30 Best Things to Do in Paris, According to Locals

Exploring Iconic Landmarks with a Twist

While the famous landmarks are a must-see, locals suggest experiencing them in unique ways:

1. Eiffel Tower Picnic at Sunset: Skip the long lines and pricey restaurants. Grab a baguette, cheese, and wine, and find a spot on the Champ de Mars for a romantic picnic as the Eiffel Tower sparkles.

2. Louvre After Hours: Take advantage of late-night openings (usually on Wednesdays and Fridays) to avoid the daytime crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience with the art.

3. Notre Dame (Exterior): Though still under renovation, the exterior of Notre Dame is breathtaking. Walk around Île de la Cité and admire its Gothic architecture from different angles.

4. Arc de Triomphe Rooftop: For stunning panoramic views of Paris, climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe instead of waiting in line for the Eiffel Tower. It offers equally impressive vistas.

5. Sacré-Cœur Basilica Exploration: Explore the charming streets of Montmartre after visiting the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Discover hidden cafes, artist squares, and breathtaking views.

Delving into Parisian Culture

Immerse yourself in the Parisian way of life by experiencing its art, history, and local traditions:

6. Musée d'Orsay: Housed in a stunning former train station, the Musée d'Orsay boasts an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art.

7. Canal Saint-Martin Stroll: Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Canal Saint-Martin, a favorite spot for locals to relax, picnic, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

8. Latin Quarter Bookstores: Explore the historic Latin Quarter, known for its university, Sorbonne, and its many independent bookstores, some dating back centuries.

9. Shakespeare and Company: A legendary English-language bookstore with a rich history and a cozy atmosphere, a must-visit for book lovers.

10. Père Lachaise Cemetery: Pay homage to famous figures like Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf, and Oscar Wilde at this beautiful and historic cemetery.

Indulging in Parisian Gastronomy

No trip to Paris is complete without experiencing its world-renowned cuisine. Locals recommend:

11. Marais Falafel: Sample delicious falafel in the Marais district, home to a large Jewish community. L'As du Fallafel is a popular choice.

12. Parisian Bakery Crawl: Indulge in a pastry tour of local bakeries. Sample croissants, pain au chocolat, and other French delicacies.

13. Fromagerie Tasting: Visit a local fromagerie (cheese shop) and sample a variety of French cheeses with a glass of wine.

14. Picnic in the Luxembourg Gardens: Grab some food from a local market and enjoy a picnic in the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens.

15. Apéro at a Local Bistro: Experience the French tradition of "apéro" – drinks and snacks before dinner – at a charming local bistro.

Discovering Hidden Gems

Venture off the beaten path and discover the hidden corners of Paris that locals cherish:

16. Musée Rodin: Explore the sculptures of Auguste Rodin in a beautiful garden setting.

17. Coulée verte René-Dumont: Walk along this elevated park built on a former railway line, offering unique views of the city.

18. Belleville Neighborhood: Discover the multicultural and artistic Belleville neighborhood, known for its street art and vibrant atmosphere.

19. Buttes-Chaumont Park: Escape the city bustle in this stunning park with its waterfalls, temples, and panoramic views.

20. Covered Passages: Explore the charming covered passages of Paris, lined with boutiques and cafes.

Experiencing Parisian Nightlife

From jazz clubs to lively bars, Paris offers a diverse and exciting nightlife scene:

21. Jazz Club in Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Catch a live jazz performance in the historic Saint-Germain-des-Prés district.

22. Rooftop Bar with a View: Enjoy cocktails with breathtaking views of the Paris skyline at a rooftop bar.

23. Seine River Cruise at Night: Take a romantic Seine River cruise and see the city illuminated at night.

24. Latin Quarter Pub Crawl: Experience the lively atmosphere of the Latin Quarter with a pub crawl.

25. Moulin Rouge (if you must!): While touristy, a visit to the Moulin Rouge can be a fun and flamboyant experience, especially if you book in advance.

Practical Tips from Locals

To make the most of your trip, here are some practical tips from Parisians:

26. Learn Basic French Phrases: Even a few basic French phrases will go a long way in making your interactions with locals more enjoyable.

27. Utilize Public Transportation: The Paris Metro is efficient and affordable. Purchase a Navigo Découverte pass for unlimited travel within designated zones.

28. Walk Whenever Possible: Paris is a walkable city. Exploring on foot allows you to discover hidden gems and soak up the atmosphere.

29. Be Aware of Pickpockets: Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

30. Embrace the Parisian Lifestyle: Slow down, enjoy a coffee at a cafe, and savor the moment. That's the true Parisian way.

Plan Your Parisian Adventure: A Quick Guide

To help you organize your trip, here’s a summary of the best activities, categorized by interest:

With this list of local-approved activities, you're well on your way to experiencing the real Paris, beyond the tourist traps. Bon voyage!