Hidden Gems In Paris | 43 Off the Beaten Path Secrets

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Welcome to the City of Lights, where the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Louvre Museum often steal the spotlight. But beyond these iconic landmarks lies a treasure trove of hidden gems in Paris waiting to be discovered. From secret gardens and ancient monuments tucked away in cobblestone alleyways to lesser-known museums showcasing exquisite art collections, Paris has a wealth of surprises for those willing to venture off the beaten path.

In this article, we’ll find some of Paris’ best-kept secrets, unveiling a side of the city that even locals may not know about. So pack your curiosity and let’s embark on an enchanting journey through the captivating hidden gems in Paris.

43 Hidden Gems In Paris To Visit

1. Hidden Paris | The Vineyards

Did you know there are vineyards in various places in Paris? The most well-known (and not really a secret of Paris) is the Clos de Montmartre (Montmartre vineyard) which has been in operation since the 12th century when nuns and monks were in charge of making wine. Every year, the Montmartre vineyard produces a small amount of wine that is auctioned off for charity.  The yearly wine festival in early October is very popular and looks like great fun! Add it to your list.

Read More | Discover 20 amazing things to do in Montmartre

Location:  rue des Saules; 18th arrondissement

Metro: Abbesses, Anvers, Lamarck-Caulaincourt

But what about this vineyard? A true hidden gem in Paris.

Head on over to Butte Bergeyre and what you will discover is a quiet little oasis in Paris. Do you know that village feel? Secret Paris is right here. Growing on a steep hillside is a terraced vineyard with lovely views over the city. You have to be on a mission to find this hidden gem in Paris as it is easily missed! Here are 5 Great Reasons to Visit Butte Bergeyre.

Location:  76 rue Georges Lardennois; 19th arrondissement

Metro: Colonel Fabien

2. Rue Crémieux | Is It Still Secret Paris?

In the 19th century, Baron Haussmann redesigned Paris and still today the architectural style is recognizable worldwide. Stone buildings with wrought iron railings line the boulevards in Paris. Quintessential Paris. Tucked away are also many unique streets and rue Cremieux is one of those hidden gems in Paris. Located near the Gare de Lyon, rue Crémieux has become popular with Instagrammers so go early and enjoy this colourful, cobblestone street in Paris.

Residents are tired of all the action on their street and have requested gates at both ends. Visit this not-so-hidden Paris spot soon.

Read More | The 12th Arrondissement of Paris: 13 Great Things To To

Location: between rue de Lyon and rue de Bercy; 12th arrondissement

Metro: Gare de Lyon, Quai de la Rapée

3. Secrets Of Paris | Galerie Vivienne

Stroll along the gorgeous mosaic floors of Galerie Vivienne, one of my favourite hidden spots in Paris, and transport yourself back to 1823  when this covered passageway was filled with Parisians socializing and meeting up at cafés. Today it is possible to do the same! With natural light streaming along the hallway of Galerie Vivienne, the boutiques, stores and cafés are worth exploring or, at the very least, engaging in a window-shopping expedition.

This hidden gem of Paris is one of the remaining and restored covered passageways that were common in Paris in the 1800s. Visit all of the remaining “passages couverts” in Paris, but be sure to start with the elegant Galerie Vivienne.

Location: 4 rue des Petits-Champs; 2nd arrondissement

Metro: Bourse, Pyramides

Hidden Gems in Paris Tip: If you love the covered passageways in Paris, the Passage des Panoramas is another favourite secret spot in Paris.

4. Hidden Paris | Parc Monceau

Parc Monceau is secret Paris at its best! Find the Roman columns facing the pond and for a moment you might wonder where you are. It’s quiet and slightly overgrown in Parc Monceau, a perfect place for a respite from sightseeing. Walking paths wind carelessly under blooming trees and amidst statues. Parc Monceau, one of Paris’s hidden gems and smallest parks, is charming, chill and a great place to try and blend in like a local. Go at lunchtime, find a bench and picnic like the Parisians.

Location: 35 Boulevard de Courcelles; 8th arrondissement

Metro: Monceau

5. Hidden Gems Of Paris | Les Arènes de Lutèce

This is one of the best-kept secrets in Paris. Les Arènes de Lutèce (Arenas of Lutetia) is the real deal. A real Roman arena dating from the first century AD hidden away in the Latin Quarter of Paris. Roman gladiators fought here. Imagine that. Right in Paris.

