Offbeat Paris Destinations: 60+ Unusual Things to do in Paris

Last Updated on 4th October 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

One of the best things about Paris is that there’s always something new to discover, and it’s usually to be found in the most unexpected of places… From following in the footsteps of a legendary alchemist to wandering around an abandoned railway commission by Napoleon, here are all of the very best offbeat Paris destinations!

On this list of 60+ unusual Parisian attractions, you’ll find the quirky, the weird and the downright bizarre. So whether you’re in search of a great independent bookshop to pick up a new book or want to get a little lost in Paris’ underground network, here’s the very best of unusual things to do in Paris…

Psst. If you’re planning to visit Paris, then we’ve created a gorgeous 100+ page eBook full of beautiful photos and insider tips by a local. Included you’ll find hidden gems, arrondissement guides, walking tours, suggested itineraries, and more. Find more information here.

#1 Follow in the footsteps of Nicolas Flamel

Yes, Nicolas was a real person. And he lived in Paris! Two roads in the city centre (Rue Nicolas Flamel and Rue Pernelle) are named for the infamous alchemist and his wife. At 51 Rue Montmorency, you’ll also find Flamel’s old house, which is often thought to be the oldest stone house in the city.

Read more: Nicolas Flamel was a real person and he lived in Paris!

#2 Enjoy the view from Galeries Lafayette rooftop terrace

One of the best panoramic views of the city can be found on the rooftop of the shopping centre, Galeries Lafayette. For, on the free to visit top floor of the department store, which is one of the oldest shopping establishments in Paris, you’ll find an outdoor terrace with 360-degree views over the city.

Read more: Galeries Lafayette rooftop terrace

#3 Wander through the Park of Buttes Chaumont

The magical park of Buttes Chaumont is located in the 19e arrondissement and is far less popular than the likes of Jardin des Tuileries. Of all the non touristy things to do in Paris, this beautiful green space is easily one of the best options!

And with views over towards the Sacré-Coeur, a grotto, a waterfall and even a miniature temple (modelled on the Temple of Vesta in Tivoli, Italy), I have no idea why Buttes Chaumont isn’t more popular! Head here for one of the best picnic spots in the city and to escape the crowds of Paris, if only for a few hours.

Read more: Best picnic spots in Paris.

#4 Explore the shelves of Shakespeare and Company

The oldest English speaking bookstores in Paris are located along the left bank. Shakespeare and Co are two independent bookstores sitting side by side. One is a vintage bookshop, while the other sells modern classics. Next door, you’ll also find a cute little café run by the bookshops. Upstairs in the larger of the two stores, you’ll find a lovely antique library complete with little reading nooks where you could easily spend hours…

Read more: the best English language bookshops in Paris

#5 Explore the shelves of the Abbey Bookshop

Nearby to Shakespeare and Co, you’ll find the equally interesting shelves of the Abbey Bookshop. Tucked away on Rue Parcheminerie (behind one of the prettiest churches in Paris), the Abbey Bookshop is bursting with books to the point where they’re quite literally spilling out of the store, and onto the Parisian pavement. The Canadian founder of the store is super friendly and there’s always freshly brewed coffee to drink as you peruse the quirky shop floor.

Read more: The Abbey Bookshop in Paris

#6 Shop for vintage goods at L’Objet Qui Parle

Located near the base of Montmartre, you’ll find the quirky store of L’Objet Qui Parle (literally ‘the Talking Object’). The shop is well worth a look around if only to try and determine exactly what the vintage store is actually selling. After all, inside the shop, you’ll find everything from antique chandeliers to worn parchment…

Read more: Vintage shopping in Montmartre: L’Objet Qui Parle. 

#7 Enjoy a picnic along the Seine

There are few things more enjoyable in Paris than grabbing a few friends, heading to a local supermarket to pick up some Parisian picnic essentials and searching for a picnic spot along the Seine (I highly recommend finding a spot with a view of Notre Dame).

