Unusual Things to Do in Paris
Unusual Things to Do in Paris : PARIS offers many unusual, bizarre, strange, secret, curious, fantastic things to do. Le Centre Bouddhique Kagyu-Dzong with the highest statue of Buddha in Europe, is located in Le Bois de Vincennes, a magnificent wood with a zoo… the Green Paris.
Unusual Things to Do in Paris
PARIS BY EMY is your travel planner to recommend you sightseeing, districts ballades, museums,… according to your aspirations and outside the box. PARIS BY EMY is far away from mass tourism but provides bespoke and unusual things to do, to see, to experience in Paris.
- The most interesting way to enjoy Paris, is to do what speaks to your soul
- Recommendations will go over cultural programs and social events of the city of lights
- You also have possibilities to modulate each package according to your aspirations & budget
In fact, there are many ways to experience unusual things to do in Paris. Discover Paris hidden gems in a very convenient way, by walking or driving tours.
Tailor-Made Private Tour Guide
| Pricing | Custom Features | Duration | Number of people |
|---|---|---|---|
| From 240 Euros | With hotel pick up | 2 hours | Up to 6 persons |
| From 360 Euros | With hotel pick up | 3 hours | Up to 6 persons |
| From 480 Euros | With hotel pick up | 4 hours | Up to 6 persons |
| From 720 Euros | Hotel pick up lunch break | 6 hours | Up to 6 persons |
| From 850 Euros | With guide and driver | 4 hours | Up to 6 persons |
| Upon quotation | Your choice | Your choice | Your choice |
Unusual Things to Do in Paris
Ask for unusual things to do in Paris in addition to the Big Classics and iconics things to see.
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Political institutions
Paris, as the capital of France, is home to many significant political institutions. These institutions play a key role in the governance of the country and are often located within historic buildings. Some of the primary political institutions in Paris include:
Elysée Palace (Palais de l’Élysée)
The official residence of the President of France. It is where the president’s office is located and serves as the central hub for executive administration.
French National Assembly (Assemblée Nationale)
Situated in the Palais Bourbon, the National Assembly is the lower house of the French Parliament. It is responsible for debating and passing laws, with its members (deputies) elected by the public.
French Senate (Sénat)
The upper house of the French Parliament, located in the Palais du Luxembourg. The Senate reviews and amends legislation and represents the interests of local governments.
Matignon Palace (Hôtel de Matignon)
The official residence of the Prime Minister of France. It is also where the Prime Minister’s office is based and where cabinet meetings are often held.
Constitutional Council (Conseil Constitutionnel)
This council ensures that laws and regulations passed by the Parliament are in compliance with the French Constitution. It is headquartered near the Palais Royal.
Council of State (Conseil d’État)
The highest administrative court in France, located at the Palais Royal. It serves as an advisor to the government on legislative matters and adjudicates disputes involving public administration.
Court of Cassation (Cour de Cassation)
The supreme court for civil and criminal matters in France. It is located at the Palais de Justice on the Île de la Cité.
Paris City Hall (Hôtel de Ville de Paris)
The center of municipal administration in Paris, responsible for the governance of the city itself. It is also a hub for various cultural and social services.
These institutions, housed in some of the most iconic buildings in Paris, represent the core of the French political system, balancing executive, legislative, and judicial powers, and serving as a model for many other republics globally.
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Arty rooms Unusual Things to Do in Paris
Paris is renowned for its artistic heritage and vibrant contemporary art scene, making it home to many unique and creative spaces. Some notable arty rooms and spaces in Paris include:
Atelier des Lumières
A digital art center housed in a former foundry, this immersive gallery uses floor-to-ceiling projections and music to bring famous artworks to life. Past exhibitions have included Van Gogh, Monet, and Klimt.
Palais de Tokyo
A contemporary art center known for its avant-garde exhibitions, experimental installations, and large-scale sculptures. It offers a dynamic space for emerging artists and modern art lovers.
Maison de la Photographie
A gallery that specializes in photography exhibitions, showcasing works from both established and emerging photographers. It often features thought-provoking themes and experimental styles.
