Discovering Hidden Gems Beyond the Eiffel Tower in Paris

The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame are the first things that come to mind when most people think of Paris. However, if you want to experience the true essence of the City of Light, you shouldn’t overlook countless hidden gems beyond these iconic landmarks in Paris. From retro cobblestone streets to tucked-away gardens and museums, Paris is full of secret treasures waiting to be discovered. In this blog, we offer a more profound and personal experience of this enchanting city as we explore some of the most fascinating and impressive gems in Paris. 

Les Passages Couverts: Walk through a Historical Masterpiece

Built between 1823 and 1847, Les Passages Couverts are glass-roofed arcades that serve as upscale shopping destinations and social spaces for Parisians. These elegant passages with intricate ironwork are lined with boutiques, cafés, art galleries, and antique shops, offering a retreat from the busy streets of Paris. 

Some of the most notable passages visitors would love to explore are Passage des Panoramas, famous for its antique shops and old-world charm; Galerie Vivienne, the most photogenic of the passages; and Passage Jouffroy, home to the Musée Grévin, a wax museum. The narrow lanes of Les Passages Couverts provide a treasure trove for shoppers looking for something beyond the mainstream in timeless Paris. 

Le Marais: A Historic and Vibrant Neighborhood

One of the oldest areas in Paris, Le Marais is a vibrant and beautiful neighbourhood with small alleys, quaint mansions, and chic boutiques. This is not just the home to some of the best-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture in Paris, but also some petite art galleries and several significant museums like Musée Picasso, Musée Carnavalet, and Centre Pompidou.

For people looking for a peaceful spot, stroll through the picturesque alleys to discover the Place des Vosges, a grand square lined with arcades and red-brick buildings. Known for its boutiques, Le Marais is a shopping paradise, offering everything from luxury brands to vintage shops. Le Marais is perfect for those who want to explore a Parisian neighbourhood that combines history, art, fashion, and diversity.

Rue Crémieux: Paris’s Most Colorful Street

In a monochrome cityscape, Rue Crémieux stands out with its splash of colours and charm. Away from the city’s busy main streets, it offers a more peaceful environment of a small village for people looking for a more refreshing change of pace. The houses lining the streets here are brightly painted in unique shades, from soft pinks to warm yellows, and are often decorated with flowers or vines giving the street a more whimsical look. 

This picturesque pedestrian-only street is a photographer’s dream, offering some amazing Instagram-worthy shots while leisurely strolling through pastel-coloured houses. Thanks to the softer hues of the pastel colours the lighting here is ideal for capturing beautiful images. And since not many people are aware of this spot, visitors don’t have to deal with the bustling crowds of Paris’s more touristy sites.

The Albert Kahn Museum and Gardens: A Multicultural Oasis

Just outside Paris, the Albert Kahn Museum and Gardens is a hidden gem that blends art, history, and horticulture offering its visitors a unique experience in Paris. The gardens and the museum were inspired by the philanthropist Albert Kahn’s dream of world peace and understanding between cultures. The museum holds an extraordinary historical project by Kahn, known as the “Archives de la Planète”, which highlights Kahn’s effort to document the world’s cultures.

The gardens covering 10 acres feature several styles based on different cultures around the world and still maintain harmony and balance. Visitors will have the chance to experience the aura of different cultures through each of these featured styles like the Japanese garden has a charming tea house, a koi pond, traditional wooden bridges, and zen gardens. There is also an English garden, a French formal garden, and a forested Vosges area. The Albert Kahn Museum and Gardens provides a peaceful escape for those interested in world cultures, history, and nature.

Sainte-Chapelle’s Upper Level: Finest Examples of Gothic Architecture  

Though often overlooked by tourists, the upper level of Sainte-Chapelle is one of the true hidden gems in Paris. Built in the 13th century, this Gothic chapel houses the relics of Christ and is known for its intricately detailed stained glass covering the walls and casting a kaleidoscope of colours upon the audience. Every detail in its architecture was crafted to awaken a sense of spiritual awe. 

The ethereal atmosphere created by the radiant display of colours of the fifteen nearly 50-foot high windows depicting more than 1,100 scenes from the biblical narrative always stuns visitors. This unique setting is often less crowded than other Parisian landmarks, making it ideal for quiet admiration of the artistry.

Paris is a city that will never cease to surprise you. Discovering all the hidden gems tucked away in every corner will reveal a side of Paris that is rich in history, culture, and charm. So If you want to explore the hidden treasures that add more to the magic of Paris, then book your trip through NCL Tours. And for more travel-related updates and news, follow NCL Tours.