Paris, France, is a city renowned for its iconic landmarks and rich cultural heritage. However, beyond the well-known attractions lies a treasure trove of unusual things to do in Paris France that offer a unique and memorable experience for visitors. From hidden gems to off-the-beaten-path activities, exploring these unconventional options can provide a fresh perspective on the City of Light. Whether it’s discovering quirky museums, exploring secret passages, or indulging in unconventional dining experiences, Paris has plenty to offer for those seeking something out of the ordinary. Join us as we uncover some of the most intriguing and unusual things to do in Paris France that will make your trip truly unforgettable.
Catacombs of Paris
Essential Information
– Address: 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris, France
– Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM
– Fee: €14 for adults, €5 for children
– Visit Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts and those seeking a unique experience
Why is it so unusual
The Catacombs of Paris stand out as a truly unique attraction in the heart of the bustling city. Descending beneath the streets of Paris, visitors are greeted by a chilling sight – walls lined with the bones of over six million people. This macabre underground ossuary holds a dark history, offering a glimpse into the city’s past like no other.
As you venture through the dimly lit tunnels, you’ll come face to face with endless stacks of skulls and bones, meticulously arranged in haunting patterns. The eerie atmosphere is heightened by the faint echo of your footsteps against the ancient stone walls, creating a sense of solemnity and reverence for the deceased.
One of the most unusual activities within the Catacombs is the opportunity to witness intricate sculptures crafted from human bones. These artistic displays, such as the iconic “Barrel of Thigh Bones,” showcase the creativity and morbidity intertwined within this subterranean world.
For the adventurous traveler, a visit to the Catacombs of Paris offers a glimpse into a realm shrouded in mystery and intrigue. It’s a chance to confront mortality, reflect on the passage of time, and delve into a side of Paris that few ever experience. So, if you’re seeking a truly unconventional journey through history, don’t miss the opportunity to explore this haunting underground labyrinth.
Père Lachaise Cemetery
Essential Information
– Address: 16 Rue du Repos, 75020 Paris, France
– Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
– Fee: Free entry
– Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those seeking a unique experience
Why is it so unusual
Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris, France, is not your typical tourist attraction. While many may associate cemeteries with somber visits, Père Lachaise offers a different experience altogether. One of the most unusual activities you can partake in here is searching for the final resting places of famous figures. From renowned writers like Oscar Wilde and Marcel Proust to legendary musicians like Jim Morrison of The Doors, the cemetery is a veritable who’s who of the cultural world.
Another intriguing aspect of Père Lachaise is the stunning architecture of the tombs and mausoleums. Walking through the winding paths, you’ll come across elaborate structures adorned with intricate carvings and statues, each telling a story of its own. The contrast between the serene surroundings and the grandeur of the memorials creates a unique atmosphere that is both peaceful and awe-inspiring.
For those interested in the macabre, the cemetery also offers the opportunity to explore the darker side of history. The eerie beauty of the overgrown graves and weathered tombstones adds a mysterious allure to the place, making it a favorite haunt for those fascinated by the supernatural.
In conclusion, Père Lachaise Cemetery stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its blend of history, art, and intrigue. Whether you’re paying homage to your favorite historical figure or simply taking in the haunting beauty of the surroundings, a visit to this iconic cemetery is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Sewer Tour of Paris
Essential Information
– Address: Pont de l’Alma, 75007 Paris, France
– Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed on Thursdays and Fridays)
– Fee: €4.40 for adults, €3.80 for children
– Visit Duration: Approximately 1 hour
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts and off-the-beaten-path explorers
Why is it so unusual
The Sewer Tour of Paris offers a unique and offbeat experience for visitors looking to delve into the hidden underbelly of the City of Light. Unlike traditional tourist attractions, this tour takes you beneath the bustling streets of Paris to explore the intricate network of tunnels and passageways that make up the city’s sewer system.
As you navigate through the dimly lit tunnels, you’ll learn about the history of the sewers and their role in shaping the city. From the innovative engineering techniques used to construct the tunnels to the fascinating stories of the workers who maintained them, the Sewer Tour provides a glimpse into a lesser-known aspect of Parisian life.
One of the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to see the various artifacts and machinery used in the maintenance of the sewers, giving you a firsthand look at the inner workings of this essential infrastructure. Additionally, the tour offers insights into the challenges faced by the city in managing its wastewater and the ongoing efforts to modernize the sewer system.
Overall, the Sewer Tour of Paris offers a fascinating and educational experience that sheds light on a vital yet often overlooked aspect of urban life. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious to explore a different side of Paris, this unusual attraction is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Montmartre Vineyard
Essential Information
– Address: 14-18 Rue des Saules, 75018 Paris, France
– Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
– Fee: Free entry, wine tasting available for a fee
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Wine enthusiasts, history buffs, nature lovers
Why is it so unusual
Montmartre Vineyard, situated in the heart of Paris, offers a unique experience for visitors seeking a break from the bustling city life. What sets this vineyard apart is its unexpected presence in a metropolitan setting, providing a glimpse into the rich winemaking history of the Montmartre district.
One of the most unusual activities you can partake in at Montmartre Vineyard is grape harvesting. Visitors have the opportunity to join the annual grape harvest festival in October, where they can pick grapes alongside locals and participate in the winemaking process. This hands-on experience allows guests to connect with the vineyard’s heritage and traditions in a meaningful way.
