50+ non touristy things to do in Paris from a Local [2025]

Non touristy things to do in Paris: hidden covered passages

Tucked in the 2nd arrondissement, Paris secret passages are a big part of the city’s history. There were around 150 in 1850, but most disappeared after Haussmann’s renovations. Today, only a few dozen remain, making these charming, hidden gems perfect for exploration, especially on rainy days in Paris.

13. Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine

Another great street to hang out in the 11th district is Faubourg Saint-Antoine. 

It is a more popular area than Rue de Charonne and you will find bars with cheaper drinks, and great take away food.

We love to have drinks at the Blouses Blanches and eat a burger at Mangez Et Cassez Vous, a dim sum dish at 21G Dumpling, or even a fancy french meal at Jouvence.

If you want to buy a french item of clothing without breaking the bank, we like Eternelle or Kenzie.

Last but not least, this street has second-hand bookshops! Get lost in the aisles of books of Mona Lisait or Book Off.

• Address: Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine (11 and 12th districts)
• Hours: anytime
• Price: free
• How to get there: subway line 9 (stop: Charonne), 8 (stop: Faidherbe-Chaligny), 2 (stop: Philippe Auguste), 1 (stop: Bastille)

14. Ground Control

Looking for a beer garden, or alternative spot to have a drink with your travel buddies? Ground Control is a multi-purpose industrial place, with outdoor and indoor spaces.

There are well-decorated seating areas, drink and food trucks, vintage shops and even live music inside the main building every week. Definitely the place to have a drink with locals!

Another similar spot that is only indoor and pretty known by tourists is La Felicita, near the library François-Mitterrand.

• Address: 81 Rue du Charolais
• Hours: 12 PM to 10:30 PM on Sunday, 12:00 on Wednesday and Thursday and 1 AM on Friday and Saturday
• Price: free entrance
• How to get there: subway line 1 (Stop: Reuilly – Diderot)

15. Rue des Dames

One of the many cool places to go in Paris, outside the 11th arrondissement or tourist areas, is Rue des Dames in the 17th district. This is not far from Montmartre, but away from the crowds!

Located in the Batignolles district, Rue des Dames stretches from Avenue de Clichy to Rue de Lévis. If you want to act like a local, sit on a terrace and order a charcuterie platter with a glass (or two) of red wine.

• Address: Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine (17th district)
• Hours: anytime
• Price: free
• How to get there: subway line 2 (stop: Rome), 13 (stop: Place de Clichy) 

16. Rue de l’Abreuvoir

Over the years, this street has inspired many artists, capturing the essence of Paris’s romantic, artistic and bohemian atmosphere. It is one of the prettiest streets in Paris.

It may be a well-known area, visitors don’t always know where to look. Walking up Rue de l’Abreuvoir, you can catch glimpses of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica rising above the rooftops.

Don’t miss the Buste de Dalida, a bronze sculpture honoring the legendary French singer and actress, located in a quaint square along the way.

The street is also home to cozy cafés and restaurants, including the famous La Maison Rose, Paris’s oldest café, known for its traditional French cuisine.

• Address: Rue de l’Abreuvoir (18th district)
• Hours: anytime
• Price: free
• How to get there: subway line 12 (stop: Lamarck – Caulaincourt) or 2 (stop: Blanche)

Non touristy spots in Paris: best markets and cool food or drink places 

17. Flower Market

Parisians love their flower markets, but especially the oldest one of them all: Marché aux Fleurs Reine Elizabeth II. It is located on Ile de la Cité, a very central neighborhood, and was founded by former king Napoleon in 1808.

This market If you like flowers as much as we do, this is a must-stop during your Paris visit.

• Address: 37 Place Louis Lépine (4th district)
• Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM every day
• Price: free entrance
• How to get there: subway line 4 (stop: Cité), 1 or 14 (stop: Châtelet)

18. Marché des Enfants Rouges

It wouldn’t be an alternative guide to Paris if we didn’t mention the Marché des Enfants Rouges! It’s basically a covered food court in the middle of the Marais, with stalls from all over the world.