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Bizarre places Unusual Things to Do in Paris
Paris has its fair share of bizarre and unusual places, making it a city full of surprises. Here are some of the most intriguing and unconventional spots to explore:
Les Catacombes de Paris
The Catacombs house the remains of over six million Parisians in a vast network of underground tunnels. Walking through the dark, bone-lined corridors is both eerie and fascinating, providing a glimpse into the city’s morbid history.
Le Marché de l’Insolite (The Peculiar Market)
A market filled with oddities, antiques, and unusual items. From taxidermy animals to vintage medical instruments, this market is perfect for those looking for a truly unique souvenir.
The Sewer Museum (Musée des Égouts de Paris)
A museum dedicated to the history and workings of Paris’s extensive sewer system. Visitors can walk through parts of the sewers themselves, gaining a unique perspective on the city’s infrastructure.
Le Louxor Cinema
An Art Deco cinema that feels like stepping into an ancient Egyptian temple. With its elaborate décor, colorful mosaics, and sphinxes, it’s a cinematic experience like no other.
Promenade Plantée (Coulée Verte René-Dumont)
An elevated linear park built on an abandoned railway line, which inspired New York’s High Line. It offers a quirky, offbeat walk through gardens, tunnels, and unexpected views of the city.
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Enchanting gardens Unusual Things to Do in Paris
Paris is known for its enchanting gardens, each offering a blend of history, artistry, and natural beauty. These gardens are perfect for a tranquil escape and an opportunity to explore the city’s rich botanical heritage. Here are some of the most enchanting gardens in Paris:
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
A picturesque and whimsical garden known for its dramatic landscape, Buttes-Chaumont boasts steep hills, waterfalls, a grotto, and a suspension bridge. Its centerpiece is a romantic temple, the Temple de la Sibylle, perched atop a rocky outcrop with breathtaking views over the city. With winding paths and lush greenery, this park feels like a hidden paradise amidst urban Paris.
Jardin des Plantes
The main botanical garden of Paris, established in 1635, is a haven of diverse plant species and themed gardens. It includes a rose garden, an alpine garden, and an impressive greenhouse filled with tropical plants. The Jardin des Plantes also features the historic Ménagerie (one of the world’s oldest zoos) and the Natural History Museum, making it a captivating destination for nature lovers and families.
Parc de Bagatelle
A romantic garden in the Bois de Boulogne, Parc de Bagatelle is known for its stunning rose garden with over 10,000 rose bushes, peaceful ponds, and charming pagodas. Created in the 18th century as part of a bet between Marie-Antoinette and the Count of Artois, it has become a magical escape with a fairy-tale-like quality, especially during the annual international rose competition.
Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil
Located in the Bois de Boulogne, this enchanting garden complex is centered around a set of historic greenhouses. The Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil houses a variety of exotic plants, palm trees, and orchids. The combination of elegant architecture and vibrant flora creates a dreamlike atmosphere, perfect for plant enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape.
Parc Monceau
An elegant garden designed in the English style, Parc Monceau features meandering paths, a large pond, and whimsical follies like a miniature Egyptian pyramid, a Renaissance colonnade, and a classical rotunda. Its mixture of landscapes and architectural elements gives it an enchanting, almost surreal character.
Jardin du Musée Rodin
Surrounding the Rodin Museum, this garden is filled with some of Auguste Rodin’s most famous sculptures, including The Thinker and The Gates of Hell. With its manicured lawns, rose bushes, and tranquil reflecting pools, the garden has a contemplative, almost poetic atmosphere, making it an enchanting place to admire both nature and art.
These gardens, each with its own charm and character, offer a delightful way to experience the enchanting beauty and serenity of Paris.
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Unknown scientific and intellectual sites Unusual Things to Do in Paris
Paris is home to numerous renowned scientific and intellectual sites, but there are also many lesser-known places worth exploring. Here are some lesser-known scientific and intellectual sites in Paris:
The Archives Nationales (National Archives)
Located in the Marais district, the National Archives hold a vast collection of documents, manuscripts, and historical records. It provides insight into French history, culture, and administrative evolution.
The Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève
This beautiful library is less frequented by tourists and is home to a remarkable collection of books and manuscripts. The reading rooms are stunning, featuring intricate architecture and a serene atmosphere.
The Maison des Sciences de l’Homme
This center promotes research in the humanities and social sciences and often hosts conferences, exhibitions, and workshops. It’s an intellectual hub for researchers and academics.
The Parc de la Villette
Beyond being a park, La Villette houses the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, concert halls, and various cultural venues. It often hosts science-related events, exhibitions, and festivals.
The Institut Pasteur
This research institute is dedicated to the study of biology, micro-organisms, diseases, and vaccines. It has a small museum open to the public that details Louis Pasteur’s contributions to science.
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Crazy dances and activities day or night Unusual Things to Do in Paris
Paris is a city known for its vibrant nightlife and lively daytime activities, making it perfect for both crazy dances and adventurous experiences. Here’s a guide to some of the most exciting options available in Paris, whether you’re looking for daytime fun or nighttime festivities.
Daytime Activities
- Dance Workshops:
Join a dance workshop or class at places like Le Centre de Danse du Marais or Swing dans Paris. You can learn everything from salsa to hip-hop, or even the Charleston! - Outdoor Picnics with Games:
Head to the Luxembourg Gardens or Parc des Buttes-Chaumont for a fun picnic. Bring along some outdoor games like frisbee or pétanque to enjoy with friends. - Street Performances:
Explore the streets of Montmartre or Le Marais, where you can often find street performers dancing, singing, and entertaining crowds. Join in the fun or just enjoy the spectacle. - Cultural Festivals:
Check out local festivals, which often include music, dance, and art. The Fête de la Musique, held in June, is a nationwide music festival where musicians perform in the streets and squares.
Nighttime Activities
- Clubbing:
Experience Paris’s club scene at venues like Rex Club, La Machine du Moulin Rouge, or Badaboum. These clubs often feature various genres of music, from techno to hip-hop. - Cabaret Shows:
Enjoy a classic Parisian experience at a cabaret show like Moulin Rouge de Paris. These shows combine spectacular performances with dance and music. - Late-Night Dance Parties:
Look for themed dance parties at bars and clubs, often featuring styles like salsa, tango, or even 80s disco. Places like Le Tango or Café de la Danse often host such events. - Rooftop Bars with Dance Floors:
Enjoy stunning views of the city while dancing at rooftop bars like Le Perchoir or Terrass” Hotel Rooftop Bar. These spots often have DJs or live music, creating a lively atmosphere. - After-Hours Events:
Keep an eye out for after-hours events at various venues, especially during summer. These parties often last until dawn and feature a mix of dancing, live performances, and more.
With so many options, you’re sure to find exciting activities that let you dance and have fun both day and night in the City of Light!
Unusual Museums
Montmartre museum
First, visit museums that are not so famed as the Louvre, Orsay, Pompidou, Quai Branly… Knowing that Paris has more than 200 museums, you have the choice to focus your curiosity on what attracts you the most.
For example, Montmartre has its own museum. The permanent collection is composed of paintings, posters and drawings signed by Toulouse-Lautrec, Modigliani, Kupka, Steinlen, Valadon, and Utrillo. Together, the artworks recount the story of Montmartre, including the innovative art studios at the Bateau-Lavoir and 12 rue Cortot, the cabaret of the Lapin Agile where Picasso used to go and the Moulin Rouge birth. The Museum also includes an entire room dedicated to the French Cancan, while another features rare zinc plates of dreamlike scenes from shadow theatre such as Le Chat Noir, the first modern cabaret founded by Rodolphe Salis in 1881. In addition, this lovely museum has a charming garden with a café.
Other unusual museums :
Le Musée des Vampires et Monstres de l’Imaginaire
A small, privately-owned museum dedicated to the study of vampires, werewolves, and other mythical creatures. It features a collection of strange artifacts, books, and memorabilia related to folklore and horror fiction.
The Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie
This is one of the largest science museums in Europe. Although it’s relatively well-known, many visitors overlook its various exhibitions, including those on astronomy, biology, and technology. The planetarium and submarine are also fascinating.
The Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle (National Museum of Natural History)
Located in the Latin Quarter, this museum features a stunning collection of specimens and exhibits related to natural history. The Jardin des Plantes surrounding it is also beautiful for a stroll.
The Musée des Arts Forains (Museum of Fairground)
This museum is a hidden gem that transports visitors into the magical world of 19th and 20th-century fairgrounds. Located in the Pavillons de Bercy, it features an extensive collection of vintage carnival rides, games, and curiosities.
The Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature (Museum of Hunting and Nature)
This eccentric museum combines art, taxidermy, and artifacts related to hunting and wildlife. The exhibits are imaginatively curated, with rooms that evoke a sense of being in a grand, slightly surreal hunting lodge.
The Musée de la Magie (Museum of Magic)
Tucked away in the Marais district, this small but fascinating museum is dedicated to the history and art of magic and illusion.
The Musée des Arts et Métiers (Museum of Arts and Crafts)
Though it’s more of a traditional museum, it houses an eclectic collection of scientific instruments, inventions, and mechanical marvels. From Foucault’s pendulum to early automobiles, the museum celebrates human ingenuity and the curious objects that have shaped our world.
Castles and Unusual things to do in Paris
Le château de Vaux-le-Vicomte
Discover other castles than Versailles Palace, such as le château de Vaux-le-Vicomte. Often described as a precursor to Versailles, this baroque masterpiece was the inspiration for Louis XIV’s grand palace. The château is surrounded by stunning formal gardens, designed by the same landscape architect who later worked on Versailles. The lavish interiors are equally impressive.The Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is a baroque French château located in Maincy, near Melun, 55 kilometres (34 mi) southeast of Paris. Built between 1658 to 1661 for Nicolas Fouquet. Nicolas Fouquet commissioned the most important artists of his time : an architect Louis Le Vau, a painter Charles Le Brun, and a landscape gardener André Le Notre, to execute jointly the entire project. The result was a work of harmony and beauty.
The poet Jean de La Fontaine and the playwright Molière were among the artists close to Fouquet. At the inauguration of Vaux-le-Vicomte, a Molière play was performed, along with a dinner event organized by François Vatel and an impressive firework show. Louis XIV will hire the same team to build the Château de Versailles.
Other unusual castles :
Chantilly
Location: Chantilly (about 50 km north of Paris)
Why Visit: Known for its stunning architecture, vast art collection, and beautifully landscaped gardens, Chantilly is often overshadowed by Versailles but offers a more intimate and less crowded experience. The castle houses the Musée Condé, which has one of the finest collections of paintings in France
Monte-Cristo
Location: Le Port-Marly (about 25 km west of Paris)
Why Visit: This charming château was built by the famous French author Alexandre Dumas as a retreat after his literary success. The castle’s design reflects Dumas’ love of the exotic and the romantic, with intricate carvings, hidden passages, and a beautiful garden. It’s a must-see for literature lovers.
Malmaison
Location: Rueil-Malmaison (about 15 km west of Paris)
Why Visit: Once the residence of Napoleon Bonaparte and his first wife, Joséphine, Malmaison offers a fascinating glimpse into the private life of one of history’s most famous figures. The château is beautifully preserved with period furnishings and Joséphine’s extensive collection of plants in the garden.
Fontainebleau
Location: Fontainebleau (about 65 km southeast of Paris)
Why Visit: Though not exactly “unusual,” Fontainebleau is often less crowded than Versailles and offers an incredible blend of Renaissance and classical architecture. It was a royal residence for over seven centuries, and its richly decorated interiors reflect the tastes of multiple French kings.
Château de Breteuil
Location: Choisel (about 35 km southwest of Paris)
Why Visit: This charming castle is known for its beautifully furnished rooms and its enchanting garden, which includes scenes from classic French fairy tales brought to life with wax figures. The Château de Breteuil is particularly family-friendly, offering a delightful mix of history and fantasy
Château de Maintenon
Location: Maintenon (about 65 km southwest of Paris)
Why Visit: This picturesque château was the residence of Madame de Maintenon, the second wife of King Louis XIV. The castle combines elements of medieval, Renaissance, and classical architecture, surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and a dramatic aqueduct.
