15 Must-See Hidden Gems In Paris

Are you looking for hidden gems in Paris without a massive crowd?

Most people who have been to Paris will tell you that the French capital is beautiful everywhere.

From its iconic landmarks to the stunning architecture of its buildings and neighborhoods, to cute cafes and bookshops as well as the street art – there is no doubt that Paris is a visual feast.

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However, the French capital is also a haven for those who love surprises, the off-the-beaten-track travelers who enjoy discovering a different facet of this gorgeous city.

From a unique carousel to a hidden vineyard, a piece of Italian Renaissance to a quiet neighborhood that’s yet to be invaded by big shops – here are some of the must-see secret spots in Paris.

15 Must-See Hidden Gems In Paris

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1. Dodo Manège

Jardin des Plantes, 57 rue Cuvier 75005 Paris

Extinct and endangered animals make up the Dodo Manège, which is a gorgeous and one-of-a-kind carousel. Located next to the Natural History Museum, the Dodo Manège was created in 1992.

Dodo, an aepyornis (like Big Bird from Sesame Street but not yellow), and even a panda are all available for you to ride on this unique Parisian carousel.

2. Square Rapp

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7th arrondissement 75007 Paris

Even though Square Rapp is one of Paris’s tiny streets, its vantage point and setting are unmatched. A little garden area at the far end of Square Rapp offers the best views of the city’s iconic landmark.

To get a clear perspective of the Eiffel Tower, go around the garden and turn around. Despite its proximity to other well-known attractions in Paris, this street’s view is one that not many people get to see.

3. Dalida Square

Place Dalida, 75018 Paris, France

As shown in the Netflix series, “Emily in Paris,” this is one of Paris’ most beautiful streets. If you want to get away from the city hustle, head to the quiet Dalida Square in Montmartre.

Located at the intersection of rue Girardon and rue de l’Abreuvoir, it’s an excellent place to explore. With its tree-lined alleys and elegant buildings, it is especially lovely in the summer and winter.

4. Musée d’Orsay balcony

1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris, France

A must-see in Paris, the Musee d’Orsay houses an impressive collection of art from both the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist periods. It is often considered one of the best museums in Paris.

Visitors to the Musee d’Orsay are not there to see the views, but those who make it to the top floor will be in for a real surprise.

At sunset, the views of the Seine and Montmartre from the hotel’s terrace are spectacular. A visit here is a must after you’ve spent hours with the art masters.

5. Le Louxor Palais Du Cinéma

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170 Bd de Magenta, 75010 Paris, France

For many years, the Louxor Palais Du Cinema was in a decrepit state before it was renovated in 2013. It has now become a must-visit location for an interesting piece of Parisian history that most people miss out on.

The best way to pass the time when it’s raining is to catch up on some classic French movies.

6. Le Passe-Muraille

Pl. Marcel Aymé, 75018 Paris, France

Marcel Aymé’s “Le Passe-Muraille,” is about a man who discovers he can pass through walls. This story is popular in French literature, yet many people have never heard of it.

The man’s overconfidence and arrogance caused him to get caught in between two walls, which others are still trying to ‘pull’ him out of (evident in his polished hand), but to no use because he’s genuinely stuck in the middle.

Do not forget to take a picture when you visit this curious sculpture!

7. Le passage de l’Ancre

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30 Rue de Turbigo, 75003 Paris, France

This charming passage is surrounded by trees, and each of the little businesses here is painted a different color.

There are also numerous potted plants scattered over the area, making it a lovely green space perfect for a stroll.

Since Le passage de l’Ancre is tucked away in a back alley you have to go looking for it, it’s one of the last remaining true hidden gems in Paris.

8. Marie De Médicis Fountain

Rue de Médicis in the Luxembourg Garden, 75006 Paris

Another Parisian hidden gem, this magnificently carved fountain and accompanying statues in Luxembourg Garden was commissioned by King Henry IV’s widow.

A stunning throwback to the Italian Renaissance, it’s a treat to discover this part of Paris.

Heading to the Luxembourg Gardens? Get your camera ready and enjoy snapping away once you discover this little oasis. 

9. Manoir de Paris

18 Rue de Paradis, 75010 Paris, France

You won’t find a spookier place to visit in the French capital than the Manoir de Paris. It is a haunted old mansion that recreates the city’s famous urban lores. Visitors get to explore many floors and experience Paris’s frightful legend.

To keep things exciting, the themes here are updated frequently. If you love horror films, you’ll love the mansion’s visuals and atmosphere.

10. Montmartre Vineyards

Rue des Saules, 75018 Paris, France

Montmartre has become a famous tourist destination in Paris in recent years. However, there are still a few hidden gems that visitors have yet to discover, such as the Montmartre Vineyards.

In Paris, there are only a few remaining vineyards like Le Clos Montmartre.

The fact that most tourists aren’t aware of it despite its proximity to Sacré-Cur is quite remarkable.

11. La Butte aux Cailles

Rue de la Butte Aux Cailles, 75013 Paris France

Between Montparnasse and Chinatown on the left bank of the River Seine is a hilly, well-hidden neighborhood. Filled with winding lanes and tiny buildings of art nouveau architecture, La Butte aux Cailles is one of Paris’ best-kept secrets.

Ivy-covered Art Deco mansions can be found here, one of the few areas of Paris where chain stores have not yet established themselves.

While you’re here, take a stroll around and enjoy some delicious food and drink with friends.

12.  Père-Lachaise  / Gambetta

near Père Lachaise Cemetery, 16 Rue du Repos, Paris, France

Even though it is nestled in an out-of-the-way region of Paris, the Père-Lachaise/Gambetta neighborhood is within easy reach of some of the city’s most popular landmarks.

While here, a visit to the Père Lachaise Cemetery is a must. Père Lachaise/Gambetta with its pedestrian cobbles and the tranquil church is a great place for a peaceful stroll or a night out with friends.

The nightlife in the Gambetta and Menilmontant neighborhoods is thriving, and is home to a vibrant independent music scene.

13. Square Marcel Bleustein-Blanchet

Rue de la Bonne, 75018 Paris

Did you know that behind the Parc de Sacré Coeur you can get lost in a secret garden? One of the most romantic things to do in Paris is to take a stroll in Marcel Bleustein-Blanchet Square.

During the summer, it’s beautiful and a nice spot for a picnic. When the wisteria is in bloom, the area is exceptionally attractive.

The park is also known as the best place to take photos of Sacré Coeur, it’s truly worth making the trip here.

14. Saint-Eugène Sainte-Cécile

4 Rue du Conservatoire, 75009 Paris, France

The beautiful Gothic Revival church of Saint-Eugène Sainte-Cécile is located in one of Paris’s oldest working-class neighborhoods.

While the walls are made of bricks and mortar, this is the first church in France to be constructed entirely out of metal, 35 years before the Eiffel Tower.

The interior features Gothic-inspired design elements, such as intricate window mosaics. Most visitors to Paris are unaware of this church’s existence; so it’s usually unoccupied.

15. La Petite Ceinture

Ligne de petite ceinture de Paris 15th Arrondissement

For urban explorers, the “Little Belt,” a 32-kilometer-long train line that runs through Paris, is a must. It has been abandoned since 1990 but is now a great place to go for a walk or take a sightseeing trip.

There are also parts of the belt, like in the 15th and 16th arrondissements, that has been completely renovated and adapted for the hikers. For those who prefer to explore alone, several areas are completely deserted.

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