Best Non Touristy Things To Do In Paris

Paris is one of the most iconic cities in the world, and it’s no surprise that it draws in countless tourists from around the globe each year. Home to the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and countless other landmarks, Paris is a city that has something for everyone. But there’s much more to Paris than just the typical tourist spots. Here, we’ll explore some of the best non-touristy things to do in Paris.

A Brief History of Paris

The city of Paris has a rich history that dates all the way back to the 3rd century BC. Originally founded by a Celtic tribe known as the Parisii, the city was later taken over by the Romans in 52 BC and renamed Lutetia. The city has had a tumultuous history since then, with waves of invasions, wars, and occupations. In the 19th century, Paris underwent a period of massive growth and development, becoming one of the most influential cities in Europe, and eventually the world.

Today, Paris is a bustling metropolis of over 2.2 million people. It is home to some of the world’s most important landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame cathedral, as well as countless other attractions. It is also known for its vibrant nightlife, its romantic cafes, and its rich culinary culture.

Local Neighborhoods

Exploring Paris’s many neighborhoods is one of the best ways to get to know the city and experience its unique culture. From the bustling streets of Montmartre to the chic boutiques of Le Marais, each neighborhood has its own distinct flavor and atmosphere. Spend a day (or several!) strolling through the cobblestone streets, stopping to soak up the atmosphere in charming cafes or admire the street art that adorns many walls. You’ll find that each neighborhood has something different to offer and can be a great way to get to know the city on a more intimate level.

Visit a Museum or Art Gallery

Paris has no shortage of museums and art galleries, so there’s something for everyone! Whether you’re interested in contemporary art or ancient history, you’ll find something to pique your interest. From the Musée du Louvre to the Musée d’Orsay, there are countless amazing art galleries and museums to explore. Spend an afternoon perusing one of these cultural hotspots – you’re sure to come away with a newfound appreciation for Parisian culture!

Picnic in a Park

What better way to spend a sunny day in Paris than with a picnic in one of its many parks? From sprawling green spaces like the Tuileries Gardens to smaller parks like Parc Monceau, there’s no shortage of great places to enjoy an afternoon picnic. Grab some food from a local bakery or market and head to one of these picturesque settings – you won’t regret it!

Explore a Flea Market

Paris is home to some of the world’s best flea markets, so be sure to take some time to explore one during your visit. From antiques to vintage clothing and jewelry, you’ll find all sorts of interesting treasures at these markets. Be sure to bring cash – most vendors don’t accept cards!

Take a Cooking Class

If you’re a foodie, then you’ll definitely want to take advantage of Paris’s amazing culinary scene. Whether you’re interested in mastering French cuisine or just want to learn some basics, there are plenty of cooking classes for all levels. Join a class and learn how to make classic dishes like crepes or macarons – it’s sure to be a memorable experience!

Sample Local Wines

Paris is home to some amazing wines – so why not take some time to sample some during your visit? Whether you’re into reds or whites, there are plenty of great wine bars and restaurants where you can sample some amazing local vintages.

Take a Bike Tour

Bicycling through Paris is a great way to explore the city on a more intimate level. Sign up for a bike tour and you’ll be able to experience all that the city has to offer while getting some exercise at the same time! Most tours will take you past some of Paris’s most iconic landmarks while providing interesting commentary along the way.

Visit a Local Bakery

If you have a sweet tooth then you won’t want to miss out on visiting one of Paris’s many amazing bakeries. From croissants and éclairs to macarons and tarts, there are all sorts of delicious treats to enjoy. Stop by a local bakery and indulge in some freshly baked goodies – you won’t regret it!

The Catacombs

For those looking for something a bit more unusual, be sure to check out the Catacombs – an underground network of tunnels and chambers filled with human bones! This creepy yet fascinating attraction is not for the faint of heart but it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for something unique to do in Paris.

Take a Seine River Cruise

Cruising down the Seine river is one of the most beautiful ways to experience Paris – especially at night! Board one of these cruises and you’ll be able to admire all the iconic landmarks while listening to interesting commentary along the way. It’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!

Popular Tours

Paris Night Bike Tour

The Paris Night Bike Tour is an amazing way to experience the City of Lights after dark. This two-hour tour takes you through some of Paris’s most iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Place de la Concorde. You’ll ride along cobblestone streets, admire illuminated bridges and monuments, and take in all that this magical city has to offer after sunset. The tour ends with a stop at one of Paris’s best bars for some well-deserved refreshment! Book a Paris Night Bike Tour here.

Escape Room Adventure – The Louvre

For those looking for an action-packed escape room adventure, this is one experience you won’t want to miss! This unique activity takes place inside one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks – The Louvre museum – where you’ll be immersed in an interactive game full of puzzles and clues. It’s an exciting way to explore this beloved museum while testing your problem solving skills! Book an Escape Room Adventure – The Louvre here.

Versailles Palace Tour with Private Transportation

For those looking for an unforgettable day trip from Paris, this private tour is definitely worth checking out! You’ll travel in luxury to Versailles Palace where you can admire its grand architecture and stunning gardens before exploring inside. You’ll also enjoy lunch at an authentic local restaurant before heading back to Paris in style – it’s sure to be an amazing experience! Book a Versailles Palace Tour with Private Transportation here.

Seine River Cruise with Champagne

Cruise down the Seine River in style with this luxurious experience! You’ll board a two-hour cruise down this iconic river before enjoying a glass (or two!) of bubbly champagne as you enjoy views of some of Paris’s most famous landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral and The Louvre Museum. It’s sure to be an unforgettable experience! Book a Seine River Cruise with Champagne here.

Conclusion

As you can see, there is no shortage of amazing things to do in Paris that don’t involve being stuck in long lines or packed into tourist traps. From exploring local neighborhoods and visiting museums and art galleries, to sampling local wines and indulging in delicious treats, there are plenty of ways to get off the beaten path and truly experience what makes this amazing city so special. So if you’re looking for an authentic experience on your visit to Paris – be sure to check out some of these great activities!