If you’re currently planning a trip to Paris, France you probably are already aware of some of the major tourist attractions that the city has to offer. A trip to Paris is high on the fantasy list for many people, and you already know that you want to see the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, or Notre Dame. But there is so much more to the famous City of Light than just these main attractions. When you take your trip to Paris, take some time to explore a few of the less well-known sites and landmarks – you’ll be glad you did.
- Picnic Like a Local. The smell of fresh baked bread fills the air in Paris. Enjoy the local markets and pick our your cheese, charcuterie (fancy word for meats such as ham, or sausage,) sweats and wine and set out for a picnic. If you don’t have a cork screw, ask the wine shop to open the bottle and then re-cork it. Beautiful places to picnic include along the Seine river, the grassy area in front of the Eiffel Tower called Champ de Mars, Luxembourg Gardens or Parc Monceau, which was created back in the 18th century by Duke of Orleans and has a lovely garden, stone statues and a duck pond.
- Place des Vosges. The first planned square in Paris, the place des Vosges is also the most beautiful square you’ll see there. It was built between 1605 and 1612 by Henry IV, and has two pavilions that are designated the Pavilion of the King and Queen. No royalty has ever actually lived here, but Victor Hugo, author of Les Miserables, lived there from 1832 to 1848, and his former residence is now a museum dedicated to preserving his memory. Stroll around the square, stop in one of the cafes, and take in everything this scenic and historic spot has to offer.
- Shakespeare and Company Book Store. If you are near the Notre Dame Cathedral, stop by the famous book store just across the street which originally opened in 1919. Book lovers will enjoy finding hidden treasures among their collection of books.
- Le Cordon Bleu Academie d’Art Culinaire. If after watching Top Chef or Iron Chef you are in the kitchen using ingredients you have never even heard of trying to replicate a dish, then you can’t miss visiting Le Cordon Bleu. This famous school is more than 100 year old, and they offer both demonstrations and hands on cooking classes. They have a variety of workshops that range from 2 hours to 4 full days. Learn about french regional cuisine, traditional bread making, wine pairing or how to make hand made pastries. Make sure and check their website in advance as classes only run certain times of the month.
- Attend a Concert Performance in La Sainte Chapelle. One of the most beautiful churches in Paris. The Gothic architecture and stained glass window of the chapel set the stage inspiring chamber music concerts. It is truly a unique and unforgettable experience.
- Musee de la Poupee. In English, this would be Museum of the Doll. This fascinating museum is a treat if you’re traveling with children, but it is interesting for adults as well. It’s definitely something a bit unusual. The museum displays more than 500 French dolls, some of which date back to 1800. The dolls are displayed in groups, recreating lively Parisian scenes. Outside of the museum is a lovely garden that is definitely worth taking a stroll through. If you have an antique doll that’s in need of repair, you may want to bring it along – the museum has a doll hospital that specializes in doing just that. They also have a room demonstrating how dolls are made and hosting activities for children.
- Rue Paul Bert. Obviously, no trip to Paris would be complete without sampling some excellent French cuisine, and there is no better place to do so than Rue Paul Bert. This street has been noted in French magazines as being “the most gastronomic street in Paris”. If you’re looking for an excellent French meal, this street simply can’t be beat. Try the Bistrot Paul Bert or Chez Mamy. The Restaurant de la Reunion and the Cafe Titon also come highly recommended. When you visit this street, come hungry, because you’ll have lots of options to choose from, each one more tempting than the last.
- Lover’s Bridge. Visit Passerelle des Arts, a bridge which crosses from the Left Bank to the Louvre Museum. Here you will find thousands of padlocks along the fence. This symbolizes the seal of love and an unbreakable bond. After placing the lock together, the couple throws the key into the Seine river to symbolize their eternal love. Some say the only way to break the bond is to open the lock, but of course that’s not possible since the key is somewhere at the bottom of the Siene river. You have to wonder with the current divorce rate if someone shows up with bolt cutters from time to time.
As you can see, there is much more to the city of Paris than the Eiffel tower. While you definitely shouldn’t miss those well known and major attractions, take a little time to go off the beaten path and explore some of the less well known — but still wonderful – sites in Paris.
