Top 20 Hidden Gems in Paris You Must Visit
If you think you have seen everything that Paris has to offer, think again. The City of Light is full of surprises and secrets that are waiting to be uncovered by curious travelers. In this article, we will reveal 20 of the best hidden gems in Paris that will make you fall in love with this city all over again.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
What's interesting?
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is a mesmerizing green oasis in the northeast of Paris. What sets it apart is its unique landscape design, featuring steep cliffs, an artificial lake with a charming temple perched on an island, and meandering paths. The park's uneven terrain offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Designed by Adolphe Alphand in the 19th century, it's a perfect spot for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or even some light hiking. The towering trees and cascading waterfalls make this park an unexpected paradise in the heart of Paris.
Address:
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, 1 Rue Botzaris, 75019.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is a mesmerizing green oasis in the northeast of Paris. What sets it apart is its unique landscape design, featuring steep cliffs, an artificial lake with a charming temple perched on an island, and meandering paths. The park's uneven terrain offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Designed by Adolphe Alphand in the 19th century, it's a perfect spot for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or even some light hiking. The towering trees and cascading waterfalls make this park an unexpected paradise in the heart of Paris.
Address:
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, 1 Rue Botzaris, 75019.
Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature
What's interesting?
Hidden in the Marais district, the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature is a captivating museum dedicated to hunting and nature. This museum offers a unique perspective on the relationship between humans and the animal world throughout history. The collection includes exquisite taxidermy, art, and artifacts that showcase the evolution of hunting from a necessity to a leisure activity. The beautifully curated exhibits and the historic mansion housing them create an atmosphere that's both thought-provoking and visually striking.
Address:
Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature, 62 Rue des Archives, 75003.
Hidden in the Marais district, the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature is a captivating museum dedicated to hunting and nature. This museum offers a unique perspective on the relationship between humans and the animal world throughout history. The collection includes exquisite taxidermy, art, and artifacts that showcase the evolution of hunting from a necessity to a leisure activity. The beautifully curated exhibits and the historic mansion housing them create an atmosphere that's both thought-provoking and visually striking.
Address:
Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature, 62 Rue des Archives, 75003.
@galeriemagazine
@camille_morineau
Promenade Plantée
What's interesting?
The Promenade Plantée, also known as Coulée Verte René-Dumont, offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of Paris. It's an elevated linear park built atop an old railway viaduct, making it a hidden gem in plain sight. The park is adorned with lush greenery, colorful flowers, and walking paths that lead through tunnels of foliage. As you stroll along, you'll come across charming gardens and art installations. This unique park offers a tranquil and scenic retreat above the city streets.
Address:
Promenade Plantée, 1 Coulée Verte, 75012.
The Promenade Plantée, also known as Coulée Verte René-Dumont, offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of Paris. It's an elevated linear park built atop an old railway viaduct, making it a hidden gem in plain sight. The park is adorned with lush greenery, colorful flowers, and walking paths that lead through tunnels of foliage. As you stroll along, you'll come across charming gardens and art installations. This unique park offers a tranquil and scenic retreat above the city streets.
Address:
Promenade Plantée, 1 Coulée Verte, 75012.
@goodmorningparis.fr
La Petite Ceinture
What's interesting?
La Petite Ceinture is a forgotten treasure in Paris. This disused railway line encircles the city, offering an urban exploration adventure. Nature has reclaimed this abandoned track, turning it into an enchanting urban jungle. Street art adorns the crumbling walls, and wildflowers flourish between the rails. Exploring La Petite Ceinture gives you a glimpse into a hidden side of Paris, where history and nature have intertwined to create a unique and ever-evolving landscape.
Address:
La Petite Ceinture, 12th — 20th arrondissements.
La Petite Ceinture is a forgotten treasure in Paris. This disused railway line encircles the city, offering an urban exploration adventure. Nature has reclaimed this abandoned track, turning it into an enchanting urban jungle. Street art adorns the crumbling walls, and wildflowers flourish between the rails. Exploring La Petite Ceinture gives you a glimpse into a hidden side of Paris, where history and nature have intertwined to create a unique and ever-evolving landscape.
