58 Unusual Things to Do in Paris

Dive into the world of fragrance by crafting your very own signature scent. This hands-on workshop lets you explore different notes and create a personalized perfume to take home.

Tip: Book in advance, especially during peak season.

Descend into the fascinating underground world of Paris's historic sewer system. It's a surprisingly engaging look at the city's infrastructure and history.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of walking.

Step into a wonderland of taxidermy and natural curiosities. This iconic shop is a feast for the eyes, filled with beautifully preserved animals and natural history displays.

Tip: It's a shop, so be respectful of the merchandise.

Experience a whimsical world of light, air, and play at this inflatable art exhibition. Wander through giant, colorful structures that are both playful and visually stunning.

Tip: Great for all ages, embrace your inner child!

Catch a French film with English subtitles in a cozy, intimate setting. It's a perfect way to experience French cinema and culture, especially on a cooler evening.

Tip: Check their schedule and book tickets in advance.

Unleash your creativity by designing your own unique phone charm. Choose from a variety of colorful beads and cute charms to create a personalized accessory.

Tip: Be prepared to spend extra for each charm you select.

Discover a unique blend of art, history, and taxidermy in this beautifully curated museum. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the relationship between humans and nature.

Tip: Allow ample time to explore its intricate rooms.

Venture into the eerie underground ossuary holding the remains of millions of Parisians. It's a somber yet fascinating historical site that offers a unique perspective on the city's past.

Tip: Book tickets far in advance; tours can offer access to restricted areas.

Step into a world of iridescent spheres and playful installations. This immersive experience is filled with colorful bubbles and interactive elements for a fun, photogenic outing.

Tip: Book tickets online in advance, as prices vary.

Channel your inner dancer with a ballet class in Paris. It's a fun and unique way to experience the city's artistic spirit and get some exercise.

Tip: Check class schedules online and book in person.

Discover a unique museum dedicated to veterinary anatomy and pathology. It's a fascinating, albeit unusual, collection that offers a scientific and historical perspective.

Tip: Located a short metro ride outside the city center.

Delve into the evolution of medical practices and instruments. This museum showcases a collection of historical medical tools and artifacts.

Tip: Part of the Faculty of Medicine, check visiting hours.

Explore one of the world's most famous cemeteries, a beautiful and tranquil place filled with elaborate tombs and famous graves. It's a unique blend of art, history, and peaceful reflection.

Tip: Look for the closed ossuary and unique chapel tombs.

Step back in time at this legendary jazz club located in a medieval cellar. Enjoy live music and a vibrant atmosphere that feels like a journey to another era.

Tip: Can get crowded, arrive early for a good spot.

Master the art of making delicate French macarons. This hands-on class will teach you the techniques to create these iconic, colorful treats.

Tip: A fun and delicious way to learn a new skill.

Step into a magical world of vintage fairground attractions and carousels. This unique museum offers an interactive experience with its collection of antique amusement rides.

Tip: Requires booking in advance for guided tours.

Experience the thrill of ice skating in one of the world's largest indoor rinks, set within the stunning architecture of the Grand Palais. It's a magical winter activity with a breathtaking backdrop.

Tip: Check seasonal availability and book sessions in advance.

Marvel at the opulent architecture and grandeur of this historic opera house. Even if you don't see a performance, a self-guided tour offers a glimpse into its lavish interiors.

Tip: Consider a guided tour for deeper insights.

Learn the art of street art by creating your own graffiti. This hands-on workshop allows you to spray paint a wall in a designated skate park, offering a unique creative outlet.

Tip: Look for workshops on platforms like Airbnb Experiences.

Explore a unique collection of anatomical specimens and taxidermy at the veterinary school's museum. It's a fascinating, albeit unusual, look at animal science.

Tip: Combine with a visit to the nearby Fragonard Perfume Museum.

Step into the charming world of 19th-century Parisian romanticism. This museum, set in a beautiful villa, showcases art and artifacts from the Romantic era.

Tip: Enjoy a coffee in its lovely garden cafe.

Enjoy a leisurely paddle boat ride on the serene lake within Bois de Vincennes. It's a peaceful escape from the city bustle, offering beautiful views and a relaxing experience.

Tip: Rentals are available seasonally.

Explore this magnificent neoclassical building, a mausoleum for distinguished French citizens. Its impressive architecture and historical significance make it a captivating visit.

Tip: Don't miss the Foucault pendulum inside.

Discover the ruins of a Roman amphitheater hidden in the Latin Quarter. This ancient site offers a glimpse into Paris's Gallo-Roman past and is a peaceful spot for a picnic.

Tip: A great place to relax and imagine ancient Paris.

Experience Arab culture and art at this striking modern building. Enjoy the exhibitions and consider having tea in its beautiful courtyard for a serene moment.

Tip: The rooftop offers great views of Notre Dame.

Wander through Paris's charming covered passages, remnants of 19th-century shopping arcades. These hidden gems are filled with unique boutiques and cafes.

Tip: Many themed guided tours focus on these passages.

Explore a vast collection of aircraft and space exploration artifacts at this impressive museum located at Le Bourget airport. The Art Deco terminal itself is a marvel.

Tip: Some aircraft are open for visitors to board.

Experience the electric atmosphere of a professional football match. Cheering on Paris Saint-Germain is a thrilling way to immerse yourself in local sports culture.

