Paris is perhaps one of the highly rated travel destinations the world has ever known. The Eiffel Tower stands tall as it overlooks the city, the iconic Louvre displays some of the best artworks in the world, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral still stands in an imposing, yet beautiful fashion despite its recent renovations. Yet, there are places in Paris that may be overlooked by these well-known landmarks.
1. The Covered Passages (Les Passages Couverts)
As you arrive in your accommodations, which you booked as part of the Paris luxury hotel promotions that you can find, you may want to find The Covered Passages (or Les Passages Courverts). These 19th-century structures feature glass ceilings, boutiques, mosaics, and more. As a matter of fact, it’s one of the hidden gems for shoppers, foodies, and even book lovers alike. If the weather isn’t cooperating during your time in Paris, this may be one of the best places to check out. We dare say it’s an underrated tourist spot.
2. The Museum of Romantic Life (Musee de la Vie Romantique)
Yes, Paris may be known as the “City of Love”. However, the word “romantic” isn’t used in that context. The word used here pertains to the Romantic era of Europe, and this place commemorates the time period. Located at the foot of Montmartre, you’ll be able to explore the art, furniture, and 19th-century memorabilia of the home of Ary Scheffer, a French artist you may not have heard of, at least until now.
3. The Petite Ceinture
An abandoned railway dating back to the 19th century that surrounded Paris, much of it has now become walking paths where you can indulge in nature. It also blends well with the street art for that modern, urban charm that makes this place one of the better discoveries beyond the usual landmarks many people flock to. If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, this might be one of the places where you’ll get some peace and quiet.
4. The Sewer Museum (Musee des Egouts de Paris)
Believe it or not, Paris has its own bit of strange places where you can visit. One place in particular is Musée des Egouts de Paris, or “The Sewer Museum”. You’ll learn about the infrastructure of Paris, including its sewer system from the past two centuries to today. We’re not kidding when we say this is one of those “off the beaten path” places you can find in Paris. So if you are looking for something that is weird but educational, we cannot think of any other place in Paris than this museum. This place won’t smell bad, we promise.
5. La Campagne à Paris
This quiet residential neighborhood is located in the 20th arrondissement. It features cottages covered in ivy, cobblestone streets, and a small-town charm that will make you forget that you are in the big city. While there isn’t really much to do here, you’ll get a good idea that there are some quiet places in a city that can get quite noisy, be it day or night.
6. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Yes, Jardin des Tuileries or Luxembourg Gardens may be nice. Yet, Parc de Buttes-Chaumont is also a great alternative since it’ll be less crowded. It’s a park that features a temple looking over a lake, a suspension bridge, beautiful cliffs, and a charm that makes this one of the best-kept secrets in Paris. Less crowded may be a blessing for you, so take pictures and share them with your friends and family on how awesome a place it might be.
7. The Catacombs’ Secret Tunnels
The skull-lined walls of the Catacombs may be known to many who visit Paris. Yet, few people may be aware of the underground tunnels that run past the official route. While most of it is closed to public access, you know that they exist and tell a story of the happenings of what went on in Paris centuries ago. Get ready for stories that will truly give you goosebumps (if you’re into that kind of stuff). You might know a thing or two about the dark history of the city before you return above ground.
Final Thoughts
Paris has numerous hidden gems that you can visit now that you know what they are. Make plans to include them in your itinerary. A day in Paris may start off with a visit to the top of the Eiffel Tower, with a trip to the underground Catacombs later on in the afternoon. Or if you want a bit of peace and quiet, there’s the Parc de Buttes-Chaumont that may be the go-to place to read, relax, and reflect on the trip so far. Paris is no doubt the best travel destination, but not without its share of secrets that you might not want to share with anyone else.
