10 Unmissable Things to Do in Paris – Beyond the Tourist Traps!
Paris is a dream destination, but if you only stick to the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, you’re missing out! Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to uncover new experiences, this list will guide you to authentic, must-do activities in Paris—including a hidden gem you won’t want to miss!
1. Explore the Hidden Passages of Paris
Step back in time by wandering through Passage des Panoramas, a 19th-century shopping arcade filled with vintage charm, small bistros, and bookshops. It’s one of Paris’s best-kept secrets!
2. Indulge in a Food Tour Through Parisian Neighborhoods 🍷🧀
If you want to truly taste Paris, join a local food tour that takes you beyond the usual cafés. From creamy camembert to artisanal croissants, you’ll discover where Parisians really eat. Our guided food tour takes you through charming streets, introducing you to the best hidden spots and traditional flavors.
3. Visit a Local Market Like a Parisian
Skip the supermarket and head to Marché d’Aligre, where locals shop for fresh cheese, meats, and produce. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the lively Parisian food culture.
4. Enjoy a Seine River Picnic at Sunset
Instead of an expensive dinner, grab a baguette, some cheese, and a bottle of wine, and enjoy a riverside picnic at Île de la Cité—one of the most romantic spots in Paris.
5. Discover the Lesser-Known Side of Montmartre
Avoid the touristy crowds at Sacré-Cœur and explore Montmartre’s hidden gems—like the last vineyard in Paris at Clos Montmartre or the secret art studios where Picasso once worked.
6. Step Inside a Secret Speakeasy 🍸
Paris has a vibrant hidden bar scene! Look for Lavomatic, a speakeasy hidden behind a laundromat, where you can sip on craft cocktails in a quirky setting.
7. Experience a Classic French Bistro
Forget overpriced tourist menus—head to Le Comptoir du Relais or Chez Janou for a truly authentic French bistro experience, where locals go for classic steak frites and rich duck confit.
8. Take a Stroll Through the Latin Quarter at Night
By day, the Latin Quarter is full of history, but at night, its cobblestone streets come alive with music, wine bars, and cozy jazz clubs. Don’t miss Caveau de la Huchette, an underground jazz bar with 1950s Parisian vibes.
9. Visit Notre Dame and Explore Île Saint-Louis
While Notre Dame is under renovation, you can still admire its Gothic beauty from the outside, then walk over to Île Saint-Louis for Paris’s best ice cream at Berthillon.
10. Taste the Best Pastries in Paris 🥐
If you think all croissants taste the same, think again! Try Du Pain et des Idées for a perfect buttery pastry, or indulge in a melt-in-your-mouth éclair from L’Éclair de Génie.
Ready to Experience the Best of Paris?
If you want to eat like a local and uncover hidden gems, join our Paris food tour for an unforgettable culinary adventure!