So what are you waiting for? Pick up some French cheese, French wine, a whole load of baguettes (you always need more than you think- trust me!) and head to the banks of the Seine. Though a picnic is best enjoyed in the summer months, late spring and early fall also offer the perfect opportunity to soak up the last (or first) of the year’s warmth.

Read more: How to prepapre a Parisian picnic!

#8 Explore the Amélie filming locations in Paris

Magical and whimsical, there are few films set in Paris that are better than that of Amélie. Retrace the heroine of the film’s steps through one of the prettiest arrondissements in Paris, Montmartre. See everything from the café where Amélie works, to the steps where she sets a treasure hunt for the man she loves.

Read more: Amélie filming locations in Paris.

#9 Sip on Mulled wine at the Paris Christmas Markets

Throughout Europe, you’ll find some great Christmas markets. And Paris is no exception. Head to the city of lights around Christmas time to go shopping at some of the cutest French Christmas markets France has to offer (and drink some of the best-mulled wine you’ll find anywhere!).

Some of my favourite Christmas markets in the city include that of Jardin aux Tuileries, as well as that of Montmartre. It’s also worth noting that if you’re looking to enjoy some ‘vin chaud’ as it is so-called in French, you can enjoy the local speciality at many a café and many supermarkets sell pre-spiced wine.

Read more: Best Christmas markets in Paris.

#10 Explore the Da Vinci filming locations in Paris

Of all the non touristy things to do in Paris, scouting out filming locations is a must for any movie buff. Much of Dan Brown’s thriller, the Da Vinci Code is set in Paris. Today, you can wander around the city and see much of the French inspiration for the novel. Interesting historic sites in both the book and the film include the church of Saint Sulpice and the Pyramid of the Louvre.

Read more: Da Vinci filming locations in Paris. 

#11 Shop for vintage and quirky souvenirs at the Parisian Bouquinistes

The tradition of the Parisian bouquinistes dates all the way back to the 16th century and is now regulated by law… Not to mention that the bouquinistes themselves are classed as a UNESCO world heritage site! These little stalls along the Seine are quirky and easily one of the best offbeat Paris destinations.

Head here to see antiquarian maps, vintage books and many more ancient artefacts. Who knows: you may even pick up a vintage souvenir or two! Plus, if you’re looking for a particularly unusual souvenir or gift from Paris, then this is the place to head to!

Read more: Everything you want to know about the Parisian Bouquinistes.

#12 Visit Butte Bergeyre (Paris’ most secret micro-arrondissement)

Of all the off the beaten path things to do in Paris, one of my very favourites is that of Butte Bergeyre, a miniature micro-arrondissement close to Buttes Chaumont.

There are very few entryways to Butte Bergeryre so perhaps that accounts for why it is so quiet as you wander along its little, cobbled lanes and passageways.

In this most secretive micro-arrondissement, that even many of the locals don’t even know about, you’ll find one of the best offbeat Paris destinations, a secret vineyard. Surrounding it, you’ll also find some wonderful architecture dating back to the 1920s and plenty of quiet space.

Read more: Butte Bergeyre. 

#13 Get lost in Cité Florale

Pretty and ivy-clad, Cité Florale is a micro-arrondissement located in the 13e arrondissement of Paris. Head here to see some cute houses, unusual Parisian architecture and to generally escape the crowds of Paris- if only for a few hours!

Read more: Cité Florale. 

#14 Wander down the prettiest road in Paris: Square de Montsouris

Rather confusingly, this ‘square’ is actually a fairly long street, meandering its way through the 14e arrondissement. Located very close to a park of the same name, Parc Montsouris, Square de Montsouris is filled with art deco architecture and artist’s ateliers with big, wide windows. Wander down this street and you’ll find a cobbled lane wedged between detached houses dating back to the 1920s and 1930s.

Read more: My secret Paris locations, Square de Montsouris. 

