For many a traveller, Paris is a quintessential destination. But anyone who’s visited before knows that the main sights are crowded, chaotic, and, let’s be real, often pretty dirty. One of the true joys of travel is discovering local gems, supporting small businesses, and exploring areas often undiscovered by week-long visitors.
Here’s my ideal, unique Parisian itinerary, with activities and places in Paris that go beyond the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, incorporating local gems, quirky spots, and authentic Parisian experiences:
Day 1: Hidden Paris Gems
Morning: Cleaner Water than the Seine and a Classic Bakery
- Canal Saint-Martin: Located in the 10th and 11th arrondissements Canal Saint-Martin is a trendy, off-the-beaten-path neighborhood where you can find cute boutiques, cool cafes, and photo-worthy canals.
- Napoleon ordered the canal’s construction in 1802 in order to provide Parisians with a fresh source of drinking water and a means to import food and building materials. Today, the canal is still in use, but a portion drops below ground.
- Stroll along the canal, explore the picturesque iron footbridges, and grab a refreshment from one of the many outdoor cafes. This area is a favorite amongst Parisians and students.
- Du Pain et Des Idées: You’ll find this quintessential Parisian bakery one block from the canal on Rue de Marseille. Stop in for a delicious pastry or baked good and a strong morning coffee and enjoy your treats as you walk along the canal.
- Must try:
- Pain des Amis (pronounced “pa’ dez amee”) – the bakery’s specialty: flat-ish bread with a hard exterior and a fluffy, soft interior. Don’t leave without a piece!
- L’escargot Chocolat-Pistache (pronounced “les-car-go shaw-co-lah peest-ash”): flaky round pastries with a thin spread of chocolate and pistachio; so tasty, not too sweet.
- Le Chausson à la Pomme Fraîche (pronounced “le show-saw a la pawm freh-shh”): it’s basically just an apple turnover, but it’s so good that it deserves a spot on the must try list.
- Must try:
Lunch on the Canal
- Les Enfants Perdus: Located just off the canal, across from the Jardin Villemin (a spacious park) Les Enfants Perdus offers a traditional Paris brasserie experience at a reasonable price. They’re open every day for lunch and dinner. Grab a drink next door at their bar, Les Enfants Sauvages beforehand. The menu changes regularly, but you really can’t go wrong. They cater well to dietary restrictions (by French standards), offering vegetarian and gluten-free dishes.
- Fric Frac: If you want a fast, low-key option, Fric Frac is the way to go. It’s an unpretentious sandwich and croque shop, located directly on the canal. Everything they make can be eaten in the small dining area (“sur place”) or taken to go (“a emporter”). This place can get pretty popular, so plan on taking your croque to go and enjoying it from one of the canal’s many benches.
Afternoon: History of Paris and Modern Parisian Life
- Musée Carnavalet: Located in the historic Marais, this free museum showcases the history of Paris, from prehistory to present day. This fascinating museum offers an in-depth look at the history of the city. It’s not nearly as crowded as the Louvre and feels far more intimate and carefully curated. Admission to the permanent exhibits is completely free (unheard of in Paris!), and visitors don’t need a reservation.
- Montorgueil District: Stroll along Rue Montorgueil and discover this less touristy district full of cafes, boulangeries, and boutiques. This area is home to plenty of small shops, where Parisians buy knick knacks and produce. As a general rule, the closer you get to the Seine, the busier the area. Keep slightly north to avoid the massive tourist crowds as they head to the Louvre.
Dinner: Melted Cheese!
- Pain Vin Fromages (in the 3rd arrondissement) is tiny, adorable, must-visit dinner spot. Following the restaurant’s name, enjoy bread, wine, and cheese in this fondue, raclette, and tartiflette haven. Despite a blink and you’ll miss it street presence, this restaurant is packed nightly. Don’t forget to make a reservation, and be sure to get there on time!
Day 2: Quirky Paris Experiences
Morning: A Park in the Sky & a Trip Through the Vaults
- Start your day by visiting the Promenade Plantée (also known as the Coulée Verte René-Dumont), a gorgeous park constructed above Paris’s busy streets on decommissioned aqueduct. It’s often less crowded than the more famous parks like Jardin des Tuileries, but it offers lovely views. So grab a coffee and a croissant and enjoy a laid-back Paris morning.
