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 art 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 :
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]
Jardin21 reopens its doors in April for a season of celebration and creativity!
Sponsored - Spring is just around the corner, and with it a vibrant new season at Jardin21! Nestling on the banks of the Canal de l'Ourcq, this green and cultural wasteland is back in action from April 3 to September 28, 2025. With programming blending dj sets, culture, gardening and conviviality, this iconic third-place in the 19ᵉ arrondissement promises a festive, immersive escape all season long! [Read more]
Did you know? Why are the Champs-Elysées so named?
Do you know the origin of the name of the Champs-Elysées, the famous Parisian avenue? Created in 1674 by André le Nôtre and officially named in 1698, this royal thoroughfare takes its name from Greek mythology, we tell you. [Read more]
Square René-Viviani and its flowering trees, the unusual garden with the oldest tree in Paris
Located just a stone's throw from Notre-Dame de Paris, Square René-Viviani offers a unique bucolic setting in the heart of the capital. With prunus blossoms heralding spring and a robinia tree planted in 1601, the oldest in Paris, this confidential garden is a veritable bubble of greenery steeped in history. [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]
Carnivals, parades and parades in Paris and the Ile-de-France region in 2025, the program
Paris Carnival, Women's Carnival, Tropical Carnival and Chinese New Year parades... the capital puts on a show every month. Discover the guide and program of Paris carnivals, parades and parades for this year 2025, so that you can prepare yourself in the best possible way and celebrate with joy and good humor. It's time to show off or follow the parade. [Read more]
Our favorite Japanese gardens in and around Paris
Looking for a Zen garden? We take you to discover the most beautiful Japanese gardens at the gates of Paris. Between a public park or a museum garden, these exotic gardens will give you a change of scenery and serenity. It is in any case of superb gardens which enchants us. [Read more]
A guide to walks on the Petite Ceinture in Paris, for walks in the heart of nature
Do you know the Petite Ceinture? This abandoned railway line, 32km long, encircles Paris and offers nice green spots, far from the Parisian tumult. Shall we go for a walk off the beaten track? [Read more]
Wat Thammapatip, the unusual pagoda for an immersion in Thailand less than 1 hour from Paris
In Moissy-Cramayel, Seine-et-Marne, it's a place that immediately plunges you into another culture, immersing you in a country far removed from Paris, its metro and its rain. Welcome to Wat Thammapatip International, the unusual pagoda of 77. [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]
A day in Montigny-sur-Loing, the bucolic village on the banks of the Loing (77)
If Moret-sur-Loing is a well-known town, Montigny-sur-Loing is just a few kilometers away, along the Loing river. A small village on the banks of the Loing, it has retained its charm of yesteryear: set off to discover this verdant little village. [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]
Paris Sème 2025: free distribution of local plant seeds at the City Hall
If you've got a green thumb, the Mairie de Paris will be distributing thousands of seed packets to colour your balconies with flowers of all colors, this Saturday, April 5, 2025, in front of the Hôtel de Ville! [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]
A hen party in Paris and the Ile-de-France region? Activities for a hen party
Want to make a splash at your friend's hen party? We've got lots of great ideas for an unforgettable time with friends. Here's what to do for a bachelorette party in the Paris region! [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]
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]
Unusual restaurants in Paris, 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]
The frostiest ice cream parlors in Paris, our best addresses with unusual concepts
Looking for an original ice cream parlour in Paris? Discover the most unusual ice cream parlors in Paris! [Read more]
At the moment :
Hanoi 1988 flowers & Archives, the Vietnamese coffee shop - ceramic florist and DIY workshops - video
We take you on a tour of Hanoi 1988 flowers & Archives in Paris's 3rd arrondissement, a new coffee shop combining Vietnamese specialties and good coffee, a flower store, DIY workshops and beautiful ceramics. We tell you all about it. [Read more]
10 unusual coffee shops in Paris that you'll love to discover
Discover the hidden treasures of Paris through its most unusual coffee shops. These unique places don't just serve coffee, they offer a true sensory and cultural adventure. From the intimate bookshop to the secret garden, each establishment immerses you in a singular and warm atmosphere. Discover these havens of peace, where bold design, surprising events and artisanal products combine to offer you an experience that's off the beaten track. [Read more]
Polpo Plage, the beach terrace on the Seine with a marina and electric boats, is back!
