10 Non-Touristy Things To Do In Paris, France - Escape The Tourist Traps

Katie
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 4 min read

Paris is one of the most popular cities in Europe to visit for both a city break and a long holiday. Many of you may have been to Paris before, but we’re sure that you haven’t been off the beaten track to explore these top ten non-touristy activities. Each one is unique and you’re guaranteed to make some special memories, and perhaps, special souvenirs. Pick your favorite activity and then spend the rest of your time people watching in a chic cafe, gaze high up at the Eiffel Tower, explore the Louvre and of course, visit the Notre-Dame de Paris. Book your activities today and start packing!

Why Trust Trip101?

Over 50,000 articles reviewed and published by our experienced team

Over 50 years of combined experience researching, writing and reviewing travel articles

Over 40,000 hours spent on research and fact-checking from credible sources (last year’s data)

Optimizing content from data-driven insights collected directly from users on our platform

Focus on authentic and up-to-date information by collaborating with local guides, global travelers and other industry experts

Long-standing partnerships with credible brands like Airbnb, Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, GetYourGuide, Viator, RVShare and more

Full disclosure on any partnerships or sponsored content

Trip101’s team of writers, editors, and content managers oversees the publication of all travel content, including destination guides, accommodation recommendations, and travel tips. They have extensive experience in the travel industry and no content, written or visual, gets published without a review. Many of our team’s work has also been featured in Travel+Leisure, National Today, The Indian Express, The Telegraph (India), Robb Report, The Adventure Handbook, Tripoto, Korea Tourism Organization, and Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Some of them are also members of professional organizations like the Society of American Travel Writers and the International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance.

Each member of the team follows Trip101's methodology and strict editorial guidelines to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and relevance.

1. French lesson at Cafe de Flore

non-touristy things to do in paris | french lesson at cafe de flore

It’s time to practice your French in the most fun way possible! Meet at Café de Flore and enjoy a cup of specialist coffee while talking to a local instructor. The 45-minute lesson is tailored to your own level, from absolute beginners to the most advanced. It’s guaranteed to be fun! Afterwards, you’ll also enjoy a guided 45-minute stroll through the famous Saint-Germain-des-Près district.

Visited this place?

2. Create a jeweled masterpiece at Le Marais

This is an enjoyable workshop that you can do solo or in a group. In the good hands of leading jewelry experts, you’ll be shown a wide range of jewels. The workshop includes a hearty homemade meal with an exquisite bottle of wine. You’ll then work at the atelier and create your own masterpiece to take home. It’s a fantastic afternoon or evening experience.

Visited this place?

3. Behind-the-scenes bakery tour

non-touristy things to do in paris | behind-the-scenes bakery tour

Paris is known for its artisanal bread loaves and pastries, this time, it is your chance to see exactly how the experts make it. The tour starts with a scrumptious group breakfast that includes delicious pan au chocolates and croissants. Over the 2.5 hour tour, you’ll learn from top bakers how to make the ideal baguette. This tour takes place as a small group size of just eight people. You’ll each leave with your own freshly baked baguette. With this tour, you’ll have fun and be an expert in no time at all!

Visited this place?

4. Makeup masterclass

Discuss with a professional, different Parisian makeup styles, products, and where to buy them. You’ll try a number of styles from natural to bold, until you know what best suits you. You’ll learn about different techniques for every part of makeup application including foundations, eye makeup and lipsticks. This is a great workshop for those of you looking to ‘freshen-up’ your look or style. The masterclass lasts for 1 hour and is great fun both as a solo traveler and as a group. In fact, we think it’s an ideal girls day out!

Visited this place?

Paris City Centre Tour Guide

Lina Smile

Lina Smile

Hello! My name is Lina, and I am a passionate local tour guide based in the vibrant city of Phnom Penh, Cambodia. With years of experience in the tourism industry since 2019, I specialize in creating unique and personalized experiences that showcase the best of what my city has to offer. From the bustling markets and historical landmarks to hidden nightlife gems, I love sharing Phnom Penh’s ... Read more

Paris City Centre Tour Guide

Salman Ali

Salman Ali

Paris City Centre Tour Guide

salman ali

Salman Ali

5. Fly over Paris landmarks in virtual reality

fly over paris landmarks in virtual reality

Head high for a birds-eye view of the monuments of Paris. With FlyView you’ll experience real flight sensations which you’ll love. Head to the departure lounge, don your backpack and you’re ready for takeoff. This fully immersive 15-minute exploration of Paris will see you fly past the Eiffel Tower, skim the River Seine, and zip through the Champs-Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe and soar high above other landmarks. It’s a fun way to explore Paris and see everything in a day!

Visited this place?

6. Perfume creation workshop

perfume creation workshop

Ever wondered how perfume was created? Always wanted to create your own signature scent but not sure where to begin? This 60-minute workshop is a unique experience at one of the most prestigious perfumeries in Paris. Maison Molinard will help you design your own personal fragrance, you’ll learn the basics of perfumery and even go home with your own 50ml bottle.

Visited this place?

7. Wine-making workshop

wine-making workshop

Deep in a historical wine center is your opportunity to learn how to make wine over a two-hour workshop. During this hands-on workshop, based in the Kings former cellar, you’ll also taste and select a number of different varietals to help you decide what to include in your wine. At the end of the workshop, you’ll have your own designed bottle of wine, including a personalized label. It’s an ideal souvenir for your holiday in Paris that you can choose to take home and cherish, or simply drink it that evening!

Visited this place?

8. GPS escape game

gps escape game

It’s time to get interactive with this fun, city-wide GPS Escape Game. Equipped with just a Smartphone and your teammates, can you outsmart and defeat the crazed Doctor? You have to head to the GPS coordinates and try to release as many of the hostages as possible. You’ll work as a group to solve clues, find the hostages and (hopefully) set them free. The game is played against a timer of 120 minutes. This is an excellent group activity for all ages and will have you in fits of laughter whilst also exploring some of the fantastic sights that Paris has to offer.

Visited this place?

Book Tours : GPS Escape Game Paris

9. Rooftop bar tour

Some of the best viewpoints over the Parisian rooftops can be seen from rooftop bars. This three-hour tour is an ideal opportunity to grab your camera and visit two of the best spots in the city. Ideal for a couple looking for a romantic setting or a group of friends wanting a unique environment to catch up. You’ll discover fantastic cocktails in hidden places away from the hustle and bustle of the tourists below.

Visited this place?

10. Gien ceramic-painting workshop

Considered the finest faience producer in Europe, Gien has a 200-year history which you will learn about during this two-hour workshop. You’ll have the opportunity to peruse the faience patterns for inspiration and learn the intricate art from an instructor. After learning from the best-of-the-best you’ll be ready to create your own personalized dinnerware piece to take home. It’s a perfect keepsake to remember your Parisian trip.

Visited this place?

Revel in the memories.

Each of these unique workshops and masterclasses will leave you reveling in the memories of your trip to Paris. Not only will you do something new and interesting, you’ll make new friends, explore your creativity and design your own personalized souvenirs. We can’t think of anything better, so book today to avoid disappointment.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

History

Get Trip101 in your inbox

Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data

Katie is a committed full-time global wanderer and volunteer. She possesses an unerring compass that guides her to the obscure and distant corners of the Earth, where she explores jungles,...Read more

 Want to contribute as a Local Expert?
Register Here
0 Comments
Good things are meant to be shared!