Another distinctive aspect of Montmartre Vineyard is its stunning panoramic views of Paris. While strolling through the vineyard, visitors can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the city skyline, including iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Sacré-Cœur Basilica. This juxtaposition of urban and rural landscapes creates a picturesque backdrop for wine tasting and leisurely walks.
Additionally, Montmartre Vineyard hosts guided tours and wine tastings, offering guests the chance to sample a selection of locally produced wines. This experience allows visitors to savor the unique flavors of Montmartre’s terroir while learning about the winemaking process from knowledgeable experts.
In conclusion, Montmartre Vineyard stands out as an unusual tourist attraction in Paris due to its unexpected location, hands-on activities, and picturesque surroundings. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, history buff, or nature lover, a visit to this charming vineyard promises a memorable and distinctive experience in the City of Light.
Paris Sewer Museum
Essential Information
– Address: Quai d’Orsay, 75007 Paris, France
– Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed on Thursdays and Fridays)
– Fee: €4 for adults, €3 for students, free for children under 6
– Visit Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, off-the-beaten-path explorers
Why is it so unusual
The Paris Sewer Museum offers a unique and unconventional experience for visitors exploring the City of Light. Unlike the typical tourist attractions in Paris, this museum delves into the underground world of the city’s sewer system, shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of its history.
Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted with a fascinating display of the intricate network of tunnels and pipes that lie beneath the bustling streets of Paris. The museum showcases the evolution of the sewer system over the centuries, highlighting the engineering marvels that have helped keep the city clean and functional.
One of the most unusual activities at the Paris Sewer Museum is the opportunity to walk through a section of the actual sewer tunnels. Visitors can witness firsthand the inner workings of the sewer system, gaining a newfound appreciation for the unsung heroes who work tirelessly to maintain the city’s sanitation.
Additionally, the museum features interactive exhibits and multimedia displays that provide insights into the challenges faced by sanitation workers and the innovations that have shaped the modern sewer system. From historical artifacts to educational presentations, the Paris Sewer Museum offers a thought-provoking and unconventional journey beneath the surface of Paris.
Overall, the Paris Sewer Museum stands out as a distinctive attraction that offers a glimpse into a hidden world beneath the city streets. For travelers seeking a unique and offbeat experience in Paris, this museum provides a captivating look at the often overlooked but essential infrastructure that keeps the city running smoothly.
Deyrolle Taxidermy Shop
Essential Information
– Address: 46 Rue du Bac, 75007 Paris, France
– Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
– Fee: Free entry
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Curious travelers, animal lovers
Why is it so unusual
Deyrolle Taxidermy Shop in Paris stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its intriguing collection of taxidermy specimens. Visitors to this unique establishment can witness a variety of preserved animals meticulously displayed in lifelike poses. From exotic birds to majestic mammals, the shop offers a glimpse into the world of taxidermy artistry.
One of the most unusual activities at Deyrolle is the opportunity to observe the intricate process of preserving and mounting animals. The skilled taxidermists at the shop showcase their craftsmanship, allowing visitors to witness the transformation of animal skins into lifelike displays. This behind-the-scenes look at taxidermy adds a fascinating and somewhat macabre element to the overall experience.
Another distinctive feature of Deyrolle is its selection of vintage taxidermy pieces, some of which date back decades. These historical specimens provide a glimpse into the evolution of taxidermy techniques and styles over the years, making the shop a treasure trove for enthusiasts of natural history and art.
For those seeking a truly offbeat experience in Paris, a visit to Deyrolle Taxidermy Shop offers a unique blend of art, science, and curiosity. Whether you are intrigued by the meticulous craftsmanship of taxidermy or simply fascinated by the beauty of preserved wildlife, this unconventional attraction is sure to leave a lasting impression on adventurous travelers.
Museum of Vampires and Legendary Creatures
Essential Information
– Address: Rue de la Lune, Paris, France
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Closed on Mondays
– Fee: €10 for adults, €5 for children
– Visit Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Fans of vampire lore and mythical creatures
Why is it so unusual
The Museum of Vampires and Legendary Creatures in Paris offers a unique experience for those intrigued by the supernatural. Unlike traditional museums, this attraction focuses solely on the dark and mysterious world of vampires and mythical beings. Visitors can explore a variety of unusual activities that set this museum apart from the typical tourist destinations.
One of the standout features of this museum is the interactive vampire hunting experience. Visitors are given the opportunity to participate in a simulated hunt for vampires within the museum’s eerie halls. Equipped with special tools and guided by expert vampire hunters, guests can immerse themselves in the thrill of the chase.
For those interested in the folklore surrounding legendary creatures, the museum offers a workshop on creating protective amulets and charms. Visitors can learn about the significance of these talismans in warding off evil spirits and take home their own handmade keepsake as a memento of their visit.
In addition to the hands-on activities, the museum also hosts regular lectures and discussions on vampire mythology and the history of legendary creatures. Guests can engage with experts in the field and delve deeper into the lore and legends that have captivated audiences for centuries.
Overall, the Museum of Vampires and Legendary Creatures provides a one-of-a-kind experience for those seeking a taste of the supernatural. With its unusual activities and immersive atmosphere, this attraction is sure to leave visitors both entertained and enlightened about the mysterious world of vampires and mythical beings.