Polpo plage awaits you with its deckchairs and straw-hut-style bar from Thursday, April 3, 2025! Enjoy a summery beach terrace with your feet in the sand, plus a marina where you can take a boat ride on the Seine! This year, brasero evenings await you as a bonus. [Read more]
Kis Paris: the trendy new Marais coffee and thrift shop
Vintage has found its HQ in Paris, and it smells of freshly ground coffee! Kis, the hybrid thrift shop-café nestled in the heart of the Marais district, mixes ultra-selective second-hand pieces with top-flight espresso. Here, we hunt, sip, take our time... in short, we live fashion and taste with passion and conscience. [Read more]
Chess and Cakes, tea time and chess tournament at the Monsieur George hotel, one Sunday a month
To combine food and thought, head to the Monsieur George hotel, which organizes a chess tournament one Sunday a month, accompanied by a tea-time. [Read more]
Unusual terraces in Paris for spring-summer 2025
Looking for an unusual terrace in Paris? Here's the list of original spots in the capital that await you in fine weather. So, are you ready to take advantage of these great outdoor addresses? [Read more]
Bloom, Christian Ventura's favorite vegan sushi restaurant in Paris
Bloom is the name of this vegan restaurant with Japanese accents, which has just opened in the 17th arrondissement of Paris. Vegan sushi, already a trend on the other side of the Atlantic, is coming to Paris, and we love it! [Read more]
Rivages Supper Club: The secret bistronomic experience with food and cocktails that we love
We tested the Rivages Supper Club table experience at the Scribe Paris Opéra, a secret bistronomic experience taking place just one Friday a month from this January 31, 2025. Chef Martin Simolka and mixologist Roberto Catalano have concocted an exceptional six-course dinner, where food and cocktails dialogue with audacity and creativity. We tell you all about it! [Read more]
Bo Ranch, the huge restaurant-bar and reining venue unique in the Fontainebleau region
At La Chapelle-la-Reine, just a few minutes from Fontainebleau in the Seine-et-Marne region, Bo Ranch immerses you in an authentic western atmosphere. Europe's largest ranch, this unique venue combines a convivial restaurant-bar with a venue for reining competitions, all in a natural setting. An ideal getaway to enjoy tasty cuisine, admire horses in action and share warm moments, whether you're with family, friends or even lovers. [Read more]
Wagon Bleu Paris, an unusual Corsican-inspired restaurant in a century-old Orient Express carriage
In the heart of Paris's 17th arrondissement, the Wagon Bleu is a Parisian institution reborn with a gourmet and festive concept that's well worth the detour. This unusual restaurant, set in an authentic 1925 Orient Express carriage, offers generous Corsican-style cuisine and a lively program of DJ sets on weekends. [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
Sponsored - 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]
Unusual: an ocular harpsichord concert at the Hôtel de la Marine!
