Unearth Hidden Paris: 7 Secret Gems for Unforgettable Adventures

Unearth Hidden Paris: 7 Secret Gems for Unforgettable Adventures

Paris, the City of Lights, is renowned for its iconic landmarks and bustling boulevards. But beyond the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum lies a hidden world of enchanting secrets waiting to be discovered. If you're seeking a unique and authentic Parisian experience, ditch the well-trodden paths and explore these seven off-the-beaten-track treasures.

Unique Hidden Gems

1. The Covered Passages of Paris (Les Passages Couverts):

Step back in time as you wander through these enchanting covered arcades, each with its own distinct character and history. Admire the stunning architecture, browse charming boutiques and savor a coffee in a cozy cafe. Each one has its own unique charm and history, making them well worth exploring, especially for more relaxed and personalised shopping trips during your visit to the city.

The Covered Passages of Paris doesn't have a single address as they are scattered throughout the city. Among the many covered passages, here are a few of the most famous and well-loved:

• Galerie Vivienne: Known for its mosaic floors, elegant shops, and beautiful glass ceiling, Galerie Vivienne is often considered the most beautiful of the passages.

• Passage des Panoramas: The oldest of the surviving passages, Passage des Panoramas is a bustling hub of shops, restaurants, and historic charm.

• Passage Jouffroy: A continuation of Passage des Panoramas, this passage is known for its charming toy shops and the Musée Grévin wax museum entrance.

• Passage Verdeau: A haven for art and antique lovers, this passage connects to Passage Jouffroy and offers a peaceful atmosphere.

• Passage du Grand Cerf: This passage boasts a magnificent glass ceiling and is home to a variety of unique shops and boutiques.

Below are the locations of more Covered Passages in Paris. This is not an exhaustive list, as there are about 20 covered passages remaining in Paris.

1st Arrondissement:

• Galerie Véro-Dodat: 19 Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau (near the Louvre)
  
  

2nd Arrondissement:

• Passage des Panoramas: 11 Boulevard Montmartre (near the Grands Boulevards metro station)

• Galerie Vivienne: 4 Rue des Petits-Champs (near Palais Royal)

• Galerie Colbert: 6 Rue des Petits-Champs (near Palais Royal)

• Passage Choiseul: 40 Rue des Petits-Champs (near Palais Royal)

• Passage du Grand Cerf: 145 Rue Saint-Denis

• Passage du Bourg l'Abbé: 3 Rue de Palestro

• Passage du Caire: 2 Place du Caire
  
  

3rd Arrondissement:

• Passage Molière: 158 Rue Saint-Martin

• Passage Verdeau: 6 Rue de la Grange-Batelière
  
  

8th Arrondissement:

• Galerie de la Madeleine: 9 Place de la Madeleine

• Passage Puteaux: 48 Rue de Miromesnil
  
  

9th Arrondissement:

• Passage Jouffroy: 10-12 Boulevard Montmartre (connects to Passage Verdeau)

• Passage des Princes: 5 Boulevard des Italiens
  
  

10th Arrondissement:

• Passage Brady: 43 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Martin (known for Indian restaurants)
  

Paris Discovery Guide's website features a detailed interactive map with the location of each passage, along with descriptions and photos for self guided exploration.

More information can be found about the various passages on Visit Paris Region's website or through walking tours.

2. Musée de la Vie Romantique:

Tucked away in a leafy courtyard in Montmartre, Musée de la Vie Romantique is a charming museum is dedicated to the Romantic era. Discover art and artifacts from the lives of artists and writers who once called Paris home, like painter Ary Scheffer and the writer George Sand.

Location:16 Rue Chaptal, 75009 Paris (9th Arrondissement)
Metro: The nearest metro station is Saint-Georges (Line 2). It is a short walk of about 5 minutes to the museum.
Website: https://museevieromantique.paris.fr/en

3. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont:

Escape the city's hustle and bustle in this sprawling park with its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and grottoes. Explore hidden pathways, enjoy a picnic with a view, or simply relax amidst the tranquil greenery. Inside Parc des Buttes-Chaumont on a clifftop is a miniature Roman-style temple called the Temple de la Sibylle, overlooking an artificial lake and waterfall, along with a grotto and suspension bridge. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is 24.7 hectares (61 acres), making it the fifth-largest park in Paris.

Inside the park, also features Rosa Bonheur, a popular guinguette (a traditional type of open-air restaurant or bar from the 19th century), making it a beloved retreat for Parisians and tourists alike.

