10 Unique and Unusual Things to Do Off the Beaten Path in Paris
Do you want to explore Paris in a completely new and unique way?
Well, then you are in luck.
I absolutely love Paris, but by the second time I visited the city, I had already done everything.
I had crossed everything off my list that was remotely touristy. I’d seen the Eiffel Tower, I’d been to the Arc de Triomphe, I had been to Notre Dame, I had done it all.
That is why I started looking for unusual or slightly strange things to do in the city, because I love Paris and I want to be able to do some stuff without having to revert to the touristy destinations.
That is why I’ve put together a list of 15 unusual things to do in Paris.
1. Explore the Paris Catacombs
Sure, the catacombs of Paris are quite well known, especially for horror fans like me, but still, I think quite a lot of tourists do not put it on their list because they think it’s a bit weird.
I also think that the catacombs de Paris should be on a list of unusual things to do in Paris because visiting an underground ossuary holding the remains of over six million people is kind of unusual.
The catacombs are a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers beneath the streets of Paris, and I’ve always found the catacombs both very macabre and fascinating at the same time.
The catacombs were created in the late 18th century. They are actually quarries, but in the 18th century, Paris had a major public health problem. The cemeteries were overflowing, which meant that a lot of the water was polluted by the overflowing cemeteries, and so the bones from the cemeteries inside of Paris were transferred to the catacombs.
- Location: 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris.
- Tickets: Book tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM.
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with reduced mobility due to numerous stairs and uneven ground.
- What to Expect: Dark, narrow passages with low ceilings. Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes.
- Guided Tours: Available for a more in-depth historical context.
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2. Visit the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature
Next up we have the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature. This is truely off the beaten path!
This is a bit of a weird museum because it is completely dedicated to hunting and nature.
I love it a lot because there’s a lot of taxidermy here, and the museum is a unique blend of art, history, and natural sciences. It is the perfect place to visit in the city of lights if you love taxidermy!
The museum is located in the center of Paris in the Marais district in two very beautiful historic mansions.
As I said, the museum features a very eclectic collection of taxidermy. You will also find a lot of antique weapons here and even contemporary art installations.
I would really recommend having a look at the Hall of the Unicorn and the Grand Salon because the Grand Salon has a beautiful ceiling fresco.
- Location: 62 Rue des Archives, 75003 Paris.
- Tickets: Purchase at the museum entrance or online.
- Opening Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Closed on Tuesdays.
- Accessibility: Fully accessible for visitors with disabilities.
- Interactive Elements: Educational programs and workshops available for children and adults.
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3. Discover the Hidden Vineyard of Montmartre
Did you know that there is a working vineyard in Montmartre?
Well, the Clos de Montmartre is a small but historic vineyard located in the heart of Montmartre.
Every year, a limited quantity of local wine is produced here.
The vineyard actually dates back to the 12th century, and it was revived in the 1930s by local artists who obviously had a taste for wine.
Montmartre used to be very rural, and this vineyard is a testament to that history. I love just seeing this vineyard. It’s tucked away behind a few houses, but it’s definitely worth having a look because it’s so unreal to see a vineyard in the heart of Paris.
You can take a private tour to learn about the fascinating history of the vineyard and have some macarons afterwards!
- Location: Rue des Saules, 75018 Paris.
- Tickets: Private tours can be arranged through the Montmartre Tourist Office.
- Best Time to Visit: During the annual grape harvest festival, Fête des Vendanges, in October.
- Views: Offers picturesque views of Paris and the surrounding Montmartre neighborhood.
- What to Expect: A quaint and charming vineyard nestled among the bustling streets of Montmartre.
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4. Attend a Vintage Cabaret Show at Au Lapin Agile
Now, we’ve all heard of the Moulin Rouge and the Crazy Horse, but what about going to Au Lapin Agile? Because let’s be honest – no trip to Paris is complete without going to the Cabaret!
Au Lapin Agile is one of the oldest cabarets in Paris, and just like many of the others, it is located in Montmartre.
Au Lapin Agile has been a favorite haunt for many artists and writers since the 19th century.
What to expect? Well, traditional French chansons, poetry readings, and very intimate performances capturing the bohemian spirit of old Montmartre.
It is not as extravagant as the Moulin Rouge, it is more intimate, and it’s definitely not as touristy as the other big cabarets in the rest of Montmartre.
- Location: 22 Rue des Saules, 75018 Paris.
- Tickets: Book tickets in advance on their website or by phone.
- Showtimes: Shows typically start at 9:00 PM and run until midnight.
- Nearby Attractions: Close to Sacré-Cœur Basilica and the Montmartre Museum.
- What to Expect: An authentic and nostalgic experience with a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
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5. Wander through the Petite Ceinture Railway
Another really unique and cool thing to do when you visit Paris is to wander through the Petite Ceinture railway. It used to go across the city but now only parts remain.