And why the name Lutèce? Aeons ago, the capital of France was called Lutece or Lutetia and was occupied by the Romans. Ahh, Paris! Never a dull moment.

Come and sit in an ancient Roman arena where 15000 spectators used to cheer. Hidden gems in Paris? Definitely!

Read More | 15 Highlights of the Latin Quarter and an Insider’s Guide to the Latin Quarter

Location: 47 rue Monge (5th arrondissement)

When you enter from rue Monge, look for the gladiator watching over the doorway.

Metro: Cardinal Lemoine

6. Secret Paris | The Windmills Of Montmartre

It’s hard to believe that windmills exist in a city like Paris. Searching for these hidden gems in Paris is a thrill. The Moulin Rouge is the most famous and obvious of the Parisian windmills. Up the hill though, are two more remaining wooden windmills from another century. Montmartre Hill used to be a rural area dotted with windmills that ground flour and pressed grapes.  Impressionist painters such as Utrillo, Renoir and Van Gogh immortalized the existence of Parisian windmills in a bucolic setting.

Curious that wooden windmills still exist in Paris? I am obsessed with hidden Paris and went exploring in bohemian Montmartre. One of the windmills is on private property and only visible in the winter or early spring. The other stands proudly above a restaurant, Le Moulin de la Galette at 83 rue Lepic. Did you see Renoir’s painting at the Musée d’Orsay entitled Le Bal de la Moulin de la Galette? It’s a throwback- you’re standing right where Renoir stood!

Location: 83 rue Lepic; 18th arrondissement

Metro:  Maison Blanche; Abbesses

7. View From Centre Pompidou

From the top of the Centre Pompidou, the views of Paris include the Eiffel Tower, Sacre-Coeur and the classic rooftops of the city.  Gazing out across the city feels like one of the best kept secrets of Paris. Ride the funky exterior escalators and head up to the top-floor balcony for €3.

If you are an admirer of modern art enjoy the National Museum of Modern Art’s renowned permanent collection and then head to the top floor for the magnificent views of Paris. Get your skip-the-line ticket here.

Location: Place Georges Pompidou; 4th arrondissement

Metro: Rambuteau

8. Best Kept Secrets In Paris | Le Bateau Ivre

Hidden gems in Paris are often tucked away on tiny streets. Rue Férou holds one of these secrets of Paris. Who doesn’t like a poem written on a wall in elegant calligraphy?  On rue Férou between L’Église Saint-Sulpice and the Jardin du Luxembourg, Arthur Rimbaud‘s poem Le Bateau Ivre (The Drunken Boat) is inscribed for all to see. Rimbaud, a French poet, wrote this poem about a sea voyage in 1871 at the age of 16. He first recited Le Bateau Ivre in a café close to rue Férou.

Location: rue Férou; 6th arrondissement

Metro: Saint-Sulpice

9. Hidden Gems Of Paris | Atelier des Lumières

Atelier des Lumières opened in Paris in April 2018. Its first multimedia sound and light exhibition featured Gustav Klimt’s artwork. The immersive experience just blew my mind!  Atelier des Lumières’ second exhibition in Paris opened in Feb 2019 with a show featuring Vincent Van Gogh’s work. Imagine walking through Van Gogh’s paintings that are deconstructed and recreated on 10-metre-high walls.

Atelier des Lumières continues to have dynamic exhibitions:

Until January 7, 2024: Ocean Odyssey

February 9, 2024, to January 5, 2025: The Egypt of the Pharaohs and The Orientalists (Ingres, Delacroix, Gérôme…)

Hidden gems in Paris? Atelier des Lumiéres might have moved from a hidden gem of Paris to a popular spot!

Location: 38 rue Saint-Maur; 11th arrondissement

Metro: Voltaire, Saint-Ambroise, Père Lachaise, rue Saint-Maur

10. Secret Paris | Castel Béranger

Hector Guimard, a French architect and designer, is well known for his Art Nouveau entrances to the Paris metro. Those in themselves are some of the best hidden gems of Paris. But Guimard also designed many houses in Paris in the Art Nouveau style, a far cry from the look-alike Haussmann buildings that line Paris’s boulevards.

Castel Béranger was the first solo project for Hector Guimard for which he became famous. In 1898, Castel Béranger won Paris’s first “façade competition.” Keep an eagle eye out for the ornate details that Guimard used on the doorways, railings and downspouts. Standing in front of Castel Béranger, you can’t help but feel that you have discovered secret Paris.

