting too
• Café recommendation : Bontemps La Pâtisserie is a light, pretty café serving elegant sweet treats (57 rue de Bretahne)
• Accommodation Recommendation: here’s a delightful apartment stay in Le Marais mere steps from this lovely park.

Jardin Anne Frank (3rd arr)

Is a small community garden of flowers and vegetables, plus a small children’s play area. This hidden garden is dedicated to the young girl of Anne Frank, who wrote about her experiences during the Nazi occupation during World War II.

A graft of the chestnut tree that Anne Frank admired from her window has been planted here. An eye-catching metal arbour with park benches makes this area of the garden feel a bit more intimate. It’s a unique feature worth seeking out.

Tips for Visiting:

• Entrance: Impasse Berthaud
• Metro: Rambuteau
• Nearby things to do: 17th-century mansion dedicated to Musee d’Art et d’Histoire du Judaisme is attached to the garden and secret covered Passage Molière

Square Georges Cain (3rd arr)

Is a pretty square and an archaeological depository of stones from other older gardens like Jardin des Tuileries. Blooming rose bushes border this private square. For an ideal picnic head to the adjacent Square Leopold-Achille for its large grassy area.

This is a dog-lover favourite too! Visit here no matter the time of day and there will always be dogs running around and playing. This is one of my favourite Paris gardens and one that I return to every time I’m in the city.

• Entrance: 8 rue Payenne
• Metro : Saint-Paul, Chemin Vert
• Nearby things to do: visit the adjacent Square Léopold-Achille
• Recommended place to eat or drink : Café des Musées (9 rue de Turenne) for a classic French bistro or Café FIKA for a modern coffee shop (11 rue Payenee)

Square Saint Gilles du Grand Veneur (3rd arr)

Is tucked away behind the busy Paris streets. This little unknown rarely visited square is absolutely charming and peaceful.

It’s one of the most romantic places in Paris with its rose arbour and pretty gardens against the back façade of the Hôtel du Grand Veneur townhouse. This is just one of those secret places in Paris that you want to keep all to yourself. So, it will be our little secret, right?

• Entrance : rue de Hesse
• Metro : Chemin Vert, Saint-Sébastien – Froissart
• Nearby things to do : stroll along rue de Turenne filled with shops and eateries
• Recommended cafe : WHITE Coffeeshop (56 rue de Turenne) a modern coffee roaster

Jardin des Rosiers Joseph Migneret (4th arr)

Is a hidden garden in the heart of Le Marais nested between historic 17th-century mansions. Tucked away from the busy streets and shops this is a quiet natural garden that pays tribute to Jewish children.

This is a true sanctuary and a local’s favourite. I always grab something to eat and enjoy it in this tucked-away area of Le Marais .

• Entrance : 10 rue des Rosiers
• Metro : St Paul
• Nearby interests : the famous rue des Rosiers is filled with shops and eateries many of Jewish heritage
• Recommended eateries : the popular and delicious L’As du Fallafel

La Promenade de Plantee (12th arr)

Also known as Coulée Verte René Dumont is Europe’s longest and only elevated park. It’s actually an abandoned 19th-century railway turned into a landscaped walkway above the streets of Paris.

Flowering cherry trees , roses, lavender, bamboo, and wisteria border the narrow pathway. In addition to the gardens, it’s one of the best places to come and admire Paris architecture as buildings are flanked on both sides. Walking along here is one of the most unique things to do in Paris.

• Entrances : Place de la Bastille, Place Felix Eboue
• Metro : Bastille, Daumesnil
• Nearby things to do : stroll Canal Saint Martin shops and eateries

Square Marcel Bleustein Blanchet (18th arr)

Also known as The Turlure Park is a terraced garden that offers the most incredible views of the Sacré-Coeur and the Montmartre district.

For most, visiting the Sacre Coeur starts at Square Louise Michel – a tier garden and square that leads you to the Square Nadar which not only offers you great views of the cathedral but also a panoramic view of Paris. Turlure Park is much more serene.

• Entrances : rue de la Bonne or rue du Chevalier de la Barre
• Metro : Abbesses
• Top things to do in Montmartre : Wall of Love (multilingual “I love you” mural), Sacre-Couer Basilica, Place du Tertre (artists’ hangout and cafes), historic market street of Rue des Martyrs

Hidden Gardens Paris: Left Bank

Jardins du musee de cluny (5th arr).

Also known as the medieval gardens of Cluny Museum, this peaceful garden is inspired by the Middle Ages.

Venture past the children’s playground to a series of flower beds organized according to their use in the Middle Ages. – a medicinal herb garden and the love garden. Multiple gardens are recreated to mimic what might have been grown during the Middle Ages – herbs, roses, and plants with medicinal purposes.

• Entrance : corner of Boulevard Saint-Michel and Boulevard Saint-Germain-des-Pres
• Metro : Saint Michel
• Nearby things to do : Cluny Museum – National Museum of Middle Ages,  The Abbey Bookshop, and tranquil Samuel Paty Park behind the Cluny Museum is small but lovely to visit
• Recommended cafe : Le Loulou offers amazing teas and healthy meals

Square Rene Viviani (5th arr)

Is a lovely garden with one of the best views of the Notre Dame cathedral. The Square Viviani sits on the site of a former cemetery and is famous for being home to the oldest tree in Paris, a Robinia planted in 1602!