#15 Participate in some urbex along the Petite Ceinture

‘Urbex’ (literally ‘urban exploration’) is becoming ever popular among Parisian residents. And one of the prime places to go? The Petite Ceinture. Paris’ secret railway remains a genuine secret and hidden gem even amongst Parisian locals.

The Petite Ceinture (little belt) loops its way around the city and was once used to transport heavy goods around Paris during the era of Napoleon. In the mid-1900s, and with the arrival of the métro, it was eventually replaced. However, many of the tracks remain in place, rusting and left to the elements.

Read more: How to visit the Petite Ceinture legally. 

#16 Watch a vintage film in the Latin Quarter

There are plenty of old-school cinemas dotted around Paris, and many of them are focused on the Latin Quarter and Le Marais areas of the city. Head to one of the many cinemas in these districts to see a vintage film. Date night is sorted! While in the Latin Quarter, be sure to also check out the impossibly beautiful (and ever so French) architecture of Sorbonne IV.

Read more: Latin Quarter district guide

#17 Visit the modern part of the city, La Défense

Hop on the métro and head to La Defense if you want to see a side of the city that few tourists ever venture to. From here, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best views of the city, as well as some great locations for modern architectural photographs.

#18 Take a day trip to Auvers-Sur-Oise, final resting Place of Vincent Van Gogh

Auvers-Sur-Oise is a small town located to the Northwest of Paris. Here, you’ll find the final resting place of Vincent Van Gogh and his brother Theo, an Absinthe Museum and a huge fairytale-like Château. Follow in the footsteps of the great painter himself by wandering the countryside Van Gogh called home and seeing the Inn where he died in 1890.

Read more: Auvers-Sur-Oise day trip from Paris.

#19 Visit the Arènes de Lutèce

Although much of Roman Paris is hidden to us (plenty of Ancient Paris is buried under centuries worth of the two millennia since the Roman period), there are still glimpses of it to be found now and then. One such place where you can find Roman Paris is in the Latin Quarter at Arènes de Lutèce. T

his Gallo-Roman arena was once an amphitheatre which could seat up to 17,000 people. Today, it is a public park and a popular place to play football. Nearby, there are plenty of other vestiges of Roman Paris to be spied, including the former Roman bathhouses of the Musée de Cluny.

Read more: In search of Roman Paris (Lutetita)

#20 Visit Musée de la Vie Romantique

This beautiful house museum in the 9e arrondissement lies to the base of Montmartre. Situated in the neighbourhood of ‘New Athens’, the museum was once home to Ary Scheffer and is filled with priceless furniture and paintings. Translated as ‘the Museum of Romantic Life’ in English, it’s easily one of the most romantic spots in the city.

Read more: Feeling nostalgic at Musée de la Vie Romantique. 

#21 Marvel at some of the best street art in Paris in the metro!

Some of the best street art in Paris can be found in the most unusual of places: on the metro. Throughout the network, many stations are decorated in various styles and covered in quirky works of art.

Some of my personal favourites include Arts et Metiers (a steampunk style bronze covered station) and Palais Royal (the entrance of which is covered in Murano glass imported from Italy).

Read more: Most unusual metro stations in Paris.

#22 See Le Clos Montmartre, one of Paris’ last remaining vineyards

Once upon a time (okay, only a few centuries ago!) much of Montmartre was covered in pasture and farmland. Among all of this greenery, there were plenty of vineyards to be found. Today, only one of the Montmartre vineyards survives and it’s located behind Musée de Montmartre.

The area surrounding Clos Montmartre is peaceful and well worth a visit, if only because you want to escape the crowds that flock to the Sacré-Coeur!

Best seen in September when the vineyard is open to the public for the annual grape harvest, during the rest of the year the clos can be spied through the metal grills surrounding it.

Read more: Clos Montmartre, the vineyard of Montmartre

#23 See Napoleon’s final resting place at Les Invalides

Les Invalides, also known as Hôtel National des Invalides, comprises of a large series of buildings, every single one of which performs a different function.