Read More | Discover hidden treasures of Art Nouveau Paris in the residential 16th arrondissement with Castel Béranger as its star!

Location:  14 rue de la Fontaine; 16th arrondissement

Metro: Ranelagh, Mirabeau, Église d’Auteuil

11. Hidden Paris | Oscar and Victor

Père Lachaise is the largest cemetery in Paris and therefore not technically a hidden gem of Paris. But, what unique gravestones uncovering the secrets of Paris can you discover among the average citizen and the greats?  Search for Chopin. Usually, a sonata playing will draw you to his gravesite. And of course, Jim Morrison’s tombstone is no secret. The final resting place of Oscar Wilde, the famous Irish writer, draws women to place a red lipstick kiss on the effigy (not really allowed).

But what about Victor Noir?

This reporter was shot to death by a member of the emperor’s family over a century ago.  For about 50 years now myth has it that if women rub his bulging crotch and kiss his lips, fertility and a wonderful sex life will follow. Did you think hidden gems in Paris would be this exciting?  Looks like it is a story that has captured a wide audience – non?!

You could also pop a flower in his upturned tophat!

Read More | How To Visit Père Lachaise Cemetery and whose tombs to look for!

Location: Père Lachaise Cemetery; 20th arrondissement

Metro: Gambetta, Père Lachaise

Guided Tour of Père Lachaise: If you don’t have time to discover the iconic gravesites of Père Lachaise yourself, book a guided tour. That is how I first familiarized myself with one of the most visited gravesites in the world.

Hidden Gems in Paris Tip: If you enter close to the Gambetta station you will be walking downhill towards the main entrance. No maps are available at this entrance.

12. Hidden Gems In Paris |Garden Of l’Hôpital Saint-Louis

I love it when the best-kept secrets of Paris are an oasis to relax. This gorgeous hidden Paris gem is minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Canal St Martin. It is the perfect place for a summer picnic or a quiet refuge to rejuvenate away from the crowds. Talk about one of the hidden gems in Paris.

Getting a weird “déjà vu” feeling? This square was also commissioned by Henri IV and has the same architectural style as Place des Vosges in Le Marais.

If you are in the Canal Saint Martin area, find out all the things to do.

And… where to grab a bite at a nearby restaurant or pick up picnic supplies.

Location: 1 Avenue Claude Vellefaux; 10th arrondissement

Metro: Goncourt or Colonel Fabian or walk from the Quai de Jemmapes

13. Secrets Of Paris | Tango By The Seine

Is there anything more romantic than dancing the tango by the Seine? Well, there might be, but this ranks right up there with the hidden gems in Paris. Head on over to the Jardin Tino-Rossi. This secret Paris evening is a winner. Watch partners move across the dance floor, or even bravely partake in this delightful Paris experience.

Read More | Tango by the Seine – Does life in Paris get any better than this?

Location: Garden Tino-Rossi at 2 Quai Saint-Bernard; 5th arrondissement

Metro: Sully-Morland or Gare-d’Austerlitz

14.  Hidden Gems Of Paris | Hôtel Particulier

Hidden gems in Paris? Look no further than Avenue Junot.  Find the gate at #23 and press the buzzer to enter this paradise. You will feel immediately that you are entering secret Paris.

Wander past the massive rock and find the second gate on the left. Buzz again… Et voilà, the Hôtel Particulier. Come for tea, dinner, a cocktail or splurge and stay in one of their rooms. This is really a taste of unique places in Paris. And did I mention the view of the Eiffel Tower from the passageway? It’s one of the best hidden places in Paris.

Location: 23 Avenue Junot; 18th arrondissement

Metro: Blanche or Lamarck-Caulaincourt

15. Hidden Spots In Paris | A Taste Of Alsace

Hidden gems of Paris sometimes look like an entire neighbourhood! La Butte aux Cailles is truly a hidden place to visit in Paris. Walk the streets in La Butte aux Cailles and feel like you are wandering in a village. Explore the area and find Rue Daviel. Here you’ll find houses built in the style of eastern France in the Alsace region. Facing these homes is Villa Daviel, a quiet street that will transport you momentarily to the countryside. A true best-kept secret in Paris.

Read More | Discover this hidden gem in Paris- the neighbourhood la Butte aux Cailles.