• Entrances : Quai de Montebello, in between rue Galande and rue de Julien le Pauvre
• Metro: St. Michel
• Nearby things to do : Church of Saint Julien le Pauvre (the oldest church in Paris), exploring the Latin Quarter, famous Shakespeare & Company bookshop
• Recommended cafe : Odette specializes in delicious cream puffs

Square Paul Langevin (5th arr)

Is one of the prettiest places to visit during the springtime in Paris. Backing onto the wall of the former Ecole Polytechnique building, Paul Langevin Square is bordered by cherry blossom trees and magnificent magnolia trees. An ivy-covered monumental staircase with a charming old moss-covered fountain is the focal point.

• Entrance : corner of rue Monge and rue des Ecoles
• Metro : Cardinal Lemoine, Maubert-Mutualie
• Nearby things to do : Pantheon, Sorbonne University, Jardin des Plantes

Square Gabriel-Pierne (6th arr)

Is one of the prettiest hidden gardens of Paris to see in the springtime due to the number of cherry blossom trees. Stone benches in the shape of an open book offer unique seating to admire the trellis wall of magnolia blooms, a fountain, and a bronze statue “Caroline.”

• Entrance : rue de Seine
• Metro : Saint Germain des Pres
• Nearby things to do : Pont des Arts bridge, River Seine and the Saint Germain neighbourhood

Square Laurent-Prache (6th arr)

You can find this tiny yet quaint square next to the 12th-century Saint Germain-des-Pres church. A pretty garden that looks lovely against the ancient backdrop of the abbey. It’s a quiet tranquil spot away from the busy boulevard Saint Germain.

• Entrance : 1 place Juliette Gréco
• Metro : Saint Germain-des-Pres
• Nearby things to do : explore Saint Germain, and seek out Place Furstemberg (a pretty network of streets)
• Recommended places to eat or drink : Les Deux Magots or Cafe de Flore – two of the most iconic cafes in Paris

Paris Parks and Gardens on Right Bank

Now for the well-known pretty parks and gardens in Paris. Each one with its tall trees, flowers blooming all year round, fountains, benches, chairs, ponds, and birds chirping. Where people are reading La Monde, talking quietly with a friend, walking their dog, runners, and kids are playing.

Jardin des Tuileries in the 1st arrondissement

Visit the oldest park in Paris , Jardin des Tuileries. This 16th-century park, located between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde, is one of the most famous parks in Paris.

Known as the 16th-century Italian Garden of Catherine de Medici you can’t miss walking through it as you cross the left and right banks. It’s popular with locals and tourists and is large enough that it never feels crowded.

Palais Royal Gardens in the 1st Arrondissement

Stroll under the treelined pathways of Palais-Royal which is actually the landscaped grounds of a 17th-century palace .

This is one of the most romantic parks in Paris. Artists come to sketch. Poets come to write. And people come to sit. Of the 52 benches under the tree-lined paths, 18 are adorned with 20th-century writers’ quotes. Choose one and sit and admire the middle stretch which features quaint squares, flowerbeds, and a majestic fountain in the centre.

Place des Vosges in the 4th Arrondissement

Is the oldest square in Paris. Elegant 17th-century red-brick and cream limestone mansions line the square with arched walkways connecting to the Paris streets beyond. Tall fountains sit in each of the four corners.

This is one of the favourite parks for locals to come and sprawl out on the lawn on a sunny day. Or, take a leisure stroll under the arched walkways that are full of art galleries, cafes, and restaurants.

It’s also home to one of the most elegant and luxurious hotels in Paris – Pavillon de la Reine. Located in one of the 17th-century mansions lining Place des Vosges this is a wonderful place to stay and enjoy an afternoon happy hour.

Parc Monceau in the 8th Arrondissement

The 17th-century Parc Monceau is known as the Park of Baron Haussmann as it was the first public park in Paris to be re-developed by the famous architect and city planner.

This Paris park is full of wide curved pathways perfect for strolling and admiring its many statues, a Renaissance archway, and a large pond. Even Claude Monet was inspired to paint a series of three paintings of the park. What I love the most is that Monceau Park is surrounded by luxury Hausmann mansions and townhomes.

Buttes-Chaumont in the 19th Arrondissement

Des Buttes Chaumont is the largest public park in Paris . What makes this park worth seeking out? It’s design! This beautiful park was built over multiple quarries which means it’s very hilly with multiple changes in elevation. And hills mean views.

Beyond offering great vistas – you’ll find caves, waterfalls, and even a suspension bridge. For a second, you’ll forget you’re in Paris. This is truly one of the best parks in Paris and is worth the metro ride to get there.

Paris Parks and Gardens on Left Bank

Jardin des plantes in the 5th arrondissement.

Visiting Jardin des Plantes is unlike any other park in Paris. It’s not only beautiful, but it’s also educational too. As a botanical garden, the wide variety of plants and flowers is endless.

The garden, plus its greenhouses, zoo, and buildings, like the National Museum of Natural History, are considered a national historical landmark in France . You’ll even find chess enthusiasts drawing a crowd to watch them play this strategic game.

