21 Non-Touristy Issues to do in Paris: A Native’s Information

Non-touristy issues to do in Paris is what you’re on the lookout for? Then this submit is for you. As a result of whilst you can simply discover lists and blogs with a plethora of hidden gems in Paris, normally, these gems are nonetheless kinda touristy.

Rue Crémieux? Tremendous cute. The Coated Passages? Stunning! However is it the place the Parisian hand around in their spare time? Not a lot.

So in case you are eager on leaving the crushed path and experiencing a Paris that isn’t flooded by vacationers, learn on. As a Paris native, I’ll share with you the true spots the place the locals hang around.

Spoiler: it’s not on the Champs-Élysées and neither at St. Michel.

Salut, I’m Lena – journey planning professional and parisienne since 2006 🩷

One of the best 21 genuine non-touristy issues to do in Paris

Paris is house to the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysée and Montmartre, but additionally to greater than 2.1 Million Parisians. 12 Million, in case you rely everybody who lives within the higher Paris area.

And what’s, as positive because the Mona Lisa within the Louvre is, that it’s unlikely that you simply stumble upon any of them at one of many well-known landmarks.

But, Parisians are keen about nice meals, artwork, music, tradition, and socializing. So, the place do they hang around if not at locations just like the Louvre or Champs-Élysée? Let’s uncover the slightly uncommon issues to do in Paris collectively.

You search for distinctive issues to do in Paris? Don’t miss these posts:

Drinks & Dinner: Greatest non touristy eating places in Paris

Everybody in Paris likes to go to Bars, Cafés, and Eating places. But, you gained’t discover many Parisians on the busy spots like Châtelet or St. Michel. These are reserved for expats and vacationers.

#1 Butte-aux-Cailles

13. Arrondissement – Metro 6, Exit Corvisart | Metro 7 Place d’Italie or Tolbiac

Butte-aux-Cailles in Paris’s thirteenth arrondissement is an usually ignored neighborhood in Paris. Nested on a small hill, it as soon as echoed Montmartre with its windmills and vineyards. These are lengthy gone, and now, Butte-aux-Cailles it’s a hotspot for cool cafés, eating places, and vibrant avenue artwork.

Stroll by means of its charming homes and slim alleys by day, then get pleasure from its energetic, but reasonably priced eating and bar scene by night time. It’s one of the vital enjoyable and funky, non touristy issues to do in Paris.

And whilst you’re there, having fun with one of many loveliest locations, don’t skip the picturesque Quartier des Peupliers. It’s a quaint residential space with loads of charming streets and homes.

Craving some scrumptious Asian meals? Swing by Avenue de Choisy, the center of Paris’s Asian Quarter. It’s a should for foodies!

Greatest Addresses:

#2 Rue Sainte-Anne

1st /2nd Arrondissement – Metro 7 or 14, Exit Pyramides | Metro 3 Quatre – Septembre

Rue Sainte-Anne in Paris is a Japanese meals lover’s dream. If Parisians crave Ramen, it right here you discover them.

However the space round Rue Sainte-Anne can be a great spot for Mochis, Bubble Tea and even buying staples on your cooking at house. As a result of it’s right here you discover one of many few Ok-Marts in Paris.

Enjoyable factor although, in case you are on the lookout for native issues to do in Paris, many don’t have anything to do with France. Parisians love worldwide delicacies, for instance.

Anyway. Past simply meals, Rue Sainte-Anne is a cultural hotspot, echoing the colourful vibes of Japan. But it surely doesn’t cease there. You’ll come upon Taiwanese meals stalls tempting you with their delicacies and quaint outlets providing distinctive tea blends, spices and genuine home items.

It’s right here, the place you additionally discover one of many loveliest coated passages in Paris: Passage Choiseul.

And right here’s a neighborhood tip: in case you’re questioning which Ramen place is the perfect, simply search for the longest queue. That’s the place the magic occurs!

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#3 Oberkampf

eleventh Arrondissement – Metro 1, 5 or 8, exit Bastille, or Metro 9 exit Voltaire

The Oberkampf space in Paris buzzes with power. Stretching boadly between Bastille and Oberkampf, this hotspot affords another, hip vibe. It’s not about luxurious; it’s about authenticity.

So if the distinctive issues in Paris you’re on the lookout for embody nightlife, this space is ideal.

Greatest you begin at Bastille and make your method up. Rue de la Roquette and Rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud brim with bars and pubs. In case you want distinctive over upscale, that is your home.

