Paris off the beaten track itinerary

If you want to explore Paris like a local or explore a different side of this famous city, then this Paris off the beaten Track itinerary is for you as I share some of my favourite Paris Hidden Gems! Been to Paris already? Or just aren’t the sort for a run of the mill travel itinerary? Then check out my suggestions below for some lesser known but great ways to experience Paris travel.

Local Parks

While Butte Chaumont park is becoming less and less of a Paris hidden secret, it’s big enough for locals and tourists alike and its location helps it from getting crowded. It’s big, sprawling with plenty of grass to lay on. Some very charming, small local parks include “Parc Georges-Brassens,” “Parc Montsouris,” and “Parc Monceau.”

Another favourite is pairing the now somewhat famous Paris Highline AKA “La coulée-verte” which ends near the Paris city limits and continuing the path into what is the “Bois de Vincennes” or Vincenne Woods. This huge forest area is teaming with locals. Picnic, play a game, or hire a bike and explore. 

Museums and Galleries

“Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris” is a great free modern art gallery that is somehow still a Paris secret. The Musée Rodin is a must-see and I was surprised that it wasn’t more popular, so still very much a Paris off the beaten track option. Or see a completely different side to of Paris with the Paris Sewer Museum - Musée des égouts de Paris. Check out my Museums and Galleries guide here for even more suggestions though as I have a heap for all tastes and budgets.

Paris rooftops 

Locals love a good rooftop, especially when the weather is nice. There are no shortages but some popular options include Perchoir Menilmontant, Mama Shelter Paris East and Laho.

Activities

Did you know Paris has its own hot air balloon? In Parc André Citroën, not far from the Eiffel Tower, this activity is a little weather dependent but offers unique views if you’re lucky! Every Friday night Paris shuts down the streets near Montparnasse station so people can rollerblade. That’s right, you heard me! Grab a pair and join the fun with Paris roller. Let’s go dancing? Paris Je T'aime share some great suggestions here or google Paris Salsa to find some classes in different areas too!

Areas

Most areas (or arrondissements as they call them) of Paris are residential but some are less obvious and tourist packed than others BUT still awesome. The canal area of Paris’ 10th arrondissements is still a Paris local favourite but does see a lot of tourists. Walk further up the 19th or across to the 2nd’s “Sentier” area for a similar vibe with a more local feel. Other areas I like a lot are the

Check out my arrondissement guide for more detail on each here.