Springtime in Paris is magical! And, if you time it right, the loveliest of the parks to visit during cherry blossom season is right here! Come winter , this botanical garden puts on an amazing garden light show that is worth seeing!

Jardin du Luxembourg in the 6th Arrondissement

Jardin du Luxembourg is known as one of the most beautiful parks in Paris. As the second largest park in Paris, this is a local’s favourite. It’s where Parisians come to stroll and sit awhile whether it’s to read or catch up with a friend.

This pretty park is home to Palais du Luxembourg, the 17th-century impressive building that is home to the French Senate . The gardens are attended to every day and changed for the season and over 1,000 fruit-bearing trees can be found here.

My favourite part of this park is Fountaine de Medicis. Tucked away on the east side of the palace you will find this beautiful reflecting fountain. Spring, summer or Autumn in Paris this is a garden worth visiting.

Parc du Champ-de-Mars in the 7th Arrondissement

Parc du Champ de Mars begins at the Military school and extends all the way to the Eiffel Tower. So if you’ve been to Paris, you’ve likely visited this 18th-century park.

Everyone comes to this park to picnic on its lawns or at nightfall to watch the Eiffel Tower’s twinkling lights. It’s also one of the best spots to photograph the Eiffel Tower with the long rectangular green lawn leading your eye to the Iron Lady.

Jardin du Trocadero in the 16th Arrondissement

Jardin du Trocadero is the prettiest way to capture the Eiffel Tower. This beautiful garden was created for the Exposition that finally unveiled the Eiffel Tower in 1937 .

The centrepiece of the garden is the Warsaw fountain with 20 water cannons. And, the only drawback is, it’s such a popular garden to visit when you go to the Eiffel Tower. So, veer off to the right, that’s where you’ll find a much quieter and more peaceful Trocadéro garden.

What are the 2 most famous gardens in Paris?

Stroll along the enchanting paths of the 2 most famous gardens in Paris – Jardin des Tuileries and Luxembourg Garden. Both are must-sees!

Are the gardens in Paris free?

Yes, the gardens in Paris are free for all to enjoy! Take a stroll, enjoy a picnic and admire the serene setting in parks and gardens in Paris.

Do only locals visit gardens in Paris?

Absolutely not! Paris parks and gardens welcome visitors from all around the world. It’s a must-visit destination for locals and travellers alike.

When is the best time to visit parks and gardens in Paris?

Blossoming flowers, lush greenery, and perfect weather – springtime in Paris is the best time to visit the city’s parks and gardens.

More Paris Inspiration of Things to Do

Now that you have found all of the Paris parks and gardens you want to visit, here are more suggestions for things to do, or check out my France Travel page for a full list of articles about Paris to help with your trip planning and elsewhere in France along with some great trip planning resources.

• A list of the  21 Best Streets  you’ll find in every arrondissement
• Spend time in one of Paris’ chicest neighbourhoods –  6th Arrondissement with 19 Things to Do in Saint Germain
• Visit one of Paris’ favourite neighbourhoods –  What to Do in Le Marais
• Stroll this elegant area of Paris  Ile Saint Louis in the 4th Arrondissement
• Looking for something to do on a rainy day in Paris –  How to Find the Best Secret Covered Passages in Paris
• And, if you are thinking about adding a side trip to London – check out this side-by-side comparison  London vs Paris – Which is the Better City  and the best way to do this is  Paris to London by Train

If you LOVE EUROPEAN TRAVEL or planning a TRIP TO EUROPE,  subscribe to my website ! I will share my love of Europe with you, along with travel planning tips and inspiration. And, you’ll get a  FREE gift for signing up – 30 Bucketlist Places in Europe!  Join, and let’s be travel friends!

As a Holidaymaker

When you visit Paris for the first time or the 10th time include a visit to at least one of these pretty hidden gardens. Try not to get caught up in the excitement of being in Paris by trying to see it all. You’re missing the point of visiting Paris.

The only way to truly enjoy Paris is to do as little as possible. That’s right, my best advice is to let go of any plans and let the city reveal itself to you – that’s when you’ll truly fall in love with Paris and its prettiest parks and gardens. Which of the secret places in Paris will you want to now seek out?

Creator, Founder of Dream Plan Experience

She specializes exclusively in European travel and crafting unforgettable day trips within her home province of Ontario, Canada.

She has been travelling to Europe for over 35 years and has lived abroad in Germany twice. Revisiting countries and exploring them extensively to create in depth travel itineraries, destination guides and helping travellers plan their trips to Europe through her customized services.

She also is a co-partner in a woman-led company that offers luxury retreats in Europe offering immersive cultural experiences.

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22 Best Places to Visit In Paris

Traveling to Paris and you’re not quite sure what to do in the city? Then you’re definitely in the right place because this detailed guide covers all the best places to visit in Paris!

We’ve covered all the famous Parisian attractions that are worth visiting, from iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower to the city’s best museums and prettiest buildings. Whether you want to discover architecture, culture, history, or all of the above, you’ll find plenty of options worth checking out in this guide to all the top places you should visit while in Paris!

Notre Dame Cathedral

Situated on île de la cité between the left and right bank of the Seine, the Notre Dame Cathedral remains one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city of Paris. It almost doesn’t count that you visited Paris if you didn’t bother to go see the iconic cathedral, so make sure it’s at the top of your list of the best places to visit in Paris!

