While I have been to many European cities, I write about Paris so much because I live here. I moved here just before Covid shut the world down. I moved to Paris in January 2020. Since then, I have gotten to know the city pretty well and want to share the things I know with you !
Most people when they go to Paris choose to go to the western half of the city, because that’s where you’ll find the Eiffel Tower.
Fun fact about the Eiffel Tower, it was supposed to be taken down after the Universal Exhibition in Paris in 1889 and it is also why the Ferris Wheel was invented for the Chicago World Fair in 1893, because the USA wanted to create something more impressive than the Eiffel Tower.
Ok, back to the city.
If you are looking to explore a different part of the city away from all the tourists, stay in the Eastern part.
The Opera Bastille
Go see an opera at the Opera Bastille, maybe visit the Opera Garnier (Palais Garnier) because it is a beautiful building. They both house the National Opera of Paris, although two different opera’s will be showing in each theatre. Garnier has a smaller stage and will host productions with a smaller choir. But they are the same members that sing at the Opera Bastille. I know this because my husband sings in the choir. And, in my opinion, if you want to see an opera, the Opera Bastille is the better venue. To reserve your tickets go here : Opéra national de Paris (operadeparis.fr)
Rue Cremieux
While you’re in this area, you can also visit the most Instgrammed street in Paris. No, not the Champs Elysees, rue Cremieux. This street is so beautiful that residents have put a sign at the end of the street telling visitors not to take photos (the sign doesn’t work). But if you go here, be respectful. Don’t be like some people who do yoga in someone’s doorway or have a photo shoot on someone’s doorstep. Admire this beautiful street in Paris, but don’t linger too long.
Bois de Vincennes
Another great place to visit is the Bois de Vincennes.
Paris wanted to have more green space. So while Paris is inside the Péripherique – the highway that encircles the city – there are two woods outside the péripherique.
One is the Bois de Boulogne, which is on the west-half of the city near the Eiffel Tower.
The Bois de Vincennes is on the east half of the city, the 12th Arrondissement. There is a big lake in this park called Lake Daumesnil. There are two small islands in this lake, the Ile de Reuilly and the Ile de Bercy. It is on this second small island that you will find all the peacocks. There are also lots of geese and pigeons, but the peacocks make it worth it.
Read more about the parks of Paris in my blog found here.
Once you’ve seen the peacocks, you can rent a paddle boat (Les Barques du lac Daumesnil – Location de barques.) It’s nice. My husband and I took a bottle of champagne out on the lake last year for my birthday.
Père Lachaise Cemetery
You can also visit Père Lachaise cemetery. This is a huge cemetery and you don’t encounter crowds of people, which is nice in a city like Paris that is crowded with tourists.
Parc Buttes-Chaumont
Not far from Père Lachaise cemetery is the park Buttes-Chaumont. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is located in the 19th arrondissement. It is one of Paris’s largest and most beautiful parks, yet it remains relatively unknown to many tourists. With its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and a lake, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing day out. Don’t miss the Temple de la Sibylle, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the city.
Covered Passages
Paris is home to several charming covered passages dating back to the 19th century. These hidden arcades, such as Passage des Panoramas, Passage Jouffroy, and Passage Verdeau, are filled with quaint shops, antiquarian bookstores, and cozy cafés. They offer a glimpse into the city’s past and a unique shopping experience away from the crowds.
I wrote a whole post about them that you can read here.
Final Thoughts
There is really so much to do and see in Paris ! Exploring Paris off the beaten path allows you to connect with the city in a more intimate and personal way. By venturing beyond the typical tourist attractions, you’ll discover hidden treasures and experience the authentic charm that makes Paris truly special. So, take a step off the well-trodden path, and let the City of Light surprise you with its lesser-known delights.
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