If you’re tired of the long lines at the Louvre and crowded tourist spots like the Eiffel Tower, you’re in the right place. Paris offers a rich tapestry of hidden gems and local experiences that give you an authentic taste of the City of Light, without the overwhelming crowds. In this article, we’ll explore 21 fun things to do in Paris that will let you see a side of the city you’ve probably never experienced before, from charming neighborhoods to quirky activities and more.
Explore Hidden Paris Neighborhoods
Paris isn’t just about the iconic landmarks; it’s also about exploring its hidden gems. These lesser-known neighborhoods and hidden spots allow you to truly experience the heart of the city, giving you a glimpse of the local Parisian life that many visitors miss.
1. Wander Through the Covered Passages (Passages Couverts)
Escape the hustle and bustle and step into the past by exploring the covered passages of Paris. These 19th-century shopping arcades like Passage des Panoramas and Galerie Vivienne offer a serene and charming atmosphere with their beautiful architecture and quaint shops. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you wander through these hidden arcades, discovering antique bookstores, vintage stores, and art galleries. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet, reflective walk or to simply escape the crowds.
2. Stroll Along Canal Saint-Martin
If you want to experience a more authentic Paris, head to Canal Saint-Martin, a neighborhood beloved by locals. This bohemian area is known for its charming canals, tree-lined streets, and cute cafés. Grab a bottle of wine, sit on the canal’s edge, and enjoy a laid-back Parisian afternoon while watching the boats glide by. It’s a peaceful escape that’s perfect for people-watching or chatting with friends.
3. Discover Street Art in Belleville
Paul de Belleville, used under Creative Commons CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication, via Wikimedia Commons. Link to image.
Skip the conventional museums and head to Belleville, one of the most artistic neighborhoods in Paris. Famous for its vibrant street art, Belleville is home to incredible murals, graffiti, and urban art that cover almost every wall in the district. This area also offers a unique blend of cultures, making it a perfect spot to explore the more alternative side of Parisian art. The nearby Parc de Belleville also provides a stunning panoramic view of the city.
4. Explore the “Little Japan” in Rue Sainte-Anne
For a taste of Asia in Paris, head to Rue Sainte-Anne, a street lined with authentic Japanese restaurants, ramen shops, and sushi bars. Known as Paris’s Little Japan, this hidden gem offers some of the best Japanese cuisine in the city, with locals enjoying dishes like ramen, sushi, and tempura. If you’re craving a unique culinary experience, this area is perfect for a change of pace.
5. Walk on the Elevated Park: Promenade Plantée
Guilhem Vellut, used under Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license, via Wikimedia Commons. Link to image.
The Promenade Plantée, or Coulée Verte, is a unique elevated park built on a former railway track. This green space runs through the 12th Arrondissement, offering a peaceful walk above the city’s streets, with plenty of greenery, flowers, and tranquil spots. It’s an ideal place to relax and enjoy beautiful views of Paris without the crowds. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
6. Visit Père Lachaise Cemetery
Though a cemetery, Père Lachaise is one of the most beautiful and peaceful spots in Paris. It’s the final resting place of Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf, Jim Morrison, and many other famous figures. Stroll through the peaceful grounds, where sculptural graves and majestic tombs line the paths. It’s a serene and reflective experience, offering a quiet escape from the bustling city. Spend time wandering and appreciating the beauty of the artistic tombs and historical significance.
Unusual Paris Dining Experiences
Paris is famous for its gourmet cuisine, but there are many unusual dining experiences in the city that will completely change your perception of French food and dining culture. Here are some of the most unique dining options to make your trip to Paris even more special.
7. Dine in the Dark at Dans le Noir?
For an experience that will engage all your senses, head to Dans le Noir? where you’ll dine in complete darkness. The concept is simple yet mind-blowing: you’ll be served by visually impaired waitstaff, and all your focus will be on the flavors and textures of the meal. This sensory dining experience in the dark will provide an unforgettable dinner, where taste and smell take center stage.
