When we think of Paris, we often think of its romantic side, this paradise of gastronomy, the city of fashion... But the capital is far more than just an idyllic setting worthy of a luxury perfume ad: it's also a leisure destination with some completely off-the-wall concepts that promise unforgettable memories with friends.
Surprising monuments and heritage, supernatural urban legends, fun activities unique in the world, immersive experiences, games, walks, restaurants and bars that surprise our taste buds...
Paris and the surrounding region are brimming with unusual and often thrilling spots that should delight the most adventurous souls. So, are you ready for a visit to some of the craziest spots in Paris and the Ile-de-France region?
Walks to do :
Dark Tourism, discovering the creepiest places in Paris
For lovers of thrilling discoveries and dark tourism, discover the dark side of Paris through secret places and monuments with a fascinating history. [Read more]
Unusual exhibitions in Paris: surprising artistic events to see now
Paris is a veritable open-air museum, and beautiful exhibitions are a constant feature of this cultural capital. This time, we're taking you on a voyage of discovery of the unusual exhibitions, those whose scenography and themes will surprise you with their originality! [Read more]
Le Saviez-Vous? discover Paris's unusual anecdotes, places and stories
Do you really know everything about Paris? We'll be happy to tell you all about the most unusual places, anecdotes and stories that will help you discover the capital's secrets! [Read more]
Unusual parks and gardens in and around Paris
Paris, often praised for its architectural heritage and vibrant cultural life, is also home to gardens, squares and parks of surprising beauty and originality. We reveal the unusual nuggets that are a must-see in Paris, but also all around the Ile-de-France region. [Read more]
At the moment :
GOOD PLACE: A free Grande Fête at the Hippodrome Paris-Vincennes on November 17!
Sponsored - Want to spice up your Sunday? Come and fill up on good cheer at the Hippodrome Paris-Vincennes! On November 17, we promise you a day of madness, a food court that's sure to delight, and entertainment that'll get everyone on the same wavelength! With friends, family or even on your own, get ready for a season opener that's out of this world! [Read more]
The Rooftop of the Tour Montparnasse: a panoramic view of Paris 210 metres above the ground!
Sponsored - For lovers of breathtaking panoramas, one of the finest views in Paris awaits you on the rooftop of the Tour Montparnasse. Perched 210 meters high, this terrace offers a unique vantage point over the capital, bringing together the Eiffel Tower and the capital's emblematic monuments. With a historic VR experience to boot, the Observatoire de la Tour Montparnasse is an unmissable outing for lovers of Paris and heights! [Read more]
Paris Sausage Walk 2024: the dachshund walk returns to the capital - the route
The "Paris Sausage Walk" is back on November 17, 2024 for its 5th edition in the capital! On the program? An XXL walk in the company of our friends the dachshunds, more commonly known as sausages on legs, in support of the "Dachshunds without sweet homes" association. Cuteness level at its maximum! [Read more]
The Musée de la Grande Guerre recreates an 800 m² open-air educational trench!
Strolling through an 800m2 trench is now possible in Ile de France, at the Musée de la Grande Guerre. The tour will give visitors a better understanding of this emblematic element of the First World War: the complex system of trenches! [Read more]
Lumières en Seine at the Domaine de Saint-Cloud, the new 2024-2025 fairytale route
Lumières en Seine is the sublime Festival of Lights that will once again illuminate the Domaine de Saint-Cloud, from November 15, 2024 to January 12, 2025. The program includes an enchanting stroll of almost 2km, to be enjoyed over the festive season. [Read more]
Crazy immersive experiences in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
Immersive experiences are adventures that use the codes of escape games, immersive theater and video games to create scenarios that are truer to life. Ready to take up the challenge? [Read more]
Guided tour of Hôtel de la Païva, a mysterious residence with erotic decorations
The Champs-Elysées harbor many secrets, including the home of the Marquise de la Païva, a former courtesan who had an opulent mansion built, also known as the "Louvre of the ass"... Coming for a visit? [Read more]
Harry Potter in Paris: a walk in the footsteps of the famous wizard
Are you a fan of Harry Potter and the wizarding world created by J.K. Rowling? Then, you are in the right place: Paris is packed with wonderful places related to the wizard and his adventures… Let us walk in the footsteps of Harry Potter and the Fantastic Beasts saga in the city! [Read more]
15 beautiful and unusual buildings to discover in Paris
How about discovering some of the most beautiful buildings in Parisian architectural history? Unusual facades to discover all over the capital. The editorial team invites you on an aesthetic journey through the heart of the City of Light, from medieval splendor to Art Nouveau and contemporary boldness, revealing an unusual Paris that is sometimes unsuspected. [Read more]