- Viaduc des Arts: This covered walkway runs beneath the Promenade Plantée. Each arch contains a “vault,” which is home to individual art studios, craft workshops, and boutiques. While the Promenade is green and peaceful, Le Viaduc is alive with hustle and bustle. This is an ideal place to grab a unique and memorable souvenir, simultaneously supporting a local artisan.
Lunch: Oh Crêpe!
- For lunch, take a walk to Breizh Café in the Marais for some of the best Breton galettes (savory buckwheat crepes) in the city. Since you can’t complete a trip to France without a crêpe/galette stop, now’s your chance! Breizh has a diverse menu of signature options. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, you’ll find something to your liking in this cozy cafe.
Afternoon: A Merry Good Time
- The Musée des Arts Forains (Museum of Fairground Arts) is a hidden gem of the 12th arrondissement. It’s a fun, immersive museum that showcases vintage carnival rides, games, and fairground art. While so many Parisian museums focus exclusively on art, this is a great opportunity to take a break and explore something more whimsical. Be sure to schedule your visit before you arrive!
Evening: Hidden Bars of Paris
- Candelaria: A hidden cocktail bar located in the back of a Mexican taqueria in the Marais. Stop by and grab some tacos before heading into the bar, accessible though the back. After you’ve found the bar (don’t be dissuaded by the bright restaurant. It’s back there!), settle in for a few carefully crafted cocktails. The crowd here is generally young and friendly, so if you’re looking for a fun night without getting too wild, this is the perfect spot.
Dinner: Cool Casual with the French
- Stick around in Le Marais for dinner at Le Mary Celeste. Keeping with the day’s cool, cozy vibes, it’s a bar/restaurant, serving creative small plates and tasty cocktails, and since it’s France, a whole bunch of wine. You’ll find a lot of Parisians grabbing a drink or sharing small plates in this small, eclectic restaurant.
Day 3: Today We Art
Morning: Another Paris Park, but It’s Good I Promise
- One of the most special and under-appreciated parks in Paris is Parc des Buttes-Chaumont in the 19th arrondissement. You’ll often find locals referencing this park on lists of must-see Paris destinations. With its rocky hills, rolling waterfalls, and the iconic temple on a cliff, this garden offers a perfect escape before beginning a busy Parisian day.
Lunch: A Jaunt to the Levant
- La Sajerie: This small café in the 10th arrondissement serves up amazing Levantine street food. This is the perfect lunch for a busy day of exploring. Grab a saj with your favorite ingredients and explore the artsy corners of Montmartre.
Afternoon: Green Living and Bohemian Paradise
- La Recyclerie: Stop at this eco-friendly café and open-air community space located in a former train station. It’s a great stop for anyone interested in sustainability. Whether you want to check out the garden, the hosted workshops, the flea markets, or some of the many other events, there’s something for everyone. It’s a unique place for lunch or an afternoon coffee, particularly if you’re looking for a relaxed, creative vibe.
- Montmartre: This famous district has traditionally been home to the bohemian artists of Paris. Instead of braving massive crowds around the Sacré-Cœur, opt to explore the quieter, more artistic side of Montmartre. Wander the winding streets toward Place Dalida, a lesser-known but beautiful square. Check out Dalí Paris, particularly if you’re interested in the Spaniard’s surrealist style. Montmarte is one of the best places in Paris to get lost. Lose yourself for a few hours.
Dinner: Paris Sunset
- Close out your picturesque Parisian day with Bistro des Augustins. This tiny, charming restaurant is located directly on the Seine. They specialize in cheese gratins. If you’re unfamiliar, they’re essentially potatoes covered in melted cheese. Do yourself a favor and check them out before you leave Paris. Call ahead if you’d like an inside reservation. Or, if you’re feeling lucky, try to nab a table in the front (no reservations taken for those!) and watch the sun set over the city.
Bonus Tips:
- Flea Markets: For a local shopping experience, check out Les Puces de Saint-Ouen or Marché d’Aligre. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh produce to antiques.
- Street Art Tour: If urban art is your thing, spend some time exploring the 13th arrondissement or Belleville. You’ll find full murals and smaller graffiti installations throughout these districts.
- Secret Gardens: If you need a break from the hustle and bustle, visit Jardin du Palais Royal or, if you’re up for a bit of a trek, Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil, both of which offer peaceful scenery away from the crowds.
- Instead of a fancy dinner, stop at L’As du Fallafel for arguably the best falafel in Paris. It’s a favorite for locals seeking delicious, quick, and affordable food. Portions are huge, and the atmosphere is fast-paced and lively.
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