What to Do in Paris That Isn’t the Eiffel Tower

Paris. Oh Paris. We all know those familiar scenes of this magical city of lights — the gorgeous Torre de Eiffel glittering in the night sky. Or a perfect sunny summer day with a baguette and a black of cheese on a blanket in the shadow of the tower. It’s a bucket list item, it is, I’ve done it, you should too. The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Arc de Triumphe. But, there is so much more to this amazing city. So, once you’ve checked those typical tourist destinations off your list, check out all of the other amazing things you can do in Paris. From a city vineyard to learning how to cook just like a French person, here are 12 of the best things to do Paris that are just a bit more off the beaten track.

Visit the Musée de l’Orangerie

As someone who loves visiting Paris, I’m always on the lookout for fun and unique things to do. And one place that I highly recommend visiting is the Musée de l’Orangerie! Located in the west wing of the Tuileries Gardens, this small yet charming museum is easily missed, as in I walked right past it the first few times I visited Paris and had no clue — oops!

This museum is largely dedicated to showcasing the work of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artists, with a special focus on Claude Monet. In fact, this museum is where you’ll find Monet’s famed water lily paintings, which take up the space of two giant oval rooms and provide a one-of-a-kind viewing experience!

And while this museum may not have the same level of fame as others in Paris, I found myself enjoying this collection equally as much, if not more. Why? Because, unlike the more popular museums, the Musee de l’Orangerie is not usually filled with thousands of tourists. Sure it gets crowded at times, but you can generally expect a more peaceful and intimate experience, especially if you visit early in the morning on a weekday! 

Plus, with its smaller size, you can easily get through the entire museum without spending an entire day there. For me, this made visiting feel less draining, and more worth it! Thus, if you’re keen on escaping the chaos of popular tourist attractions and viewing incredible artwork from world-renowned artists, this museum is a fabulous choice. 

Kristin, Global Travel Escapades

Go Shopping

We all know that Paris is one of the fashion capitals of the world. And there are some amazing worldclass ateliers in Paris. But I’m not talking about all that — I’m not looking to drop hundred on a handbag, as I’d imagine you might not be either. But, I still think you should go shopping in Paris.

Fashion is culture in a city like this. It is part of the fabric of everyday life. Walking through the right department stores is like walking through a museum. A museum in which you can enter for free, touch, and even wear the items on display. Plus, department stores in Paris are next level in their architectural design. Everything about the spaces is intentional — from the way the shoes of each designer are displayed to the criss crossing of the escalators to the natural light spilling in from the intricate skylights. 

I recommend checking out Le Bon Marché which is also connected to the gorgeous food hall at La Grande Épicerie de Paris. Then make your way to Samaritaine Paris. And for the grand finale, the absolutely dazzling Galeries Lafayette.

Caitlin, The Country Jumper

Snap Shots of Rue Cremieux

If there is one thing I love to do in Paris, it’s take amazing photographs. Me and my partner love grabbing our cameras and spending the weekend in Paris taking stunning shots of all the amazing things we find.

However, we have been to Paris many times and hate going to places that are swarming with tourists. 

Therefore, we always love to get up before sunset and head to the twelfth arrondissement since this is where you’ll find Rue Cremieux.

It’s a gorgeous, one-block, pedestrian-friendly street that was originally built as housing for local workers. Today, this quaint lane is filled with charming houses painted in a rainbow of hues. 

True, Rue Cremieux isn’t exactly a secret thanks to Instagram, But, if you get up early enough you can visit without the crowds and take photos before anyone else is awake. 

However, I always try to remember that these homes are private residences. So, it is inappropriate to peek through the windows or sit on the steps since people live here. 

Respect the neighborhood and you’ll be able to enjoy taking photos at one of the coolest places in Paris.

Victoria, Follow Me Away

Explore the Covered Passages

I fell in love with Paris at first sight. The enchanting city conjures magical spells on me with its gorgeous architecture, fascinating museums, Parisian chic with the je-ne-sais-quoi attitude, buttery croissants, etc. The list goes on.

