Tired of selfies in front of the Eiffel Tower and long queues at the Louvre? Then discover the secret corners and hidden gems of Paris, those places that even Parisians keep to themselves. Get ready to explore the French capital like a local, far from the beaten track of tourist traps.
Table of Contents
Hidden Gem Museums
Museum of Magic
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We’re going to start this list with a museum for young and old alike, the Musée de la magie!
This museum, located in the heart of the Marais district, is France’s leading museum of magic and illusions. It offers several activities such as magic workshops, birthday parties, and magic courses.
If you’re a little too old for a magic birthday party, don’t worry – experiencing the museum’s many collections should do the trick.
Information and booking (website in French)
Museum of Fairground Arts
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Located in the 12th arrondissement, this one-of-a-kind museum immerses you in the world of funfairs from previous centuries.
Here you can discover an incredible collection of fairground objects and attractions, or even take in a show.
Victor Hugo’s House
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In the heart of the Marais district, the Maison de Victor Hugo is a must-see for lovers of French literature.
The former home of the writer, who lived there between 1832 and 1848, has been transformed into a museum, offering an insight into his life and works. The collections include manuscripts and drawings.
National Archives Museum
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This museum is steeped in history with its collection of documents and archives recounting France’s history from the Middle Ages to the present day.
The museum regularly organizes thematic exhibitions, enabling visitors to discover the often little-known treasures of France’s heritage.
Balzac’s House and Garden
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Come and visit the Maison de Balzac with its garden (overlooking the Eiffel Tower, after all!), a haven of peace in the heart of the capital.
The museum displays manuscripts, personal objects, and an impressive library.
Perfume Museum
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For an olfactory experience unique to each of you, I invite you to visit the Musée du Parfum.
Just a stone’s throw from the Opéra Garnier, you’ll be immersed in the history and art of perfumery.
With a collection of antique bottles and manufacturing tools, the museum offers a wide range of activities for creating your own perfume.
59 Rivoli
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If you like contemporary art, then 59 Rivoli is the place for you!
This building, formerly an artists’ squat, is now a renowned venue for artistic creation.
It’s a great opportunity to discover new artists and even see live performances.
It’s a vibrant, lively place, right in the heart of the city.
Information (website in French)
Rex Studios
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If you’re a movie buff, then come and take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Grand Rex in Paris.
Rex Studios is an interactive tour that takes you behind the scenes of cinema and dubbing.
The secrets of special effects, sets, and video editing await you along the way.
Paradox Museum
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A rather unusual place to visit in Paris, the Paradox Museum offers an array of optical illusions and a fun, immersive experience.
With its eye-popping artistic installations, the museum will make you doubt your senses and amaze you. You’ll also have the chance to ask the staff to take photos of you inside the illusions for a unique souvenir!
Unusual Places to See
House of Loo
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A Chinese pagoda in the heart of Paris, that’s pretty unique!
Located in the 8th arrondissement, this pagoda was built in the early 20th century by Chinese antique dealer Ching Tsai Loo.
With its facades adorned with oriental sculptures, its typical pagoda roof and its ornate interiors, the Maison de Loo also houses an art gallery with an exhibition of Asian art.
Experience a trip to China without leaving Paris!
Information (website in French)
The Cité du Figuier
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Located in the 11th arrondissement, Cité du Figuier is a flower-filled cul-de-sac with unmistakable charm.
Lined with colorful houses and lush gardens, this passageway offers a haven of peace in the heart of the capital.
The Petite Ceinture
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The Petite Ceinture is a former railroad line surrounding Paris, which has been abandoned for decades.
Reclaimed by nature and converted into an urban walking trail, it crosses several arrondissements, offering a variety of landscapes and unusual views of the city.
Rue des Thermopyles
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In the 14th arrondissement, this picturesque street is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
With its cobblestones, colorful houses, and gardens, this street offers a charmingly bucolic setting.
Lovers of photography will appreciate the many photo opportunities on this charming street, an Instagrammable place to be.
Arènes de Lutèce
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The remains of a Roman amphitheater in the 5th arrondissement, once used to accommodate over 15,000 spectators for gladiatorial combat and theatrical performances.