Address:
La Petite Ceinture, 12th — 20th arrondissements.
@atlasobscura.com
Musée de la Magie
What's interesting?
Tucked away in the Marais district, the Musée de la Magie is a magical haven for enthusiasts of illusion and prestidigitation. Housed in a historic building, this museum showcases the fascinating history of magic, from ancient conjuring techniques to the elaborate tricks of modern magicians. You'll find an extensive collection of magic props, vintage posters, and interactive exhibits that reveal the secrets behind some of the world's most famous illusions. The museum even hosts live magic shows, making it a must-visit for those intrigued by the art of deception.
Address:
Musée de la Magie, 11 Rue Saint-Paul, 75004.
Tucked away in the Marais district, the Musée de la Magie is a magical haven for enthusiasts of illusion and prestidigitation. Housed in a historic building, this museum showcases the fascinating history of magic, from ancient conjuring techniques to the elaborate tricks of modern magicians. You'll find an extensive collection of magic props, vintage posters, and interactive exhibits that reveal the secrets behind some of the world's most famous illusions. The museum even hosts live magic shows, making it a must-visit for those intrigued by the art of deception.
Address:
Musée de la Magie, 11 Rue Saint-Paul, 75004.
More things to do in Paris
Square des Peupliers
What's interesting?
Square des Peupliers is a hidden gem tucked away in the 13th arrondissement of Paris. This charming residential area is often referred to as the "Countryside in Paris" due to its unique character. As you stroll along the cobblestone streets lined with quaint houses, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. The highlight of the square is a row of picturesque houses covered in ivy, creating a romantic and peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the bustling city.
Address:
Square des Peupliers, 75013.
Square des Peupliers is a hidden gem tucked away in the 13th arrondissement of Paris. This charming residential area is often referred to as the "Countryside in Paris" due to its unique character. As you stroll along the cobblestone streets lined with quaint houses, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. The highlight of the square is a row of picturesque houses covered in ivy, creating a romantic and peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the bustling city.
Address:
Square des Peupliers, 75013.
Maison de la Photographie
What's interesting?
The Maison de la Photographie, located in the Marais district, is a small museum that photography enthusiasts will appreciate. Housed in a beautifully restored mansion, it hosts temporary photography exhibitions showcasing the works of both renowned and emerging photographers. The museum provides a quiet and contemplative space to immerse yourself in the art of photography, making it an ideal stop for those looking to explore the visual storytelling of the medium.
Address:
Maison de la Photographie, 5/7 Rue de Fourcy, 75004.
The Maison de la Photographie, located in the Marais district, is a small museum that photography enthusiasts will appreciate. Housed in a beautifully restored mansion, it hosts temporary photography exhibitions showcasing the works of both renowned and emerging photographers. The museum provides a quiet and contemplative space to immerse yourself in the art of photography, making it an ideal stop for those looking to explore the visual storytelling of the medium.
Address:
Maison de la Photographie, 5/7 Rue de Fourcy, 75004.
Catacombs of Paris
What's interesting?
While not entirely hidden, the Catacombs of Paris are often less crowded compared to some other famous tourist sites. This subterranean ossuary is a unique and somewhat eerie attraction. Located beneath the streets of Paris, the Catacombs house the remains of approximately six million people. Visitors can explore a labyrinth of tunnels lined with neatly stacked bones and skulls, providing a haunting glimpse into the city's history and the challenges of its overcrowded cemeteries.
Address:
The Catacombs, 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014.
While not entirely hidden, the Catacombs of Paris are often less crowded compared to some other famous tourist sites. This subterranean ossuary is a unique and somewhat eerie attraction. Located beneath the streets of Paris, the Catacombs house the remains of approximately six million people. Visitors can explore a labyrinth of tunnels lined with neatly stacked bones and skulls, providing a haunting glimpse into the city's history and the challenges of its overcrowded cemeteries.
Address:
The Catacombs, 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014.
Jardin des Plantes
What's interesting?