Unusual Sacred Places
La Chapelle Notre Dame de la Médaille Miraculeuse
Discover La Chapelle Notre Dame de la Médaille Miraculeuse, a very special sacred place. The Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal is an important place of prayer and pilgrimage that draws believers from all over the world who wish to prayerfully reflect and ask the Virgin Mary’s protection. The chapel was built in 1815 and was dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In 1830 it was privileged with the extraordinary events of the apparitions of the Blessed Virgin to Sister Catherine Labouré that marked it forever.
Above the medal of the Immaculate Conception (aka Miraculous Medal), a medal created by Saint Catherine Labouré in response to a request from the Blessed Virgin Mary who allegedly appeared rue du Bac, Paris, in 1830. The message on the recto reads: “O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee — 1830”. This medal brings you good luck and protects you.
Paris stories and Unusual things to do in Paris
In addition, learn about the story of Paris and the history of France with its monuments, walk on the steps of amazing people who arouse Paris the City of Lights, such as Emile Zola, Marie and Pierre Curie, Héloïse and Abélard, Sainte Geneviève, King Saint Louis, Napoléon, Marquis de la Fayette, Molière, Jean Jaurès, Jean Moulin, Charles de Gaulle, … and discover those who made Paris an amazing city.
Voltaire
In France, the Enlightenment philosophers were fighting for individual liberty and religious tolerance, in opposition to an absolute monarchy and the fixed dogmas of the Roman Catholic Church. The main leader of this mouvement was Voltaire.
Unusual Paris districts
Conversely, experience districts with no tourists, feel the Parisian atmosphere in an intimate way. For instance, have a walking tour on the right bank, la Rive Droite, in addition to the so famous left bank, la Rive Gauche. For instance, reach the 11e arrondissement, Belleville, Canal Saint Martin, République, the 12e arrondissement have a picnic at le port d’Arsenal by the yachts during summer time, Bastille Opera while enjoying a coffee.
Discover The Place de la République, a square located on the border between the 3rd, 10th and 11th arrondissements. It is named after the French Republic, was called the Place du Château-d’Eau until 1879, and contains a monument which includes a statue of the personification of France, Marianne. Most of protests are starting here.
Unusual Food and Drinks
On top of that, taste French cuisine in little restaurants where Parisiens like to go, eat unusual food such as garlic snails, steack tartare but not only. Experience very special restaurants with French dish… Learn about the Excellence of French Chefs and have a masterclass, drink a beer made in Paris, enjoy a typical French breakfast on a Parisienne terrasse before to go for your walking tour, with no car around and in a peaceful street, far away from tourists.
We offer exclusive gourmet tour to discover the Parisian gastronomy, according to your taste buds. We guaranty you the finest quality and excellence. Discover historical restaurants with a soul.
Unusual Shopping
Similarly, go shopping in old shops of Paris, lots of boutiques have more than a hundred years old offering art crafts, delicatessen, beauty products, decorations, mastering their savoir-faire with Parisien style, shop on flea markets, indoor and outdoor markets with local to get the perfect and unique souvenir !
Enjoy a private tour of shopping according to the items you are looking for to bring back home. Ask us a custom made tour with a private chauffeur or not in Paris and around.
Unusual Paris by Night
There are many cabarets and not only the great Moulin Rouge, but also excellent jazz clubs in Saint Germain, concert halls for French Electro music, amazing lounge bars with great architecture, famous historical cabarets… for your Parisian nights.
Paris is full of social events and life. You just need to pick up a place according to your aspirations. Have diner after midnight, a hearty brunch after a long long Parisienne night …
Unusual Things to Do in Paris Private Tours
PARIS BY EMY offers customizable Paris tour guide packages that allow you to combine different types of experiences.
- Walking private tour guide
- Private driver Paris tours
- Driving private tour outside Paris
- Driving tours with driver only
- Museum private tour guide
You can also personalize the tours to focus on specific themes or leisure activities, tailoring the experience to your preferences.
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