Today, the historic site has become a place where Parisians come to relax with a good game of pétanque, or even just to unwind.
Anne Frank’s Garden
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A peaceful, secret garden in the Marais district, this spot of greenery is dedicated to the memory of the young diarist.
It’s a place of reflection and serenity with trees, flowers, and verdant lawns, enhanced by benches and a children’s play area.
Lavirotte Building
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Located in the 7th arrondissement, this building is a masterpiece of Art Nouveau in Paris.
Built by architect Jules Lavirotte in 1901, this unique building features a facade adorned with sculptures and floral motifs.
Every detail you see, from the architectural details to the balconies and doors, is a work of art in itself.
If you come and admire the façade, you’ll see the wealth of ornament infused into the building by the artist.
Dog cemetery
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This very special cemetery in Asnières-sur-Seine is the only one of its kind, and is dedicated exclusively to pets.
Opened in 1899, it is considered the first pet cemetery!
You’ll discover tombs adorned with sculptures and funerary monuments dedicated to dogs, cats, and even horses.
This visit is an ode to the love between humans and their pets.
National Archives Garden
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If you’ve just visited the Musée des Archives Nationales, then don’t forget to visit its garden too, which is open to the public without restriction!
The garden is divided into several sections, each with its own character, including flowerbeds and manicured lawns.
Information (website in French)
Rue Crémieux
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Rue Crémieux is considered THE most colorful street in Paris!
Located near the Gare de Lyon, its pastel facades and climbing plants have become iconic on Instagram.
This pedestrian street is a feast for the eyes and will immerse you in a picturesque, lively atmosphere.
Catacombes de Paris
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One of the iconic facets of Paris, the catacombs are a must-see.
This 2 km network of underground tunnels has been home to the bones of millions of Parisians since the 18th century.
You can visit galleries lined with skulls and bones, offering a unique experience for anyone daring to venture beneath the capital.
Read more: Visiting the Catacombs of Paris: Is It Worth It?
Fun & Not too Crowded Activities
Paris Generali Ballon
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For a unique aerial experience over Paris, the Ballon de Paris Generali offers a ten-minute hot-air balloon flight over the city.
Located in the Parc André Citroën, this balloon will take you up to 150 meters in altitude, so you can admire the Parisian scenery from a whole new angle.
Un Apéro Peinture
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Paint Me Up’s Apéro Peinture is an activity that combines creativity and conviviality.
Guided by a professional artist, you can create your own work of art while enjoying a glass of wine.
It’s an opportunity to let your inner artist express themself, and to impress (or not) your friends!
La Tête dans les Nuages
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Welcome to Europe’s largest leisure center!
Located in the heart of Paris, this gigantic space offers a multitude of activities for all ages: an arcade, virtual reality, simulators, and much more!
It’s the ideal place for an outing with family or friends to fall back into their childhood nostalgia for a few hours and have fun in a colorful, lively atmosphere.
Ceramics Workshop
Do you have a creative spirit, or simply need some new crockery? Then this is the perfect activity for you!
Wecandoo offers ceramic creation workshops to create your own objects, such as bowls, vases, sculptures, and much more.
You’ll be accompanied by passionate craftspeople who will help you whatever your level, and guide you through to the end of your creation.
Information and booking (website in French)
Mad Golf
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This original, immersive mini-golf course plunges you into a colorful universe with its incredible neon atmosphere.
Each course has its own theme, and the perfect lighting scheme makes each one unique.
Whether you’re a couple, a family or a group of friends, Mad Golf is the ideal place to spend a unique moment while challenging those around you.
Le Planétarium de la Cité des Sciences
Located in the Cité des Sciences, the Planetarium offers total immersion in the universe of space.
Thanks to high-definition projections on a 360-degree dome, you can explore the mysteries of space and travel to the farthest reaches of the universe.
The sessions are also led by specialists who will explain the various astronomical phenomena, and answer any questions you may have!
Arsène Lupin and the Secret of the Opéra
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Arsène Lupin and the Secret of the Opéra is a thrilling puzzle game set in the prestigious Opéra Garnier.
You’ll be plunged into the world of the famous gentleman burglar, and will have to solve riddles to uncover a hidden secret.