Sponsored - Can we see music? Hear colors? Come and discover the crazy story of Father Castel, a singular man who dreamed of "music for the eyes" and worked all his life to create an ocular harpsichord. One-off performance on Thursday April 3 at Hôtel de la Marine. [Read more]
La dernière danse de Mata Hari, an immersive play about the famous spy in Paris
Mata Hari, the famous dancer and spy, is at the heart of an immersive play in Paris to be discovered from April 12 to June 28, 2025. La Dernière Danse de Mata Hari (The Last Dance of Mata Hari) invites us to experience an evening in 1916 amid intrigue that promises to reveal more about the fate of this femme fatale who left her mark on Belle Époque Paris. [Read more]
Vive les Mariés: we tested the immersive dining experience at Tesoro d'Italia - new dates
Discover "Vive les Mariés", the immersive theater experience that combines comedy and upscale dining in a sumptuous setting. Join this culinary and artistic adventure in the heart of Paris's 10th arrondissement, at Le Tesoro d'Italia-Paradis restaurant on weekends for a special dinner on New Year's Eve 2025, and also every Wednesday and Sunday from February 5, 2025. We've tried it, we'll tell you! [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]
Sound and light shows and experiences in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
Sound and light shows have become a must in Paris and the Ile-de-France region. These immersive, poetic projections sublimate the facades of the capital's most beautiful monuments, and can also be found in unusual exhibition venues. To make sure you don't miss out on any of these magical shows, follow the guide! [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 :
Padel in Paris: the return of the ephemeral 5-star court in the courtyard of the Hôtel du Collectionneur
Want to play padel in a setting worthy of a movie? From March 17 to November 17, 2025, the Hôtel du Collectionneur invites you to smash your way through its lush gardens on Paris's first 5-star padel court. Book your slot from March 17 for this unique experience, combining sport and luxury in the Art Deco ambience of this prestigious address. [Read more]
Automobile: discover the Beltoise speed circuit, in Trappes (78) with karting track
In Trappes, the Beltoise circuit offers you the chance to practice motor sports at your leisure, or to take your first trip on a speed circuit. [Read more]
La Ferté-Gaucher (77) motor racing circuit: car baptisms and speed training track
Did you know? Seine-et-Marne's La Ferté-Gaucher region is home to the largest motor racing circuit in the Paris region. [Read more]
Royal Beer Spa, an unbelievably relaxing course of private treatments based around beer
Newly opened in the 9th arrondissement of Paris, Royal Beer Spa offers an incredibly relaxing interlude, with a range of treatments - for one person only! - around the theme of beer. On the program: Nordic sauna, hop bath and relaxation in front of a Himalayan salt wall. Absolute relaxation guaranteed. [Read more]
Le Bon Marché: yoga sessions with your dog in the privileged setting of the department store
Yoga sessions with your dog? That's what Le Bon Marché Rive gauche is offering in conjunction with the "Je T'aime Comme Un Chien" exhibition. On Sundays March 2, 9, 30 and April 6, 2025, Andreea Sembeley and her Australian Shepherd Jazz will guide you through a doga session, combining stretching, cuddling and relaxation to strengthen your complicity and soothe your chakras! [Read more]
Climbing District Sèvres-Lecourbe, the climbing gym in the heart of a church Paris 15th arrondissement
In the 15th arrondissement of Paris, the church of Sainte-Rita, once dedicated to the saint of desperate causes, has found a new vocation: becoming a temple to rock climbing. Welcome to the Climbing District Sèvres-Lecourbe, a unique climbing gym where you can climb under the vaults of a former church. A blend of sport, relaxation and coworking, this unusual venue has everything to seduce those of us in search of something new and out of the ordinary. [Read more]
Puppy Yoga Paris, cuddly yoga sessions with adorable puppies!
Puppy Yoga Paris is the most unusual and adorable sports experience in Paris! The idea? Practice yoga in the company of cute puppies. Playful, relaxing sessions invite you to enjoy the benefits of yoga while playing with the little furballs. You're sure to fall in love! [Read more]
Discover the yoga of laughter during an unusual class at Hasard Ludique
To cope with Parisian life, there's nothing like a little rigology class to get back into a good mood, thanks to laughter yoga! See you at Hasard Ludique, in the 18th district. [Read more]
Ice rinks open all year round in Paris and Île-de-France to keep skating
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 even after the festive season is over. [Read more]
Obstacle courses and originals 2025 in Paris and the Ile-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 2025 in Paris and Île-de-France. [Read more]
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]
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]
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]
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]
Body Float, sensory deprivation floatation sessions for deep relaxation
Why not relax in the heart of Paris? On the Pereire side of Paris, 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]
Spa Luxury Paris, an immersive moment of relaxation in a dream setting
In need of a little relaxation for yourself, your partner or your friends? Head for Spa Luxury Paris, where you can escape to Bali, Greece or the Caribbean, without leaving the Paris region! [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?
Thematic tourism in Paris, our ideas for addresses and walks to discover the capital differently
Would you like to discover cheap Paris, cultural Paris, gourmet Paris, cinema Paris or LGBT Paris? Discover all the facets of the City of Light by following our recommendations! [Read more]
Thematic tourism in Paris, our ideas for addresses and walks to discover the capital differently