Originally built to house wounded army veterans (something Les Invalides still does), the complex also now houses an Army Museum, Contemporary History Museum and the final resting place of Napoleon.

Read more: Les Invalides. 

#24 Relax outside Hôtel de Sens

This former city palace now houses the Forney Art Library. The gardens to the back of the library are pretty, manicured and a great place to relax. While you’re there, make sure you try and see the cannonball lodged in the upper wall- it dates all the way back to the French Revolution!

Read more: My secret Paris locations, Hôtel de Sens.

#25 Wander along Canal Saint Martin

Chic, hip and trendy, Canal Saint Martin is situated in the 10e arrondissement of the city. Stroll along either side and you’ll find plenty of coffee shops, quirky bars and independent eateries.

In the day time, it’s the perfect place to chill out with friends and enjoy a picnic, while in the evening it’s where everyone comes to drink wine and enjoy their evenings.

Read more: Canal Saint Martin neighbourhood guide

#26 Enjoy brunch at Café Méricour, one of the 11e arrondissement’s best coffee shops

The new coffee revolution has arrived in Paris. And with it, come a new array of hip coffee shops, many with great coffee and all worth a visit. One of the best coffee shops in the city has to be Café Méricourt While there, make sure to try the house specialty: Shakshuka!

Read more: Café Méricourt review

#27 Sunbathe at Paris Plages

Each summer, during the month of August, beaches are set up at various points around the city. Here, you can sunbathe, enjoy an ice cream and forget that you’re in the very heart of Paris. One of the most famous of the beaches is set up on the banks of the Seine each year, within sight of Notre Dame Cathedral!

Read more: Paris Plages. 

#28 Ride on the Dodo Manège, Paris’ quirkiest carousel

Located in the gardens of Jardin des Plantes and lying in the shadow of the French Natural History Museum, you’ll find a carousel dedicated to extinct species, one of which is the Dodo.

In the spring months, the Jardin des Plantes also happens to be the perfect place to spot some of the best cherry blossom trees the city has to offer.

Read more: Is this the most unusual Carousel in Paris? The Dodo Manège. 

#29 Visit the Jardin des Tuileries Funfair!

Each year, for the duration of summer, a funfair is held in a corner of Jardin des Tuileries. There’s a candy floss stand, a Ferris wheel and many more rides to enjoy. Highlights of the funfair include a swinging chair which gives great views of the Eiffel Tower, as well as a churros stand which serves delicious treats.

Read more: Jardin des Tuileries funfair!

#30 Dive into Paris’ underbelly at the Paris Sewer Museum

Yes, you can really head into Paris’ underbelly, enter the Paris Sewer Museum, and learn all about the city’s waste! This is easily one of the strangest museums in the city, not to mention that it’s probably the weirdest of offbeat Paris destinations on this list! Head here to learn all about sanitation in the city, and how the government copes with waste from an ever-growing population.

Read more: A visit to the Paris Sewer Museum. 

#31 Play hide and seek with the Sacré-Coeur

As the Sacré-Coeur is situated at the top of Montmartre Hill, it’s one of the highest points in Paris and can be seen from all over the city. Have fun with your photography and play hide and seek with the Sacré-Coeur while wandering the streets of Paris.

Read more: Unusual places to see the Sacré-Coeur. 

#32 Head to the Paris Pet Cemetery

The oldest pet cemetery in the world is located to the North of Paris, a little way out of the city centre. Founded in 1899, it’s the final resting place of many dogs, cats, horses, sheep, chickens, and even a monkey. Built at the end of the 19th-century, it’s the oldest pet cemetery in the world.

Read more: Visiting the Paris pet cemetery. 

#33 Play hide and seek with the Eiffel Tower

No matter where you head to in Paris, chances are you’ll find that you can spot the Eiffel Tower. As a result, one of my favourite free things to do in Paris is to play hide and seek with the Eiffel Tower and attempt to capture it from various different angles.

Read more: Unusual places to spot the Eiffel Tower. 

