Finding hidden gems in Paris is my favorite! But if it’s your first time here, there are lots of famous places to see first.
Whether you’re here for a day or a week, you’ll have tons to do from your Paris bucket list. But if you stay longer, or keep coming back, these secret spots will show you a different side of Paris. Discover hidden passages, tiny neighborhoods, old windmills, and more unique places most people miss.
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Here are 31 Secret Places in Paris that You’ll Really Enjoy Finding
Passage des Panoramas
Where to find it: 11 Boulevard Montmartre, 75002 Paris, France
If you’re in Paris, you must visit the Passage des Panoramas. It’s the oldest covered walkway in Paris! The glass roof lets in beautiful light, and the hanging lanterns create a vintage atmosphere. You’ll find unique boutiques and ethnic restaurants here. It’s perfect for grabbing a quick bite or coffee on a rainy day!
Rue Cremieux
Where to find it: Rue Cremieux, 75012 Paris
Rue Cremieux is one of the most colorful spots in Paris, a charming cobblestone street tucked away in a residential area. While it’s become popular on Instagram in recent years, many Parisians still don’t know about it! Stroll along and admire the pastel-colored houses, but remember to respect the residents by not disturbing them or sitting on their front steps.
The Flower and Bird Market
Where to find it: 37 Place Louis Lépine, 75004 Paris, France
This lovely Flower Market sits by the River Seine, nestled between Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle. Wander through the charming green pavilions and marvel at the vibrant flowers and planters on display. On Sundays, the market transforms into a bustling Bird Market, where you can hear the cheerful tweets of thousands of birds. It’s a hidden gem in Paris that you definitely shouldn’t miss when you’re exploring the Île de la Cité.
The Zadkine Museum Courtyard
Where to find it: 100 bis Rue d’Assas, 75006 Paris, France
The beautiful courtyard at the Zadkine Museum comes alive in the Summer and Fall. Bronze mythological statues are hidden among the foliage, creating a magical setting. It’s free to enter the courtyard and museum, so take your time wandering through this overgrown romantic space and admire the pure artistry. It’s a real hidden gem in Paris!
Dalida Square
Where to find it: Place Dalida, 75018 Paris, France
Dalida Square in Montmartre is one of Paris’s loveliest spots, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. With its charming cobblestone streets, tree-lined avenues, and quaint buildings, it’s a picturesque oasis year-round.
Whether you visit in the vibrant summer or the serene winter, you’ll be enchanted by its beauty. You can find it at the intersections between rue Girardon and rue de l’Abreuvoir, making it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll after exploring the area.
The Columns of Buren Palais-Royal
Where to find it: 8 rue de Montpensier, 75001 Paris, France
You won’t want to miss the Columns of Buren at Palais-Royal! These 260 striped columns are a sight to behold and offer fantastic photography opportunities. While the columns aren’t new, they contrast beautifully with the palace surroundings. What’s even better? You can explore the courtyard and palace for free! Don’t forget to capture some fun angles with the columns of varying heights.
The Passage Verdeau
Where to find it: 6 rue de la Grange-Batelière, 75003 Paris
The Passage Verdeau is a hidden gem in Paris that many locals don’t know about. It’s one of the covered passages in the city, tucked away at 6 rue de la Grange-Batelière, 75003 Paris. With its classic design and glass roof, it’s a delightful place to explore. Inside, you’ll find quaint boutique shops offering unique treasures. Take your time wandering through this charming passage and enjoy its serene atmosphere.
The Hidden Red Car at MERCI
Where to find it: 111 Boulevard Beaumarchais, 75003 Paris, France
The little red FIAT at MERCI Concept store is a must-see in Paris! It’s become an iconic Instagram spot, but it can be tricky to find if you don’t know where to look. Located in the high Marais district, MERCI Concept Store is nestled at the end of a hidden cobblestone street. Keep an eye out for this hidden gem during your next trip to Paris—it’s worth the search!
