Paris is known for such things as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, and they are all things that I think every first-time visitor should do. But, sometimes, you want to step outside the box and see something that isn’t in the tourist books. I’m lucky because I am staying with a local, so many of these are his recommendations. And while I haven’t been to all of these places, I still have a week left. So here is a list of ten unique things to do in Paris most people don’t do on their first trip to the City of Lights.
1: Have Brunch Or A Drink On Top Of The Moulin Rouge
Did you know there is a cafe on top of the Moulin Rouge? That’s right, you can sing atop the Moulin Rouge just like Nicole Kidman and Ewan Mcgregor. Okay, don’t do that; you don’t want to be that annoying tourist. Le Bar a Bulles is a little pricey, but a different atmosphere than most, and a fun thing to say to your friends that they may not have experienced.
2: Visit the Centquatre AKA the 104
Paris has so much to offer when it comes to the arts, and 104 is one of them. 104 is not just a gallery, but I guess a commune for the arts. This place brings together dance, music, circus, theater, painting…Pretty much any art form is accepted by this organization. And with an ever-changing program, you are sure to find something interesting.
3: Take A Stroll Through One Of The Green Lungs Of Paris
There are two very large parks, or as the website calls them, “green lungs,” on the outskirts of the center of Paris. These are large beautiful parks where you can bike, rent a rowboat, or take in a puppet show. The Bois de Boulogne and the Bois de Vincennes are the two largest if you want to pack a picnic and take a day of rest from sightseeing. Sometimes it’s nice to get away from the city for a bit.
4: A View From The Mall
There are plenty of great views of Paris to see when you visit, but one is atop a shopping mall and totally free. Le Printemps has one of the greatest views of Paris that overlooks the Opera House as the Eiffel Tower greets you in the distance. If you are on a budget and don’t want to pay for the view from the Arc de Triomphe, this is a great alternative.
5: La Vingne de Montmartre
Are you a wine lover? Then le Vignoble du Clos Montmartre might be for you. Nestled in the streets of Montmartre, there is a tiny vineyard which is truly one of the most unique things to do in Paris. This local winery is a little pricey if you want a taste, but you don’t get much more local than this if you want to try local French wines.
6: Attend One Of Paris Many Festivals
As I write this, last night was the Festival of Music. Where you can walk the streets of Paris listening to everything from the violin to electronic dance music. There are many wonderful festivals to take part in while visiting Paris. Just type in “festivals in Paris” and the dates you are here, and maybe you will be lucky enough to be here when one is going on. If you are not a fan of large crowds, this may not be for you because the streets explode with locals enjoying the festivities around them.
7: Dance On The Banks Of The River Seine
One unique thing to do in Paris is to grab your dancing partner and dance along the banks of the River Seine. You can find these hubs of live music and dance along the river’s edge in the 19th district of Paris. We passed a few of these spots on our walk when I first arrived. It was nice to see people out enjoying themselves, even though I didn’t take part.
8: Enjoy The Street Art Of Paris
I wrote about the amazing street art of Paris, and think it’s something everyone should take time to enjoy. Yes, Paris is full of historic statues to walk by and enjoy. But there is so much modern graffiti art, sculptures, and paintings to enjoy as you walk around the streets. You could spend the whole day and not spend a dime (well, except for eating) seeing these local artists’ amazing works of art. And I’m not talking just pass by, treat it like a museum, and really enjoy it.
9: Keith Haring In Saint-Eustache
Speaking of modern art, Keith Haring is known for his brilliant pop art and one of my personal favorites. An activist for HIV/AIDS in the ’80s, this man, unfortunately, lost his life to the very disease he was trying to inform people about. That’s why I was surprised to see his work prominently displayed in Saint-Eustache Church. But, it was kind of awesome seeing his art displayed surrounded by works that have been there for centuries. And the church itself is gorgeous too.
10: Get Lost In Paris
I don’t know if this counts as a unique thing to do in Paris or not, but I think it’s something everyone should do. Put your itinerary, google maps, and your phone away and just walk. Paris is a safe city for the most part, and if you’re walking around during the day, I don’t think you have much to worry about. Go down the tiny alley, and who knows what you will find. There are great hidden restaurants, art, and shops that aren’t on the busy streets. You won’t regret getting lost in Paris. I’ve done it every day since I’ve been here.
Get Lost In The Streets Of Paris.
Do You Have Any Unique Things To Do In Paris I Missed?
Let me know in the comments below, and maybe I can go check them out. And don’t forget to head to my homepage and vote for whatever my next adventure might be. Also, follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day votes to send me on my next adventure mini-adventure.
Mom
I want to do some of these places next year! I can’t wait. Love this idea living like a local and seeing Paris in a new way. Thank you for sharing.
Craig
Getting lost on the side streets sounds like the best way to see any city! I’m enjoying your journey greatly.
Mary Jo
Thank you for the tour of Paris Johnny!