This one’s making more and more appearances on the tourist trail, but it’s still very cool and a place where locals hang out as well.

If it’s not too crowded, we highly recommend Alain Miam Miam’s French sandwiches. There are two stands, one inside and one outside the market. You might be luckier with the one outside!

• Address: 39 Rue de Bretagne (3rd district)
• Hours: 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM (closure at 5 PM on Sunday and fully closed on Monday)
• Price: free entrance
• How to get there: subway line 3 (stop: Temple), 11 (stop: Arts et Métiers), 8 (stop: Filles du Calvaire, 9 (stop: République)…

19. Marché d’Aligre

Nestled in the charming 12th arrondissement, the Marché d’Aligre is where locals do their shopping and enjoy a coffee in the sunshine on the terrace of the cafés surrounding the market.

You can find all kind of seasonal vegetables, but also meat, fish and more, to cook or to eat on the spot. It’s a budget-friendly market that gives you the impression of capturing the essence of Parisian life.

• Address: 25-11 Rue d’Aligre (12th district)
• Hours: 7:30 AM to 1:30 PM from Tuesday to Friday, 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM on weekends, closed on Monday
• Price: free entrance
• How to get there: subway line 8 (stop: Ledru-Rollin)

20. Pyrénées Market

Marché des Pyrénées is located near Belleville, a cool neighborhood in non-touristy Paris. It’s a market where locals buy their fresh produce. They also sometimes organize street food stalls in the evenings.

• Address: Rue des Pyrénées (20th district)
• Hours: 7 AM to 1:30 PM on Thursday and 7 AM to 2:30 PM on Sunday (occasionally open one evening per month with loads of food courts from all over the world)
• Price: free
• How to get there: subway line 2 (Stop: Couronnes)

21. Pavillon Puebla

Located in the charming park of Buttes-Chaumont, Pavillon Puebla is a stunning restaurant that offers crafted dishes and beverages. You can enjoy your meal on the open-air terrace or relax in the lounge area.

• Address: Avenue Darcel (19th district)
• Hours: 6 PM to midnight from Wednesday to Friday, 2 PM to midnight on Saturday and 1 PM to 10 PM on Sunday
• Price: free entrance
• How to get there: subway line 

22. Grande Mosquée de Paris

Ok, this one is known by tourists but locals love it just as much! The Grande Mosquée of Paris is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the 5th district, near the Jardin des Plantes. 

You can visit the Mosquee’s gardens for as little as $3 USD (3€) per person. It’s insanely pretty and impressive.

You can also go to their tearoom and restaurant. Honestly, I’ve been there more times than I can count and every pastry, couscous, tagine, or tea you can find there is absolutely exquisite!

• Address: 2bis Place du Puits de l’Ermite (5th district)
• Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM (closed on Friday)
• Price: free entrance to the tearoom and restaurant, $3 USD (3€) for the mosquee visit
• How to get there: subway line 7 (stop: Place Monge), 10 (stop: Jussieu)

23. Pavillon des Canaux

Pavillon des Canaux is a great alternative coffee, bar and restaurant alongside the Canal de l’Ourcq. 

The place in itself is what makes the spot special. It looks like entering someone else’s house. It is very colorful, has big old charming windows and graffiti. You can visit for a drink, sweet or even weekend brunch!

• Address: 39 Quai de la Loire (19th district)
• Hours: 10 AM to 12 AM from Monday to Thursday, 2 AM on Friday and Saturday and 10 PM on Sunday
• Price: free
• How to get there: subway line 5 (stop: Laumière), 2 (stop: Jaurès)

24. Jardin 21

Jardin 21 is an 1850 m² garden and cultural wasteland on the banks of the Canal de l’Ourcq in Paris. It has a bar, restaurant, markets, workshops, DJ sets… It is definitely the place to be with locals in the summertime!

