Paris Beyond Clichés: Explore Citys Hidden Treasures

A Peek into Paris: Unearth the City’s Hidden Gems

Anyone can admire the Seine or marvel at the Eiffel Tower, but let’s step off the beaten track and explore the secret corners of the City of Love. Welcome to an exploration of the top 10 hidden gems in Paris, a guide designed for those curious souls craving to discover places adored by locals and experienced travelers alike.

Follow Your Nose to Bespoke Fragrances

If your curiosity is piqued by the world of personal or home fragrance, there’s a hidden boutique waiting just for you. Tucked away in Paris, Nose is an enchanting perfumery. Here, you can either have a bespoke scent mixed for you or select from the array of fragrances the store offers. A highlight is the personal fragrance diagnosis that helps lead you to your perfect aroma. And don’t worry if you can’t make it to Paris anytime soon—Nose also replicates this unique experience online, providing a personalized diagnosis of five perfumes.

Open-Air Cinema: Parisian Nights under the Stars

Paris may not boast drive-in movie theaters, but it offers the next best thing. Nestled in the northeastern area of the city, in Parc de la Villette, is Cinema en Planar—an open-air cinema where you can enjoy a night of fun under the stars. Just pack a picnic supper, bring some folding chairs, and get ready for a magical night. Brush up on your French before you go, as the films shown are primarily in French, adding an authentic Parisian touch to your visit.

A Haven from the Elements: Covered Passages of Paris

Wandering the streets of Paris on foot can be enchanting, but when it’s cold or rainy, or even on a sunny day, stepping into one of the many covered passages that exist in the Grands Bouvoirs district provides both refuge and fascination. Admire the architecture and absorb a slice of Parisian history. Visit the well-known Guerri Vivienne or the passage de Panorama, dating back to 1799, to experience Old World Paris with a cup of café au lait in hand.

Dine in the Clouds at Louis-au-Blas

Paris is teeming with incredible places to dine, but if you want a table with a view, look no further than Louis-au-Blas at the Peninsula Paris Hotel. Here, perched on the hotel’s rooftop, you can relish a bird’s-eye view of the city, including the iconic Eiffel Tower, while savouring delicious French cuisine.

A Writer’s Paradise: Shakespeare & Company

If you’re a literary enthusiast, you must visit the legendary English-language bookshop, Shakespeare & Company, located at 37 Rue de la Bucherie. This renowned hub, which has hosted greats like Henry Miller, Anais Nin, and James Joyce since 1919, offers a unique proposition to writers: Work at the shop for a few hours a day and you can sleep here, with beds set up throughout the store.

A Peek into the Past: Gustave Eiffel’s Hidden Apartment

For a brush with history, make a stop at Gustave Eiffel’s hidden apartment. Nestled at the top of the tower, this tiny space was closed to the public for many years but has been open since 2016. Although you can’t stay there, you can get a glimpse of the past, a perspective worth the price of entrance and the inevitable wait.

Exploring the Artistic Side of Paris: Rue Le Pic

When exploring the 18th arrondissement neighborhood of Montmartre, stray from the conventional routes leading to Sacré-Cœur Cathedral and the Moulin Rouge. Venture down Rue Le Pic, a street famous for two of its residents: Vincent van Gogh, who lived at 54 Rue Le Pic with his brother Theo in the 1880s, and the fictional character Amélie, who works at Café de de Moulin located at 15 Rue Le Pic in the movie of the same name.

The Dark Side of Paris: The Parisian Catacombs

For those seeking an adventurous, albeit slightly eerie experience, descend into the Parisian catacombs, home to the skeletons of over six million people. This labyrinth of underground ossuaries was created in the late 18th century and is a haunting testament to a time when Paris’ cemeteries had reached their full capacities.

Treasure Hunt at Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen

For treasure hunters, the world-renowned flea market, Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, is an unmissable destination. Known as the world’s largest market of its kind, this haven of hidden treasures, although a little outside the city center, is definitely worth the trek. Whether you’re seeking an antique mirror or a charming trinket to remind you of your trip, this market has something for everyone.