Attend the rekindling of the flame at the tomb of the unknown soldier under the Arc de Triomphe
Every evening, under the Arc de Triomphe, you can attend a free, silent ceremony in tribute to the soldiers who died for France. At 6.30pm, the Flamme de la Nation, on the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, is rekindled to burn endlessly. [Read more]
Le Vieux-Pays de Goussainville: an unusual stroll through a "ghost village" in the Île-de-France region
If you're looking for an unusual outing in the Paris region, you've come to the Val-d'Oise. It's here, just a few kilometers from the end of the Roissy airport runways, that you'll find the Vieux-Pays de Goussainville. Visit this atypical old village, described as "ghostly", and virtually abandoned by many of its inhabitants for several decades. [Read more]
Indian heritage, places and districts in Paris
How about discovering Paris's Indian heritage, places and districts? [Read more]
The oldest and most beautiful swimming pools in Paris, listed as Historic Monuments
In Paris, you can choose to take a dip in a classic municipal swimming pool, or you can opt for a magnificent pool listed as a Monument Historique. The choice is yours! [Read more]
Unusual: the PanoraMagique balloon at Disney Village, a hot-air balloon for a magical view
Did you know that you could fly over Disneyland Paris and enjoy a unique view of the park and its village? The PanoraMagique balloon, the largest tethered balloon in the world, offers an unusual experience, so why not take to the skies? [Read more]
The Collège des Bernardins: one of the oldest medieval buildings in Paris to visit free of charge
Let's discover the Collège des Bernardins - one of the oldest medieval buildings in Paris. Be sure to visit this 13th-century gem, located in the heart of the Latin Quarter and open to the public free of charge. Open all year round, this cultural space offers a variety of exhibitions and events, and even a café-restaurant. [Read more]
Anastasia, Ratatouille, the Aristochats: a walk in the footsteps of Disney cartoons in Paris
Paris is a city known throughout the world for its beauty, which is why Walt Disney and then the company chose it as the setting for many cartoons. Let's go on the tracks of Anastasia, the Hunchback of Notre-Dame or Ratatouille, through the capital! [Read more]
Little-known flavours :
Unusual and original bars in Paris to discover!
Looking for an unusual bar to enjoy a drink with friends? Paris is full of original and surprising places! Here are our top spots for a great night out. [Read more]
Paris's unusual restaurants: our original addresses
Looking for something new, something spectacular, some wow factor on your plate and some glitter in your eyes? Here are our top addresses for unusual restaurants in Paris! [Read more]
Top unusual brunches in Paris and the Ile-de-France to discover for original experiences
Discover unusual brunches in and around Paris for a weekend full of flavours and surprises! [Read more]
The unusual and crazy cafés and tea rooms in Paris
Would you like to discover an unusual and original tea - coffee - coffee shop? We're off to discover the most unusual gourmet spots in Paris. Whether you're looking for a unique pastry or a crazy setting, here are our favorite addresses! [Read more]
Paris's most unusual ice creams and sorbets: the best addresses
Would you like to try an original ice cream in Paris? From frosted fruit to salted sorbet and more unusual ice cream flavors, we reveal the original ice cream parlors in Paris that are a must-try! 1, 2 or 3 scoops, in a cone or in a jar, we guarantee you're in for a treat! [Read more]
At the moment :
Gaby, the pretty café where you can paint your ceramics, in Levallois-Perret (92)
A newcomer to the family of ceramic cafés, Gaby opened in autumn 2023 on rue Raspail in Levallois-Perret. As much a creative address as a gourmet one, this is where friends and family gather for a convivial moment of creation. [Read more]
Potions & Co: the "escape bar" for an unusual outing in Paris
Do you like cocktails and puzzles? Escape game fans can now discover Potions & Co, Paris' first escape bar offering an immersive cocktail experience. [Read more]
Roller skating evenings, disco DJ sets and American cuisine at the Montecito, Kimpton St Honoré
Get out your best fluorescent and sequined overalls and head for the Montecito at the Kimpton St Honoré hotel, which organizes roller-skating evenings every Thursday, complete with disco DJ set. [Read more]
Viet 1331, the 13th arrondissement's Vietnamese karaoke restaurant in immersive mode
Viet 1331 is the name of the new karaoke restaurant on the corner of avenue d'Ivry and rue Baudricourt in Paris's 13th arrondissement. We're off to the streets of Vietnam to discover some delicious, gourmet dishes. [Read more]
Ora Farmhouse at the Pavillon du Lac, a vegetarian culinary show and edible paintings right on the table
Set up in the Pavillon du Lac in the heart of the Buttes-Chaumont, Ora Farmhouse offers a true gourmet experience, with a culinary show by chef Saayaan, who magnifies vegetables in edible paintings drawn right on the table. [Read more]
