From a free-access rooftop terrace with panoramic views over the whole city to a neighborhood of distinctive little boutiques and unusual parks, Pariss hidden hangouts are plentiful and exciting.
The Paris is one of Europes most popular capitals, welcoming visitors of all ages from every corner of the globe. The City of Light has a unique way of captivating travelers, with the iconic Eiffel Tower, its impressive museums, blooming gardens and parks, as well as the small, charming bistros that pop up on every corner.
All this is well known to most, so many seek something different, something special to do in the city, as the secret spots without tourist queues are the ones that truly matter. In a Guardian article, readers were invited to share their favorite hidden corners in Paris. We present ten places for every taste, so you can keep them in mind for your next visit to the French capital.
A special chocolaterie
Paris is famed for its cozy boutiques and characterful cafés in every neighborhood. Of all the chocolaterie window displays in Paris, Au Chat Bleu on Boulevard Haussmann exudes a singular aura. It recalls an old-fashioned English confectionery, but with its own distinctly French twist. In its window you’ll find seasonal specialties and treats you never knew existed, traditional fruit pâtes, colorful vintage candies in jars, and inventive creations like bouchées chocolates inspired by the founders’ beloved Blue Persian cats. This is the perfect place to pick up gifts to give to your loved ones or simply to treat yourself.
The allure of French cinema
In Paris it can be hard to watch a film if you don’t speak French. For cinema lovers there is a solution. Look for the weekly screenings by Lost in Frenchlation, a duo from France and Australia. Their project aims to give non-Francophone residents and visitors the chance to discover the allure of French cinema. Every Friday there is a screening of a new or classic French film with English subtitles. This way, each week you can explore different cinemas, and sometimes directors, or producers are there to answer questions from the audience.
A walk along a former railway line
A truly little-known place for a stroll and a walk is thelong-abandoned La Petite Ceinture railway line, which served the city until the 1930s. Today it lends itself to a wonderful walk in nature, with sections linking different parts of Paris. The elevated stretch in the 15th arrondissement is particularly beautiful. This outing pairs perfectly with wine at Voie 15 at Vaugirard station.
A different museum and an artist’s studio
Take a deep dive into the French Resistance and its greatest heroes at the Musée de la Libération de Paris on Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy Avenue, in the 14th arrondissement. The museum brings to life the everyday reality of ordinary people who fought against Nazi Germany and culminates in a riveting tour through the events that led to the liberation. On the corner, on rue Victor Schœlcher, is the Fondation Giacometti. You have the chance to see the recreated studio of Alberto Giacometti, a space that became a symbol of postwar Parisian artistic life. Among other things, it houses some of his fragile plaster and clay works of art - many of which have never been shown to the public -, the artist’s furniture and his famous murals.
Free panoramic view of Paris
In Paris the quest for the finest view is a major matter. Beyond the vistas from the Eiffel Tower or the steps of the Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre, there is a spot that serves up Paris on a plate. According to many visitors, this is the loveliest place in the city to take in the view without spending a single euro. Go up to the top floor of the famous department store Galeries Lafayette which is located near lOpéra Garnier) and head for the rooftop. This wonderful place is striking at all hours of the day, but sunset is best, as the city lights slowly flicker on.
The little shops in the 17th arrondissement
Rue de Lévis in the 17th arrondissement doesn’t usually feature in travel guides but it’s a fantastic place to explore. The wonderful mix of small shops, florists, bars and restaurants feels more like a local market than a tourist spot. Delicious treats and handmade items are all around. Try the macarons at Maison Arnaud Delmontel and then go to Les P’tits Potes for a glass of wine.
The home of jazz
A truly hidden jazz bar in the 19th arrondissement that locals know is La Gare on Avenue Corentin Cariou. It looks like a small house beside a railway line, with a graffiti-covered facade that exudes mystery. During the day it doesn’t draw attention, but when evening comes it springs back to life. Its program features jazz nights with drinks and dancing, and the flautist steals the show with his solos.
A basement full of Monet
If you find yourself in Paris on a Sunday, pick up something tasty to go from the market under the train tracks on Boulevard de Grenelle. Then take the metro to the Musée Marmottan Monet to explore an eclectic mix of art. There you’ll find a light-filled gallery in the basement with paintings by Monet. Enjoy your lunch at the market in the quiet park just outside the gallery, which is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll.
A taste of West Africa in the suburbs
Far from the crowds of nearby Bastille, in the lesser-visited neighborhood of Charonne, you’ll find Waly-Fay (Rue Godefroy Cavaignac), a pioneering Afro-French restaurant serving modern West African dishes. Take a seat in its sleek, welcoming dining room and try the cocktails, traditional pepper soup, chicken with peanuts and seafood too. If you’re looking for a different side to Parisian cuisine or love vegan dishes, this local favorite has you covered.
The old dump that became a park
An admirable spot in the city, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont in the 19th arrondissement is certainly something unusual. With a dramatic 50 meters rock at its heart where the Temple of the Sibyl stands, the park was built at the end of Napoleon III’s reign and at one point became a dump. That has changed to such a degree that its past is not visible at all, with an artificial lake and streams bubbling from the rock. There you will also admire the impressive suspension bridge 63 meters long, designed by Gustave Eiffel.