#34 See the sinking house of Montmartre

If you’ve spent any time on Instagram searching for Montmartre photos during the past few years, then no doubt you’ve seen the sinking house of the. 18th arrondissement. No, this house isn’t really sinking! Instead, it’s actually a really clever optical illusion. And you can see it from the steps leading up to the Sacré-Coeur.

Read more: Here’s where to find the sinking house in Paris!

#35 Visit the Eglise St Serge (Church of Saint Serge)

One day, we stumbled upon this pretty wooden church quite by accident. L’église Saint-Serge de l’Institut is just minutes away from the magical park of Buttes Chaumont and located a short walk up a little-unmarked alleyway.

Nearby, you’ll also find the Saint-Serge Institute. Founded in 1925, the institute is the oldest orthodox theology establishment in Western Europe and is a centre for higher education. Head here to see a side of Paris that most could never even imagine seeing…

#36 Take a day trip to see the cherry blossoms at Sceaux

Located near the end of the RER line B, approximately half an hour from the centre of Paris, you’ll find the delightful town of Sceaux. It’s easily one of the best day trips from Paris as there’s a town to discover, fairytale château to visit and endless woodland to explore. Come springtime, there’s even a cherry blossom orchard to visit (and take photos of!)

Read more: Sceaux in Spring!

#37 Learn why all roads lead to Rome at Paris Point Zero

There’s a little plaque in the Parvis de Notre Dame that dictates much of Parisian daily life (and indeed much of the rest of France). For, it is from this point that all distances in France are measured! Head to Notre Dame to search for this little piece of engraved stone and learn more about the fascinating history of ‘why all roads lead to Rome’.

Read more: Paris Point Zero and why all roads lead to Rome!

#38 Enjoy a drink at Café de Flore

Established in the 1800s, Café de Flore is one of the oldest- and undoubtedly one of the most luxurious coffee shops in Paris. Located in the ever so chic Saint-Germain-des-Prés district of Paris, wander in at any given moment and you’ll be greeted with excellent service and a mouth-watering wine list.

Read more: The Café de Flore Experience. 

#39 Explore the interior (and exterior) of Saint Sulpice

This ancient and mysterious church is located at the corner of Jardin des Tuileries. Built between 1646 and 1870, this Roman Catholic place of worship is well worth a visit, if only to see the grand façade and hauntingly beautiful crumbling interior.

Read more: Da Vinci filming locations in Paris

#40 Be confused and amazed by the candy-like columns of Colonnes de Buren

This wacky artwork is free to visit and located pretty close to the Louvre. Situated in the Palais Royal, this installation has been controversial from when it was first built in the mid-1980s. The candy-like columns amaze thousands of people on a daily basis and are perfect for capturing a selfie on Instagram!

Read more: Colonnes de Buren. 

#41 Enjoy sunrise at Trocadéro

Free to see and with few tourists milling about, sunrise at Trocadéro is a magical sight that every visitor to Paris must experience at least once! Head to the Troacdéro metro station (located on lines 6 and 9) for sunrise and follow the signs to the Eiffel Tower. I can guarantee that you won’t be disappointed by the view that greets you when you exit the métro!

Read more: The one thing you MUST do in Paris!

#42 Seek out the oldest house in Paris

For the longest time, it was believed that No. 3 Rue Volta was well the oldest house in Paris. However, recently scholars have proven this not to be the case and Nicolas Flamel’s house is probably the oldest! That being said, the timber-framed architecture and sloping roofs have entertained tourists and locals alike for Centuries, and is well worth a look- even if it’s probably not the oldest house in the city!

Read more: In search of the oldest house in Paris.

#43 Go up in a hot air balloon at Parc André Citröen

Yes, this park is named after André Citroën, founder of the famous French car manufacturer. The green space of this park is filled with a beautiful blend of floral gardens meets modern architecture and is situated on the site of a former Citroën factory.

In the middle of the park, you’ll find a hot air balloon which you can go up (for a fee). The balloon offers some of the best views of the city and is open during most of the year! You can find plenty more information on going up the Ballon Generali on the tourist office’s website.