Marivic Mart: Travel to the Philippines without leaving Paris
Sponsored - Marivic Mart, a grocery store located in the 5th arrondissement, introduces you to Filipino flavors. With authentic products, modern snacks and must-tries like Gulaman or banana ketchup, every visit is a culinary adventure. The ideal place for the curious and those seeking new experiences, in a warm and exotic atmosphere. [Read more]
Copperbay Lancaster: an unusual bar with sweet and savoury Mediterranean-inspired cocktails
If you're a fan of unusual cocktails, here's an exotic concept to satisfy your thirst for discovery. At Copperbay Lancaster, you'll discover an unusual menu featuring sweet and savory specialties inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean basin. [Read more]
The Club des Vignerons Lauréats' Salon des Vins 2024 in Paris
Sponsored - On the weekend of November 15, 16 & 17, 2024, come and taste the wines of independent winegrowers in an exceptional setting. On the banks of the Seine, at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, the Club des Vignerons Lauréats invites you to the barge Le Paquebot to (re)discover their cuvées, produced in the four corners of France by 42 winemakers. [Read more]
Leisure and activities :
Escape games and investigative games to discover in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
Addicted to the adventures of Sherlock Holmes and other enigmas? Head for the various escape games in Paris and the Île-de-France region to experience the adventurous life for an hour, with family or friends. And because we're so fond of you, we've come up with a selection of the ones we've tried out. Ready to solve some puzzles? [Read more]
iFLY Paris, the indoor freefall address for an unusual flying experience
iFLY Paris welcomes the general public, companies and experienced skydivers for indoor skydiving in a huge glass tube. iFLY lets you fly, risk-free and inexperienced, from 5 to 105 years old! SUMMER OFFER: 3 baptisms for the price of 2! [Read more]
Drag bingo and blind test with drag queen Clemence Trü, every Sunday at Olympe in Pantin
Head to Chez Olympe in Pantin, every Sunday at 6pm, for a free drag bingo hosted by drag queen Clemence Trü, followed by a wild blind test. [Read more]
Les Bradés at the Nouvelle Seine with their improvisation show 'T.I.M.E'.
Every Sunday evening, discover a devilishly effective improv show by the troupe Les Bradés with their show T.I.M.E, on view at La Nouvelle Seine from 5pm. [Read more]
Candlelight: music from the Bridgerton Chronicle series in concert by candlelight
Candlelight's candlelit concerts return to the Maison de l'Océan in a version dedicated to the world of the Bridgertons, on Saturdays October 12, November 23 and December 6, 2024! On the program? Three evenings lulled by the iconic melodies of the hit Netflix series, reinterpreted by a string quartet. Tickets open this Thursday, September 5, 2024 at 3pm. [Read more]
Drone shows to discover in the Paris Region in 2024
Drone shows are on the increase, much to our delight. Whether used in conjunction with fireworks for a unique visual effect, or on their own to provide a delightful alternative to fireworks, they offer a magical spectacle and ballet to discover. Here's a roundup of upcoming drone shows in Paris and the Ile-de-France region. [Read more]
Le Grand Hôtel des Rêves: the new immersive show venue in the 5th arrondissement
In the heart of the 5th arrondissement, the Hôtel Le Brun will be transformed from September onwards: welcome to the Grand Hôtel des rêves, a magical place to discover immersive shows. [Read more]
Heroes Academy, the first action game in France - CLOSED
The first Action Game in France is waiting for you in Paris! Let's go to the Heroes Academy, a unique experience that mixes sport, skill and speed in challenges between friends. Adrenaline rush guaranteed! DEFINITIVELY CLOSED [Read more]
Paris Fury Room to let off steam
Feel like on the verge of breaking it all? Head to the Fury Room that reopened this past May 12 to let off steam without having to clean everything up after. Such a good idea in Paris! [Read more]
Les Cognées: Paris' first axe-throwing venue
If you've always been fascinated by Canadian lumberjacks, then head for Les Cognées, the capital's very first axe-throwing center! [Read more]
At the moment :
Unusual: this aquatic spa offers unique treatments while floating on water
Need to take a breather? We take you to Clemens, Paris' first aquatic spa. This hot spot unveils pools in vaulted cellars in the heart of the Latin Quarter and invites you to try massages while floating on water. It's one of the capital's most exhilarating experiences. [Read more]
Padel in Paris: an ephemeral 5-star court in the courtyard of the Hôtel du Collectionneur - extensions
Want to play padel in a setting worthy of a movie? From September 19 to January 5, 2025, the Hôtel du Collectionneur invites you to smash your way through its lush gardens on Paris's first 5-star padel court. Reserve your slot from September 14 for this unique experience, combining sport and luxury in the Art Deco ambience of this prestigious address. [Read more]
October and All Saints' Day vacations in AccroCamp adventure parks!