• Address: 12/A Rue Ella Fitzgerald (19th district)
• Hours: 6 PM to 12 AM on Wednesday, 12 PM to 2 AM on Thursday, 12 PM to 4 AM on Friday and Saturday, 12 PM to 8 PM on Sunday and closed on Monday and Tuesday
• Price: free entrance
• How to get there: subway line 7 (stop : Porte de la Villette) and 5 (stop: Hoche)

Non touristy places in Paris: best parks and walks

Paris is always overcrowded with millions of tourists visiting the city. But when you venture out of the touristy city center, you might be surprised to find small pockets of charming Parisian neighborhoods.

Among the numerous off the beaten path things to do in Paris, we recommend these places and parks for strolling and relaxing.

25. Jardin des Plantes

The Jardin des Plantes is a beautiful botanical garden, which among locals is even considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Paris.

It covers 23.5 hectares and is located on the south bank of the Seine, in the 5th arrondissement between the Paris Mosque and the Sorbonne university.

Its history dates back to 1626 when it was founded as the Jardin des Plantes Médicinales, a medical garden. Today, it’s still a scientific garden, with free admission, where visitors can learn about botany.

One of the main attractions, recommended by PlacesofJuma, is the 315-year-old pistachio tree. You can also visit the beautiful greenhouses and the adjacent Natural History Museum with its large exhibition.

• Address: 57 Rue Cuvier (5th district)
• Hours: 7:30 AM to 8 PM for the garden, 10 AM to 6 PM for the greenhouse
• Price: the garden has free access, while the greenhouse entrance costs between 5€ to 7€
• How to get there: subway line 5 and 10 (stop: Austerlitz), 7 (stop: Jussieu)

26. Coulée Verte René-Dumont

If you want to get away from the crowds, consider a stroll along the Coulée Verte René-Dumont. This 3.5-kilometer long garden pathway stretches from the Boulevard Périphérique on the eastern border of the City of Paris to the Bastille area.

It offers an alternative view of Paris, because a part of it is elevated, running along a former railway line. It’s kind of like the High Line in New York City, but it isn’t a copy – it was created before the NYC landmark, opening in 1993.

The other sections are nice as well; at some point you’ll walk through a wide tunnel where people are practicing rock climbing. It’s usually more peaceful than the elevated section.

• Address: there are different entries, but you can start at 1 Coulée Verte René-Dumont (12th district)
• Hours: 8 AM to 8:30 PM
• Price: free
• How to get there: subway lines 1 or 5 (stop at Bastille) or 8 (stop at Ledru-Rollin)

27. Albert-Kahn Museum and Garden

Located in Boulogne-Billancourt, right next to Paris, The Musée Albert Kahn boasts sublime gardens. They are among the most secret outdoor things to do in Paris.

The 4-hectare space features a magnificent Japanese garden and village, an English garden and a French garden.

Albert Kahn was a believer that cultures have to mingle and we can learn from everyone. By creating those gardens, he wanted to prove that to the elite of his time that was not traveling so much at that time.

• Address: 2 Rue du Port (Boulogne-Billancourt)
• Hours: 11 AM to 7 PM (closed on Mondays)
• Price: $8,70 USD (8€)
• How to get there: subway line 10 (stop: Boulogne Pont de Saint-Cloud)

28. La Ferme de Paris

Inside the Bois de Vincennes, there is a farm of 5 hectares. That is a perfect peaceful activity to do with kids, or adults! You can simply visit it, or take part in fun activities like learning how to look after an orchard or animals.

• Address: 1 route du Pesage (Vincennes)
• Hours: 1 PM to 6:45 PM on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays
• Price: $8,70 USD (8€)
• How to get there: RER A (stop: Joinville-le-Pont)

29. Canal St. Martin

The Canal Saint-Martin, in the 10th arrondissement, is one of those trendy neighborhoods where young Parisians like to go for a drink or a night out. it’s the perfect spot to take a break from your busy Paris itinerary.

The canal is lined with trees, with a few green bridges spanning it. Locals love to relax by the canal for a drink, a picnic or just a chat. To feel like a local, just grab a few snacks and a bottle of wine from the nearby supermarkets and sit by the canal.