Read more: Parc André Citroën, a unique green space in Paris

#44 Visit Musée Montmartre

Located along a cobbled lane in the very heart of Montmartre, you’ll find Musée de Montmartre. This former house was once home to the likes of  Renoir and dates all the way back to the 17th Century, making it one of the oldest houses in the arrondissement.

Today, the museum has been restored to look like an artist’s house of the 19th Century, giving us an idea of what it must have been for all the great artists of the 1800s.

Read more: Feeling vintage at Musée de Montmartre.

#45 See a courtyard paved with gravestones

Located in the heart of where you’d least expect (and next to one of the cutest cafés in all of Paris, Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole), you’ll find a courtyard paved with repurposed gravestones. This rather macabre site is the result of repurposing grave markers which were removed when a nearby church was demolished during the Haussmannian reforms of Parisian architecture.

Read more: Gravestone Courtyard in Paris.

#46 Glimpse medieval Paris at Cloître des Billettes

Ancient and inviting, at Cloître des Billettes you’ll find one of the last traces of medieval ecclesiastical architecture there is to be found in the city. Located on the Rue des Archives at number 24, in the very heart of the prestigious Le Marais district of the city, you’ll find cloisters dating all the way back to the 15th-century. Head here for some history and amazing architecture.

Read more: In search of medieval Paris, Cloître des Billettes.

#47 Wander along Place Dalida

Of all the offbeat Paris destinations on this list, Place Dalida may well be my favourite. With views over the Sacré Coeur, and plenty of ivy-clad houses, it’s a photographer’s dream and feels a little like stepping back into the Montmartre of yesteryear.

Read more: Place Dalida.

#48 Admire the oldest public clock in Paris

Located in a location where thousands pass on a daily basis, you’ll find the oldest public clock in Paris. Though it may look golden and shining, the clock has actually been here since 1370 when it was built by a German engineer. Today, the clock sits on the side of the Conciergerie and is the only remaining part of the Palais de la Cité.

Read more: In search of the oldest public clock in Paris.

#49 Visit a former squat turned artist atelier

Rue de Rivoli boasts some of Paris’ most exclusive addresses. But one of them has been transformed into an artist’s atelier in the very heart of the city. Head to 59 Rue de Rivoli to see up and coming artists, as well as one of the most unusual uses for a Haussmann building you’re ever likely to see. Visiting the atelier is free to visit and the building is open to the public most days of the week.

Read more: An artist’s atelier in the heart of Paris.

#50 Go shopping at Merci Concept Store

This adorable little fiat marks the entrance to one of Paris’ quirkiest concept stores, Merci. Also the word for ‘thank you’ in French, Merci boasts a huge range of clothing and homeware, as well as multiple cute cafés you can eat in.

Read more: Merci Concept Store.

#51 Rent a boat at Bois de Boulogne

One of the most romantic things to do in Paris is to rent a boat on Bois de Boulogne (one of Paris’ largest public parks) and go rowing for an afternoon. Pack a picnic, get lost in nature and admire the Eiffel Tower from afar.

Read more: Bois de Boulogne Boat Rental. 

#52 Drink wine from a baby bottle at Le Refuge des Fondus

Of course, no trip to Paris, or indeed France, would be complete without trying at least a little of the local cuisine. After all, you can’t get more French than eating cheese and drinking wine!

Head to Le Refuge des Fondus at the base of Montmartre for an authentic and offbeat French dining experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

There are only two options on the menu: meat or cheese. And you quite literally drink your wine (again, only two options: red or white) from baby bottles. Perfection. Address: 17 Rue des Trois Frères, 75018 Paris, France. The door handle is even in the shape of a baby bottle!

#53 Enjoy a Matcha Latté at Café Kitsuné

One of the only places in Paris where you can pick up a matcha latté is located in the heart of Palais Royal (which was once home to Cardinal Richelieu- yep, that guy from the Three Musketeers!). Head to the garden to check out the covered walkways, wonderful fountains and quirky little boutiques. Although the main palace is now closed off, the gardens are free to visit and open to the public.