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#4 Canal St. Martin or Bassin d’Arsenal

A night by the water, watching the sundown and sharing a bottle of wine is an unforgettable expertise. The Seine river banks, with a view of the shimmering Eiffel Tower and the well-known bateaux mouches passing by, are favorites for each vacationers and Parisians. It’s a shared love for enjoyable issues in Paris.

However in case you’re looking for a spot the place the native vibe thrives, there are 2 areas you must learn about: The Canal St. Martin and the Bassin d’Arsenal, near Bastille are fantastic, in case you are eager on including a number of underrated locations in Paris.

It’s right here the place many Parisians retreat to for these serene summer time night moments. Be part of them and uncover one other facet of Paris.

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The place the Parisians go: Gardens & Parks

Spending a day studying, a picnic with the children on the weekends or just to see some verdure: The Parisians love their gardens and parks. And whereas many do benefit from the Jardin du Luxembourg or the Tuileries, it’s not the go-to spot to savor their spare time.

The inner-city parks are slightly spots for a lunch break within the solar, an afterwork catch up, or a pit-stop whereas heading some place else.

However what are the greatest gardens and parks in Paris to get pleasure from nature and serenity?

#5 Coulée Verte de René-Dumont

twelfth Arrondissement – Metro 1, 5 or 8, exit Bastille,

The Coulée Verte de René-Dumont made it to the highest of the hidden gems for everybody who’s on the lookout for the perfect non touristy issues to do in Paris. So, it’s a bit touristy, particularly the primary a part of it following the viaduct des arts.

However the additional out you stroll, the less vacationers you cross. The park de Reuilly and the passerelle are again in Parisian fingers, and it’s a favourite spot of locals for picnics and sunbathing.

Greatest Addresses:

#6 Albert Kahn Gardens and Museum

2 Rue du Port, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt | Metro 10, Exit Boulogne Pont de Saint-Cloud

Not solely vacationers flock to the Parisian Museums, the Parisians themselves love the cultural panorama of their hometown. However as they’re used to beton and urbanism, they’re in awe after they can verify off a museum and a fantastic backyard in a single go.

Therefore, on of their favourite and really beneath the radar areas is the property of Albert Kahn. You discover it tucked away in Boulogne-Billancourt. Which is technically not Paris anymore. However don’t fear, it’s nonetheless on Metro line 10, and who counts anyway?

Albert Kahn (1860 – 1940) was a philanthropy and one of many first world traveler. The museum and his backyard replicate each and are a fantastic homage to his life. The museum reveals hundreds of pictures, and the gardens are among the nicest you discover in Paris.

In step with his journey experiences, you discover right here a Japanese backyard, an English rose backyard, a French orchard and a lush forest. The backyard is very beautiful in spring and an awesome different in case your restricted time will not be permitting you to make a journey to Giverny.

#7 The Parc Floral

12 Arrondissement – Metro 1, Exit Château de Vincennes

The Parc Floral is without doubt one of the Parisians favorites. Positioned within the coronary heart of the Bois de Vincennes, it’s an ideal escape from the buzzing metropolis.

Guests come to see flowers and crops from everywhere in the world, for jazz live shows throughout summer time or just to spend a lazy picnic day within the solar. The parc is very fashionable amongst households as a result of the house has one of many greatest playgrounds in Paris.

The doorway is free throughout off season and principally in the course of the week. On weekends, a bit of entrance price is requested.

#8 Parc Montsouris

14th arrondissement – RER B, Exit Cité Universitaire

The Parc Montsouris is yet one more Parisian favorites. You discover it within the south of Paris, not removed from the Catacombs and the lovable Butte-aux-Cailles neighborhood.

If you’re on the lookout for an off beat place to chill out the day away, possibly to play some video games with buddies, or to have a laid-back picnic, the parc is an ideal place.

And in case you’re fortunate, you would possibly even spot among the wild parrots which can be dwelling right here.

Tip: take a while to discover the encircling streets. Alongside the Rue Nansouty you discover among the prettiest streets in Paris. Not shocking that Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis picked this spot at their Parisian house base.

Museums & Artwork: Non-touristy issues in Paris

The Parisians love their museums, and also you do meet a lot of them within the huge galleries just like the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay or but, the Château de Versailles.

However there are, in fact, numerous museums and galleries, which can be highly regarded however removed from the radar of any vacationer. Right here’s a variety for you:

#9 Musée de l’Homme

sixteenth Arrondissement – Metro 6 or 9, Exit Trocadéro

The Musée de l’Homme in Paris is a newly renovated museum devoted to anthropology and human evolution. The truth is, it solely reopened in 2015.