There are also numerous cafés and restaurants along the canal. They serve a variety of international cuisine, from sandwiches and burgers to Asian fusions, and you’re sure to find one to your liking. We particularly recommend Siseng, an Asian restaurant serving delicious bao burgers, bo bun, spring rolls…

• Address: between Place de Stalingrad to Port de l’Arsenal (10th and 11th districts)
• Hours: anytime
• Price: free
• How to get there: subway lines 3, 5, 8, 9 and 11 (stops: Republique or Oberkampf)

30. Iles aux Cygnes

While most visitors head straight for the Eiffel Tower and other popular sights in Paris, understandably so, Île aux Cygnes (Swan Island) is a hidden gem that doesn’t see the same level of tourism.

This small island, located on the Seine River between the 15th and 16th arrondissements, was originally built to help protect the Pont de Grenelle. It’s also home to a replica of the Statue of Liberty, which was installed in 1889, just a few years after the original in New York.

Aside from the statue, the island offers great views of the Eiffel Tower, a nice walking path lined with trees, and even some free outdoor exercise equipment. And the best part is that it’s completely free to visit.

• Address: between the Grenelle and Bir-Hakeim bridges (15th district)
• Hours: anytime
• Price: free
• How to get there: subway line 6 (stop: Bir-Hakeim)

31. Buttes-Chaumont

One of the city’s most attractive parks, but a hidden gem nonetheless, is Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. It is quite known, but not as famous as Jardin du Luxembourg or Jardin des Tuileries in central Paris.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is located in the 19th arrondissement in the northeast of the city, in a great area when staying in Paris.

Covering over 60 acres, it’s the fifth-largest park in the city and stands out with its hilly landscape, panoramic views, winding paths, and ample picnic spots.

Its most notable feature is the Temple de la Sibylle, a Roman-style monument situated at the highest point in the park. There is also a lake, many playgrounds, a waterfall, and even a 200-foot-long suspension bridge, which rises 72 feet over the lake.

• Address: 1 Rue Botzaris (19th district)
• Hours: 7 AM to 10 PM
• Price: free
• How to get there: subway line 5 (stop: Laumière) or 7 bis (stop: Buttes-Chaumont)

32. Clos Montmartre

On Montmartre, you’ll find Clos Montmartre, a small, hidden vineyard producing wine since the 1920s, nestled in a quiet patch of land in the touristy Montmartre. What’s funny is that since it is encased by a fence, many visitors walk right past it without seeing it while touring the iconic sights of Montmartre.

Paris had many vineyards in the past, but today, Clos Montmartre is the last working vineyard in both the neighborhood and all of Paris.

Each October, the vineyard opens its gates for the Fête des Vendanges, a lively Harvest Festival. Visitors can explore the vines, enjoy wine tastings, and partake in the street fair. Outside of the festival, you can only catch a a glimpse of it through the fence.

• Address: 18 rue des Saules (18th district)
• Hours: you can see it from the fence anytime of the year, but you can only enter during the Fête des Vendanges, which happens at the beginning of October every year
• Price: free
• How to get there: subway line 12 (stop: Lamarck – Caulaincourt), line 4 (stop: Château-Rouge) or line 2 (stop: Pigalle)

33. Port de l’Arsenal

When the banks of the Seine get too crowded in summer, residents of eastern Paris head for the Port de l’Arsenal. Access is gained from Place de la Bastille, simply by descending the stairs.

It resembles a small-town port, with pretty barges and a very relaxed atmosphere. It’s the ideal place for a picnic or a drink in the sunshine.

• Address: entrance on place de la Bastille (12th district)
• Opening hours: anytime
• Price: free
• How to get there: subway lines 1, 5, 8 (stop: Bastille)

34. Petite Ceinture

The Petite Ceinture is a 32-kilometer-long railway line that encircles Paris. It is now closed to trains, and some parts are open to the public.

You can access it from the Poinçon station, the La Flèche d’Or concert hall or even the jazz club La Gare-Le Gore. It’s an interesting place to stroll, jog or have a drink.