Read more: Café Kitsune.

#54 Learn about Heloise and Abelard at Père Lachaise

Père Lachaise cemetery is the final resting place of many famous people, include Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison. It’s also the final part of an enduring medieval love story and the ending chapter of a love affair that spanned generations. Head to Père Lachaise to wander the streets of the city of the dead (all the roads in the cemetery have their own street signs) and see where Heloïse and Abelard were laid to rest.

Read more: Fated love in Père Lachaise, the story of Abelard and Heloïse. 

#55 See Voltaire’s remains at the Paris Panthèon

One of the greatest honours a French citizen can be bestowed is to be interred in the Paris Panthèon. Located in the Latin Quarter of the city, not far from the Sorbonne University, this great building was once a church dedicated to the patron saint of the city, Saint Genevieve.

Today, it is the final resting place of Marie Curie, Voltaire and many other Famous French men and women. Nearby, the largely forgotten church of St Etienne du Mont contains the relics of St Genevieve and is well worth visiting on any visit to the Pantheon.

Read more: Paris Panthèon, feminism & Voltaire

#56 Hang out in Parc Monceau

In the 8e arrondissement of the city, you’ll find Marc Monceau. Pretty and filled with follies and greenery, it’s the perfect place to hang out, relax and read a book. Head here for some peace and quiet and to escape the crowds of the rest of Paris. Nearby, you’ll also find the Paris Pagoda.

Read more: Parc Monceau, an oasis of calm in the heart of Paris. 

#57 Enjoy some bread at the Paris Bread Festival!

In May each year, a bread festival is held in Paris on the Parvis de Notre Dame. Also known as the ‘Fête du Pain’ in French, here you can see all manner of bread related products. From the baguette to the pretzel, you can find it all here.

Read more: Bread festival in Paris.

#58 Go in search of Harry Potter inspiration

Many people don’t know this, but JK Rowling actually spent a year abroad in Paris while studying for her degree in Classics at the University of Exeter in Devon, England. As such, plenty of magical and wizarding inspiration can be found across the city, if only you know where to look…

Read more: Harry Potter inspiration in Paris

#59 Visit the oldest umbrella repair shop in Paris

Down a little narrow and winding lane in the heart of Le Marais, you’ll find it. The oldest umbrella repair shop in the city. In operation for close to fifty years, the niche store can be found midway along what is often thought of as the oldest passage in Paris, Passage de l’Ancre.

Read more: How to visit the oldest umbrella repair shop in Paris

#60 See inside the oldest hospital in Paris

Lying in the shadow of the world-famous Notre Dame Cathedral (which also happens to be one of those must-see Parisian top tourist destinations), one of the most unusual things to do in Paris can be found in the form of the oldest hospital in the city. And what you may well not know is that you can see the interior of Hôtel Dieu is free to the public and is open to enjoy during daylight hours throughout the week.

Read more: Secret spots in Ile de la Cité

#61 Stroll along Villa Léandre

Located on the fringes of Montmartre, the 18th arrondissement of Paris, Villa Léandre is a beautiful art-deco street hidden away from the rest of the city. Constructed during the 1930s, this English-inspired pretty Parisian street is constructed in the English-style. Somewhat amusingly, the door of No. 10 has a plaque which reads ‘Downing Street’.

Read more: How to visit Villa Léandre

#62 Fontaine des Innocents

The 1st arrondissement of the city is an area of Paris that is pretty much dominated by the ever-so-modern (and according to many Parisians, a little less than aesthetically pleasing) Les Halles shopping complex. Nearby, the Church of St Eustache is easily one of the most underrated churches in Paris.

Fontaine des Innocents is a beautiful and ornate Renaissance fountain that was installed to signal the arrival of Henry IV in the 16th-century. Built atop of a former Parisian cemetery, this monument is easily one of the more unique sites in Paris.