Location: Rue Daviel; 13th arrondissement

Metro: Corvisart or Place d’Italie

16. Secret Paris | Stand By The King Phillipe Auguste Wall

Hidden gems in Paris that are clues to her long history fascinate me. Tucked away in the 4th arrondissement in le Marais is the largest surviving section of the King Philippe Auguste Wall from 1190. Paris was at one time fortified and surrounded by a stone wall with 77 semi-cylindrical towers. It is great fun spotting traces of the ancient wall in Paris.

Location: Rue des Jardins Saint-Paul; 4th arrondissement

Metro: Saint Paul

17. La Coulée Verte – René-Dumont

Stroll along Paris’s ancient and abandoned railway line, La Coulée Verte, that inspired New York’s Highline. You’ll pass interesting architecture, rose gardens, parks perfect for a picnic, and street art. Walk all the way from the 12th arrondissement of Paris to the Bois de Vincennes for a wonderful adventure. It’s definitely one of the non-touristy things to do in Paris. La Coulée Verte, also known as La Promenade Plantée, is a true hidden gem of Paris.

Location: la Coulée Verte runs above Avenue Daumesnil.; 12th arrondissement

Metro: Reuilly-Diderot; Montgallet

18. Hidden Paris | Parc de Bagatelle

Head on over to the Bois de Boulogne and take a stroll through the Parc de Bagatelle. This gorgeous green space is one of the best hidden places to visit in Paris. Roses galore and peacocks fanning their tail feathers are the perfect taste of the country in Paris. Read all about how the Parc de Bagatelle came to be because of a bet between Marie Antoinette and her brother-in-law.

Location: Bois de Boulogne

Metro: Pont de Neuilly and then Bus # 43 or #93

19. Secret Paris | This Unique Church

Église Notre-Dame du Travail in the 14th arrondissement is truly one of the best hidden places to visit in Paris. Many Parisians I’ve met haven’t been here. It truly is one of a kind! At least in the interior. I wandered in and immediately thought of the Eiffel Tower. Finished in 1902, the nave of Église Notre-Dame du Travail is built of steel and iron inviting the residents, at the time, in this working-class neighbourhood to join in worship together. Be sure to check out this hidden gem in Paris.

Read More | Tons of fabulous things to do in and around Montparnasse.

Location: 59 rue Vercingétorix, 14th arrondissment

Métro: Pernety

20. Hidden Gems Of Paris | The Queens Of France

The Luxembourg Gardens are well known in Paris. Sitting by the Medici Fountain, one of the prettiest in Paris, or sailing a boat across the Grand Bassin are iconic experiences in this famous Jardin in Paris. But, did you know that there are 20 hidden gems in Paris watching over you?

Find the 20 graceful, marble statues of Saints and Queens, all women positioned near the Grand Bassin. The statues were commissioned by King Louis-Philippe who reigned from 1830 – 1848. My favourite of the lovely statues is Saint-Genevieve (422-512), the Patron Saint of Paris.

Location: 6th arrondissment

Métro: Odéon

21. Best Kept Secrets In Paris | Finding Héloïse and Abélard

One of the hidden gems in Paris that keeps one of the most enduring love stories of all time alive is on Ile de la Cité. Héloïse and Abélard met at 11 Quai aux Fleurs on Ile de la Cité in 1118.

Pierre Abélard, a brilliant philosopher and theologian, was teaching in Paris at Nôtre-Dame and was invited to teach Héloïse who was a gifted student. They fell in love, got pregnant and the star-crossed lovers were secretly married. Héloïse was sent to a convent for safety and Abélard returned to Paris. Héloïse’s outraged uncle, Canon Fulbert, got his revenge and sent a troupe of men in the dark of night to castrate Abélard.

What a story. Is it myth or truth? Abèlard became a monk and the two wrote each other letters but never spoke in person again.

Location: Close to Ile Saint-Louis on Ile de la Cité.  

Métro: Hotel de Ville

22. Hidden Gems In Paris | The Bassin de l’Arsenal

The first time I discovered the Bassin de l’Arsenal I knew I had stumbled upon a Paris hidden gem. Stand at the lock where Canal Saint-Martin empties into the Seine River, peruse the boats in the marina, explore the gardens, and best of all sit in the bustling Le Grand Bleu with its unobstructed views over the water.

Stop by the Port de l’Arsenal for an apéro after exploring the 12th arrondissement.