The famous Parisian landmark suffered a lot of damage in the 2019 fire, so don’t be surprised if it’s still under construction when you go to see it. Restoring such an iconic landmark to its old glory is a process that takes years – just look at the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona , which is still not finished, 140 years after construction began.

One thing worth noting is that you’re better off skipping all those cafes and restaurants that promise a spectacular view of Notre Dame. The best view of the iconic cathedral is entirely free, and all those locales are known for ridiculously high prices and extremely underwhelming quality of food and service.

Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is easily the most famous attraction in the city of Paris and the one that gets the most visitors. Even though you can see the iconic landmark from different parts of the town, many people will head to Champs de Mars and climb the iconic tower.

If you want to climb the iconic tower, it’s best to arrive at the park early in the morning. The Eiffel Tower is one of Paris’ busiest attractions, and there are usually long lines at the tower entrance. Also, the view isn’t quite as amazing when there are a dozen other tourists blocking your view.

If you just want to get a good view of the Eiffel Tower, head to one of the nearby streets. Rue de l’Université offers a fabulous view of the city’s most famous landmark, and it’s usually not as crowded as the park in front of it. If you get there early enough, you might be able to get a fabulous photo of just you and the Eiffel Tower in the distance!

Place de la Concorde

Place de la Concorde is a famous city plaza near Musée de l’Orangerie. It is the largest town square in Paris, situated at the eastern end of iconic Champs-Élysées street. The square is home to a 19th-century Luxor Obelix that the Egyptians gifted to the French, as well as two stunning fountains.

But the landmarks aren’t the most impressive thing about Place de la Concorde. The city’s largest square was a popular site for executions in the earlier centuries, and the lives of some very famous French people came to an end here – Marie Antoinette, King Louis XVI, and Maximilien Robespierre, among others.

Arc de Triomphe

Situated on one of the most famous streets in Paris, Arc de Triomphe is another one of those landmarks that are so Parisian that it gets recognized even by people who can’t find France on a globe.

Arc de Triomphe is at the western end of Champs Elyses, at the center of one of the world’s most hectic roundabouts. The spectacular landmark sometimes gets overshadowed by the nightmare of traffic around it, especially for people who haven’t really witnessed a multiple-lane roundabout without any marked lanes.

The famous landmark was erected as a monument in honor of all the people who died during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars. It was designed by Jean Chalgrin, a famous French architect whose career is defined by this spectacular attraction.

Place de la Bastille

Place de la Bastille is a large city square in Paris. It’s where the Bastille prison used to be located before it got demolished in the aftermath of the French Revolution. Bastille prison is where the French Revolution began, and it’s truly a fascinating place to visit, especially when you consider just how it reshaped Europe as it exists today.

Nowadays, the square is a popular gathering place in the city and it often hosts concerts and other outdoor events. The July Column sits at the center of Bastille square, commemorating the events that started the French Revolution.

The area surrounding the square is simply known as Bastille, and it boasts a few hidden gems so it’s a good idea to explore more than just the square if you’re in the neighborhood. See the Bastille Opera building, and Canal Saint Martin, and explore some of the many bars and cafes that line this famous Parisian attraction.

Jardin du Luxembourg

Jardin du Luxembourg is the beautiful garden in front of the famous Luxembourg Palace. The garden is situated in the 6th arrondissement, just a short walk away from the Latin Quarter and all its famous attractions.

Palais du Luxembourg is a former royal palace, constructed in the 17th century for Marie de’ Medici, the wife of king Henry IV. It’s the highlight of the entire garden but it’s certainly not the only remarkable attraction here. Jardin du Luxembourg boasts more than a hundred different statues, fountains, and monuments all over its grounds.

The Grand Basin is the largest fountain here and it’s situated right in front of the palace. Don’t miss out on the Medici Fountain either – the Florentine fountain maker Tommaso Francini was flown to France at the behest of King Henry IV just to design it!

Overflowing with beautiful flowers and trees, Jardin du Luxembourg is a great place for people to relax and breathe fresh air. Its tranquil and romantic scenery also makes it a great venue for a dreamy Paris elopement . 

Le Marais is a trendy neighborhood in the 3rd arrondissement of Paris, best-known for lively nightclubs, gay bars, and art galleries. If you’re looking to live the life of culture and party while you’re in the city of lights, this is by far the best neighborhood in Paris to visit!

This stylish district is also home to a few famous Paris attractions, the most notable of which is Place des Vosges. This is the city’s oldest planned town square, built in the early 17th century at the behest of king Henry IV.

The popular town square often hosts open-air art exhibitions that are completely in the spirit of Le Marais. This neighborhood is also where you’ll find Marche des Enfants Rouges. It’s a 17th-century covered market that’s always been a great place to go if you want to shop for fresh produce, flowers, or dairy.

Musée de l’Orangerie

Musée de l’Orangerie is an art gallery in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, best known for housing eight of Monet’s Water Lillies murals. If you want to see some stunning Impressionist and post-Impressionist art, this is by far one of the best museums to visit in Paris, along with Musee d’Orsay.