The main entrance to Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is located at Place Armand-Carrel. It is directly across from the town hall of the 19th arrondissement, and it is the most accessible entrance for visitors arriving by metro (Buttes Chaumont or Botzaris stations). The park doesn't have a single street address, as it has multiple entrances in the 19th Arrondissement:

• 1-7, rue Botzaris

• 2-6b, rue Manin

• 55, rue de Crimée

• 42, avenue Simon Bolivar

Website: https://www.paris.fr/lieux/parc-des-buttes-chaumont-1757

4. Le Musée des Arts Forains (Fairground Arts Museum):

Immerse yourself in the magical world of vintage fairground rides and attractions at this whimsical museum. Ride a carousel, play antique games, and relive the nostalgia of bygone eras. Le Musée des Arts Forains is a unique and enchanting private museum located in the Pavillons de Bercy in Paris. It houses a vast collection of fairground and carnival objects from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Location: 53 Avenue des Terroirs de France, 75012 Paris (12th Arrondissement)
Metro: The nearest metro station is Reuilly-Diderot on Line 1. It is about a 15-minute walk from the museum.
Hours: Open by appointment only. Open without reservation for the European Heritage Days (3rd weekend of September) and for the Festival du Merveilleux (each year from 26 December until the end of the school holidays).
Website: https://arts-forains.com/en/

5. Rue Crémieux:

This picture-perfect pedestrian only street in the 12th arrondissement of Paris is a haven of pastel-colored houses, cobblestone lanes, and overflowing flower boxes. Stroll along its charming sidewalks and capture Instagram worthy photos.

Location: Rue Crémieux, 75012 Paris (between Rue de Lyon and Rue de Bercy).
Metro: The nearest metro station is Gare de Lyon (Lines 1 and 14). It's just a short walk of about 2 minutes.

No official website, but the street can be easily found on Google Maps.

6. The Catacombs of Paris:

Venture beneath the city streets and explore the eerie underground ossuary where the remains of millions of Parisians rest. This fascinating, albeit slightly macabre, attraction offers a unique glimpse into the city's history. Gaston Leroux's novel, "The Phantom of the Opera" has contributed to their allure and mystique. The entire network of tunnels is estimated to be around 300 kilometers (186 miles) long, with only a small portion open to the public.

The unofficial sections of the Catacombs of Paris are often referred to as the "secret" or "hidden" catacombs. Accessing these areas is illegal and dangerous, as they are not maintained and can be structurally unsound. However, a subculture of urban explorers known as "cataphiles" have been venturing into these forbidden tunnels for decades. Exploring the unofficial parts of the catacombs is strongly discouraged due to the significant dangers involved. The official tour offers a safe and informative way to experience this unique part of Paris' history.

Location: Place Denfert-Rochereau, 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris (14th Arrondissement).
Metro: The nearest metro station is Denfert-Rochereau (Lines 4 and 6).
Website: https://www.catacombes.paris.fr/en/

7. La Petite Ceinture (The Little Belt):

Discover this abandoned railway line that encircles Paris that has transformed into a green oasis. Some sections of La Petite Ceinture have been officially re opened to the public and are accessible for free. Walk, cycle, or simply relax on the overgrown tracks and enjoy the tranquility of this unexpected urban wilderness, especially appealing on warm days. These sections are usually well-maintained and offer a safe way to experience the unique atmosphere of the abandoned railway line.

The best parts of La Petite Ceinture depend on your interests:

Nature and Biodiversity:

• 15th Arrondissement: This section is known for its lush vegetation, diverse flora, and fauna. It's a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
  
  

• 16th Arrondissement: This part offers a mix of overgrown vegetation and abandoned railway infrastructure, creating an interesting juxtaposition of nature and urban decay.
  
  

Urban Exploration and History:

• 12th Arrondissement: This section features the longest continuous stretch of accessible tracks, offering a glimpse into the railway's history and architecture.
  
  

• 20th Arrondissement: This area boasts a mix of street art, abandoned stations, and tunnels, attracting urban explorers and photographers.
  
  

Views and Scenery:

• 13th Arrondissement: This elevated section provides panoramic views of the city, especially around the Butte aux Cailles neighborhood.
  

Some popular guided tour providers include:

• Sous les Fraises: Offers tours of the section in the 20th arrondissement.

• Paris Underground: Organizes various urban exploration tours, including La Petite Ceinture.

• Explore Paris: Offers private and group tours of the railway line.

While not officially encouraged due to safety concerns, some adventurous individuals explore other parts of La Petite Ceinture independently. However, it's important to be aware there are risks involved and take necessary precautions, such as wearing appropriate footwear, carrying a flashlight, and letting someone know your plans.

Conclusion

Paris is a city that never ceases to amaze and its hidden gems offer a truly unforgettable experience. Venture beyond the iconic landmarks to discover the hidden gems that make Paris truly unique.

Book Paris hidden gems entry tickets and day tours with Get Your Guide

Paris

Websites

https://www.france.fr/en/
https://www.visitparisregion.com/en

Check the official France and Paris tourism websites for
up to date operating hours and more information.