Jardin des Plantes, situated on the left bank of the Seine, is a beautiful and historic botanical garden. Founded in 1626, it features a wide variety of plants, multiple greenhouses, and even a small zoo called the Ménagerie. The garden's serene ambiance makes it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, contemplation, or a picnic. It's also home to the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, which includes several museums dedicated to natural history, making it an excellent destination for science and nature enthusiasts.
Address:
Jardin des Plantes, 57 Rue Cuvier, 75005.
Jardin des Plantes, situated on the left bank of the Seine, is a beautiful and historic botanical garden. Founded in 1626, it features a wide variety of plants, multiple greenhouses, and even a small zoo called the Ménagerie. The garden's serene ambiance makes it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, contemplation, or a picnic. It's also home to the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, which includes several museums dedicated to natural history, making it an excellent destination for science and nature enthusiasts.
Address:
Jardin des Plantes, 57 Rue Cuvier, 75005.
Passage des Panoramas
What's interesting?
Passage des Panoramas is one of the oldest covered passages in Paris, offering a delightful blend of history and charm. This hidden arcade, located in the 2nd arrondissement, is a treasure trove of quaint shops, cozy cafes, and gourmet restaurants. As you wander through its elegant glass-covered walkways, you'll be transported to the Paris of the 19th century. The passage is adorned with vintage signage, decorative motifs, and a nostalgic ambiance that captures the essence of a bygone era.
Address:
Passage des Panoramas, 11 Boulevard Montmartre, 75002.
Passage des Panoramas is one of the oldest covered passages in Paris, offering a delightful blend of history and charm. This hidden arcade, located in the 2nd arrondissement, is a treasure trove of quaint shops, cozy cafes, and gourmet restaurants. As you wander through its elegant glass-covered walkways, you'll be transported to the Paris of the 19th century. The passage is adorned with vintage signage, decorative motifs, and a nostalgic ambiance that captures the essence of a bygone era.
Address:
Passage des Panoramas, 11 Boulevard Montmartre, 75002.
@parisenigmes.com
La Maison Rose
What's interesting?
La Maison Rose, nestled in the picturesque neighborhood of Montmartre, is a delightful pink restaurant with a history steeped in art and culture. This charming eatery has attracted artists like Pablo Picasso and Maurice Utrillo over the years. Its quaint facade covered in pink climbing roses adds to its allure. Dining here provides a chance to soak in the artistic atmosphere of Montmartre while savoring delicious French cuisine. The Maison Rose is a perfect spot to capture the essence of the "City of Love."
Address:
La Maison Rose, 2 Rue de l'Abreuvoir, 75018.
La Maison Rose, nestled in the picturesque neighborhood of Montmartre, is a delightful pink restaurant with a history steeped in art and culture. This charming eatery has attracted artists like Pablo Picasso and Maurice Utrillo over the years. Its quaint facade covered in pink climbing roses adds to its allure. Dining here provides a chance to soak in the artistic atmosphere of Montmartre while savoring delicious French cuisine. The Maison Rose is a perfect spot to capture the essence of the "City of Love."
Address:
La Maison Rose, 2 Rue de l'Abreuvoir, 75018.
@lamaisonrose-montmartre.com
@lamaisonrose-montmartre.com
Square du Vert-Galant
What's interesting?
Square du Vert-Galant is a hidden garden oasis located on the western tip of the Île de la Cité, offering breathtaking views of the Seine River and the surrounding architecture. This peaceful park is dedicated to Henry IV, known as the "Green Gallant," hence its name. It's a tranquil place to relax, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the sound of the river while gazing at the Pont Neuf and the romantic Pont des Arts nearby.
Address:
Square du Vert-Galant, Île de la Cité, 75001.
Square du Vert-Galant is a hidden garden oasis located on the western tip of the Île de la Cité, offering breathtaking views of the Seine River and the surrounding architecture. This peaceful park is dedicated to Henry IV, known as the "Green Gallant," hence its name. It's a tranquil place to relax, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the sound of the river while gazing at the Pont Neuf and the romantic Pont des Arts nearby.