Other prominent artists featured at this Parisian museum include Matisse, Modigliani, Picasso, and Renoir, among others. But the art isn’t the only impressive thing about this museum. The building that houses all the artworks was built in the mid-19th century, at the behest of Napoleon III.

Musée de l’Orangerie is situated on the grounds of Tuileries Garden, so it’s on the way if you’re anywhere near the Louvre or Place de la Concorde.

Palais Garnier

Palais Garnier is a famous opera house in central Paris. Napoleon III ordered the construction of the opera house in the late 19th century, and it was initially referred to as the new Paris Opera. It didn’t take too long until it started to become known as Palais Garnier, to honor the architect behind it, Charles Garnier.

The Palais Garnier Opera House is one of the most famous opera houses on the planet and an important symbol of the city of Paris. One of the reasons why it’s so famous is because of the novel Phantom of the Opera, which is set in this very building.

The opera house is open for tours every day from 10 AM to 5 PM, except on days when there is a performance in the afternoon. Tickets start at 12 Euros for self-guided tours, which is pretty affordable for an iconic Paris landmark.

The Louvre Museum

The Louvre is easily the most famous of all the museums in Paris. It’s the most visited museum in the entire world, best-known for the fabulous glass pyramid at the center of Napoleon’s Courtyard. The Louvre is home to some of the most famous artworks ever created including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, so it’s definitely a Parisian attraction you don’t want to miss while you’re in the city.

The only problem is that the world’s most visited museum usually features excruciatingly long lines. It’s common knowledge that people often wait hours in queue, just to get a chance to go inside this iconic museum and see the spectacular art inside.

It’s possible to purchase skip-the-line tickets for the Louvre, which guarantee you entrance to the museum within 30 minutes. This is by far the best option if you don’t want to spend hours standing in line, plus it also gets you free entrance into the Musée Eugène-Delacroix.

Musée d’Orsay

Musée d’Orsay is arguably the best museum in Paris. It’s not quite as famous as the Louvre, but it’s still a very famous museum with a collection that impresses everyone who walks through its entrance doors.

Situated inside Gare d’Orsay, a former Beaux-Arts railway station, this iconic museum houses French art from the mid-19th to the early 20th century. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, and many other kinds of artworks that are truly fascinating to observe.

Musée d’Orsay is one of the largest art museums in entire Europe, housing the world’s biggest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. Visit this museum if you want to see the masterpieces from some of the greatest artists in the world, including Van Gogh, Manet, Renoir, Monet, Degas, and many others.

Montmartre is a pretty large hill in the 18th arrondissement of Paris. It’s one of the most popular neighborhoods in the city and home to some of Paris’ best-known tourist attractions. This is where you’ll find the iconic Sacre Cour Cathedral, as well as quite a few great museums.

Stop by Musée de Montmartre to learn more about the history and culture of this famous Parisian neighborhood. You can even see the garden where Renoir worked once upon a time, and he’s not even the most famous artist to be commemorated in Montmartre.

Both Dali and Picasso lived here once, and they’re both immortalized in different parts of the neighborhood. Also, Boulevard de Clichy with all of its famous attractions is at the foot of Montmartre, so you can easily discover several important Parisian landmarks in the same visit!

Tuileries Garden

Tuileries Garden is an expansive formal garden in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. It dates back to the 17th century, and it is famous for the many statues visitors can see dotted around its grounds. The garden is home to 18 bronze statues by Maillol, and they’re by far the most impressive sights.

The formal garden is situated between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, so it’s definitely one of the attractions that you can’t miss even if you’re not looking specifically for it. If you’ve walked down Champs-Elyses you’ll eventually walk all the way to this garden, which happens to be the perfect place to take a break in between seeing the different attractions.

In addition to perfectly manicured lawns and impressive bronze statues, Tuilleries Garden is also home to local restaurants and fast food kiosks. It’s a popular meeting and hangout place for the locals, so don’t be surprised if it’s crowdy while you’re there!

Rodin Museum

The Rodin Museum is a 20th-century museum entirely dedicated to the life and works of Auguste Rodin. The museum occupies two separate spaces – one is the Hôtel Biron and its surrounding grounds in the heart of Paris, and the other one is the former residence of the French sculptor, Villa des Brillants at Meudon.

Meudon is a little outside Paris, so Hôtel Biron is your best bet if you want to admire some of Rodin’s artworks in the city. Everything surrounding the building is dedicated to the famous sculpture, and even the closest metro station to the museum is adorned with a few Rodin sculptures.

Sainte-Chapelle

Sainte-Chapelle is a 13th century Gothic chapel on île de la cité. The chapel is thought to be one of the most important achievements of Rayonnant period French Gothic architecture, and it’s an absolute must if you want to see the most impressive architectural landmarks in the city of Paris.

It’s worth noting that this is no longer a church – after the French Revolution, the chapel was secularized and it is operated by the French Center of National Monuments. Nonetheless, it remains an astounding sight, and touring the interior of this mesmerizing building is definitely one of the top things to do in Paris.

The former chapel is famous for the incredible collection of stained glass windows inside. It has the largest collection of stained glass from the 13th century in the entire world, and that alone is reason enough to take half an hour to tour the inside of the building.