During the summer, the Hasard Ludique, a bar in the 17th arrondissement along the Petite Ceinture, opens up the railway area as a bar with deckchairs, and sometimes, music events!

• Address: depending on the spot you access it from. Hasard Ludique : 128 Avenue de Saint-Ouen (18th district).
• Opening hours: also depending on the spot you access it from.
• Price: free
• How to get there (Hasard Ludique): subway line 13 (stop: Porte de Saint-Ouen)

35. Jardin Tropical

The Jardin Tropical is located at the eastern end of the Bois de Vincennes, in a former colonial testing garden of the 19th century. 

You can walk through its lush vegetation and look at the traditions and customs of the former French colonies. This place highlights France’s heavy colonial past, to ensure that these events never happen again.

• Address: 45 Avenue de la Belle Gabrielle (12th district)
• Opening hours: 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM
• How to get there: RER A (stop: Nogent-sur-Marne)

Best non touristy things to do in Paris: under-the-radar museums and art galleries

36. Gaîté Lyrique

The Gaîté Lyrique is a Parisian cultural institution at the crossroads of the arts, technology and research. It has a concert venue, bar and coffee, art gallery, library and media center.

It’s the art gallery that will probably interest you most during your trip. Every two months, new exhibitions are organized, where art and technology are the main characters of the stories.

It often has neon structures and other original modern pieces. We truly recommend visiting La Gaîté Lyrique, one of the best underground things to do in Paris.

• Address: 3bis rue Papin (3rd district)
• Opening hours: 9 AM to 11 PM from Tuesday to Friday, 11 AM to 7 PM on Saturday and Sunday
• Price: free to $16 USD (15€) depending on the exhibit
• How to get there: subway lines 3 and 4 (stop: Réaumur – Sébastopol)

37. Musée de la Contrefaçon

Hidden behind a residential door in one of Paris’s most elegant neighborhoods is the Musée de la Contrefaçon, a small yet fascinating museum dedicated to counterfeit goods.

Opened in 1951, its mission is to educate visitors about the dangers of fakes, which can range from art and fashion to medicine and car parts. Counterfeit products often bypass the stringent inspections real goods undergo, posing serious risks to consumers.

For instance, fake medicine and toys can be life-threatening. The museum displays a wide variety of counterfeits, showing how to spot the differences, and highlights the scope of the illegal trade.

🤯 Did you know? Shockingly, around 5% of all products sold worldwide are counterfeit.

• Address: 16 rue de la Faisanderie (16th district)
• Hours: 2 PM from 5:30 PM from Monday to Friday (not opened on weekends)
• Price: $6.56 USD (6€)
• How to get there: subway line 2 (stop: Porte-Dauphine) or line 9 (stop: Rue de la Pompe)

38. 59 Rivoli

59 Rivoli is definitely one of the best offbeat Paris attractions. It is a 6-floor building in the middle of Rue de Rivoli, a famous shopping street in Paris, that was converted into an artist squat. 

The building was first abandoned by the French state, until a group decided to take it for temporary exhibitions. Every floor has different artists and you can even see them live-creating.

This is one of the best unusual things to see in Paris, you shouldn’t miss it! And even if you have already been there, you can go again as the exhibitions change all the time.

• Address: 59 Rue de Rivoli (1st district)
• Hours: 1 PM to 8 PM
• Price: free or donations
• How to get there: subway lines 1, 4, 7 and 14 (stop: Châtelet)

39. The City of Fashion and Design

The City of Fashion and Design in Paris, located on the left bank of the Seine, is an eye-catching landmark showcasing some of the best modern architecture in Europe. Not exactly a museum, this multi-purpose site celebrates fashion and design in Paris.

The building was designed by the parisien architects Jakob and MacFarlane and completed in 2008. This is a revitalization of former warehouses, and the most standout feature is its long steel and lime-green glass panels resting on the original concrete structure.