Address:
Square du Vert-Galant, Île de la Cité, 75001.
Musée de la Vie Romantique
What's interesting?
Nestled in the heart of the 9th arrondissement, the Musée de la Vie Romantique, or Museum of Romantic Life, is a hidden gem dedicated to the Romantic period. Housed in a charming historic mansion, this museum transports you to the 19th century. It's a tribute to the Romantic era's art, literature, and culture, featuring the works of George Sand, Chopin, and other luminaries. The museum also boasts a delightful courtyard garden, where you can enjoy tea and pastries in a serene setting.
Address:
Musée de la Vie Romantique, 16 Rue Chaptal, 75009.
Nestled in the heart of the 9th arrondissement, the Musée de la Vie Romantique, or Museum of Romantic Life, is a hidden gem dedicated to the Romantic period. Housed in a charming historic mansion, this museum transports you to the 19th century. It's a tribute to the Romantic era's art, literature, and culture, featuring the works of George Sand, Chopin, and other luminaries. The museum also boasts a delightful courtyard garden, where you can enjoy tea and pastries in a serene setting.
Address:
Musée de la Vie Romantique, 16 Rue Chaptal, 75009.
@museedelavieromantique
Wallace Fountains
What's interesting?
The Wallace Fountains are charming and decorative public drinking fountains scattered throughout Paris. These iconic green fountains were designed by Charles-Auguste Lebourg and financed by Sir Richard Wallace in the late 19th century. They are not just practical water sources but also works of art featuring intricate designs, sculptures, and ornate ironwork. Sir Wallace's philanthropic contribution to the city's public health and aesthetics has made these fountains an integral part of the Parisian streetscape.
Address:
Various locations throughout Paris.
The Wallace Fountains are charming and decorative public drinking fountains scattered throughout Paris. These iconic green fountains were designed by Charles-Auguste Lebourg and financed by Sir Richard Wallace in the late 19th century. They are not just practical water sources but also works of art featuring intricate designs, sculptures, and ornate ironwork. Sir Wallace's philanthropic contribution to the city's public health and aesthetics has made these fountains an integral part of the Parisian streetscape.
Address:
Various locations throughout Paris.
Musée de la Préfecture de Police
What's interesting?
The Musée de la Préfecture de Police is a unique museum that provides a fascinating insight into the history of law enforcement in Paris. Housed within the historic Hôtel de Police, the museum showcases a wide array of artifacts, including old uniforms, weapons, criminal evidence, and historical documents. Visitors can explore the intriguing world of police investigations, the evolution of crime-fighting techniques, and notable criminal cases that shaped the city's history.
Address:
Musée de la Préfecture de Police, 4 Rue de la Montagne Sainte-Geneviève, 75005.
The Musée de la Préfecture de Police is a unique museum that provides a fascinating insight into the history of law enforcement in Paris. Housed within the historic Hôtel de Police, the museum showcases a wide array of artifacts, including old uniforms, weapons, criminal evidence, and historical documents. Visitors can explore the intriguing world of police investigations, the evolution of crime-fighting techniques, and notable criminal cases that shaped the city's history.
Address:
Musée de la Préfecture de Police, 4 Rue de la Montagne Sainte-Geneviève, 75005.
Square des Batignolles
What's interesting?
Square des Batignolles is a tranquil park nestled in the Batignolles neighborhood of the 17th arrondissement. It offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. This hidden gem features a lovely pond, walking paths, and beautiful flowerbeds. A standout feature is the charming English-style garden with a picturesque bridge, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, picnicking, or simply enjoying a moment of peace amidst nature.
Address:
Square des Batignolles, 144 Rue de Rome, 75017.
Square des Batignolles is a tranquil park nestled in the Batignolles neighborhood of the 17th arrondissement. It offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. This hidden gem features a lovely pond, walking paths, and beautiful flowerbeds. A standout feature is the charming English-style garden with a picturesque bridge, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, picnicking, or simply enjoying a moment of peace amidst nature.
Address:
Square des Batignolles, 144 Rue de Rome, 75017.
Musée de la Sculpture en Plein Air
What's interesting?