Sponsored - AccroCamp parks are open on Wednesdays and non-holiday weekends, and every day during the All Saints' Day vacations! Get ready to celebrate Halloween in the trees! [Read more]
Weekly classes to discover historic dances with Carnet de Bals
Carnet de Bals is an association dedicated to reviving the great Parisian balls, offering courses in historic dances such as waltz, quadrille and polka throughout the year, so you can take part in future re-enactments! [Read more]
Dream Machine: a relaxing mind massage at Ho Karan, Burning Bar
Try the mind massage, an immersive experience between relaxation and hypnosis, for a psychedelic half-hour in a pleasant altered state of consciousness, thanks to photo stimulation. [Read more]
Urgent Run Paris 2024: the solidarity race for access to hygiene in the Bois de Boulogne
URGENT RUN PARIS returns for a 9th edition this Saturday, November 16, 2024 in the Bois de Boulogne. The idea? Run "for the throne" over a choice of 3 courses: 5km, 10km and 15km, and raise funds for sanitation programs around the world. [Read more]
Unusual sport: discover footgolf and disc-golf in Morangis (91)
Tired of just playing golf? Then try footgolf or disc-golf for a change of pace, and hit the ball with your foot or your hand - two fun family activities! [Read more]
Climbing District Saint-Lazare, a climbing gym and coworking space hidden in a chapel
How about a climb in an atypical location? Climbing District is located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, close to the Saint-Lazare train station. Housed in a hidden former chapel, this climbing gym, which looks like an old library, is sure to surprise. Tip: coworking spaces with free wifi and coffee shop. [Read more]
A duo floating massage in historic vaulted cellars converted into unusual baths
Looking for a soothing experience with your soulmate? We'll take you on a unique and unusual duo treatment in Paris: a floating massage in old vaulted cellars in the Latin Quarter, converted into baths. [Read more]
The original 2024 obstacle courses in Paris and the Île-de-France region
Running is on a roll, and with it, original races! Rolling in the mud, running in teams, avoiding obstacles, being chased by zombies... there's something for everyone. Can you rise to the challenge of these unusual races? Discover a selection of the program for this year 2024 in Paris and Île-de-France. [Read more]
Sweat it out and enjoy it: gyms that combine exercise with a clubbing atmosphere
A sports class... in a nightclub? It's a concept that should come as a surprise to many! And yet, some Parisian gyms and studios have found the winning combo: turn a restrictive activity (sport) into a pure moment of pleasure, with music, lights and a good atmosphere, so that no time goes by! [Read more]
The most beautiful ice rinks in Paris and the Île-de-France region
For skating on (real) ice, Paris and the Île-de-France region boast a number of excellent rinks, where you can spend hours with family, friends, lovers or solo, enjoying this winter sport. [Read more]
Body Float, sensory deprivation floatation sessions for deep relaxation
How about relaxing in the heart of Paris? Near Bastille, Body Float offers floating relaxation sessions in a sensory deprivation room, to be enjoyed solo or as a duo! [Read more]
La Belle Boucle Studio, the hair salon and boutique for wavy to frizzy hair
After Lyon and Marseille, La Belle Boucle Studio is moving to Paris, to the delight of the capital's curlies. From October onwards, curly, frizzy and frizzy hair will benefit from a new boutique and specialized hairdressing salon. [Read more]
Experiences for thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
Are you a real daredevil or just want to push your limits? Baptisms of the air, impressive loops, terrifying experiences or free-fall, the Île-de-France region has plenty of spots to give you a few scares! [Read more]
Unusual sports: where can you go for a paramotor or paragliding first flight in the Paris region?