Inside, you’ll find offices and spaces for temporary exhibitions. Don’t miss the rooftop vegetable terrace, where you can relax with a drink and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding neighborhood.

• Address: 34 Quai d’Austerlitz (13th district)
• Hours: 10 AM to midnight every day
• Price: free
• How to get there: subway line 5 (stop: Gare d’Austerlitz), 6 (stop: Quai de la Gare), 14 and 1 (stop: Gare de Lyon)

40. Musée des Illusions

Step into a world of mind-bending illusions at the Museum of Illusions in Paris! Explore interactive galleries filled with mesmerizing mirrors, breathtaking perspective effects and astonishing optical effects.

• Address: 98 Rue Saint-Denis (1st district)
• Hours: 10 AM to 10 PM, or 9 PM from Monday to Wednesday
• Price: free
• How to get there: subway lines 1 or 14 (stop: Châtelet)

41. Musée Rodin

One of the best hidden gems of Paris is the Musée Rodin is located in the 7th arrondissement. Despite its proximity to the Hôtel des Invalides, one of the most famous attractions in Paris, many visitors overlook this museum.

Musée Rodin showcases the works of Auguste Rodin, the founder of modern sculpture. The museum takes you through Rodin’s creative process, displaying sketches, smaller models, and the evolution of his famous sculptures.

The highlight is the beautiful outdoor sculpture garden, featuring masterpieces like The Thinker and The Gates of Hell.

• Address: 77 Rue de Varenne (7th district)
• Hours: 10 AM to 6:30 PM from Tuesday to Sunday
• Price: $14 USD (13€)
• How to get there: subway line 13 (stop: Varenne) or lines 8 and 13 (stop: Invalides)

42. Fondation Louis Vuitton

Fondation Louis Vuitton is one of the most iconic structures in Paris. Located on the edge of the Bois de Boulogne, the building was designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry.

It stands out for its unique sail-like glass facade. Inside, visitors can experience a world-class collection of modern art as well as a range of permanent and temporary exhibitions.

The complex also offers panoramic views on Paris and the Eiffel Tower from its rooftop terrace. Last but not least, it has photogenic yellow neon art structures at its entrance.

• Address: 8 Avenue du Mahatma Gandhi (16th district)
• Hours: 11 AM to 8 PM on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, 11 AM to 9 PM on Friday, 10 AM to 8 PM on Saturday and Sunday 
• Price: 17$ USD (16€)
• How to get there: subway line 

43. Château de Vincennes

Château de Vincennes is one of the most interesting hidden gems for families visiting Paris.

It’s the perfect spot to visit if you want to see a castle but aren’t able to make a day trip out to the Loire Valley. This one is located on the outer edges of Paris and is definitely one of the best non-touristy things in Paris.

The Château de Vincennes welcomes visitors with a drawbridge and moat (now drained), leading to a vast park including a church, tower and other structures.

Although the château is unfurnished, its atmosphere remains captivating, reflecting its past as a prison, arsenal and military headquarters. Its imposing medieval architecture remains a symbol of defense.

• Address: Avenue de Paris (Vincennes)
• Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM
• Price: $10,30 USD (9,50€) or free for children under 18
• How to get there: subway line 1 (stop: Château de Vincennes)

44. Musée de la Vie Romantique

Located in the 9th arrondissement, the Musée de la Vie Romantique is one of Paris’s hidden gems. This small museum is so hidden that you can walk past it and not even realize it.

Once the home of artist Ary Scheffer, the museum showcases memorabilia like Chopin’s hand mold and 1800s letters. You can also have a look at the incredible Joan of Arc sculpture by Marie d’Orléans.

The museum’s peaceful courtyard is perfect for a coffee and snack, offering one of the best cafés in Paris, ideal for enjoying a quiet, romantic setting under beautiful trees.

• Address: 16 Rue Chaptal (9th district)
• Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM from Tuesday to Sunday
• Price: free
• How to get there: subway line 2 (stop: Pigalle) or 12 (stop: Saint-Georges)

Less touristy things to do in paris: amazing viewpoints 

45. Galerie Lafayette viewpoint

Even if shopping isn’t your thing, there is a special place at Galeries Lafayette in Paris that is among the top 10 must dos in Paris.