8. Enjoy Indian Cuisine at Passage Brady
If you’re looking for a change of pace from French food, head to Passage Brady in the 10th Arrondissement, known as Paris’s Little India. The area is filled with authentic Indian restaurants, offering everything from samosas to tandoori. The spices and aromas in the air will draw you into the vibrant and colorful local market, and it’s a great place to try something completely different in Paris.
9. Picnic at Place des Vosges
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly Parisian experience, Place des Vosges is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic. This historic square in Le Marais is one of Paris’s oldest and most beautiful squares. Pick up a baguette, cheese, and some fresh fruit from a local market and enjoy a peaceful picnic on the grassy lawn while soaking up the beautiful Parisian architecture.
10. Hot Chocolate at Hidden Cafés in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Skip the touristy spots like Angelina and instead visit one of the hidden cafés in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. This charming district is known for its classic Parisian cafés and literary history. You can enjoy rich hot chocolate at Les Deux Magots or Café de Flore, while sitting by the window and watching the world go by. It’s an experience that captures the essence of Parisian café culture.
11. Visit a Cat Café (Café des Chats)
For something completely different, why not visit a Cat Café in Paris? At Le Café des Chats, located in the Le Marais district, you can enjoy a warm cup of coffee or tea while petting lazy cats who roam freely around the café. It’s a relaxing and fun experience for animal lovers, and a great way to unwind after a day of walking the city.
12. Join a Food Tour at Marché des Enfants Rouges
Marché des Enfants Rouges is Paris’s oldest covered market, located in Le Marais. It offers a wide variety of international food stalls, from fresh oysters to crepes. Joining a food tour here allows you to taste a range of local delicacies, from French pastries to international flavors. It’s a great way to experience Parisian street food and learn about the food culture from local experts.
Offbeat Paris Attractions & Activities
Paris offers much more than just the classic sights. If you’re looking for something unique, here are alternative Paris experiences that will give you incredible stories to share when you return home.
13. Dive Deep into the Catacombs: Explore the “Empire of the Dead” Beneath Paris
Dale Cruse, used under Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license, via Wikimedia Commons. Link to image.
Head beneath the streets of Paris to explore the Catacombs, one of the most unique and eerie attractions in the city. This underground labyrinth contains the remains of millions of Parisians, stacked into mysterious walls. The Catacombs offer a haunting glimpse into the past, showing how the city has dealt with the remains of its dead over the centuries. You’ll find intricate bone arrangements and get a sense of Paris’s dark history. 1.5 to 2 hours is typically sufficient for this exploration, and it’s a must-see for history enthusiasts.
14. Admire Panoramic Views from Montparnasse Tower’
Skip the Eiffel Tower for a quieter, equally stunning view of Paris from the Montparnasse Tower. Located in the 14th Arrondissement, this observation deck offers a 360-degree view of Paris, including a direct sightline to the Eiffel Tower itself. It’s the perfect spot to get that Instagram-worthy shot with the Eiffel Tower in the background without the crowds. Plus, the lines are usually much shorter. The Montparnasse Tower is less crowded, and it offers one of the best panoramic views of the entire city. Spend about 45 minutes to 1 hour here.
15. Hunt for Antiques at Puces de Saint-Ouen
For vintage lovers, head to Puces de Saint-Ouen, the largest flea market in the world. Located in the northern part of Paris, this market is a haven for anyone looking for antiques, vintage clothing, or rare items. From old cameras and leather jackets to retro furniture and vintage décor, you’re sure to find something unique. Even if you’re not looking to buy, it’s a fun place to wander and explore Paris’s fascinating market culture. Expect to spend around 1.5 to 2 hours here for the full experience.
16. Join a Perfume-Making Workshop at Fragonard
Become a perfume expert for the day at one of Paris’s historic perfume workshops. At Fragonard, you’ll have the chance to create your own custom fragrance, learning the art of perfume-making from the experts. This scented experience lets you create a personalized perfume that you can take home as a one-of-a-kind souvenir from Paris. This unique experience takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, and it’s an unforgettable way to experience the art of fragrance in the City of Light.