Would you like to throw yourself into the void in complete safety? Let yourself be tempted by a paramotor flight and admire the superb landscapes of the Île-de-France region! Discover the best spots in the area to try out this unusual sport. [Read more]
Piscine Roger Le Gall, a naturist swimming pool in Paris
The Piscine Roger Le Gall is a swimming spot located in the 12th arrondissement of Paris that offers swimmers an open-air pool on sunny days, a 100% indoor pool, a solarium and dedicated slots for naturist sessions! [Read more]
The Butte-aux-Cailles swimming pool, a historic site with year-round heated outdoor pool
The Butte-aux-Cailles swimming pool is a historic Parisian spot nestled in the heart of a village district in the 13th arrondissement. It is one of the few swimming venues to offer an outdoor Nordic pool heated all year round to 28°C. [Read more]
Michel Brosseau, the excellent hair salon specializing in dry cuts
A dry-cutting specialist since 2003, Michel Brosseau's salon, just a stone's throw from Parc Monceau, excels in customer care and the mastery of its hairdressers and colorists. [Read more]
Decibel, the brand-new dance studio and club a stone's throw from Beaubourg
Just 200 meters from the Centre Georges Pompidou, on rue Quincampoix, Decibel recently opened with its dance workout classes, for a different kind of gym experience. [Read more]
Wave In Paris: Indoor surfing in Paris!
How about surfing in the heart of Paris? The first indoor static wave sports complex awaits you in the capital's 15th arrondissement. A unique new venue, where you can experience unprecedented sliding sensations on flowboard and bodyboard boards, a mix of surf, snowboard and skateboard. [Read more]
At Aûm, the holistic coworking space, yoga studio and healthy coffee shop
A place that is a yoga studio, a coworking space and a café in Paris? We found it, it's At Aûm, a holistic place that offers a 100% organic and homemade menu along with many yoga classes. [Read more]
Unusual and original sports to try out in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
Parkour, chess, quidditch, surfing or even mermaids: here's our selection of the best unusual sports to try out in Paris and the Île-de-France region. If you're still curious about other disciplines, follow the guide! [Read more]
Winter sports: it's possible to ski in the Paris Region!
Yes, yes: it's possible to ski near Paris, without leaving the Île-de-France! To improve your snowplough technique, head for Crazy Park, in Bonneuil-sur-Marne. Young and old alike can enjoy an indoor ski simulator all year round, the only one of its kind in the region! [Read more]
The Pailleron skating rink, for skating all year round
The Pailleron skating rink lets you glide on the ice all year round. It occupies the ice area of the Pailleron sports center in Paris's 19th arrondissement. The rink regularly organizes theme evenings, so stay tuned! [Read more]
La Maison des Marronniers an idyllic and gourmet yoga retreat within easy reach of
Imagine, a holistic place where you can do yoga retreats and disconnect without leaving the Île-de-France? La Maison des Marronniers is just that, a haven of peace within easy reach of your car, where well-being and gourmet pleasures reign. We take you to this unusual spot that awaits you in Essonne. [Read more]
Unusual in Paris: Water skiing on the Seine
Water skiing on the Seine? Yes it is possible and it happens in Paris! A club offers 3.5km of skiable water with learning workshops. Whether it's for bi-skiing, mono-skiing or even to learn how to do tricks or even to practice wakeboarding, here is the unusual spot that could well make you discover a new passion. [Read more]
Studio MVMT, a clubbing gym dedicated to Party Fitness in Paris
Here's a sports club that's making Paris vibrate. MVMT Club is a concept fresh from the United States that introduces us to Party Fitness. The idea? Exercise in a festive way by combining a clubbing atmosphere, positive energies, muscle strengthening, cardio and meditation combined with dance moves. [Read more]
Do you dare to venture down these unexpected and unusual paths?