The Petite Ceinture is an abandoned railway line that once circled the whole of Paris, but today it’s a place where many urban explorers come to take pictures and have a look around.
The tracks of the railway are completely overgrown, and there’s a lot of graffiti art and hidden tunnels that you can explore.
If you love urban exploring and photography, this is definitely a very interesting place to visit in the city of Paris.
You can explore sections of the railway in various arrondissements, and each section offers a unique sight. For instance, you can see community gardens as well as street art.
- Access Points: Entry points can be found in the 12th, 15th, and 16th arrondissements.
- Tickets: No tickets required; open access.
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7, but best visited during daylight hours for safety.
- What to Expect: A mix of nature and urban decay, providing a unique perspective on Paris’s history and modern life.
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6. Explore the Sewers of Paris (Les Égouts)
You can also explore the sewers of Paris, known as les égouts or the Paris sewer museum.
You have to do this with a guided tour. It is one of the most unique attractions in Paris.
The guided tour takes you through the underground sewer system and offers a very unique view of the engineering marvels that are the Paris sewers, as well as the sanitation history of this big European city.
The sewer system of Paris was designed in the 19th century by engineer Eugène Belgrand. This system played a very important role in modernizing Paris and improving the public health of its residents, especially those who were poor.
- Location: Near the Eiffel Tower, entrance at Pont de l’Alma.
- Tickets: Purchase at the entrance or online.
- Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with mobility issues.
- What to Expect: Damp and odorous conditions. Wear appropriate clothing. Learn about the history and functioning of the city’s extensive sewer network.
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7. Discover the Surrealist Art at Espace Dalí
If you love art, I would also recommend you go to Espace Dalí.
Espace Dalí is quite interesting because it’s a museum completely dedicated to the works of Salvador Dalí in the center of Montmartre.
In Espace Dalí, you can see over 300 original artworks, although it’s never really certain how original a work of Dalí is. You can see paintings, sculptures, graphic works, and anything that showcases Dalí’s very eccentric and imaginative style.
There’s also a really interesting gift shop that I love to browse, even if I’m not going into the museum itself, because there’s a lot of Dalí-inspired merchandise. I especially love the souvenirs, and there are also some really cool books and prints.
- Location: 11 Rue Poulbot, 75018 Paris.
- Tickets: Purchase at the museum entrance or online.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Accessibility: Fully accessible for visitors with disabilities.
- Gift Shop: Offers Dalí-inspired merchandise, including prints, books, and souvenirs.
- What to Expect: An immersive experience into Dalí’s surrealist vision.
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8. Visit the Museum of Vampires and Legendary Creatures
Are you scared of vampires?
Well, then the next one might not be for you.
The Museum of Vampires and Legendary Creatures is a very interesting and quirky museum exploring vampire mythology, folklore, and the supernatural. Yes the things you can see here are very far removed from what you can find in The Louvre but I consider this a true hidden gem in Paris!
The museum is located just outside of Paris, but it’s actually pretty easy to get to by public transport. Here you can find rare books, artifacts, vampire hunting kits, and curiosities related to legendary creatures.
If this interests you, I would definitely recommend going, but appointments are required. You can make an appointment by calling or emailing, and you will get a very intimate and guided experience with the curator of the museum, who will share their extensive knowledge and passion for the subject.
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- Location: 14 Rue Jules David, 93260 Les Lilas.
- Tickets: Appointment required; call or email to book.
- Opening Hours: By appointment only.
- What to Expect: An intimate and guided experience with the museum curator, who shares his extensive knowledge and passion for the subject.
- Nearby Attractions: Close to Parc de la Villette and other cultural sites.
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9. Experience the Colorful Street Art at Rue Dénoyez
This is another one for the art lovers.
Rue des Noyers is a vibrant street art hotspot in Belleville.
Now, I know Belleville is not really a neighborhood to visit if it’s your first time in Paris, but I love Belleville because it’s so colorful and there’s so much to do and see.
If you are a fan of street art, definitely head to Rue des Noyers because there are works by both local and international artists.
Everything you see here is constantly changing. There are numerous murals and a variety of street art in different styles and themes.
If this is your kind of city experience, I would definitely recommend coming. It’s probably one of the best places in Paris to go for street art.
- Location: Rue Dénoyez, 75020 Paris.
- Tickets: No tickets required; open access. Best way to see it is through a street art tour.
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7, but best visited during daylight hours.
- What to Expect: A vibrant and colorful street art scene, perfect for a leisurely stroll and photo opportunities.
- Nearby Attractions: Close to Parc de Belleville, offering panoramic views of Paris.
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10. Enjoy a Literary Café at Shakespeare and Company
If you love reading as much as I do, you should definitely head to Shakespeare and Company.
Shakespeare and Company is an iconic English-language bookstore and café located on the left bank, near the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
It has been a literary hub for writers and readers since the 1950s. Shakespeare and Company also hosts regular readings, book signings, and literary festivals with both local and international authors.