The Musée de la Sculpture en Plein Air, or the Museum of Outdoor Sculpture, is an open-air museum situated in the 5th arrondissement. This unique museum showcases a captivating collection of contemporary sculptures, providing a harmonious blend of art and nature. As you wander through the park, you'll encounter works by renowned artists, with the backdrop of lush greenery and the Seine River. The museum's ever-evolving exhibits make it a dynamic destination for art enthusiasts.
Address:
Musée de la Sculpture en Plein Air, Quai Saint-Bernard, 75005.
The Musée de la Sculpture en Plein Air, or the Museum of Outdoor Sculpture, is an open-air museum situated in the 5th arrondissement. This unique museum showcases a captivating collection of contemporary sculptures, providing a harmonious blend of art and nature. As you wander through the park, you'll encounter works by renowned artists, with the backdrop of lush greenery and the Seine River. The museum's ever-evolving exhibits make it a dynamic destination for art enthusiasts.
Address:
Musée de la Sculpture en Plein Air, Quai Saint-Bernard, 75005.
@lyon1976
Bibliothèque Forney
What's interesting?
Bibliothèque Forney, located in the historic Hôtel de Sens in the Marais district, is a hidden treasure for book lovers and researchers of decorative arts. This specialized library holds an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and documents related to architecture, decorative arts, and design. Whether you're an architect seeking inspiration or a history enthusiast exploring the evolution of design, this library offers a quiet and scholarly atmosphere for exploration and study.
Address:
Bibliothèque Forney, 1 Rue du Figuier, 75004.
Bibliothèque Forney, located in the historic Hôtel de Sens in the Marais district, is a hidden treasure for book lovers and researchers of decorative arts. This specialized library holds an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and documents related to architecture, decorative arts, and design. Whether you're an architect seeking inspiration or a history enthusiast exploring the evolution of design, this library offers a quiet and scholarly atmosphere for exploration and study.
Address:
Bibliothèque Forney, 1 Rue du Figuier, 75004.
Catacombs of Paris
What's interesting?
While not entirely hidden, the Catacombs of Paris offer a unique and somewhat eerie attraction that's often less crowded than other popular tourist sites. This subterranean ossuary, located beneath the streets of Paris, houses the remains of approximately six million individuals. Visitors can explore a labyrinth of tunnels adorned with meticulously arranged bones and skulls, providing a haunting insight into the city's history and the challenges of managing overcrowded cemeteries.
Address:
The Catacombs, 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014.
While not entirely hidden, the Catacombs of Paris offer a unique and somewhat eerie attraction that's often less crowded than other popular tourist sites. This subterranean ossuary, located beneath the streets of Paris, houses the remains of approximately six million individuals. Visitors can explore a labyrinth of tunnels adorned with meticulously arranged bones and skulls, providing a haunting insight into the city's history and the challenges of managing overcrowded cemeteries.
Address:
The Catacombs, 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014.
Sinking House
What's interesting?
The Sinking House in Paris is a hidden gem that offers a unique perspective of the city. It is not a real house, but an optical illusion created by tilting the camera at a certain angle. The house is actually a normal building behind a grassy slope near the Sacré-Cœur, a famous basilica in Montmartre. By rotating the camera so that the slope appears horizontal, the house seems to be sinking into the ground. Many tourists and photographers have captured this amazing effect and shared it on social media. The Sinking House in Paris is a fun and quirky spot to visit and enjoy the view of the city.
Address:
Parvis du Sacré-Cœur, 75018 Paris.
The Sinking House in Paris is a hidden gem that offers a unique perspective of the city. It is not a real house, but an optical illusion created by tilting the camera at a certain angle. The house is actually a normal building behind a grassy slope near the Sacré-Cœur, a famous basilica in Montmartre. By rotating the camera so that the slope appears horizontal, the house seems to be sinking into the ground. Many tourists and photographers have captured this amazing effect and shared it on social media. The Sinking House in Paris is a fun and quirky spot to visit and enjoy the view of the city.
Address:
Parvis du Sacré-Cœur, 75018 Paris.