Read more: The quirky history of Fontaine des Innocents

#63 Learn how to make macarons!

Hands down, if you’re looking for one of the most unique things to do in Paris, then you should know that it’s possible to learn how to make macarons while in the city! The best-selling cookie in France is a delightfully sweet treat and learning how to make this dessert is easily one of the best souvenirs you could hope to take away with you after the sweetest time in France.

Book now: Macaron Class at Galeries Lafayette

#64 The smallest cemetery in Paris is only open one day a year!

If you’re looking for one of the most unusual things to do in Paris, then you need to look no further than the Cimetière du Calvaire in the 18th arrondissement of the city, i.e. Montmartre.

Open for only one day a year (All Saint’s Day, the 1st November), the graveyard is not only the smallest in Paris, but also the oldest. Free to visit during the 1st of November, visitors should note that the Cimetière is available to visit via guided tour only and only in French.

Read more: How to visit the Cimetière du Calvaire

#65 See the church from Midnight in Paris

Head to the Latin Quarter to visit the Paris Panthéon and in its shadow, you’ll soon discover a little known hidden gem of a Parisian church. Home to the last remaining relics of Saint Genevieve, the patroness saint of Paris, the church also happens to be where the last rood screen (jubé in French) in Paris is located. Head to the church steps on rue de la Montagne and you’ll soon discover *that* iconic spot from the movie.

Read more: How to visit the Church of Saint Étienne du Mont

#66 Spy the Defender of Time Clock

One of the most unusual public clocks in Paris, and therefore one of the best unique places in Paris is that of the Defender of Time clock. Situated in the ever-so-modern concrete Quartier de l’Horloge and lying in the shadow of the Pompidou centre, the clock was created in the 1970s and features a man fighting a dragon, crab, and bird.

Although it has unfortunately been stopped since 2003, the 4 metre timepiece is impressive nonetheless. Of all the alternative things to do in Paris, the Defender of Time is one of the most unique free attractions to see.

Read more: How to see the Defender of Time clock

#67 Discover a piece of New York in Central Paris

Steps away from the Porte de Saint-Martin (one of four triumphal arches left in the city and one of a couple which were once used in the walls surrounding Paris), you’ll find a particularly unusual architectural feature on the side of one of the buildings.

The fire escapes on the buildings around No. 19 of rue René Boulanger feature traditional New York style steps, which is certainly a rarity amidst the historic Haussmann architecture of Paris!

#68 Stroll along the Coulée Verte

a stone’s throw away from Bastille, the former site of a prison which was instrumental in the events which unfolded leading up to the French Revolution, the Coulée Verte is a beautiful green walkway that allows walkers to stroll high above the city. This walkway is so beautiful that it actually inspired New York’s Highline.

#69 Passage de la Trinité 

Unique places to visit in Paris are found in abundance, if only you know where to look. Situated along the infamous rue Saint-Denis, there’s one little archway that tens of thousands pass by on a daily basis, and yet most never notice. Passage de la Trinité is a true slice of medieval Paris, hidden in the heart of the Sentier district of the 2nd arrondissement of the city.

Read more: How to visit the Passage de la Trinité

#70 Search for street art in the 19th and 20th arrondissements

One of the coolest off the beaten path things to do in Paris is to search for street art, which can be found at many locations all across the French capital.

It’s worth noting that street art is more prevalent in the double digit arrondissements. If you want an even more in-depth look into street art around the 19th and 20th arrondissements, you might consider booking a street art tour like this one.

#71 Go on a dinner cruise on Canal Saint Martin

Of course, you can go on Seine River Cruises, but if you’re looking for a more off the beaten path activity while in the  10th arrondissement, then you might consider booking a dinner cruise on Canal Saint Martin. For example, this cruise offers an on-board dinner, as well as live commentary of what the boat is going past. See full details here.

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Pin Offbeat Paris Destinations: 60+ Unusual attractions you’ll love!

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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