You discover it within the fantastic Palais de Chaillot at Trocadéro and its reveals illuminate aspects of human evolution and different cultures.

Are you an “Emily in Paris” fanatic? Then this spot would possibly seem acquainted. That’s as a result of the rooftop terrace of the museum served as a filming locale. Despite the fact that this prime spot is reserved for personal occasions, the view isn’t.

From the museum you overlook the Eiffel Tower, and it’s a noteworthy cease for any Paris customer who’s eager on a non-touristy museum in Paris.

#10 Musée de la Liberation

14th Arrondissement – Metro 4 or 6, Denfert-Rochereau

Positioned close to the Catacombs, the Musée de la Libération is regularly missed by vacationers. It stands as one in every of Paris’ prime museums, highlighting the French Resistance throughout World Conflict II.

If you’re eager on historical past, it affords you a singular perspective on Paris throughout World Conflict II. The museum received lately renovated and relocated, to a traditionally vital location. That’s as a result of the tunnels that the French Resistance used as their headquarters, are proper under the museums and you’ll go to them.

The museum and the tunnel visits are free. However solely a sure quantity is allowed to the tunnels, so be sure to be there early to get a spot.

My Tip: Mix it with a go to to the Catacombs and head over to Rue Daguerre afterward for a lunch or a drink. It’s a beautiful pedestrian avenue with of cafés, eating places, and outlets.

#11 Musée Carnavalet

third Arrondissement – Metro 8, Exit Chemin Vert |  Metro 1, Exit Saint-Paul

An all time favourite is the Musée Carnavalet. You discover it within the Marais district in one of many previous mansions which can be so typical for the realm. They belonged to the French aristocracy and have been left deserted after the French Revolution.

Anyway, the Musée Carnavalet is without doubt one of the free museums in Paris and tells you extra in regards to the lengthy and eventful historical past of the French Capital.

Whilst you wander by means of the halls, you get to see a plethora of artifacts and objects. It’s an actual journey by means of historical past.

Tip: Make a small detour to the Galleria Continua on 87 Rue du Temple, 75003 Paris. It’s an artwork galleria with a small Italian café. Their saffron and pistachio ice cream are will not be from this world.

#12 Musée de Montmartre

18th Arrondissement – Metro 12, Exit Abbesses or Lamarck – Caulaincourt

In case you like Montmartre, you then’ll love the Musée de Montmartre. It’s one in every of my private favorites and though Montmartre sees hundreds of holiday makers every day, the museum isn’t packed.

Nested within the coronary heart of Montmartre, the Musée Montmartre is a gateway to the quarter’s vibrant historical past. But it surely’s not solely artifacts and objects. It’s additionally improbable views over the winery “Clos de Montmartre” and as effectively moving into the ateliers of celebrated native artists.

However the journey doesn’t finish there. “Le Café Renoir” awaits, providing you a serene backyard escape.

#13 Fondation Louis Vuitton

sixteenth Arrondissement – Metro 1, Exit Les Sablons

Nestled inside Bois de Boulogne and adjoining to the Jardin d’Acclimatation, the Fondation Louis Vuitton emerges as one in every of Paris’s latest museums. Its putting, avant-garde structure by Frank Gehry turns into a direct point of interest.

As you step inside, you’re launched to a curated assortment of up to date and fashionable artwork, every bit echoing the innovation of the construction it’s housed in. A mix of artwork and structure, it’s a must-visit for each artwork fans and architectural admirers.

Strolling in Paris: non-touristy locations to find

Are you up for a stroll, however the Jardin des Tuileries or the Champs-Élysées are method too crowded for you? Then see my following recommendations, since you aren’t the one one avoiding these touristic hotspots on the weekends:

#14 Bois de Vincennes

12 Arrondissement – Metro 1, Exit Château de Vincennes

In Paris’ twelfth arrondissement, southeast of town middle, you’ll discover the Bois de Vincennes. It’s an awesome spot for a stroll or a extra adventurous hike. What’s neat about this place is you’ll be able to simply pair a go to right here with a visit to the Parc Floral or the Jardin Tropical.

And in case you’re up for it, why not try the Château de Vincennes too? The Bois de Vincennes additionally makes a beautiful picnic spot, particularly on a sunny day.

