When thinking of Paris, the grand allure of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Champs-Élysées quickly come to mind. But what if I told you there’s a whole other side to Paris, a quieter, more intimate version, waiting to be uncovered? If you’re ready to go beyond the guidebooks and Instagram hotspots, here’s a journey through seven lesser-known treasures of Paris that will have you experiencing the city like a true local.
Grab your café au lait, and let’s embark on this adventure. These hidden gems are so captivating, you might even forget to take out your camera.
You’ve probably never heard of Rue Crémieux, but once you visit, it’s a place that will be etched into your memory. Located in the quiet 12th arrondissement, this charming pedestrian street stands out for its beautifully painted pastel houses, each with its own character. Picture facades in hues of lavender, mint green, butter yellow, and soft pink, all lined up like a perfect little rainbow of Parisian charm.
Unlike the crowded and often chaotic streets of Montmartre, Rue Crémieux offers a much more peaceful and intimate atmosphere. The cobblestone path adds to the allure, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a quaint village rather than a bustling metropolis.
And here’s the best part—it’s still relatively unknown to most tourists, which means you can enjoy a leisurely stroll without having to fight for space.
It’s the ideal spot for photography lovers or anyone looking to capture the aesthetic beauty of Paris. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the local residents who still live in these colorful homes, adding a slice of everyday Parisian life to your experience.
Trip Trick: Want to experience Rue Crémieux without the crowds? Visit in the early morning, just after sunrise. Not only will you avoid the midday rush, but the soft, golden light makes the street look even more magical.
While most travelers head to the manicured lawns of Jardin des Tuileries or Luxembourg Gardens, those in the know retreat to Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. Located in the 19th arrondissement, this sprawling park is one of the largest green spaces in Paris and offers a perfect mix of nature, tranquility, and stunning views.
What makes Parc des Buttes-Chaumont truly special is its dramatic, almost otherworldly landscape. Think rolling hills, towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and a suspension bridge that seems straight out of a storybook. The centerpiece of the park is the Temple de la Sibylle, perched on a cliff overlooking the park with panoramic views of the Paris skyline and the distant Sacré-Cœur Basilica. It’s the kind of place where you can take a deep breath and forget about time.
Locals love to come here for leisurely picnics, jogs, or simply to escape the chaos of the city. You’ll spot Parisians lounging on the grassy hills, reading books, or chatting with friends over a bottle of wine. It’s the perfect spot to experience Paris the way locals do—slow, relaxed, and with a side of natural beauty.
Trip Tale: On a sunny afternoon, I decided to visit Parc des Buttes-Chaumont on a whim. As I wandered through the winding paths, I found myself at the foot of a hidden waterfall, its gentle spray a welcome relief from the heat. There were only a few locals around, lounging on the grass or quietly chatting, and for a moment, it felt like I had discovered a secret oasis in the heart of Paris.
If you’re into museums but crave something a little more offbeat than the usual art collections, the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature (Museum of Hunting and Nature) is a must-visit. Located in the Marais district, this quirky museum offers a fascinating blend of taxidermy, art, and historical artifacts.
Nestled in the trendy Marais district, this museum is dedicated to the history of hunting and the relationship between humans and nature. Before you dismiss it as niche, hear me out—this museum is filled with surprises.
It’s a delightful mix of taxidermy, contemporary art, antique weapons, and even interactive exhibits that explore themes of wildlife and conservation in a completely unique way. The museum itself feels more like walking through a whimsical cabinet of curiosities, with each room offering something unexpected.
From giant stag antlers to artistic displays of wild animals, you’ll be immersed in a world that blends art, history, and nature in a way that’s equal parts educational and entertaining. It’s a great spot for travelers who want to experience Parisian culture beyond the famous art masterpieces.
Trip Trick: Visiting Paris on a budget? The Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature offers free entry on the first Sunday of every month. Take advantage of this to discover the museum’s quirky collection without spending a dime.
Move over, New York! Before the Big Apple had its famous High Line, Paris had the Promenade Plantée, a beautiful elevated park stretching through the 12th arrondissement. This 4.7-kilometer path, which runs along a former railway line, is lined with trees, flowers, and benches, making it a perfect escape from the city’s busy streets.
What’s unique about La Promenade Plantée is its peacefulness. The path is lined with trees, flowers, and benches where you can sit and watch the world go by. As you walk, you’ll pass through different types of gardens, from formal rose beds to wildflower patches and even vine-covered arches. There’s a gentle rhythm to the walk, with plenty of spots to pause and take in the views.
Because it’s relatively unknown to tourists, you’ll mostly encounter locals here—jogging, reading, or enjoying a relaxing stroll. It’s the perfect place to feel like you’ve stepped into a more private, personal version of Paris, one where you can slow down and appreciate the beauty of nature without the crowds.
Triptuition: The Promenade Plantée encourages reflection and relaxation—two things that are often hard to come by in the more tourist-heavy areas.
For those who love a good city walk with a twist, the Coulée Verte René-Dumont offers an enchanting mix of nature and urban landscapes. Running for nearly 5 kilometers from Bastille to the Bois de Vincennes, this green pathway is partly elevated, part street-level, and entirely serene.
What makes the Coulée Verte so unique is its ability to make you feel like you’re wandering through a forest, even though you’re in the heart of Paris. It’s not uncommon to come across a secret pond, flower-covered trellises, or benches hidden beneath leafy canopies. Locals often use the path for their daily jog or walk, making it a true hidden gem that’s off the beaten path.
Whether you’re craving some greenery or just want to escape the city for an afternoon, this urban trail offers the perfect mix of quiet solitude and natural beauty.
Trip Trick: Bring a small picnic or your favorite book. The Coulée Verte is full of quiet spots where you can rest and recharge away from the hustle and bustle of Parisian life.
Food markets are a Parisian staple, but few are as charming or under the radar as Le Marché des Enfants Rouges. Hidden in the Marais, this market is one of the oldest in Paris, dating back to the 1600s. Today, it’s a vibrant spot where locals grab lunch, shop for fresh produce, and catch up over a glass of wine.
Here, you won’t find overpriced tourist menus. Instead, you’ll be treated to authentic dishes from around the world, including Moroccan tagines, Italian pasta, and traditional French fare. Pull up a chair at one of the communal tables and be prepared to chat with locals—this is where Parisians come to eat.
Trip Trick: Visit around midday to snag the best food options, and don’t be shy about asking the vendors for their recommendations. The portions are generous, so you can easily share with a friend.
Most people visit Père Lachaise Cemetery to see the graves of famous figures like Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Edith Piaf. But did you know it’s also a stunning outdoor museum? Strolling through the winding paths, you’ll encounter beautifully sculpted tombs, Gothic mausoleums, and serene gardens, all of which tell their own stories.
Beyond the famous names, Père Lachaise is a peaceful place where you can appreciate both history and nature. Locals often come here to reflect, take a quiet walk, or simply enjoy the tranquility. It’s a part of Paris that invites deeper contemplation and connection with the city’s past.
Trip Tale: During my visit to Père Lachaise, I stumbled upon a gravestone that belonged to a little-known artist from the early 20th century. The intricate carvings on the stone were unlike anything I’d seen before, and it reminded me that every corner of Paris is filled with stories waiting to be uncovered.
Paris is a city best explored slowly, with time to savor every hidden gem. From colorful streets to peaceful parks and quirky museums to local food markets, there’s a side of Paris that only a few travelers get to experience.
So, next time you’re in the City of Light, take a step off the beaten path. Who knows? You might just fall in love with a part of Paris that’s entirely your own.
