Hidden Gems of Paris: Lesser-Known Attractions to Visit During the Olympics
Paris is renowned for its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. However, the City of Light is brimming with hidden gems that offer a more intimate and unique experience. For those visiting Paris during the Olympics, here’s a guide to some lesser-known attractions that are well worth exploring.
1. La Promenade Plantée
A precursor to New York’s High Line, La Promenade Plantée is a beautiful elevated park built on a former railway line. Stretching nearly 5 kilometers, this green walkway offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, with lush gardens, sculptures, and stunning views.
Why Visit? It’s a serene escape where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a quiet picnic, away from the crowded tourist spots.
2. Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature
The Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature is a quirky museum dedicated to hunting and nature. Located in the Marais district, this museum features an eclectic collection of taxidermy, antique weapons, and contemporary art pieces.
Why Visit? It’s a fascinating blend of art, history, and natural science, offering a unique perspective on human interaction with nature.
3. Rue Crémieux
For a burst of color, head to Rue Crémieux, a charming pedestrian street lined with pastel-colored houses. This picturesque street is a favorite among photographers and Instagram enthusiasts.
Why Visit? It’s one of the most photogenic spots in Paris, perfect for capturing some beautiful, colorful memories.
4. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
One of the largest green spaces in Paris, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont offers dramatic landscapes with cliffs, waterfalls, and a picturesque lake. The park’s design provides stunning views over the city, especially from the Temple de la Sibylle, perched atop a rocky outcrop.
Why Visit? It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking a bit of adventure within the city.
5. Le Musée des Arts Forains
Le Musée des Arts Forains (The Museum of Fairground Arts) is a delightful museum showcasing vintage carnival rides and games. Located in Bercy, this museum offers guided tours that bring the exhibits to life with interactive experiences.
Why Visit? It’s a whimsical journey back in time, offering a fun and nostalgic experience for all ages.
6. Canal Saint-Martin
The Canal Saint-Martin is a picturesque waterway that runs through the heart of Paris. Lined with trendy cafes, boutiques, and shaded by trees, it’s a great spot for a leisurely walk or a boat ride.
Why Visit? It’s a vibrant area that captures the bohemian spirit of Paris, perfect for relaxing and people-watching.
7. Atelier des Lumières
The Atelier des Lumières is an innovative digital art center located in a former foundry. It hosts immersive art exhibitions where masterpieces are projected onto the walls, floors, and ceilings, creating a captivating, multisensory experience.
Why Visit? It’s a unique way to experience art, making you feel like you’re stepping into the paintings themselves.
8. Passage des Panoramas
One of Paris’s oldest covered passages, the Passage des Panoramas offers a charming glimpse into 19th-century Paris. This arcade is filled with antique shops, small restaurants, and vintage boutiques.
Why Visit? It’s a historic and atmospheric place to explore, perfect for a leisurely afternoon of shopping and dining.
9. La Pagode
A surprising sight in the heart of Paris, La Pagode is a beautiful Japanese-style pagoda that once served as a cinema. Though it’s currently under renovation, its stunning architecture and serene garden are worth seeing from the outside.
Why Visit? It’s an unexpected piece of Asian architecture in Paris, offering a tranquil spot in the bustling city.
10. Coulée verte René-Dumont
Also known as the Promenade Plantée, the Coulée verte René-Dumont is a hidden green walkway that starts near the Bastille and stretches to the Bois de Vincennes. It’s a peaceful and scenic route that showcases a different side of Paris.
Why Visit? It’s a lovely place for a stroll or a run, providing a unique perspective of Paris’s urban greenery.
For Further Reading
For those interested in exploring more about these hidden gems, here are some useful resources:
Conclusion
While the major attractions in Paris are certainly worth visiting, these hidden gems offer a more intimate and unique experience of the city. Whether you’re looking for tranquility, history, or simply something different, these lesser-known spots are sure to enrich your visit to Paris during the Olympics. Enjoy your exploration of the hidden side of Paris!