Rue des Rosiers

Rue des Rosiers is the main street in the Jewish district of Paris and by far the best place in town to visit if you’re craving Falafel. The street is home to mostly kosher middle eastern restaurants, and it’s an absolute must-stop on any foodie tour in Paris.

Also, this is pretty much the only street in town where you will find shops and restaurants open on holidays. The locales along Rue des Rosiers were given a pass because of Sabbath, even though the working hours for such establishments are restricted.

The street has become more and more famous for fashion over the years. Some of Europe’s trendiest labels have set up showrooms along Rue des Rosiers, and if you’re trying to shop for modern and trendy looks, this is a great place to visit in the city.

Louis Vuitton Foundation

Louis Vuitton Foundation is a modern and contemporary art museum situated in an impressive, deconstructionist building. The museum building was designed by Frenk Gehry, an American architect who is world-famous for his unique creations. It’s truly a work of art, just like many of the other objects housed inside this museum.

The most prominent artists featured at this museum are Jeff Koons, Gilbert & George, and Jean Michel Basquiat. In addition to that, many working artists were commissioned to create installations specifically for this museum. If you’re an art-lover and you want to see some unique modern artworks, it’s definitely worth it to go out of your way to visit the Louis Vuitton Foundation in the 16th arrondissement.

Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole

Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole is a classic French restaurant in Île de la Cité. It’s a great hidden gem because it’s nowhere near as busy as you’d expect it to be, especially considering it’s located in one of the busiest parts of the city.

Enjoy classic French dishes while sitting in a locale inside a townhouse that dates back to the 16th century! This is one of the oldest restaurants in Paris and it’s even designated a French Historic Monument!

Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole is easily recognizable for the wisteria growing on its facade. The interior of the restaurant is very Belle Époque, and for a moment you might believe you’ve somehow traveled back in time.

Galeries Lafayette (Haussmann)

Galeries Lafayette is the most famous French department store chain with several objects in the city of Paris. Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is easily the most popular and most famous of all their stores, mostly because it’s been in the same Art Nouveau building for more than a century. It’s situated at Haussmann Boulevard close to Palais Garnier, in the 9th arrondissement.

The building itself is iconic for the glass dome and the steel frame that can be best seen from the restaurant court. It’s a great place to visit in Paris if you want to check out a building that’s more than a hundred years old, but also if you need to do some shopping.

There are many fashion and jewelry stores at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, but it’s worth noting most are high-end designer shops like Chanel and Tag Hauer.

Seine River Cruises

The river Seine flows through Paris, dividing the city into two distinct parts – the Right Bank and the Left Bank. The river itself is not an amazing attraction, but it does allow for some amazing and romantic experiences.

Sunset cruises on the Seine are incredibly romantic and a little bit cliche, but still a great way to spend an evening with a loved one. Discover the city of love from the water and gain a new perspective on its most famous attractions.

A variety of different companies operate cruises on the Seine, so there’s everything from an affordable sightseeing cruise, to an all-out group cruise with dinner and live music. If you just want to explore Paris from the water, any quick sightseeing cruise is fine. But if you want to spend a memorable evening with your loved ones, opt for one of the more elaborate river cruises.

National Museum of Modern Art (Centre Pompidou)

Centre Pompidou is another impressive building in Paris worth checking out. It’s situated in Beaubourg in the 4th arrondissement, and it’s popular for its avant-garde architecture. The building looks great and the contrast between it and all the older buildings in Paris is quite impressive.

The late modernist architecture isn’t the only reason to visit this complex. It houses the National Museum of Modern Art, which happens to have the second largest collection of modern and contemporary art in the entire world. Prominent artists featured at this museum include Kandinsky, Frida Khalo, Andy Warhol, and Pablo Picasso, among myriad others.

Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is a district in central Paris that’s known for universities and student life. It’s home to Sorbonne University, as well as the iconic Shakespeare & Company bookstore and cafe. All bookworms who have traveled to Paris should come to this neighborhood and visit the famous bookstore at least once.

Pantheon, Jardin des Plantes, and the National Museum of Natural History are all situated in this Parisian district, and they’re all worth visiting. Also, the Latin Quarter offers spectacular views of the Seine and Notre Dame, which is just one of many reasons why you need to at least walk through this part of Paris.

About the Author Anna Timbrook

Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.

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• Paris in the Spring: 15 Things to See and Do

Have you booked a short break in Paris? Explore our list of Inspector-approved activities to enjoy the warmer weather in the French capital.

Things to do in Paris

Paris by The MICHELIN Guide

See the Paris guide

Wondering what to do in Paris ? Not sure how to make the most of the city in the beautiful springtime? The MICHELIN Guide has got you covered! With our selection of 15 fabulous spots in and around the city, you can make the most of the milder weather and go full Emily in Paris. Channel your inner Parisian at the best restaurants with outside tables; enjoy a picnic or admire the cherry blossom at the prettiest gardens and parks; and discover the best ice cream shops, open-air markets, and flea markets.