A Breath of Fresh Air: Promenade Plantée

If you’re familiar with New York City’s High Line, then you’ll appreciate the concept behind Paris’ Promenade Plantée, or Coulee Vert. This elevated park in Paris’ 12th arrondissement, created on the old Vincennes railway line, was the world’s first elevated park and offers an urban stroll surrounded by quintessentially French gardens.

These hidden gems provide an off-the-beaten-path guide to Paris that will take you beyond the typical tourist experience, straight into the heart of the city’s culture and history.

Conclusion

Navigating the myriad charms of Paris might seem a daunting prospect, even for the seasoned traveler. Yet, by shifting our gaze away from the more overtly tourist-centric landmarks and activities, and focusing instead on these hidden gems, we find a city that is infinitely diverse, complex, and beguiling. The exquisite perfumery, Nose, the enchanting Cinema en Planar, the historic covered passages, the fine dining at Louis-au-Blas with a breathtaking view, the literary sanctuary at Shakespeare & Company, Gustave Eiffel’s hidden apartment, the artistic allure of Rue Le Pic, the eerie beauty of the Parisian catacombs, the treasure trove that is Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, and the serene beauty of the Promenade Plantée—each of these unique attractions forms part of the intricate tapestry that is Paris, each with its own story to tell, and waiting to become part of your own narrative.

Paris, much like the Seine that meanders through it, has an undeniable rhythm of its own, a rhythm that encompasses both the well-trodden paths and the hidden corners waiting to be discovered. By hugging this guide, you won’t simply ‘see’ Paris; you’ll engage with its very essence, peeling back layers to appreciate the City of Love through fresh eyes.

So, whether you are a first-time visitor drawn by the allure of Paris or a repeat traveler seeking a fresh perspective, remember that exploration is at the heart of every journey. No two trips to Paris will ever be the same, and therein lies the beauty and the magic of this timeless city.

With these hidden gems, Paris becomes not just a destination, but an experience—an adventure in culture, history, cuisine, and art that weaves itself into your soul and improves your perspective. And who knows? You might just find yourself leaving a piece of your heart in the winding, romantic streets of Paris, finding in its hidden corners not just the city’s secret charms, but also a deeper understanding of your own passion for travel, exploration, and life’s beautiful surprises. Paris awaits, not just to be seen, but to be lived, breathed, and loved. Bon voyage!

What are the operating hours of the Nose perfumery?

The Nose perfumery usually operates from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM, but it’s always a good idea to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current information, as operating hours may vary due to local holidays or events.

Is it necessary to understand French to enjoy the Cinema en Planar?

While Cinema en Planar predominantly screens films in French, the immersive experience of watching a movie under the stars in Paris makes it a worthwhile activity. Nonetheless, brushing up on basic French or doing a bit of pre-viewing research on the film can enhance your enjoyment of this unique cultural experience.

Are the Parisian catacombs open for visits throughout the year?

Yes, the Parisian catacombs are generally open throughout the year, except on certain public holidays and for occasional maintenance. However, due to its popularity, there might be long lines, so it’s advised to book your tickets in advance. Visitors should also note that there are restrictions in place for safety reasons, including the number of people allowed inside at any given time.

What sort of items can I expect to find at the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen?

The Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen is a treasure trove of both high-end antiques and charming bric-a-brac. You can find a diverse array of items ranging from furniture, artworks, books, jewelry, vintage clothing, to small trinkets and souvenirs. The vast market also hosts numerous food stalls where you can sample local delicacies while hunting for the perfect memento.

Is the Promenade Plantée suitable for people with mobility issues?

Yes, the Promenade Plantée, or the Coulee Vert, is generally accessible and suitable for people with mobility issues. The elevated park has ramps and elevators at certain points along the route, making it easier for everyone to enjoy the views. However, it’s always a good idea to check the latest accessibility information from official sources before planning your visit.