What sets Galeries Lafayette apart are its two rooftop terraces, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. It’s a unique vantage point of Paris, tucked away from the usual tourist attractions.

To find the rooftop, head to the Galeries Lafayette “Grand Magasin” building. Take the elevator or escalator up to the 5th level and continue up two flights of stairs to reach the 7th floor. 

From there, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view. If you continue down Haussman, you’ll come across the Printemps Beauté department store, which also features a rooftop terrace and café on the 9th floor.

• Address: 40 Boulevard Haussmann (9th district)
• Hours: 10 AM to 8:30 PM
• Price: free
• How to get there: subway lines 7 or 9 (stop: Chaussée d’Antin – La Fayette), 8 (stop: Opéra), 3 (stop: Parmentier – République)

46. Top of the Sacre-Coeur

The Basilique du Sacré-Coeur, in the Montmartre district, is one of Paris’ best-hidden gems. We’re not talking about the basilica itself, which is very famous, but the view from its rooftops!

It took me years of living in Paris to discover that you could climb to the top. There is an entrance on the left side of the basilica through which you can get access to the dome of the building.

In total, there are about 300 steps that you can climb to get to the top of the dome, and from there you can get a great panoramic view of Paris. Keep in mind there’s no elevator and the staircases are quite narrow.

Going to the top and seeing this view is also one of the best date ideas in Paris. Because the basilica itself is already located on a hill, the view from here will be even more amazing.

• Address: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre (18th district)
• Hours: 10.30 AM to 8.30 PM every day
• Price: $6,55 USD (6€)
• How to get there: subway line 12 (stop: Abbesses), 2 (stop: Pigalle or Anvers)

47. Hot Air Balloon of Paris Generali (Parc André Citroën)

Think hot air balloons are only for places like Cappadocia or Morocco? Think again! In Paris, you can soar over the city in a balloon used to measure air quality.

At over 250 meters, it offers an exceptional view of Paris and the Eiffel Tower. The balloon flies daily, weather permitting, and while it stays anchored to the ground, the experience is still incredible and absolutely worth it.

• Address: Parc André Citroën (15th district)
• Hours: 9 AM to 8:45 PM every day (depending on weather conditions, check on their official website if they are open).
• Price: 20$ USD (18€) above 12 years old, $13 USD (12€) between 3 and 12 years old and free under 3
• How to get there: subway line 8 (stop: Balard) or 10 (stop: Javel – André-Citroën)

Non touristy things to do near Paris (one-day trips)

48. Giverny

Another lovely hidden gem place that visitors can check out during their stay in Paris is Giverny. This quaint town is located about an hour outside of Paris!

it’s very refreshing when visiting a big city like Paris as you’ll find lots of cute cobblestone streets, with elegant cottages and stone buildings. Not to forget Claude Monet’s estate of course.

Monet was an iconic impressionist artist who spent the last 40 years of his life here and produced some of his best work. You can also explore the iconic lily pond that inspired some of his most famous works!

• Address: 84 Rue Claude Monet (Giverny)
• Hours: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
• Price: $13 USD for adults or $8 USD for children and students (12€ or 7,50€)
• How to get there: you can either rent a car, or hop on the TER train from Saint-Lazare to Vernon – Giverny. From the Vernon – Giverny train station, you will need to take a 13-minute taxi ride to get to Monet’s estate

49. Fontainebleau

There are two big forests in Paris, Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes. But you can also go on a even longer hike right next to Paris by public transport, in Fontainebleau!

From Gare de Lyon, hop on a train to Fontainebleau and you will be there in about an hour. Your first option is to visit the Castle of Fontainebleau and its big gardens and forests.

Your second option is to head to the actual forest and have a nice walk there! The trails are very well laid out and there’s plenty to see.

