Dear Curious Travelers,
Forget the Eiffel Tower and Champs-Élysées – you’ve probably heard enough about them! This guide is for adventurers looking to explore the hidden gems of Paris. If you love authentic, unique, and lesser-known spots, keep reading!
Quirky & Secret Museums
Musée de la Magie & Musée des Automates
Step into a world of illusion and mystery at this magical museum hidden in the Marais. Discover old tricks, secret devices, and a stunning collection of antique automata!
11 Rue Saint-Paul, 75004 Paris.
How to get there: Metro line 1, stop at « Saint-Paul ».
Musée des Moulages – Hôpital Saint-Louis
A hidden gem for lovers of medical oddities, this museum holds a fascinating (and slightly eerie!) collection of wax dermatology models used for medical research in the 19th century. Not for the faint-hearted!
1 Avenue Claude Vellefaux, 75010 Paris.
How to get there: Metro line 2, stop at « Colonel Fabien ».
Hidden Green Spaces & Unusual Walks
La Petite Ceinture
A former railway line turned into a wild urban jungle! This secret pathway winds through Paris, offering lush greenery, graffiti art, and an eerie abandoned train track feel. Perfect for an alternative walk!
Multiple access points around the 12th, 14th, 16th, and 18th arrondissements.
How to get there: Varies by location, closest metro depends on the section you visit!
La Campagne à Paris
Yes, there’s a village inside Paris! Escape the urban chaos and wander through these charming cobblestone streets and flower-covered houses. A true hidden gem!
Rue Irénée Blanc, 75020 Paris.
How to get there: Metro line 3, stop at « Porte de Bagnolet » + short walk.
Secret Bars & Underground Hangouts
Lavomatic
What looks like an ordinary laundromat actually hides a speakeasy behind one of the washing machines! Inside, enjoy delicious cocktails in a cozy, colorful setting.
30 Rue René Boulanger, 75010 Paris.
How to get there: Metro line 4, stop at « Strasbourg-Saint-Denis ».
Le Comptoir Général
An eclectic bar that feels like a mix of an African bazaar, pirate hideout, and vintage museum. Enjoy live music, unique decor, and exotic drinks!
84 Quai de Jemmapes, 75010 Paris.
How to get there: Metro line 5, stop at « Jacques Bonsergent ».
Underground Art & Unusual Venues
L’Atelier des Lumières
A former iron foundry turned into a digital art space, where paintings come to life with 360° projections. A mesmerizing experience!
38 Rue Saint-Maur, 75011 Paris.
How to get there: Metro line 9, stop at « Voltaire ».
Les Frigos
This former refrigeration warehouse is now an underground artists’ space filled with graffiti, studios, and creative energy. It’s like stepping into an urban art wonderland!
19 Rue des Frigos, 75013 Paris.
How to get there: Metro line 6, stop at « Quai de la Gare ».
Offbeat & Authentic Food Spots
La REcyclerie
Housed in an old train station, this eco-friendly café serves delicious organic dishes in a charming, rustic atmosphere. Bonus: It has a rooftop farm!
83 Boulevard Ornano, 75018 Paris.
How to get there: Metro line 4, stop at « Porte de Clignancourt ».
Le Refuge des Fondus
Want to drink wine in baby bottles? This quirky fondue restaurant serves you cheese and meat fondue with wine in an unconventional way!
17 Rue des Trois Frères, 75018 Paris.
How to get there: Metro line 12, stop at « Abbesses ».
Experience Paris Like a Local!
We hope this alternative guide helps you discover a side of Paris that most tourists never see. If you love hidden gems, quirky spots, and unique experiences, you’re in for a treat!
Happy exploring!