1- Bask in the sun on one of the capital's 3,000 terraces

Rooftop spaces with a bird's-eye view of the city, leafy courtyards sheltered from sight and the noise of the street… in Paris, some restaurant terraces are real treasures, jealously guarded by those in the know. With an intimate terrace hidden from view, Apicius is set in a sumptuous 18th-century mansion akin to a small palace; overlooking the River Seine and the Eiffel Tower, Monsieur Bleu is ensconced in the Palais de Tokyo; and then there is the impressive terrace of Michelin-Starred Le Tout-Paris , a brasserie perched on the seventh floor of the Cheval Blanc hotel  (3 MICHELIN Keys). From Saint-Germain to Montmartre, via the Eiffel Tower, discover all the loveliest terraces in Paris!

More good news for fans of outdoor dining is that this year, as every year since 2021, the capital's 3,000 or so outdoor cafés will be allowed to expand and overflow onto the sidewalk too. Even better: from 1st April to 31st October 2024, these pop-up terraces will be open until midnight (instead of their usual closing time of 10pm).

2- Go bargain-hunting outside, from the bouquinistes to brocanteurs

The return of warmer weather means getting out in the fresh air! The City of Paris regularly publishes a list of the best flea markets. But for anyone who loves antiques and vintage design, the best place to go remains the Puces de Saint-Ouen, the world's largest flea market, where antique dealers and brocanteurs (second-hand dealers) sell their wares. This Marché aux Puces is spread over 7 hectares and encompasses no fewer than 11 different markets and over 2,000 stalls and shops. Furniture, bronze ornaments, lights, tableware, jewelry, books, archaeological finds… Pick up a rare piece as you wander through the narrow streets of this bohemian market founded in 1885, or sit on the terrace of a café and listen to a gypsy jazz concert. Another typically Parisian point of interest: the bouquinistes . These are booksellers who set up on the Right Bank of the River Seine, from Pont Marie to the Quai du Louvre, and on the Left Bank, from the Quai de la Tournelle to Quai Voltaire – they specialize in old editions and second-hand books.

NEW: Discover Paris by The MICHELIN Guide – expert insights on where to dine, stay and enjoy the City of Light

3- Picnic in a park with a view of cherry trees blossoming

If you ask a Parisian what their favorite springtime activity is, the chances are they'll say having a picnic. If you're lucky enough to be in the capital during that brief period when the cherry trees are in bloom, then your timing is perfect! In the Jardin des Plantes, the impressive 'Shirotae' Japanese cherry tree stands at 8m tall, and its branches form a giant parasol measuring 12m across. Square Marie-Trintignant on the edge of the historical Marais has a number of benches overlooking the nearby Seine. But if you're a true cherry blossom fan, the Parc de Sceaux is the place to go to see a remarkable floral explosion. From 30th March to 28th April 2024, the park is celebrating Hanami, the Japanese festival marking the blossoming of the sakura (cherry trees) – of which there are more than 150 scattered across the 180 hectare estate. Other green spaces where you can relax on the grass and tuck into your picnic are the Luxembourg Gardens, the Champ de Mars at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, the Buttes Chaumont, and Parc de Belleville, which commands one of the best views in the capital from its hilltop location. And let's not forget Parc Montsouris, in the very south of Paris.

4- Stock up on top-notch produce at the best markets

Would Paris be Paris without its countless food markets? With stalls packed with mouth-watering produce from all over France, they illustrate Parisians' obsession with good food. From the stalls of the famous Marché des Enfants Rouges to the crowded paths of the Marché d'Aligre, take a stroll through The MICHELIN Guide's favorite Parisian markets .

5- Hire a license-free boat or embark on a cruise

With Marin d'Eau Douce, hire a license-free electric boat and navigate the waters at your own pace, whether with friends, family or a date. Alternatively, hop aboard one of the famous Bateaux-Mouches, Vedettes de Paris or Bateaux Parisiens for a River Seine cruise taking in sights such as the Invalides, Musée d'Orsay, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, the Grand Palais, and the Eiffel Tower. At night, with its illuminated bridges and monuments, the capital feels like a life-size film set. The Seine doesn't have a monopoly on Parisian waterways. Enjoyable cruises are also organized on Canal Saint-Martin, Canal de l'Ourcq, and the River Marne. Paris Canal takes you alongside the Musée d'Orsay, the Philharmonie, and La Géode; Canauxrama offers a range of cruise formats, from an introduction to the Paris of Parisians to a full-day exploration of the banks of the River Marne.

6- Savor the best ice creams and sorbets in Paris

Just a stone's throw from the Sacré Coeur Basilica, at 16 Place des Abbesses, Une Glace à Paris came up with the concept of offering outdoor seating in the form of deckchairs. Their delicious sorbets and ice creams are designed by Emmanuel Ryon (a Meilleur Ouvrier de France Glacier and World Pastry Champion) and Olivier Ménard. You can of course also order your cornet to take with you as you explore the streets of Montmartre. Head for the most popular sights, from Café des Deux Moulins, made famous by the film Amélie, to the bronze bust of the singer Dalida at the top of rue de l'Abreuvoir. On Île Saint Louis, Berthillon has become a real institution, having reigned supreme since the 1950s. Their recipes are guaranteed to contain no artificial colors or preservatives, and the menu features around 40 flavors on any given day (there are over 90 altogether): marron glacé, blackcurrant, mango, roasted pineapple with basil… all delicious!