• Hours: anytime
• Price: free
• How to get there: rent a car or take the train R from Gare de Lyon (stop: Fontainebleau-Avon)

50. Jablines-Annet Leisure Island

Another easy day trip from Paris is Jablines-Annet Leisure Island. It is a fun activity to do near Paris that very few people know about.

It is a leisure area with sailing, canoeing or kayaking and awesome lake beaches to relax on. You can do all kinds of activities there, including horseback riding, as well as camping if you wish to stay more than one day.

• Address: Base de Loisirs (Jablines)
• Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM
• Price: free
• How to get there: rent a car or take the RER A to Marne-La-Vallée, then the bus 24 to Base de Loisirs Jablines

Non touristy things to do in Paris France: know before you go

Where to stay in Paris?

What is the best time to visit Paris?

Paris is a city that can be visited any time of the year. Every season brings something special. To experience the typical parisian terraces and the lively and blooming city, spring is definitely the best time to visit Paris.

On the other hand, summer brings wonderful temperatures and possibilities for more outdoor activities. Autumn means fewer tourists, cooler weather and beautiful parks and tree-lined streets in autumn colors.

Last but not least, Paris during winter is absolutely stunning with the Christmas decor and atmosphere!

What is the least touristy area of Paris?

There are many non-touristy neighborhoods in Paris. Among them, we would name the following districts: 11, 14, 15, 17, 19 and 20.

Where do the locals hang out in Paris?

To have a drink or go to the restaurant, locals like to hang out in Grands Boulevards, Rue de Charonne, Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Antoine, Motte-Picquet…

To chill, Parisians love their parks and squares. Our favourite ones are Bois de Vincennes, Coulée-Verte and Buttes-Chaumont.

💡 You can also read: do they speak English in France?

Where to go thrift shopping in Paris?

Thrift shopping in Paris is one of the coolest things to do if you want to spend a few hours away from the usual tourist attractions.

Whether you’re looking for unique items, inexpensive clothes, or seriously beautiful vintage finds, you’re pretty much guaranteed to find something you’ll like at the many thrift shops all over the city.

We recommend Kilo Shop Paris République, Free’o’Star on 61 Rue de la Verrerie or Vintage 77 on 77 Rue de Ménilmontant.

Chine Machine, at 10 rue des Petites Ecuries, is a little more eclectic. It’s a great option if you want to find truly unique pieces at very low prices while listening to New Wave music.

What is the most hipster area of Paris?

The Marais, and the 11th district in general, are some of the most hipster areas of Paris and it’s no surprise why. 

These trendy neighborhoods are full of vintage stores, art galleries, independent coffee shops, and concept stores that reflect the bohemian chic culture of this part of town. 

It’s also home to some of the city’s best nightlife spots, from small bars with live music to great cocktail lounges.

What is the coolest neighborhood in Paris?

It all depends on what you like! The coolest neighborhood will be the 11th and 20th districts if you like the animated village vibe inside a big city.

If you want to feel the typical Parisian vibe with bookstores, fountains and Hausmannian buildings lined along bank shores, the 5, 6 and 7th districts will be perfect. 

Where not to go in Paris?

Again, it all depends on what you are aiming for in the city. For instance, the 15th and 16th districts are very calm and posh, while the 19th and 20th are more popular and lively.

What to do in Paris to avoid tourists?

To avoid the tourists, simply follow the guide of not touristy things to do in Paris above! Generally speaking, keep in mind that the central arrondissements, from the 1st to the 4th, are the most touristy.

💦 Good to know: you can drink tap water in Paris!

Non touristy things to do in Paris: a wrap-up

After exploring the 50+ non-touristy things to do in Paris, you may be dreaming of visiting this beautiful city. And if you take the time to search, network and immerse yourself in the culture, who knows what new hidden gems you might find!

There are also interesting seasonal activities depending on when you visit, such as beer gardens in summer or ice skating in Paris in winter.

Visit more of France 🇫🇷
Gorges du Verdon – for nature, hiking and water activities lovers
Colorado Provençal – for nature and archeological enthusiastics
Visit Bordeaux – for city, sea and wine lovers