Tip: Book tickets well in advance, especially for popular matches.

Learn about Paris's liberation during World War II at this insightful museum. It offers a poignant look at the city's history and the figures who played a role in its freedom.

Tip: Provides a different historical perspective on Paris.

Wander down this vibrant market street in the Latin Quarter, brimming with local shops, food stalls, and restaurants. It's a perfect spot to soak in the Parisian daily life.

Tip: Great for finding local produce and enjoying street food.

Discover the history and artistry of perfume making at this dedicated museum. Learn about the ingredients and processes that go into creating iconic scents.

Tip: Offers free tours that are very informative.

Design and create your own personalized phone case. Choose from various cases and an array of fun charms to make a unique accessory.

Tip: Available at select malls like Citadium and Printemps.

Explore a vast collection of fossils and anatomical specimens. This museum offers a deep dive into the history of life on Earth and the diversity of the animal kingdom.

Tip: Part of the Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle.

Wander through the beautiful gardens and mansion dedicated to the sculptor Auguste Rodin. Admire iconic works like 'The Thinker' and 'The Kiss' in a serene setting.

Tip: The gardens are as much a highlight as the indoor exhibits.

Behold the breathtaking stained-glass windows of this Gothic chapel. The vibrant colors and intricate designs create a truly awe-inspiring and spiritual experience.

Tip: Visit on a sunny day for the best light.

Enjoy panoramic views of Paris from the rooftop terrace of this iconic department store. It offers a stunning perspective of the city's rooftops and landmarks.

Tip: A great alternative to more crowded viewpoints.

Immerse yourself in Monet's water lilies in this unique museum. The oval rooms designed specifically for the large-scale paintings create a serene and enveloping experience.

Tip: Located in the Tuileries Garden.

Relax and read a book in the beautiful Luxembourg Garden. This iconic Parisian park offers a peaceful escape with its manicured lawns, fountains, and statues.

Tip: Grab a book from Shakespeare and Company and enjoy reading here.

Take a unique journey through Paris's underground network. This museum offers a fascinating look at the history and engineering of the city's sanitation system.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a unique experience.

Learn to cook authentic French dishes in a local's home. This intimate experience offers a hands-on culinary adventure and a chance to connect with Parisian culture.

Tip: Look for classes hosted by grandmothers for a special touch.

Indulge in a cheese tour and tasting at this living museum dedicated to French cheese. Learn about the production and aging process of various cheeses.

Tip: A must for any cheese lover visiting Paris.

Discover a stunning collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces housed in a former Beaux-Arts railway station. The building itself is a work of art.

Tip: Don't miss the iconic clock face view.

Explore a dazzling array of minerals, gemstones, and meteorites. This museum showcases the Earth's geological treasures in a fascinating display.

Tip: Part of the National Museum of Natural History.

Test your problem-solving skills in an immersive escape room challenge. 'Le Metro' offers a unique experience set in a real Paris subway car.

Tip: Book well in advance, especially for smaller groups.

Venture into the eerie underground ossuary with a knowledgeable guide. Specialized tours can take you to areas not accessible to the general public, adding to the spooky atmosphere.

Tip: Book a tour for a more in-depth and chilling experience.

Discover a whimsical collection of magic artifacts and automata. This quirky museum offers a playful and enchanting experience for all ages.

Tip: Often includes live magic shows.

Descend into the fascinating underground world of Paris's historic sewer system. It's a surprisingly engaging look at the city's infrastructure and history.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of walking.

Enjoy a leisurely paddle boat ride on the serene lake within Bois de Vincennes. It's a peaceful escape from the city bustle, offering beautiful views and a relaxing experience.

Tip: Rentals are available seasonally.

Discover the history and artistry of perfume making at this dedicated museum. Learn about the ingredients and processes that go into creating iconic scents.

Tip: Offers free tours that are very informative.

Venture into the eerie underground ossuary holding the remains of millions of Parisians. It's a somber yet fascinating historical site that offers a unique perspective on the city's past.

Tip: Book tickets far in advance; tours can offer access to restricted areas.

Step into a wonderland of taxidermy and natural curiosities. This iconic shop is a feast for the eyes, filled with beautifully preserved animals and natural history displays.

Tip: It's a shop, so be respectful of the merchandise.

Experience classic films with a unique twist at Studio Galande, known for its long-running screenings of 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show'. It's a cult classic experience.

Tip: Check their schedule for specific showtimes.

Experience a whimsical world of light, air, and play at this inflatable art exhibition. Wander through giant, colorful structures that are both playful and visually stunning.

Tip: Great for all ages, embrace your inner child!

Discover a unique museum dedicated to veterinary anatomy and pathology. It's a fascinating, albeit unusual, collection that offers a scientific and historical perspective.

Tip: Located a short metro ride outside the city center.

Delve into the evolution of medical practices and instruments. This museum showcases a collection of historical medical tools and artifacts.

Tip: Part of the Faculty of Medicine, check visiting hours.

Explore one of the world's most famous cemeteries, a beautiful and tranquil place filled with elaborate tombs and famous graves. It's a unique blend of art, history, and peaceful reflection.

Tip: Look for the closed ossuary and unique chapel tombs.

Design and create your own personalized phone case. Choose from various cases and an array of fun charms to make a unique accessory.

Tip: Be prepared to spend extra for each charm you select.