Every time I return, it never fails to surprise me with more charms. I was delighted to discover the Covered Passages in Paris on my recent trip. 

The Covered Passages (“Les Passages Couverts”) are covered walkways built in the 19th century to provide the Parisian bourgeois with a luxury shopping experience. On rainy days, they needed shelter from the nasty streets polluted with sewage and mud.

I enjoyed taking a glimpse into the city’s glamorous past at these historical shopping malls. Some of them are well-preserved architectural marvels, featuring stunning glass roofs that allow natural light into the passage, ornate moldings, decorative tiles, sculptures, and murals.

Each of these passages has distinctive charms, so I recommend visiting a few. (Many of them are located near the Opera neighborhood.) If I had to pick one, I would say that the Galerie Vivienne is the most elegant and iconic passage. You can also shop for old books and vintage posters at Passage Jouffroy. Or browse collectible old stamps, postcards, and coins at Passage des Panoramas while also indulging at lively cafes and restaurants. 

Parisian passages are an excellent hidden gem if you like to find off-the-beaten-path and less touristy destinations in Paris. Experience the city’s old-world charm and unique shopping experiences the next time you’re in Paris. 

Chloe, Chloe’s Travelogue

Take a Four-Course Cooking Class

The 4-course cooking class at La Cuisine Paris called “Marais Tour and Cooking Class” has been one of the most memorable hidden gem experiences across Europe that I’ve had.

The website advertises only 4 courses, but it was more like 5 courses along with snacks as we walked through the streets of the Marais neighborhood to shop for ingredients.

We were taught by a funny and friendly Michelin star chef who showed us her favorite local stores and bought whatever looked good – she didn’t know exactly what we were going to cook until she was inspired by the ingredients. We ended up making a delicious squash soup, raspberry duck breast with roasted veggies and creamy potatoes, and the best lava cake with tiramisu cream to end!

Throughout the evening, we also ate a French cheese course and delicious salad. Of course, lots of butter and cream were used so you know the food was good! Make sure to wear your stretchy pants and just enjoy it, you’re on vacation!

The class was very fun but it was also educational, and I learned a lot about French cooking and techniques and it was awesome that the chef sent us home with recipes to make again. We also got her insider tips on the best places to eat around Paris. I would recommend doing this class at the beginning of your stay in Paris so that you have time to visit all of her picks! There is some walking involved, so it’s best to do this in the spring or summer when you’re likely to have nicer weather.

Taylor, Culture Craving Couple

Discover Pere Lachaise Cemetery

I had recently lost my partner, and travelling was and is my way of dealing with grief. But I didn’t want to be surrounded by happy tourists by the Eiffel Tower or romantic couples by the Seine, and that’s how I found myself at Pere Lachaise Cemetery.

Now, I know visiting a cemetery might not be at the top of your Paris to-do list, but this one is definitely worth considering. And no, you don’t need to be a grieving soul to appreciate its beauty. It’s a beautiful, calm oasis with impressive statues and is the final resting place of many famous people.

For example, Jim Morrison from The Doors is buried here. You can easily find his grave and other celebrity gravesites by looking for the groups of people hovering, or you could download a cemetery map to your phone.

Oscar Wilde has a unique tomb here that looks like something from ancient Egypt. It’s inspired by his poem “The Sphinx.”

Edith Piaf, the singer of “La Vie en Rose,” is also buried here. Her song is still popular with street musicians and buskers on every bridge in Paris. 

But even without these famous graves, the cemetery is a truly lovely place to spend a few hours in a peaceful location. 

To get to Pere Lachaise Cemetery, I recommend taking metro Line 3 and getting off at the Gambetta stop, just one stop after Pere Lachaise. The cemetery is on a hill, but if you start from the Gambetta entrance, you can walk downhill through the grounds, which is far easier than climbing uphill.

Sarah, Life Part 2 and Beyond

Enroll in a Pastry Making Class 

Recently, I was lucky enough to visit Paris for the FIFTH time. At that point, it became important to me to find something new to try in this pretty city. If you’re looking for something to do in Paris beyond gazing up at the Eiffel Tower or spending hours at the Louvre, consider taking a pastry-making class!

