10 Fun Ways to See Paris Like a Local

Paris - A City of Love and Light!

Paris - The City Love is all about the fun, adventures, and delights - that lasts forever! Experience a new way to discover the city where you'll see Notre Dame, Louvre, or the world's famous Eiffel Tower from a unique angle! Whether you're a seasonal visitor or a first-time experiencing this city's magic - you'll see Paris in an entirely new light! Enjoy strolling over the enchanting alleyways filled with the aroma of croissants and unfold the iconic Parisian life. Where will you be stopped? Will it be a boutique, a scenic garden, a hidden alley, or the world's recognized destinations? Paris has a lot to weave the charms of every moment.

Get ready for a living and breathtaking experience, we've tailored a list of the best things to do in Paris like a local. Whether you're wandering the city without a plan or exploring places with no information; just keep this handy guide with you to be swept away by the endless wonders of the city!

A day out to Notre Dame Cathedral is definitely going to be on your Paris itinerary - but have you ever discovered the ancient world right below your feet? Stroll seven meters below the vibrant Paris Street, you'll see a fascinating crypt that takes you 2000 years back. It was opened in 1980 and has remnants of ancient structures. Step down into the underground area and wander the old Lutetia, explore ancient wells, and private thermal baths, and marvel at the Roman villas. This hidden spot is more than a crypt - it's a tour of Parisian history - a journey to witness the architectural evolution, from Gallo-Roman baths to the sewer system of Haussmann. Get ready to explore the ancient secret of Îl e de la Cite with this one-and-a-half-hour tour.

Tired of casual strolls? Step into a fairytale world with hidden trails and unique spots in Butte-aux-Cailles. This is a hidden spot in the 13th arrondissement, where you'll wander through nicely decorated narrow cobblestone alleyways shaded by sightseeing trees and lines with picturesque houses that take you away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Keep your eyes peeled for quaint streets with art adorning walls, like Miss Tic and more. Take your time - there's a lot to explore! Appreciate the beauty of La Petite Alsace - the oldest pool beneath the cathedral with village vibes. Dive into the charms of I'Oisive-Thé where you'll enjoy a hearty lunch.

Explore a wilder and offbeat side of the city at Petite Ceinture - an ancient railway that carried freight trains all around the capital. But now, most of this has transformed into an exotic land, where you can enjoy the fresh air and explore the layers of Parisian history. Hidden from the vibrant streets, the Petite Ceinture boasts a mix of surprises! Enjoy the cafes on the 16th arrondissement, and eco-friendly canteens on the 18th arrondissement, and explore vibrant cycling tracks, ecological trails, shared gardens, tree-lined walks, and sports buildings in the 15th arrondissement. Crave for more? Head to Rue de Menilmontant and Rue de la Mare in the 10th arrondissement, then visit 12th arrondissement to uncover the Rue de Montempoivre and Rue Roffembourg. Don't miss to experience the hidden charms at Rue Olivier-de-Serres and Place Balard in the 15th arrondissement.

Stroll up to Musée des Arts Forain and uncover the magic of Belle Époque! This hidden spot is a tribute to the laughter, art of entertainment, and parties with whimsical fairgrounds sports, vintage carousels, and treasures of the golden era. The best thing is the guided tour where actor guides fill this spot to life, turning on some carousels, and you can hop on and enjoy the ride! So, buckle up and get ready to explore the blend of a bygone era and modern-world charm with lively projection technology and state-of-the-art music.

In the 12th arrondissement, just a short walk from the lively Gare de Lyon, lies Rue Crémieux, a hidden gem that feels like a scene from a storybook. This charming cobblestone street is filled with colorful houses painted in shades of magenta, pastel blue, apple green, and turquoise. With flowerpots lining the walkways and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s a little piece of heaven! At just 144 meters long, this delightful street is perfect for discovering hidden surprises. Grab your camera and strike a pose to share the beauty of this unique spot on social media!

Are you looking for exoticism in the heart of the city? Satisfy your cravings at Passage Brady - a hidden passage that dates back to 1972. This spot takes you instantly to the bustling streets of Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Step inside through its door and experience subcontinental delights where colorful shops, aromatic eateries, and greengrocers await!

While Notre Dame attracts the most visitors, Sainte-Chapelle is a hidden gem among Paris attractions. Tucked in the city center, this stunning Gothic chapel rewards those who climb its staircase with incredible beauty. In the upper chapel, you’ll find a breathtaking 600-square-meter stained-glass window that rises 15 meters high. Start your visit by exploring the intricate details that tell stories from the Bible and consider attending an evening classical music concert to enhance your experience. Get ready to discover the spiritual delights of Sainte-Chapelle!

Deyrolle is a curious cabinet of wonders where stepping in feels like wandering around the 200-year-old era! This taxidermy shop was founded in 1831 in the 7th arrondissement, right at 46 Rue du Bac. This institute is a hidden blend of curiosities and adventures, offering a natural world filled with the magic of science. As you're wandering through the richly decorated spot, you'll see stuffed lions, rhinos, and zebras along with stunning species of shellfish, coral, butterflies, and crustaceans. But it's not the end here - this vibrant cabinet of curiosities specializes in entomology and taxidermy where you'll uncover otherworldly wonders with natural charms!

Deyrolle also offers various educational boards on zoology and geology to satisfy those who thirst for more! So, be ready to take a stroll on the wild side of Paris!

Head to the 5th arrondissement, the Grande Mosquée de Paris has a tranquil spot that few people know about. This spot was built in the 1920s to honor great Muslim soldiers who had been part of World War I. Explore this Hispano-Morseque-style Mosque which has 33-meter-high minarets, overlooking the Jardin Des Delice with 35,00 square-meters surface area. As you stroll through, you'll see yourself surrounded by soul-soaking views and soothing sounds of intricate mosaics, wisteria, fountains, and ponds. Discover the five pillars of Islam shown by five Palm trees that sway gently in the air to add some peace to the environment. Not only the garden, but also the large patio, the conference area, and the Koranic library - the entire place is all about the vibrant history, peace, and beauty, presenting the race and tranquil side of the city that takes you away from the busy life!

Think the spectacle from Montmartre is unstoppable? Think again! Visit Butte Bergeyre where you'll see unbeatable vistas of Sacré-Coeur and breathtaking rooftops of the city. This is a spot where nature and life come together seamlessly, offering a quaint scene that feels like a dream! Gaze out and explore the enchanting facades filled with rustic roses bursting with beautiful colors and vibrant cottages. Are you with kids or a person with a kid-heart? Head to Place Colonel Fabien, Avenue Simon Bolivar, 17 Rue Manin, and a charming passage that takes you to Rue Des Chaufourniers. So, get ready to uncover one of the best things to do in Paris and bask in the view that leaves you craving for more!