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 :
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]
Get curious with ExploreParis: unusual tours in December
Sponsored - In December, we'll be (re)discovering the must-sees of Greater Paris through unusual visits to monuments and urban strolls to see the city from a new angle. We'll also get into the holiday spirit with special Christmas workshops and activities. [Read more]
Lumières en Seine at the Domaine de Saint-Cloud, discover 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]
Lueurs de Mantes: the free light trail in the heart of the Yvelines 2024-2025, is unveiled
Mantes-la-Jolie is shining brightly this winter! For the second time, this Yvelines town is organizing a large-scale, original nocturnal event in the footsteps of its cultural heritage. Join us from December 13, 2024 to February 1, 2025 to discover "Lueurs de Mantes", a luminous and artistic itinerary where illuminated scenographies mingle with digital artworks. [Read more]
L'Odyssée Lumineuse at Parc Floral 2024 plunges us into tales and legends from around the world
For the festive season, the Parc Floral is once again inviting families to discover its illuminations in a new and enriched itinerary. From November 30, 2024 to January 19, 2025, L'Odyssée Lumineuse transports us this year to tales and legends from all over the world, with dinosaurs, circus shows and laser effects to boot. It's the perfect way to celebrate the festive season, whether you're with friends, loved ones or family. [Read more]
15 hot Christmas photo spots in Paris to enjoy the magical 2024 illuminations
Visiting Paris or the surrounding area, or just because you're a selfie-addict, are you on the hunt for photo spots to immortalize the most beautiful Christmas decorations or magical installations worth the detour? We reveal 15 cool places to discover this year to brighten up your Instagram page and photo albums. [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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
Mad Golf, the first indoor mini-golf course with a retro and unusual atmosphere in the heart of Paris
Paris's first indoor mini-golf course awaits you in the 2nd arrondissement, with two immersive, unusual 9-hole courses in a uniquely colorful retro atmosphere! [Read more]
Emily in Paris: secrets and filming locations on an exclusive guided tour!
Sponsored - Fans of Emily in Paris? Cultival, an agency specializing in out-of-the-ordinary activities, offers this unique guided tour, taking you to the heart of the capital to explore iconic landmarks, while revealing unusual and little-known anecdotes about the world of Emily Cooper. Here's a sneak preview of the secrets you might discover as you follow in the footsteps of the young American expatriate. [Read more]
The 2025 winter Paris crossing in vintage vehicles
Vintage and automobile enthusiasts take note: the winter crossing of Paris in vintage vehicles returns on Sunday, January 12, 2025 for its 25th edition. It's the perfect opportunity to take part in this unusual and festive event organized by Vincennes en Anciennes! [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]
Did you know? Where does the name Seine come from?
Have you ever wondered about the origins of the Seine's name? Originating from the commune of Sources-Seine in Burgundy, this river is named after a Celtic goddess, Sequana. We tell you all about its history and legend. [Read more]
Indian heritage, places and districts in Paris
How about discovering Paris's Indian heritage, places and districts? [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]
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 :
Etoile Gourmet, Asian and traditional restaurant with the best in karaoke
Sponsored - An Asian restaurant like no other, and one that truly stands out for the quality of its creations. Because at Etoile Gourmet, we only cook with seasonal produce, and you can feel it. Here, as in many establishments of this kind, we love to sing, and a private area is available every day for your karaoke evenings: amateurs are sure to love 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]
Rub on 10 hot sauces from Hot Ones US at Le Camion qui Fume
Want to challenge your friends? Try our 10 famous hot sauces from Hot Ones US at Le Camion qui Fume! [Read more]
Le Doggy Brunch: the gourmet brunch to book with your dog at the Kimpton St Honoré Paris hotel
A doggy brunch! The Kimpton Saint Honoré Paris is reinventing Sundays with the launch of its "Doggy Brunch", a brand-new event where doggies take center stage. Every first Sunday of the month, the 5-star hotel's restaurant opens its doors to an exceptional clientele: dogs and their humans, who come to enjoy a top-of-the-range buffet where pleasure is shared with every paw stroke. [Read more]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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 :
PSG Stadium Tour : For Christmas, get your ticket to the Parc des Princes!
Sponsored - Paris Saint-Germain invites you to discover its history and go behind the scenes of its mythical home! From December 21 and throughout the vacation season, come and experience the magic of the festive season at the Parc des Princes. [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]
Christmas 2024-2025 in Paris: an ice rink a stone's throw from the Bois de Vincennes
On your skates! For Christmas 2024, Vincennes is delighting young and old alike with an open-air ice skating rink on the Hôtel de Ville esplanade. See you there from December 6, 2024 to January 5, 2025! [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]
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]
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]
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]
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