I booked this croissant baking class in Paris for my friend and I, and it was the perfect way for us to spend a Saturday morning. We woke up to clear blue skies and a chill in the air. We were staying in Montmartre, which is where the class is as well. We took a leisurely walk over to the class location, stopping for coffee along the way. 

Then, we spent several hours baking buttery goodness alongside new friends and with the guidance of our expert pastry-making teacher. The class size is limited to only six people at a time, so we all got plenty of attention and help along the way. 

We baked traditional, Parisian croissants and pain au chocolate (and even got to sample some of the chocolate along the way!). There is SO much that goes into the art of French croissant-baking that I hadn’t realized. I now certainly have a new appreciation for these delightful pastries, knowing how much effort it takes to get them just right! 

So, if you’re looking for something different to do on your Paris trip then definitely consider a baking class. 

Nausheen, Globe Gazers 

See Vignes du Clos in Montmartre

I had been to Paris many times and was looking for something unique to do. But, I never dreamed that I would find it in Montmartre. After all, the cobblestone streets and ethereal houses of this iconic Parisian neighborhood are world famous. In fact, this beautiful area was frequented by legends like Pablo Picasso, in addition to modern day photographers looking for the best Instagram spots in Paris. 

So, I was astounded when I stumbled upon the last working wine vineyard in Paris during my most recent visit to Paris’ 18th arrondissement. I passed Maison de Rose and stumbled upon the Musee de Montmartre. I decided to step inside and see stunning works of art from all of the great artists who lived in the area. 

However, it wasn’t until I stepped into the charming back garden of the museum that I caught a view of the stunning vineyard. The vineyard is known locally as Vignes du Clos Montmartre and sits along a steep hill. The vineyard actually belongs to the Musse de Montmartre. I took a ton of photos and decided to head to Rue des Saules and Rue Saint Vincent after the museum to get another beautiful shot of this magical place. 

However, I later found out that you can also do a tour through the vineyard. You just need to book tickets in advance since the tours are quite popular. The tour lasts about an hour and includes a wine tasting as well as a walk through the vineyard. It’s truly an unforgettable experience in Paris that I will cherish.

Linda, Linda on the Run

Visit Sainte Chapelle

While Notre Dame Cathedral is synonymous with Paris, nearby Sainte Chapelle stands by as the beautiful, shy younger sister.

Built by King Louis IX to house Jesus’ crown of thorns and a piece of the cross, which he purchased at a fair market price, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Completed way back in 1248, Sainte Chapelle’s glorious windows are generally hidden by the government buildings that surround it. 

Standing in line and passing through a drab, business courtyard to the lower level entrance, our kids were quite skeptical of the decision to add Sainte Chapelle to our Paris itinerary. Once inside the church, their skepticism wasn’t much improved. We entered at the lower level, which is drab. Then, we climbed an uninspiring staircase.

And then, we stepped through the doorway into the expansive cathedral, and collectively, held our breath. Ahead of us, soaring panels of stained glass sent sparkles of bright colors throughout the entire space. The 15 windows depict more than 1,100 Biblical stories. Behind us, the rose window was just as glorious. All five of us stood still, soaking it in — a stunning gem hidden inside a plain outer shell.

At some point, I looked down at the floor, and realized that for 800 years, royalty had walked these intricate tile floors.

Everything inside this space is incredibly detailed and stunningly beautiful. My husband loved it as much as he hoped he would, and bought his only souvenir — a small replica of the rose window — during our visit. So, if you’re wondering is Sainte Chapelle worth visiting, our answer is a resounding yes. Sainte Chapelle is located at Palais de la Cité, 4 Boulevard du Palais, 1st arrondissement. The closest metro line is Cité (Line 4). We recommend going early on a sunny day to truly appreciate the windows. Entrance to Sainte Chapelle is included with the Paris Museum Pass, though advance reservations are required.

