Have you visited the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and all the must-see Paris attractions? Feeling like it’s time to move beyond the typical tourist trail? My guide is packed with quirky and unusual Parisian spots that will make your stay even more memorable!
On the same topic: 19 quirky and unusual hotels in Paris
1. A Very Cool Artistic Squat in Paris
59 Rivoli: 59 Rue de Rivoli, 1st arrondissement.
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59 Rivoli (in French only) is an artistic community that was created at 59 rue de Rivoli. Ten artists settled in this building to live and have their studio there after it was abandoned by a national bank and by public authorities.
Today this seven-floor “squat” is absolutely legal and welcomes visitors for free.
About thirty artists present their studios and their works; as for the gallery, it offers several exhibitions. In here, every genre rubs shoulders with one another: street art, painting, sculpture, and even music!
2. A Digital Immersion Into Art
L’Atelier des Lumières: 38 rue Saint Maur, 11th arrondissement.
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The Ateliers des Lumières is located in a former smelting plant of the 11th district and is the first digital art center in Paris.
This center allows you to be immersed in masters’ paintings – such as Gustav Klimt’s – thanks to its ten-meter high walls, 140 projectors, and 50 speakers on 2,000 m².
A quirky activity not to be missed!
3. A Very Colorful Basketball Court
Pigalle Playground: 22 rue Duperré, 9th arrondissement
This one is for you, basketball fans! The most unique basketball court is located in Pigalle in the 9th district: the Pigalle Playground.
As it is located between two buildings, this field does not have the regulatory measurements, and the rubber floor absorbs the ball’s noises in order to avoid noisy disturbances for the neighbors.
The very flashy colors – purple, yellow, and pink – make it a nice place to play basketball.
The field is loved by photographers (non-professionals and professionals), and it is undoubtedly one of Paris Instagrammers’ favorite places!
4. A Bizarre Taxidermy Wonderland
Maison Deyrolle: 46 Rue du Bac, 7th arrondissement
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If you are in the neighborhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, go visit the Maison Deyrolle.
This shop / museum is specialized in taxidermy and entomology (i.e. the study and classification of articulated animals and especially insects) and this is where you will discover a sort of cabinet of curiosity with rich collections of insects , shells, stuffed animals and other natural curiosities.
Whether you are a collector, a natural science enthusiast or just a curious visitor, this place is made to dazzle your eyes.
5. Soar Over Paris in Virtual Reality
Fly View: 32 Rue du 4 septembre, 2nd district
Fly View offers a one-of-a-kind way to explore Paris.
Equipped with a virtual reality headset and a jetpack flight simulator, you’ll embark on a 20-kilometer virtual journey over the city, seeing real drone footage in 360° view.
Fly above the Seine, the Eiffel Tower, and even come eye-to-eye with Notre Dame’s famous gargoyles!
6. Uncover the Best of Parisian Street Art
Paris is full of street artists; some of them are renowned, such as jef Aérosol or Miss.Tic, and some are unknown.
In Paris, some walls are entirely dedicated to street art.
That is the case, for example, in Rue Aubervilliers, where you can find the longest mural in Paris.
Nearby, graffiti artists flood in Rue de l’Ourcq and on the Ourcq canal banks.
In Belleville, there is even an entire street dedicated to street art: the Rue Dénoyez.
The 13th district can be considered a museum in the open air: south of the district, the Butte-aux-Cailles neighborhood is famous for its alleys covered with graffiti and stencil paintings.
You will find enormous murals on the 13th district’s buildings.
Street art is also developing in neighboring cities such as the art-committed city Vitry-sur-Seine or along the Saint-Denis canal in Saint-Denis.
7. Step Into the Ring for a Sumo Showdown
La Lucha Libre:10 rue de la Montagne Sainte-Geneviève, 5th arrondissement.
Think you’ve got what it takes?
Visit Lucha Libre in the Latin Quarter, where the basement houses a real wrestling ring—and yes, you can face off against a professional wrestler!
8. Dine in Total Darkness
Dans le noir: 51 rue Quincampoix, 4th arrondissement
This restaurant will shake your connection to food up.
The concept of Dans le Noir (“in the darkness”) is to serve customers in pitch-black, therefore, you cannot see what is on your plate, but you will love it anyway.
Only blind or visually impaired people serve here.
9. Walk in the Mysterious Catacombs of Paris
The Catacombs: entrance at 1 avenue du colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, exit at 21bis avenue René Coty.
The most interesting secrets of Paris might be those hidden under the ground.
The catacombs, the former quarry of Paris, have hosted the bones of the Cemetery of the Innocents since the 18th century.
Nowadays, about 6 million skeletons rest there. The path is about 2 km long.
Do not forget to bring your jacket, as the temperature can go down to 14°C (even in summer)!
Book a ticket to the Catacombs
10. Marvel at Paris’ Most Unusual Architecture
Lavirotte Building: 29 Avenue Rapp, 7th arrondissement
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After your visit to the Eiffel Tower or Champ de Mars, don’t miss the nearby architectural gem: the Lavirotte Building.
This quirky and whimsical structure, right across from the Eiffel Tower, boasts a style that’s both eccentric and unexpected, with eye-catching ornaments that blend multiple historical influences.
11. Capture Stunning, Offbeat Views of Paris
While you already know the iconic views from the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre, there are other spots offering equally stunning vistas over Paris!
The rooftops of Galeries Lafayette and Printemps on Boulevard Haussmann provide incredible views of the Garnier Opera, plus you can enjoy a meal or drink at their rooftop bars and restaurants.
For a more serene setting, Parc de Belleville is perfect for a picnic with breathtaking views of the city.
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Want more stunning views? Check out my article: The 18 Best Magnificent Views in Paris and Where to Find Them.
12. Experience Cinema Magic at a Quirky Theatre
Studio 28: 10 rue Tholozé, 18th arrondissement
Looking to switch things up with a movie? Visit Studio 28 for a magical experience in a cozy, artistic setting.
With regular previews for film enthusiasts, this cinema offers the perfect environment for a quiet movie session.
Before or after the show, relax in the winter garden with a cup of tea and some homemade cookies.
13. Stroll Through Paris’ Most Colorful Streets
Rue Crémieux, 12th arrondissement
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Passing through Gare de Lyon? Make sure to stop by Rue Crémieux. The street is bursting with color and artistic details, with each house offering its own unique charm. Pastel shades, a rarity in Paris, create a stunning scene that you won’t want to miss.
Marché d’Aligre: Place d’Aligre, 11th arrondissement
If you’re near the 11th district during your trip to Paris, take the opportunity to explore Marché d’Aligre.
This lively and friendly market is one of the oldest in the city, offering a joyful atmosphere and some of the cheapest fresh food in town.
Don’t miss the vendors along Rue d’Aligre and the charming covered market!
14. Taste Quirky Japanese Crêpes
Princess Crêpe: 3 rue des Ecouffes, 4th arrondissement
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Traditional Breton crêpes beware! Princess Crêpe, in the heart of the Marais, transports you to Japan with its kawaii vibe, dollhouse décor, and J-pop tunes.
Their crêpes, both sweet and savory, are served cone-style for a fun, portable treat while exploring the neighborhood.
Choose from simple delights like strawberry and whipped cream to more decadent options like pastry cream, banana, chocolate, and whipped cream.
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!