Métro: Bastille

23. Secrets Of Paris | Bouillon Julien

Bouillons in Paris are a fabulous way to eat a traditional French meal at affordable prices. Hidden gems in Paris? Definitely!

Bouillon Julien, a historic monument, opened its doors in 1906, having been constructed by the French architect Edouard Fournier. Top Art Nouveau artisans of the day were used to design the sumptuous and elegant interior. I couldn’t take my eyes off the sea-green walls, the mirrors, the lights, and the glassworks of four nymphs representing the seasons nor the peacock panels which symbolize eternity and paradise.

Oh.. and the food? Dining at this Bouillon Paris restaurant is simply a must.

24. Paris Hidden Gems | Cour Damoye

There are plenty of tiny, surprising, and slightly hidden streets in Paris. In the 11th arrondissement of Paris, Cour Damoye is a quiet cobbled lane lined with ateliers. You’ll feel like you have stumbled across one of the best kept secrets in Paris as you wander down Cour Damoye. It’s the perfect place for a photoshoot!

25. Hidden Gems Of Paris | Temple De La Sibylle

Head to the 19th arrondissement in Paris and find the Parc des Buttes Chaumont. Hidden gems in Paris? This park has many, but my favourite is the lovely Temple de la Sibylle. Perched on a rocky cliff of 50 metres (164 feet), the Temple de la Sibylle has a fantastic view of Sacre Coeur in the distance. Inspired by the Temple of Vesta in Tivoli, Italy, the temple in Parc des Buttes-Chaumont looks out over the park’s artificial lake.

One of the delights of wandering in Parc des Buttes Chaumont is finding the best views to photograph the Temple de la Sibylle.

26. La Galerie Dior

Opening in 2022, La Galerie Dior situated right by the Christian Dior flagship store recounts the personal and creative history of Christian Dior and his six successive designers. And why is this one of the best museums in Paris? If you like fashion, history, and magical ultra-modern displays, this museum is for you. Here is what I found at the Galerie Dior.

This Paris museum’s website: Galerie Dior

Location: 11 Rue François 1er,. Paris, 8th arrondissement

Métro: Franklin D. Roosevelt, Alma Marceau

27. A Paris Flea Market

Although Le Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen is legendary, it is still one of the best hidden gems in Paris. Why? Because it is just full of hidden gems! This Paris fleamarket is the perfect place to find a treasure to bring home. It is a massive market and requires time to stroll, explore, and ponder which treasures will fit in your suitcase. Just walking past the stalls and observing the vendors is in itself an unforgettable Paris experience.

28. Secret Spots | The Statue Of Liberty

The enchanting Île aux Cygnes in Paris, a stone’s throw from the Eiffel Tower, boasts its very own version of the iconic Statue of Liberty. Standing tall and proud against the backdrop of the Seine River, this masterpiece encapsulates both historical significance and an enduring symbol of freedom.

The statue’s history dates back to 1889 when it was gifted to France by American residents living in Paris. Modelled after its big sister in New York City, sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi carefully crafted this scaled-down replica as a gesture of friendship between France and the United States.

Location: Ile aux Cygnes

Métro: Bir-Hakeim, RER C

29. Stop By The Hemingway Bar

It’s cosy. It’s iconic. It’s one of the hidden gems in Paris. And even if you have never read a book by Ernest Hemingway, you can’t help but get caught up in the fabulous atmosphere in this bar tucked away in The Ritz Hotel. One of Paris’s best secrets comes with legendary cocktails! Read more about the Hemingway Bar.

30. The Arc de Triomphe

One of the great landmarks in the City of Light, the Arc de Triomphe is not one of the hidden gems of Paris. But did you know about these hidden gems of Paris that you can find at the Arc de Triomphe? First of all head to the very top of the Arc de Triomphe for one of the best places to see sweeping views over Paris, including the Eiffel Tower.

Secondly, the flame that burns brightly by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier has been reignited every day for 100 years. Even when Paris was occupied during WW II, the flame was lit.

Thirdly, every single day at 6:30 there is a ceremony to reignite this significant flame. It is a moving event to witness soldiers assemble and partake in the solemn ceremony.

Métro: Charles de Gaulle-Étoile

31. Hidden Gems Of Paris: Streets

It’s so much fun exploring the hidden streets of Paris. Charming market streets abound in Paris. Why not take a stroll down lively rue Mouffetard, one of the oldest market streets of Paris, hailing from Roman times? Given its lifespan, rue Mouffetard has a long and intriguing history but today it is lined with grocers, butchers, cheese shops, cafés and crêperies. Take note of the lovely façade, designed by Italian painter Eldi Gueri, across from église Saint-Médard. It’s the perfect place to pick up picnic supplies and head down to the Seine River and enjoy a picnic facing Ile Saint-Louis.