So if you are going to Paris, definitely check out Shakespeare and Company to see if one of your favorite authors is doing a signing or a reading. And if not, you can always head to Shakespeare and Company just to get a coffee and buy a book or two or three… or five.
- Location: 37 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris.
- Tickets: No tickets required; open access.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- What to Expect: A cozy atmosphere with a mix of new and used books, comfortable reading nooks, and a café serving coffee and pastries.
- Nearby Attractions: Close to the Seine River and Île de la Cité.
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11. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride at Parc André Citroën
Another super cool thing to do when you’re in Paris is to take a hot air balloon ride.
This will offer you beautiful panoramic views of Paris, but don’t be scared—the balloon is tethered, so you won’t fly away.
From the balloon, you will have a very unique perspective of the city. You will go up in the balloon to 150 meters. It’s a very gentle ascent, and this will offer you a 360-degree view of Paris and many of the landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and the Seine.
Obviously, the balloon experience is weather dependent, so do check conditions before visiting.
- Location: 2 Rue Cauchy, 75015 Paris.
- Tickets: Purchase at the park or online.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM (weather permitting).
- What to Expect: Weather-dependent; check conditions before visiting. Ideal for families and photographers.
- Nearby Attractions: Located in Parc André Citroën, which also features beautiful gardens and water features.
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12. Discover the Hidden Passages of Paris
You can also go and discover the hidden passages of Paris. This is a great thing to do if you are looking for unique things in the streets of Paris!
There are many storied passages with shops, cafés, and boutiques, all offering a charming glimpse into 19th-century Parisian life.
Some of these hidden passages are known for certain things. For example, there’s a gorgeous passage near Gare du Nord in an African neighborhood, known for its African shops. I love going there not only for the shops and to discover new ingredients but also because the passage is so beautiful.
In the center of the city, you will find passages with beautiful glass roofs and vintage charm, featuring antique shops, traditional eateries, restaurants, and brasseries.
Unique Passages:
- Passage Jouffroy: Known for its glass roof and vintage charm.
- Passage des Panoramas: One of the oldest covered passages, featuring antique shops and traditional eateries.
- Galerie Vivienne: Famous for its elegant architecture and upscale boutiques.
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13. Visit the Musée des Arts Forains (Fairground Art Museum)
I also love going to the Musée des Arts Forains.
This whimsical museum features lots of vintage fairground attractions, theatrical sets, and carnival games. It’s very interactive because some of these attractions still work, and you can actually use them, as well as the carnival games.
I love the antique carousels and the mechanical puppets, which my husband is a big fan of. It’s a really immersive and interactive experience.
It’s one of the museums that I would highly recommend if you are coming to Paris with kids.
- Location: 53 Avenue des Terroirs de France, 75012 Paris.
- Tickets: Guided tours only; book online.
- Opening Hours: By appointment only.
- What to Expect: Interactive exhibits, guided tours, and occasional live performances.
- Nearby Attractions: Located in Bercy Village, which also offers shopping and dining options.
14. Explore the Mysterious Arènes de Lutèce
Paris was already a big city in the Roman era, and this can be seen from the mysterious Arènes de Lutèce.
This is an ancient Roman amphitheater hidden in the Latin Quarter. It used to be used for gladiatorial combat and public events, but now it is one of the most important Roman ruins in Paris. It dates back to the 1st century AD.
Today, you can visit the Arènes de Lutèce. I love coming here just to have a little picnic, to escape all the noise, tourists, and crowds because it’s super quiet.
If it’s sunny, you will often find old men playing pétanque in the middle of the Arènes de Lutèce.
- Location: 49 Rue Monge, 75005 Paris.
- Tickets: No tickets required; open access.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM.
- What to Expect: Ideal for a quiet picnic or reading spot. Explore the ruins and imagine the spectacles that once took place here.
- Nearby Attractions: Close to the Jardin des Plantes and the National Museum of Natural History.
15. Take a Secret Tour of the Palais Garnier
Last but not least, you can also take a tour of the Palais Garnier.
The Palais Garnier is one of the most beautiful opera houses in the world.
I know the tour can be pretty expensive, but it’s more than worth it if you love Baroque style, opera, or classical music. You’ll be able to go backstage and explore hidden parts of this iconic opera house.
These hidden parts are not usually open to the public, so you will have behind-the-scenes access to private boxes used by royalty, the underground lake, and the lavishly decorated auditorium. You need to book tours in advance online, but there are tours available every single day.
- Location: Place de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris.
- Tickets: Book tickets in advance online.
- Opening Hours: Daily tours available.
- What to Expect: Engaging guided tour with fascinating anecdotes about the opera house’s history and architecture.
- Nearby Attractions: Located near the Galeries Lafayette and the Boulevard Haussmann shopping district.
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