Hidden Gems of Paris
Passage Brady Nestled in the 10th arrondissement, Passage Brady is often dubbed "Little India." This covered arcade, built in 1828, is filled with Indian, Pakistani, and Mauritian restaurants, grocery stores, and fabric shops. It's a sensory explosion of colors and aromas, offering an exotic escape in the heart of Paris.
Rue Crémieux The charming Rue Crémieux is a rainbow street tucked away in the 12th arrondissement. Lined with pastel-colored houses, this pedestrian-only street feels like a slice of Notting Hill in Paris. The cobblestone street and vibrant facades make it an Instagram favorite.
La Campagne à Paris In the 20th arrondissement, you’ll find La Campagne à Paris, a quaint neighborhood that translates to "The Countryside in Paris." Developed in the early 20th century to provide affordable housing for workers, it now feels like a serene village with its narrow streets and ivy-covered cottages.
Les Arènes de Lutèce Hidden in the Latin Quarter, Les Arènes de Lutèce is a Roman amphitheater dating back to the 1st century. Once capable of seating 15,000 spectators, it hosted gladiatorial combats and theatrical performances. Today, it's a peaceful spot where locals play pétanque.
Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature The Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature is a quirky museum dedicated to hunting and nature. Located in the Marais, it boasts an eclectic collection of taxidermy, art, and antique weapons. The museum creatively juxtaposes contemporary art with its historical exhibits, making it a unique cultural experience.
Le Marché des Enfants Rouges The oldest covered market in Paris, Le Marché des Enfants Rouges dates back to 1628. Located in the Marais, it's a foodie paradise offering a variety of international cuisines, from Moroccan tagines to Japanese bento boxes. The market's name translates to "Market of the Red Children," referring to an orphanage whose residents wore red uniforms.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont Created in 1867, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is one of the largest green spaces in Paris. This park in the 19th arrondissement features steep cliffs, waterfalls, and a suspension bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel. Climb to the Temple de la Sibylle for panoramic views of the city.
Promenade Plantée The Promenade Plantée is a 4.7 km elevated park built on an old railway line. Opened in 1993, it predates New York's High Line and offers a scenic walkway from the Bastille to the Bois de Vincennes. It's a lush, linear park perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Le Musée des Arts Forains Tucked away in Bercy, Le Musée des Arts Forains is a whimsical museum showcasing vintage fairground artifacts. With antique carousels, carnival games, and theatrical performances, it’s like stepping into a Belle Époque amusement park. Visits are by guided tour only, adding to its exclusive charm.
La Pagode Once a ballroom, La Pagode in the 7th arrondissement is now one of Paris's quirkiest cinemas. This Japanese-style building, constructed in 1896, offers a unique setting for film screenings. Its lush garden, featuring a tea house, adds to the enchanting atmosphere.
Square des Peupliers Located in the 13th arrondissement, Square des Peupliers is a hidden residential square exuding village vibes. The quaint, tree-lined square is adorned with charming houses, each with its own personality. It's a delightful detour from the bustling city life.
Le Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil Established in 1898, Le Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil is a botanical garden in the Bois de Boulogne. It features stunning greenhouses containing rare tropical plants, an aviary, and beautifully manicured gardens. It’s a horticultural haven that transports you to another world.
La Petite Ceinture The La Petite Ceinture is an abandoned railway line that circles Paris. Now a haven for urban explorers and nature lovers, parts of it have been transformed into green spaces. The overgrown tracks and graffiti-laden walls make for an atmospheric urban hike.
Le Musée Édith Piaf Dedicated to the legendary chanteuse, the Le Musée Édith Piaf is a tiny, two-room museum in the 11th arrondissement. Managed by a fan, it houses memorabilia, including her famous black dress, records, and photographs. Visits are by appointment only, adding an air of exclusivity.
Villa Léandre Tucked away in Montmartre, Villa Léandre is a picturesque cobblestone street lined with English-style cottages. Built in the 1920s, it offers a quiet retreat with its flowering gardens and vintage lampposts. It’s a hidden gem that feels worlds away from the bustling Sacré-Cœur.
La Fontaine Médicis Located in the Luxembourg Gardens, La Fontaine Médicis is a romantic grotto-style fountain commissioned by Marie de' Medici in 1630. This Baroque masterpiece, with its tranquil pond and statues, offers a peaceful respite in one of Paris’s busiest parks.
Passage de l'Ancre The Passage de l'Ancre is one of the oldest covered passages in Paris, dating back to the 17th century. Hidden in the Marais, it’s a narrow, flower-filled alley that feels like stepping back in time. It’s home to the city’s oldest umbrella repair shop, Pep's.
Hôtel Particulier Montmartre Hôtel Particulier Montmartre is a luxurious, hidden hotel in Montmartre, situated in a private garden. Once the residence of the Hermès family, it's now an exclusive retreat with opulent rooms and a chic cocktail bar, Le Très Particulier.
Le Jardin du Musée Rodin While the Musée Rodin is well-known, its garden is often overlooked. Le Jardin du Musée Rodin is a tranquil oasis featuring sculptures by Auguste Rodin, including "The Thinker." The manicured lawns and rose gardens provide a serene backdrop for art appreciation.
Musée de la Vie Romantique Nestled in a former artist's studio, the Musée de la Vie Romantique captures the essence of Romantic-era Paris. Located in the 9th arrondissement, the museum showcases the works and memorabilia of writer George Sand and her contemporaries. The charming garden café is perfect for a leisurely afternoon.