32. The Sign of the 1910 Flood

One of the hidden gems in Paris on Ile de la Cité, right at rue des Chantres and Quai des Fleurs, is the sign that displays the height to which the Seine River rose during the devastating flood of January 1910. Stop momentarily before the small metal plaque here. The scale is striking, with water reaching heights that seem almost unfathomable. Look around and imagine what would have been completely submerged.

Location: Quai des Fleurs and rue des Chantres

33. Hidden Gems In Paris | Cherry Blossoms

Spring in Paris is one of the most beautiful times of the year. When Paris is bursting with cherry blossoms, it is sublime and romantic, and the scent stops you short. The cherry blossom season in Paris is also a photographer’s dream. Here are all the secret spots in Paris to find the best blossoms.

34. Jardin des Plantes

Stunning. The perfect place to wander. Hidden gems Paris? A resounding yes.

The Jardin des Pantes was founded in 1626 as a medicinal herb garden for Louis XIII. It’s a huge botanical garden (24 hectares) and houses the Natural History Museum, a zoo, and incredible greenhouses (Les Grandes Serres) which have been in use since 1714. The Jardins des Plantes also has a Christmas light display during the Christmas Season with a biological bent!

35. Musée de Cluny: National Museum Of The Middle Ages

I love the Cluny Museum for it is situated on ancient Roman baths, reminding citizens of the 21st century that Paris was inhabited by the Romans for over 500 years. It’s a pause for reflection.

Although it doesn’t seem like a museum would be one of the secret places in Paris, many people don’t know about the tapestries. The series of six tapestries from 1500 entitled “The Lady and the Unicorn” is beyond breathtaking.

Read More | 7 reasons to visit the Cluny Museum

Museum website: The Cluny Museum

Location: 29 rue Du Sommerard, the Latin Quarter

Métro: Odéon, Maubert-Mutualité, Saint-Michel Notre-Dame

36. Hidden Gems In Paris | Walking Tours

One of the very best ways to discover secret places in Paris is to take a walking tour led by an expert. I love to learn about off the beaten path Paris, historical anecdotes, and Paris secret spots! Here are 7 terrific walking tours to discover hidden gems in Paris.

37. The Nicolas Flamel House

Calling all Harry Potter fans who also love discovering hidden gems in Paris! Perhaps you already know that J.K. Rowling did not invent the character Nicolas Flamel. Nicolas Flamel, born in 1330, was indeed a real person, an alchemist and a manuscript seller, experimenting with that elusive and magical elixir to obtain eternal life and change lead into gold.

He and his wife Dame Pernelle opened this inn in le Marais, Paris to welcome the homeless. It is the oldest inn (auberge) in Paris and a historic monument.

The facade is detailed and fun to examine. If you want the full experience, stay for a meal at the Auberge Nicolas Flamel.

Location: 51 rue de Montmorency, 75003 Paris

Métro: Rambuteau

38. Théâtre des Bouffes du Nord

Opéra Garnier or Palais Garnier, we know of. And it is magnificent. But, the Théâtre des Bouffes du Nord, which opened in 1876, is one of the best hidden gems in Paris. Closed in 1952, due to its deteriorated state, it was slated for demolition. Luckily it was purchased and renovated (to some degree) and reopened in 1974. In 1993, the Théâtre des Bouffes du Nord was classified as a historic monument.

To watch an opera in a theatre whose 3-tiered balconies soar to a stunning ceiling, paired with a rustic renovation is a truly unique experience in Paris.

Location: 37 bis Boulevard de la Chapelle

Métro: La Chapelle

39. Palais Royal

I can’t decide if this is one of the best hidden gems in Paris or if everyone knows about it! Many people are familiar with the black and white columns, Les Deux Plateaux/ Les Colonnes du Buren, by artist Daniel Buren. This fun installation is perfect for photos and for watching how shadows fall.

Wander further afield to find the garden of the Palais Royal, a tranquil spot right in the heart of Paris.

Pull up a green chair by the fountain and ponder life, observe Parisians, chuckle at all the dogs, or simply read a book!