17. Take a Movie-Themed Walking Tour
If you’re a film buff, consider taking a movie-themed walking tour of Paris. Explore famous film locations from movies like “Amélie,” “Midnight in Paris,” or the popular series “Emily in Paris.” You’ll visit locations where key scenes were shot, such as Café des Deux Moulins from Amélie or Pont des Arts from Midnight in Paris. This tour provides a fresh, cinematic view of the city, blending film history with Parisian charm. It’s a great way to experience Paris through the lens of cinema.
Family-Friendly Paris Activities (That Adults Will Love Too)
Paris isn’t just for couples or solo travelers; there are plenty of family-friendly activities that both kids and adults can enjoy. From educational museums to fun adventures, these activities are perfect for families looking to enjoy the magic of Paris together.
18. Explore Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie
For a day of interactive learning, visit the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, Europe’s largest science museum. Located in the La Villette park, this museum is perfect for families with kids. With hands-on exhibits, 3D films, and sections dedicated to space, technology, and the human body, the museum makes science fun for everyone. Kids will love the interactive installations, and there are special exhibits that change throughout the year. Plan to spend 2 to 3 hours here.
19. Watch a Traditional Puppet Show at Luxembourg Gardens
For a quintessentially French experience, take the family to the Luxembourg Gardens in the 6th Arrondissement, where you can catch a traditional puppet show at the Jardin du Luxembourg’s Puppet Theatre. These performances have been a staple of Parisian culture for over 100 years, bringing the magic of French puppet theatre to life for children and adults alike. It’s a charming experience, especially on a sunny afternoon, and the kids will be entranced by the puppets and storytelling.
20. Experience a Hot Air Balloon Ride at Ballon de Paris
For a truly unique family adventure, take a hot air balloon ride at Ballon de Paris, located in André Citroën Park in the 15th Arrondissement. The balloon offers panoramic views of Paris from 500 feet (about 150 meters) above the city. It’s a thrilling but safe way to see the city from the sky. This family-friendly experience is perfect for all ages and will give you breathtaking views of the Seine River, the Eiffel Tower, and other Paris landmarks. Spend 30 to 45 minutes enjoying this incredible aerial view of the city.
21. Visit the Musée de l’Illusion (Museum of Illusions)
For a fun family outing that’s both entertaining and educational, head to the Musée de l’Illusion in Paris. This museum is full of mind-bending optical illusions, 3D rooms, and puzzle-like exhibits that will keep everyone, from kids to adults, engaged. Explore the holograms, gravity-defying rooms, and mirror mazes while laughing at the bizarre visual tricks. It’s a fun experience that’s sure to make for memorable family photos. You can spend about 1.5 hours at the museum.
Practical Tips for Enjoying Local Experiences
Getting Around: Velib’ Bikes & Scooters
Paris is a walkable city, but to cover more ground and experience the city like a local, consider using Velib’ bikes or electric scooters. Velib’ bikes are available all over the city and are an affordable, fun, and eco-friendly way to get from one place to another. You can easily rent a bike at Velib’ stations scattered throughout Paris. If you prefer a quicker mode of transport, electric scooters are also available for rent via apps like Lime and Bird, making it easy to zip through the city with ease. This is especially useful if you’re trying to visit places like Canal Saint-Martin or the Bois de Boulogne, which are a bit farther from the central areas.
Cultural Tips: The Art of Greeting with “Bonjour”
One of the most important cultural tips in Paris is learning how to greet people. When entering a store, café, or restaurant, always start with a polite “Bonjour” (Good day). The French appreciate good manners, and saying “Bonjour” before diving into your requests will ensure better service. It’s a simple gesture that shows you respect local customs and makes you come across as more friendly and respectful to Parisian locals. It’s part of the Parisian charm and will enhance your overall experience in the city. Just a simple greeting can set the tone for positive interactions with shopkeepers, waiters, and others you meet along the way.
Conclusion
There aren’t only landmarks in Paris, the city is also filled with hidden gems, unique dining experiences, and local neighborhoods that give you a true sense of what life is like in the City of Light. Whether you’re exploring covered passages, trying an unusual dining experience, or discovering artistic enclaves, these 21 fun things to do in Paris will give you an authentic, off-the-beaten-path Paris experience that goes beyond the typical tourist spots.
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