7- Admire the greatest masterpieces at the European Night of Museums

Around mid-May, just before summer is in full swing, a magical night takes place in Paris. The European Night of Museums is a not-to-be-missed event organized by the Ministry of Culture, offering free evening entry to over 3,000 museums in France and Europe. As night falls, soak up the festive atmosphere with new routes, guided tours, open-air events, live shows, music, and culinary delights! In Paris, the Musée d'Orsay, Fondation Louis Vuitton, and Centre Pompidou will be welcoming you free of charge for this 20th edition, which falls on Saturday 18th May 2024. It's also an opportunity to visit the Louvre, as well as its eponymous brasserie with tables set up beneath the arcades of this quintessentially Haussmann-style building. But take note: you'll need to pre-book!

8- Get romantic in the gardens of the Musée de la Vie Romantique

South of Montmartre, on the other side of Boulevard de Clichy, the bucolic ‘Museum of Romantic Life’ is well worth a visit. From the ground floor (where writer George Sand's room has been recreated) to the first floor (dedicated to painter Ary Scheffer), it sweeps us back to the 19th century. But the main draw of this private mansion is its foliage-kissed terrace – one of the most idyllic in the capital, complete with an English-style tearoom, Rose Bakery. At a remove from the hustle and bustle, this green space is an oasis of calm in the heart of the 9th arrondissement.

9- Visit the Opéra, the Eiffel Tower… and the best restaurants in the area!

Kill two birds with one stone: Avoid the tourist traps and confidently head to these top restaurants located close to Paris's most beautiful monuments , not forgetting the excellent bistro Le Maquis , just a 15 minute walk from Montmartre.

10- Get a bird's-eye view of Paris: belvederes, rooftops and balloon rides

Springtime in Paris (usually) means clear skies. From the Belvédère de Belleville to the Tour d'Argent or the Jules Verne restaurant in the Eiffel Tower, from the upper terrace of the Arc de Triomphe to our favorite rooftops , see Paris from a different angle at these sky-high venues! If you want to go even higher, the Ballon de Paris Generali – in the Parc André Citroën (15th arrondissement) on the banks of the Seine – promises an unforgettable experience for young and old, from 0 to 99 years. Aboard the world's largest hot-air balloon, see the capital and its monuments from 150m above the ground.

11- Eat macarons

The famous almond-based sweet is distinguished by its texture, which is at once both crunchy and soft. The most famous brands are Ladurée, Lenôtre, Dalloyau, Fauchon, and Pierre Hermé, but there are also noteworthy lesser-known names; for instance, Jean-Paul Hévin, one of the best chocolatiers in Paris, has created a delicious macaron with Peruvian Grand Cru dark chocolate. There's also Chez Carette (Place des Vosges and Place du Tertre) and Yannick Lefort, another macaron specialist, in the 6th arrondissement. And don't forget Le Jardin Sucré (17th arrondissement), whose shop is nestled next to Parc Monceau. Get ready for a rainbow of flavors! For the record, it was Queen Catherine de' Medici, of Italian origin, who imported the macaron to France in the 16th century. It was a roaring success, shooting to fame all over France during the Renaissance and giving rise to the Amiens Macaron, the Saint-Emilion Macaron, and the Nancy Macaron. The Parisian version, also known as the Macaron Gerbet, only appeared in the 19th century.

12- Take a dip in the most stunning open-air, Art Deco swimming pool in Paris

Luxury hotel Molitor Paris has taken over the Molitor swimming pool , a legendary venue from the 1920s up to the 1980s. Tastefully renovated by architect Jean-Philippe Nuel, the outdoor pool has had extra floors added, including a roof terrace overlooking the city. It also boasts a Clarins spa and a fantastic restaurant run by an award-winning chef. Behind the ultra-contemporary veneer, the site's Art Deco heritage has been preserved, not least the original studded portholes and 1940s furniture. Access to the swimming pool is, of course, included in the room rate.

13- Order an excellent specialty coffee… or the best hot chocolate!

There was a time when the average espresso at a Parisian café was undrinkable, being dubbed ‘jus de chaussette’ (‘sock juice’), but over the last decade the capital has been making up for lost time. When it comes to coffee, Paris has nothing left to prove and now even boasts a number of quality coffee roasteries. If you're not a fan of caffeine, you can fall back on our best Parisian haunts for a hot chocolate. Drink in or take away if you can, to sip as you wander the streets of the capital.

14- Enjoy the gardens of Versailles, its fountains and restaurants

Considered among the most fabulous in Europe and the world, the royal gardens of Versailles come into their own in spring. Take in the Palace of Versailles fountain show, in which the water interacts with lights and music. Then refuel at Le Bistrot du 11 , just a stone's throw from the palace, one of five establishments in Île-de-France (the Paris region) to have recently been awarded a Bib Gourmand .

15- Watch a tennis match at Roland Garros

The French Open is back from 20th May to 9th June for another championship! Located in the west of Paris, at Porte d'Auteuil, on the edge of the Bois de Boulogne, the Roland Garros Stadium hosts this Grand Slam tournament every year, as well as the Paris Major Premier Padel. The sun will hopefully be shining, so don't forget your hat and sunglasses. Celebrities are often to be seen watching from the stands, so you might even bump into a famous face while you’re here!

Illustration image © Dan Asaki / Unsplash

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