Métro: Palais Royal- Musée du Louvre

40. Eugène Delacroix Paintings

You may already know that tucked in the corner of one of the prettiest squares in Paris, Place de Fürstenberg, is the Musée Eugène Delacroix. Eugène Delacroix, one of France’s most famous artists and the leader of France’s Romantic movement, lived here during the last years of his life. Many of his works of art are found in his atelier there. But hidden gems in Paris abound when it comes to Delacroix!

Find Delacroix masterpieces in these secret spots in Paris:

• Église Saint-Sulpice – just a short walk from the Delacroix Museum, step into the church and find the first chapel to the right completely painted by Delacroix. Of special note is Jacob Wrestling the Angel
• The Louvre – Liberty Leading the People (1830) is one of Delacroix’s most famous masterpieces
• Eglise Saint-Paul Saint Louis– can you find Christ In the Garden of the Olives?
• Luxembourg Gardens– a fountain and bust dedicated to Delacroix

41. Eiffel Tower Views

You really can’t write about secret spots in Paris without mentioning the Eiffel Tower. Everyone knows the Eiffel Tower but where are the best hidden places to get a fine glimpse of the Iron Lady? One of the best hidden spots in Paris to see the Eiffel Tower is Avenue de Camoens. Walk down this elegant, quiet street not far from Trocadéro and soak up the magnificent views of the Eiffel Tower. The balustrade and stairs make it the perfect place for photographs.

Métro: Trocadéro

42. Hidden Gems Just Outside Paris

Fabulous day trips from Paris abound but one that may not be on your radar is the Château de Fontainebleau, a majestic masterpiece nestled in the heart of France. With its rich history spanning over eight centuries, this extraordinary castle stands as a testament to the grandeur and elegance of French architecture. From housing French royalty to witnessing momentous events that shaped Europe’s destiny, Fontainebleau holds within its walls countless stories waiting to be unravelled. Read how to plan your day trip to the Château de Fontainebleau.

43. Square René Viviani

Tucked away in the Latin Quarter, in central Paris, this charming little park is home to Paris’s oldest tree. The Black Locust was planted here in 1602 by Jean Robin, a Royal gardener and still stands today. Square René Viviani blooms with roses in the spring and is the site of a Christmas Market in Paris.

It’s a great spot to start exploring the Latin Quarter which gets its name from the Latin language spoken here by students and professors up until the French Revolution.

Hidden Gems In Paris | Best Discovery Method

The best way to discover hidden gems in Paris is to flâner. Slow down. Stroll. Wander. Turn in the opposite direction from the crowd. Observe. Read the plaques. Smell the roses. You’ll be sure to discover your own hidden gems in Paris.

Hidden Places Paris: Conclusion

Paris is a city brimming with hidden gems waiting to be discovered by intrepid travellers. From charming neighbourhoods and secret gardens to lesser-known museums and off-the-beaten-path cafés, there is always something new and exciting to uncover in the City of Light. So next time you find yourself strolling along its picturesque streets or gazing at its iconic landmarks, take a moment to venture beyond the tourist hotspots and explore the enchanting hidden corners that make Paris truly magical.

I hope you enjoy these 43 hidden gems in Paris as much as I do!

Until next time,

Paris Travel Resources

All my Paris resources are right here on this page.

Practical Paris: How to ride the Paris Metro like a pro? Read the low down right here.

After discovering these 43 hidden gems in Paris, it’s time to explore Paris’s villages

Paris Villages

Montmartre feels just like a small village. This post on Montmartre leads you to the most popular sites as well as some lesser-known places on the hill.

Le Marais is one of the oldest areas of Paris. Once marshland, it is hopping with boutiques, cafés, gorgeous old mansions and museums. Read my full guide to le Marais and also insider Marais tips from a local.

Ile Saint-Louis is still one of my favourite spots in Paris. On Pont Saint-Louis, you’ll almost always find some street music.

And Montparnasse. Most people think of the tall black tower looming over the Paris skyline or the train station. This guide on Montparnasse uncovers some marvellous things to discover in the 14th arrondissement.

Gastronomy In Paris

If you are looking for food suggestions, read about where to find the best croissants in Paris. And, if you have a sweet tooth like me, check out these best pâtisseries to try. There are also plenty of café suggestions for the Marais area in this post: Tips from a Local. And if you are exploring the area around Canal Saint-Martin, here are the best places to stop for a bite or to find the fixings for a picnic.

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