The Sacre Coeur Carousel
Where to find it: Place Saint-Pierre, 75018 Paris, France
While Montmartre and the Sacre Coeur are must-visit sights in Paris, many people miss out on one of the best views! Instead of heading straight to the Basilique or taking the funicular, make sure to visit the beautiful Carousel in the Square Louise Michel, next to Metro Anvers. From here, you’ll enjoy one of the most stunning views of the Sacre Coeur that many tourists overlook. It’s a hidden gem in Paris that’s definitely worth experiencing!
Villa Léandre
Where to find it: Villa Léandre (off Avenue Junot), 75018 Paris
Villa Léandre is a hidden gem in Montmartre that offers a unique experience. Picture vines climbing up colorful buildings, cobbled streets, beautiful classic doors, and classic lantern street lamps. It’s one of the most stunning hidden gems in Paris that you won’t want to miss.
The Montmartre Windmills
Where to find it: Rue Lepic, Montmartre, 75018 Paris, France
Head to Rue Lepic in Montmartre and uncover the charm of the ‘Moulin de la Galette’ and its two windmills. While Paris used to be dotted with wooden windmills, only a few remain today. Despite being overshadowed by popular spots like Sacre Coeur and Place des Tertres, these adorable wooden windmills are a true hidden gem in Paris. Don’t miss the chance to explore this unique piece of history!
The Cloitre des Billettes
Where to find it: 22 to 26 rue des Archives, 4th arrondissement
Let me tell you about this magical place called The Cloitre des Billettes. It’s like stepping into medieval times right in the heart of Paris! And get this it’s totally free to enter. Nowadays, they use the cloisters as an art gallery, so you can snap some amazing photos while you’re there. It’s like discovering a whole new side of Paris that most tourists miss out on.
L’Oasis D’Aboukir
Where to find it: 83 Rue d’Aboukir, 75002 Paris, France
Let me share something super cool with you it’s called L’Oasis D’Aboukir. This place is a hidden gem, seriously! Even locals don’t know about it. It’s basically a vertical garden, like a living wall, tucked away on the corner of rue des Petits Carreaux.
Picture this 250 square meters of lush greenery, all thanks to a French botanist named Patrick Blanc. He planted a whopping 7600 plants from 237 different species there. It’s like a celebration of nature right in the middle of Paris!
The Great Mosque of Paris
Where to find it: 39, rue Geoffroy Saint Hilaire, 75005 Paris 5
Let me tell you about a hidden treasure in Paris that might not be on your radar the Great Mosque of Paris. Trust me, it’s a must-visit! From the outside, it’s grand and majestic, but wait till you step inside.
Picture this a magical courtyard with lush gardens, doors adorned with flower patterns, and beautifully sculpted arches. And guess what? There’s more! Inside, you’ll find a cozy tea shop, a library, and even a hammam (that’s a traditional bathhouse). It’s like stepping into a whole other world right in the heart of Paris!
The Damoye Court
Where to find it: Cour Damoye near Place de la Bastille, 75011 Paris
Let me introduce you to a charming spot in Paris called The Damoye Court. Picture this: it’s a cute, paved alley tucked away in the Bastille district. As you stroll along, you’ll pass by boutique shops that give off some serious Parisian vibes.
It’s like something out of a storybook, especially with all the vines creeping up the walls. Whether you’re in the mood for shopping or just want to chill at a cozy café, this place has got you covered. Oh, and it’s especially stunning in the fall when the vines turn all shades of gold and red!
Rue des Thermopyles
Where to find it: Au 52, rue Mouffetard, 75005 Paris
Let me tell you about a real hidden gem in Paris called Rue des Thermopyles. Seriously, it’s like a secret that hardly anyone knows about!
You’ll find it tucked away in the 14th Arrondissement, and let me tell you, it’s a sight to behold, especially in the spring and summer. Picture this vibrant green vines climbing up the walls and colorful flowers blooming everywhere. It’s like stepping into a fairytale! Even though it’s not as famous as Rue Cremieux, it’s just as charming and picturesque.
