When most people think of things to do in Paris, they imagine the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, or Notre Dame. But if you want a more authentic, enchanting experience, you need to step off the tourist trail. Paris is a city of hidden gems—intimate museums, tucked-away streets, whimsical gardens, and centuries-old patisseries. If you’re searching for unique things to do in Paris that go beyond the guidebook, here’s your ultimate list. Each destination comes with a pro tip to make your visit even better.
1. Musée des Plans-Reliefs
Why go: Inside Les Invalides, this museum showcases miniature models of fortified towns from centuries past. Like an 18th-century Google Maps, but handcrafted with precision.
Pro Tip: Visit in the morning when it’s nearly empty—you’ll have the models almost to yourself.
2. Musée des Égouts
Why go: Descend underground to explore the sewer system that shaped modern Paris. A quirky but fascinating choice on your list of things to do in Paris.
Pro Tip: Wear sturdy shoes; floors can be damp and slippery.
3. La Galerie Dior
Why go: Fashion lovers, this one’s for you. A boutique museum dedicated to Dior’s legacy, with gowns, sketches, and couture magic.
Pro Tip: Reserve tickets online in advance—they sell out quickly.
4. Musée Curie
Why go: Step into Marie Curie’s laboratory and learn about her groundbreaking work on radioactivity. A small but powerful experience.
Pro Tip: Entry is free! Pair it with a relaxing stroll through Jardin du Luxembourg.
5. Hôtel Salé – Musée Picasso
Why go: A grand mansion filled with Picasso’s genius works. Art meets history in the heart of the Marais.
Pro Tip: Go later in the afternoon for fewer crowds.
6. Musée Jacquemart-André
Why go: This lavish 19th-century mansion is filled with art and history, plus one of the prettiest museum cafés in Paris.
Pro Tip: Stop for tea or dessert—the café itself is an experience.
7. Musée Henner
Why go: A serene, smaller museum dedicated to painter Jean-Jacques Henner. Perfect if you want art without the chaos of the bigger institutions.
Pro Tip: Visit during lunchtime for extra peace and quiet.
8. La Butte-aux-Cailles
Why go: A neighborhood that feels like a village, with cobblestones, murals, and charming cafés. One of the most atmospheric things to do in Paris.
Pro Tip: Come in the evening for apéro—locals love the lively bar scene here.
9. Parc de Belleville
Why go: This vibrant district buzzes with multicultural eateries, vivid street art, and an energetic community spirit. Tucked within it all, Parc de Belleville offers sweeping city views that locals adore.
Pro Tip: Time your visit for late afternoon—wander the murals, then climb up to the park as the light turns golden.
10. Passage Verdeau
Why go: A covered 19th-century passageway lined with bookshops, antiques, and quirky boutiques. Ideal for rainy-day exploring.
Pro Tip: Pair it with nearby Passage Jouffroy and Passage des Panoramas for a hidden-gallery crawl.
11. Marché d’Aligre
Why go: A beloved local market filled with produce, spices, and flea-market treasures. It’s lively, colorful, and authentic.
Pro Tip: Arrive early for the freshest goods and friendliest vibes.
12. The Liberation of Paris Museum
Why go: A moving museum dedicated to Paris’s WWII liberation. An offbeat but meaningful addition to your things to do in Paris list.
Pro Tip: Admission is free—consider a guided tour for richer context.
13. Rooftop of Galeries Lafayette
Why go: Beyond shopping, this rooftop terrace offers a breathtaking view of Paris’s skyline and the Opéra Garnier.
Pro Tip: Visit right before closing—you’ll have fewer crowds and golden-hour light.
14. Jardin des Plantes’ Hidden Corners
Why go: Wander into the alpine garden or tucked-away greenhouses within the Jardin des Plantes. Calm and beautiful.
Pro Tip: Bring a book—it’s an idyllic reading nook among flowers.
15. Stohrer Patisserie
Why go: Founded in 1730, Stohrer is Paris’s oldest patisserie, famed for inventing the baba au rhum. A sweet finale to your Paris adventure.
Pro Tip: Grab a pastry and enjoy it while strolling Rue Montorgueil.
Final Word
There’s no shortage of iconic attractions in Paris—but the magic often lies in the quieter corners. These 15 hidden gems are proof that the best things to do in Paris aren’t always the most obvious. From sipping tea in a 19th-century mansion to hunting antiques in a covered passage, each experience offers a more personal connection to the city.
Which of these hidden treasures will make your list of things to do in Paris? Share in the comments—and don’t forget to subscribe for more chic travel guides and insider tips.
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