9 hidden gems in Paris that you have to experience

Paris is full of historic museums, beautiful architecture, cute neighborhoods, and iconic sights. If you’ve visited Paris before, you’ve likely seen the Mona Lisa in the Louvre, gone up the Eiffel Tower, and cruised the Seine. But one of the best things to do in Paris is that no matter how often you’ve been there, you’ll always find something new to discover, be it a little-known neighborhood or hidden treasures at the markets. If you want to get off the beaten path, here are some hidden gems in Paris worth checking out.

1. Wander Rue Crémieux

Rue Crémieux is a picturesque cobblestone street in the 12th arrondissement, lined with bright, pastel-colored houses. It’s a true Parisian hidden gem, and although it’s becoming more well-known due to its popularity on Instagram, it isn’t on most tourists’ radars. Grab your camera and head to Rue Crémieux to discover this charming street’s beauty for yourself.

Address:

Rue Crémieux, 75012 Paris, France

2. Discover the secrets of French pastries

Ever wondered how the French get their pastry so perfect? There’s surely no better place to learn than in Paris. Join a cooking class led by an expert pastry chef and learn the secrets behind delicious French pastries. Develop your pastry skills so you can recreate these tasty treats at home.

3. Experience the old-world charm of Le Marais

Le Marais, a former Jewish quarter, is known for its old-world charm, hip boutiques, and cheap eats. I recommend joining a guided tour through the neighborhood to discover the ancient ruins, hidden courtyards, and fascinating secrets of Le Marais. For foodies, visit the market and pick up some fresh produce, or join a food tour and try local delicacies.

4. Explore Paris’ nooks and crannies

Paris is full of secret courtyards and unique landmarks that visitors often overlook. There is so much to explore in Paris: from hidden gems to the charming neighborhoods and iconic landmarks. A guided tour will allow you to learn about the city’s rich history, get an overview of some of the popular areas, and also uncover Paris’ hidden nooks and crannies that most don’t know about.

5. Head underground into the Catacombs

Beneath Paris lies the Catacombs, a labyrinth of tunnels that stretch for miles and hole the remains of over 6 million Parisians. Descend into the Catacombs and discover a spooky side of Paris’ history.

Address and opening hours:

Paris Catacombs, 1 Av. du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris, France

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:45 AM to 8:30 PM, with the last entry at 7:30 PM.

6. Enjoy the colors and scents of the flower market

There’s something about Parisian streets lined with flowers that will make you feel like you’re living in a movie. Experience the whimsical Queen Elizabeth II Flower Market — on the Île de la Cité — and let the colorful flowers and amazing fragrances treat your senses.

Address and opening hours:

Queen Elizabeth II Flower Market, 37 Place Louis Lépine, 75004 Paris, France

Open daily from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM.

7. Enjoy the unique experience at the Montmartre windmills

Montmartre was once full of wooden windmills that were featured in Van Gogh’s and Renoir’s artwork. Nowadays, the neighborhood is popular for its landmark Sacre-Coeur Basilica. But if you are looking for a more unique experience in this charming bohemian neighborhood, walk along the steep Rue Lepic, where you can find two of Montmartre’s surviving windmills: Le Moulin Blute-Fin and Le Moulin du Radet.

Addresses:

Le Moulin Blute-Fin, 5 Ham. des artistes, 75018 Paris, France

Le Moulin du Radet, 83 Rue Lepic, 75018 Paris, France

8. Hunt for hidden treasures at the flea market

Paris is home to some amazing flea markets. You never know what you’ll find, from vintage fashion to unique antiques. Meander through iconic flea markets like Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen or Marche aux Puces de Montreuil, search for treasures, and test your negotiation skills.

Address and opening hours:

Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, 110 Rue des Rosiers, 93400 Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, France 

Open weekends 10:00 AM-6:00 PM, 11:00 AM-5:00 PM on Mondays, and 8:00 AM-12:00 PM on Fridays.

Marché aux Puces de Montreuil, 6 Av. du Professeur André Lemierre, 75020 Paris, France

Open 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM Saturday through Monday.

9. Rent a boat at la Villette

Head to Bassin de la Villette and Marin d’Eau Douce and see Paris from a different viewpoint: the water. Here, you can swim in the pool or rent a boat and cruise the canals. Exploring the Bassin de la Villette is a fun thing to do in Paris, especially in the summer, and is a secret place most visitors don’t know about.

Address:

Bassin de la Villette, 75019 Paris, France

FAQ

Are there any hidden historical sites in Paris that most tourists don’t know about?

There are a few: Paris’ ancient Roman amphitheater, Arenes de Lutece, hidden away in the Latin Quarter, Paris’ medieval defensive wall in Marais, and Hotel de Sens, popular for its medieval architecture. 

Where can I find the most beautiful hidden courtyards in Paris?

The courtyards of Cour de Rohan in the Latin Quarter are gorgeous, as are the views of the Institute de France. Escape to the Hôtel de Sully’s courtyard in Marais with manicured gardens and spectacular Renaissance architecture.

What are some of the lesser-known museums in Paris?

Some lesser-known museums are Musée Jacquemart-André, which has an impressive private art collection; Musée Nissim de Camondo, with its 18th-century French furniture and decorative arts collection; and Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature.

Where can I find unique, non-touristy shopping experiences in Paris?

You can enjoy a unique shopping experience at the historic covered passages, including Galerie Vivienne and Passage Jouffroy. And check out the flea market Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, and the artisanal shops and studios on Rue de Charonne in the 11th arrondissement.

Where are the best secret spots in Paris to enjoy panoramic city views?

You can see Paris’ panoramic cityscape from one of the highest points in the city at Parc de Belleville in the 20th arrondissement. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont has various vantage points that offer amazing sweeping views of Paris.