Saint Serphani Church of Sarov
Where to find it: 91 Rue Lecourbe, 75015 Paris
Let me tell you about this adorable hidden spot in Paris called Saint Serphani Church of Sarov. It’s this tiny, tiny church with a cute blue dome that you might miss if you’re not paying attention. But trust me, it’s worth seeking out! Inside, you’ll find a beautiful wooden interior that feels like stepping back in time.
And the courtyard? It’s like a little jungle, all overgrown and peaceful. It’s the perfect spot to take a breather and soak in the tranquility. A real hidden gem in Paris’s 15th arrondissement!
Boat at La Villette
Where to find it: Bassin de la Villette, 37 quai de la Seine, 75019 Paris
Let me tell you about this super fun thing you can do in Paris renting a boat at La Villette! It’s such a blast, especially in the summer. Here’s the deal: head over to Marin d’Eau Douce at the Bassin de la Villette, and you can rent a boat without needing a license. Then, you can sail around the canals and see Paris from a whole new perspective. It’s seriously one of the coolest ways to experience the city!
Abbey Bookshop
Where to find it: 29 Rue de la Parcheminerie, 75005 Paris
Let me introduce you to one of the most charming spots in Paris the Abbey Bookshop. Imagine stepping into a cozy, cluttered old bookstore, where every nook and cranny is filled with second-hand books. It’s like a dream come true for book lovers! With its creaky wooden shelves and ladders, it’s got that old-world charm that’s hard to resist.
And get this it’s got over 35,000 English titles! Trust me, you won’t want to miss this gem. It’s not just a bookstore; it’s a Parisian experience you’ll never forget!
Courtyard of Carnavalet Museum
Where to find it: 16 Rue des Francs Bourgeois, 75003 Paris, France (please note that the museum is currently closed for renovations and is set to re-open in Spring)
Hey friend! Let me share with you one of Paris’s best-kept secrets the Courtyard of the Carnavalet Museum. It’s seriously stunning, especially in the fall when the vine covering the walls turns into beautiful shades of red. This museum is all about the history of Paris, and here’s the best part it’s usually not too crowded, so you can soak in the beauty without the hustle and bustle of tourists.
Church of St-Etienne-du-Mont
Where to find it: Place Sainte-Geneviève, 75005 Paris
Let me tell you about the Church of St-Etienne-du-Mont it’s a real hidden gem in Paris. This church is absolutely stunning, both inside and out. It’s got these amazing carved wooden stairs, a beautiful facade, and the surrounding streets are just charming. Plus, here’s a tip it’s way quieter than some of the more famous churches in Paris, so you can snap some truly stunning historical shots without the crowds.
Square Marcel Bleustein-Blanchet
Where to find it: Rue de la Bonne, 75018 Paris
Let me introduce you to a little slice of paradise in Paris the Square Marcel Bleustein-Blanchet. It’s like stumbling upon a secret garden tucked away behind Parvis de Sacré Coeur. Trust me, it’s magical, especially when the wisteria is in full bloom.
Taking a stroll through the square is seriously romantic, especially in the summer it’s the perfect spot for a picnic! And here’s a bonus: you’ll get some of the best views of Sacré Coeur from inside the park.
Nef du College des Bernardins
Where to find it: 18-20 rue de Poissy, 75005 Paris
Let me tell you about a really cool spot in Paris the Nef du Collège des Bernardins. It’s one of the biggest and oldest medieval buildings in the city, and it’s seriously impressive. Picture this: vaulted ceilings, a gothic-style hall it’s like stepping back in time! If you’re into architecture photography or just love wandering around atmospheric buildings, this place is a dream come true.
La rue du Chat-qui-Pêche
Where to find it: Rue du Chat Qui Peche, 75005 Paris, France
It’s a real hidden gem in Paris, and get this: it translates to the ‘Street of the Fishing Cat‘! How cool is that? This street is actually the narrowest one in the whole city, and it’s been around since way back in 1540. Back in the day, locals used it to get to the Seine. Oh, and here’s a fun tip: keep an eye out for some cute cat street art while you’re there.