This interactive game combines exploration, reflection, and adventure, in a sumptuous setting full of mysteries (for the game).
Parfum Workshop
L’Atelier des Parfums lets you create your own perfume, guided by perfumery experts.
This workshop offers a unique sensory experience, where everyone can choose and blend essences to compose their own fragrance.
I’ve tested this activity for you. I invite you to view the workshop and my creation on my article (article in French).
Information and booking (website in French)
Original Restaurants / Coffee shops / Bars
Ephemera Under the Sea
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Ephemera Under the Sea offers an immersive culinary experience inspired by the underwater world.
This uniquely atmospheric restaurant features a fascinating décor with lighting effects and projections that recreate the atmosphere of an ocean – and that’s hard to beat!
Enjoy refined seafood and fish dishes surrounded by virtual sea creatures that will make you believe you’re underwater.
Ephemera Stellar
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This other Ephemera restaurant, Stellar, takes you on a completely different journey, leaving the oceans behind and taking you into space.
This futuristic restaurant will transport you to an entirely different galaxy with its projections of stars and planets.
As you might have guessed, there’s no alien food on the menu. And while that’s a shame, it offers a rather unique culinary experience featuring flavors from all over the world.
Ideal for Star Wars fans (or space fans in general), this restaurant will take you to the farthest reaches of the universe, both gustatively and visually.
Ephemera Jungle Palace
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If you don’t like oceans or space, then come to the Ephemera Jungle Palace in the middle of a lush jungle.
With its dense vegetation and rainforest sound effects, you’ll be in the middle of the Amazon as you enjoy exotic dishes.
Inspired from around the world, you’ll be treated to fresh, tasty ingredients and creative dishes. It’s truly an exotic escape without leaving the capital.
Le Comptoir Général
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Le Comptoir Général is a Caribbean-inspired bar with a warm-atmosphere.
Located along the Canal Saint Martin, this atypical venue offers a unique experience with an ambience straight out of a pirate movie.
You’ll be treated to exotic cocktails and island-inspired dishes in a friendly, festive atmosphere.
Chatmallow Café
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The Chatmallow Café is a cozy cat bar where you can relax with a drink while petting some of the cutest cats around.
From hot and cold drinks to pastries and snacks, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a long walk, and you’ll get as many cuddles as you like!
Information and booking (website in French)
Café Contresort
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Located in the heart of Paris, this witchcraft-themed café features a mystical decor with grimoires, potions, and occult symbols (it’s safe, don’t worry).
You can enjoy drinks and dishes inspired by the world of magic while taking part in a tarot reading every Friday and Saturday evening.
Information and booking (website in French)
L’Atelier 2D
L’Atelier 2D is a one-of-a-kind café with comic-book-inspired decor.
Every element of the décor, from the walls to the ceilings and furniture, is designed to instill the impression of being in a black-and-white drawing.
You can enjoy drinks and pastries while relaxing in an old-fashioned comic book.
Starbucks Opéra
Starbucks Opéra is often considered the most beautiful Starbucks in the world.
Located close to the Opéra Garnier, the sumptuous decor of this café will immerse you in a unique atmosphere with frescoes, crystal chandeliers, and luxurious furniture.
Lavomatic
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The Lavomatic is a bar hidden behind a washing machine, offering an original and mysterious experience.
To gain access, you’ll need to find the secret entrance in a laundromat (it’s not too complicated, you’ll see).
You’ll then have access to a cozy, trendy bar with creative cocktails and a rather intimate atmosphere.
It’s the perfect place if you like unusual and original places that stray far from the more classically themed bars.
Information (website in French)
Secret 8
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Secret 8 is a bar hidden behind a fake library, accessible only after solving a riddle on Instagram.
This mysterious and unique concept for lovers of puzzles and refined cocktails with an elegant and intimate decor, making it the perfect spot for an evening out with your partner or friends.
Be warned, however, that the cocktails are rather expensive, so be prepared.
I aim to share my tips and recommendations for the beautiful country of France. My goal is to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From finding the best hotels and restaurants, to discovering unique activities and sights, I’ve got you covered!