Karen, Family Travels on a Budget

Get Romantic at the I Love You Wall 

While Paris is filled with some of the most famous landmarks in France, sometimes you want to explore some of its lesser-known gems.  

I’ve visited Paris over a half-dozen times, and on every trip, I revisit my old favorites but also make a point to seek out some new sights.   On our Paris trip last summer, one of my new discoveries was ‘Le mur des je t’aime’, or the ‘I Love You Wall’. You’ll find the Wall of Love in the hilly Montmartre neighborhood of Paris. This treasure is hidden inside a small park, the Square Jehan Rictus.  It’s located just north of the Abbesses metro station, so it’s easy to get there via public transit.

The wall itself is made up of dark blue tiles covering over 40 square meters.  You’ll find the phrase ‘I Love You’ written across the wall in hundreds of languages. Take a moment and try to spot one in your language — it can be surprisingly difficult!

The I Love You Wall is an extremely popular place for couples to take photos. If you want a romantic couples’ photo (or even just a good picture without other people in it) you’ll have to wait your turn.

I love the small pocket parks in Paris, so I encourage you to take a quick turn through the park as well.  You can even get off your feet and take a break while you enjoy the shade on one of the park benches.

Lisa, Travel to Lyon

Explore the Catacombs

Having explored hundreds of cities, Paris easily earned its spot as one of the top 20 European cities on our list. And while the Paris Catacombs may not be top of mind when visiting the City of Love, rest assured they provide an incredible experience which is different from the traditional tourist spots! 

In the late 18th century, overflowing cemeteries and public health concerns in Paris led to the creation of the Catacombs. Bones from various city cemeteries were transferred underground. These Catacombs span over 200 miles (320 kilometers) beneath the streets of Paris, but only a small portion of that is open to the public. 

As you descend 66 feet (20 meters) underground, you find yourself immersed in an underground labyrinth containing the remains of around six million Parisians. Skulls are neatly stacked in niches, and femurs create decorative patterns – it’s undeniably spooky yet strangely captivating!

Here are our tips for your visit:

• Purchase tickets online well in advance! Otherwise, the line may wrap around the block, taking up to three hours of your time.
• Book one of the last spots of the day. That way, you will almost have the entire catacombs for yourself.
• Dress warmly because it’s chilly year-round. Comfortable shoes are a must, as there are many stairs to navigate.
• The tours are self-guided, with audio available in various languages. The audio guide they provide is very helpful and informative, so make sure to get one when you head down (it’s included in the admission fee)! 
• Set aside around 1.5 hours for your visit.

Viola & Sebastian, Away to the City

Go to The Petit Palais

The Petit Palais is a fantastic hidden gem in Paris that flies very much under the radar, despite being a fairly large building right next to the beautiful Pont Alexandre III bridge. 

The Petit Palais was built for the 1900 World Exhibition, and we remarked how it truly did feel like a palace, with an enormous, ornate, golden entrance, beautiful galleries with intricate murals on the ceilings, and a show stopping staircase. 

The Petit Palais holds the Museum of Fine Arts for the City of Paris (although it’s always just referred to as the Petit Palais, not the Museum of Fine Arts), and has a combination of sculptures and paintings displayed throughout the museum. We were greeted by beautiful sculpture galleries as we entered the building, which was easily my favorite part of the museum, and then we walked through rooms full of tapestries and paintings. 

Works from many famous artists are displayed in the Petit Palais, including Claude Monet, Auguste Rodin, Rembrandt, Peter Paul Rubens, and Paul Cézanne. Besides the sculptures and paintings, we loved the courtyard of the Petit Palais, which is the most charming little garden surrounded by an arched passageway. You can come stroll through the flowers and trees or eat at the cafe which is set up underneath the archway. 

And the best part about the Petit Palais is that it is one of several free museums in Paris.

Stephanie, France Adventurer

Hopefully these offbeat Paris attractions have inspired you for your next (or your first) visit to the city of love. There is always more to do in Paris. Have you found alternative Paris experiences that you loved? I’d be so interested to hear about them — let me know what you discovered down below in the comments!