Passage Mouffetard
Where to find it: 52 Rue Mouffetard, 75005 Paris, France
Now, you’ve probably heard of Rue Mouffetard it’s one of the most famous streets in Paris, buzzing with cute restaurants and lively bars. But here’s the thing: hidden behind all that hustle and bustle is a secret passage that hardly anyone knows about. Seriously, it’s like finding a hidden treasure!
To get there, look for a narrow door next to a souvenir shop at 52 rue Mouffetard. Once you step through that door, you’ll find yourself on a hidden cobblestone street adorned with potted plants and hanging vines. It’s like stepping into another world a true hidden gem in Paris!
Le Square des Peupliers
Where to find it: 75013 Paris, France
Picture this: you’re wandering down a quiet side street that feels like a cozy alleyway, filled with so much character and charm. And then, suddenly, you stumble upon this beautiful courtyard that looks like it’s been plucked straight out of a tiny French town. Seriously, it’s like stepping into a fairytale! And here’s the best part it’s a photographer’s dream come true.
Trust me, you’ll want to capture every corner of this picturesque spot before it gets too crowded!
La Mouzaia
Where to find it: Rue de la Mouzaia, 75019 Paris
Let me introduce you to a hidden gem in Paris called La Mouzaia. Imagine a cozy neighborhood that’s bursting with old-world charm, giving even Montmartre a run for its money. But here’s the kicker it’s way less crowded, so you can soak up all that peaceful ambiance without the hustle and bustle of tourists.
If you’re up for a leisurely stroll through a quaint, residential area of Paris, then La Mouzaia is just the ticket. And trust me, it’s especially magical in the springtime when the trees are lush and the flowers are blooming!
Square René-Viviani
Where to find it: 25 Quai de Montebello, 75005 Paris
Let me tell you about Square René-Viviani. It’s this charming little square that sits right by the Church of Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre, just along the Seine. From there, you get this amazing view of Notre Dame Cathedral it’s like something out of a postcard! But here’s the cool part: inside the square, you’ll find the oldest tree in Paris.
How awesome is that? Plus, it’s a fantastic starting point if you want to wander around and explore the Latin Quarter. So, if you’re looking for a picturesque spot with a touch of history, Square René-Viviani is the place to be!
Les cités du Figuier et Durmar
Where to find it: 104-106 rue Oberkampf, 11th arrondissement, Paris
Hey, have you heard about Les cités du Figuier et Durmar? It’s this hidden gem tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Oberkampf. Picture this: flowery green side streets with charming uneven cobblestones.
As you wander, you’ll come across colorful house fronts and get a glimpse into local life it’s like stepping into a real-life postcard! If you’re into photography, this place is a dream come true. So, if you’re looking for a peaceful escape with plenty of photo opportunities, Les cités du Figuier et Durmar is where you want to be.
Le quartier de “la Campagne à Paris”
Where to find it: 210 Rue des Pyrenees, 75020 Paris
Ever heard of Le quartier de “la Campagne à Paris”? It’s like a small town right in the heart of Paris! Imagine wandering through gardens, passing quaint brick houses, strolling down cobbled streets, and all the while being surrounded by traditional street lamps it’s like a scene from a storybook!
This place is perfect for getting lost in and snapping some stunning photos. Interestingly, you can only enter this hidden gem by car from one street, Pierre Mouillard street, which adds to its peaceful and secluded vibe. It’s a true city escape right in Paris!
The Japanese Garden, Albert Kahn Museum
Where to find it: 10 Rue du Port, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France
Did you know about “Le quartier de The Japanese Garden” at the Albert Kahn Museum? It’s like stepping into Japan right in the heart of Paris! Imagine a serene garden with a babbling brook, charming red bridges, and beautiful ginkgo trees and cherry blossoms. It’s the perfect spot for capturing colorful floral photos that will brighten up your day!
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Know any other Paris hidden gems? Share them in the comments!