#15 Hike from “gare to gare”

The Gare to Gare hikes close to Paris provide a easy but pleasant escape. You hop on the RER to a village, for instance my favourite, Bures-sur-Yvette, and set off on a trek to a unique station. (Right here you’ve the precise itinerary for this hike)

This hike is a 3-hour stroll and weaves by means of lush forests and over a formidable viaduct, earlier than passing by means of charming villages and eventually to Gif-sur-Yvette.

Right here you’ve the selection to loop again to Bures-sur-Yvette or to catch the RER again to Paris. It’s an ideal mix of nature, structure, and village life, only a prepare journey away.

#16 Quartier de Mozaïa

nineteenth Arrondissement – Metro 7B Exit Danube | Metro 11, Exit Place des Fêtes

In Paris’ nineteenth arrondissement, there’s this cozy little spot known as Quartier de Mozaïa. It’s like stepping right into a small village with its mixture of tiny homes and inexperienced gardens.

Strolling round right here appears like a break from the standard metropolis rush, with all of the distinctive buildings and quiet corners. It’s a beautiful place for a relaxed stroll or to snap some cool images.

In case you’re looking for a peaceable spot in Paris, Mozaïa’s undoubtedly value a go to. It’s actually one of many uncommon locations in Paris.

#17 Belleville

twentieth Arrondissement – Metro 2 or 11, Exit Belleville

Belleville in Paris is sort of a canvas come to life with its vibrant avenue artwork. It’s a energetic spot with a mixture of cultures and creativity at each nook. It is without doubt one of the most energetic, but non touristy locations in Paris.

And guess what? It’s tremendous near the Quartier de Mozaïa. So, it’s an awesome concept to take a look at each on the identical journey.

You get to see Belleville’s energetic streets after which unwind in Mozaïa’s peaceable vibes. It’s like experiencing two totally different worlds in a single go, proper in Paris!

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Store like a neighborhood: distinctive issues to do Paris

Up for a buying expertise? Take a look at this native buying spots for a much less crowded expertise than Rue de Rivoli or Les Halles.

#18 La Grande Épicerie de Rive Gauche

38 Rue de Sèvres, 75007 Paris – Metro 9 or 12, Exit Sèvres-Babylone

La Grande Épicerie de Rive Gauche is that this fancy meals spot in Paris, completely full of all types of French treats. It’s good for choosing up some yummy souvenirs, however yeah, it’s not low-cost. Each time I am going there, I’m amazed by of us doing their common grocery buying – like, wow, that’s some trendy grocery listing!

Regardless of the costs, the standard of every part from cheeses to pastries is top-notch. It’s a little bit of a splurge, however for these particular French flavors, it’s completely value it. Simply strolling round there’s a deal with in itself!

#19 Rue de Commerce

fifteenth Arrondissement – Metro 10, Exit Avenue Émile Zola

Rue de Commerce, nestled in Paris’ fifteenth arrondissement, is an enthralling avenue lined with boutiques and cafes. It’s a beautiful spot that by some means captures a small-town vibe proper within the metropolis.

Strolling down this avenue, you’ll discover a mixture of distinctive outlets and comfy spots to seize a espresso or a chunk. It’s an ideal place to expertise a quieter, extra quaint facet of Parisian life.

#20 Bercy Village

twelfth Arrondissement – Metro 14, Exit Cour Saint-Émilion

Bercy Village, tucked away in Paris, is a neat spot with a historical past as a wine depot. These previous warehouses the place they used to retailer wine? They’ve been changed into a energetic space with outlets, eating places, and an enormous cinema. It’s a singular mix of previous and new.

And the park subsequent door isn’t your typical French backyard; it’s extra fashionable and laid-back, a cool place to chill out after exploring Bercy Village. This place has a little bit of every part: historical past, buying, motion pictures, and inexperienced house.

#21 La Beaugrenelle

fifteenth Arrondissement – Metro Line 10, Exit Charles Michels

Beaugrenelle Purchasing Heart, only a hop from the Eiffel Tower in a residential Paris space, is a mixture of cool and stylish. You’ve received your acquainted shops like H&M, but additionally some upscale ones like Sessun and Zadig & Voltaire.

The world’s stuffed to the brim with native eating places and outlets, good for a laid-back Saturday afternoon doing all of your buying.

Voilà, these are among the hottest spots in Paris amongst locals. Excellent, in case you are up for distinctive issues to do in Paris, removed from the standard vacationer hotspots. I see you there!

Parisienne since 2006 🩷

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