Perhaps you've checked all the main tourist attractions in Paris off your list and you're ready to enjoy "offbeat Paris"— off the beaten path, soaking in the city as the locals do. Get tips from a Paris local on how to take enticing pictures, sample French cuisine, and even have an adrenaline rush.
Paris is a fantastic destination any time of the year. The city’s beauty will inspire you around every corner, with elegant architecture, iconic monuments, and a charming combination of art, history, culture, gastronomy, and fashion.
If you are visiting Paris for the second or third time, you’ve probably visited all the mainstream attractions. However, there is always more to see in this city of lights. Here are some of the best offbeat alternatives, whether you are a seasoned traveler or first-time visitor.
Get an incredible panorama of Paris
You probably already have many shots of you in front of the Eiffel Tower. But have you tried taking a postcard-perfect picture for your friends and family? If not, head over to the Montparnasse Tower. It is said that the tower’s observation decks offer the most beautiful views of Paris. The tower is one of the tallest buildings in Paris with modern architecture. There are no long lines, and if you don’t want to pay for the viewing platform, head straight up to the bar on the 54th floor and get a free view with a great cup of coffee.
We highly recommend visiting at dusk to catch the most picturesque view of Paris. You can watch the city glow under the moonlit sky with the Eiffel Tower twinkling like a star and capture your postcard panoramic moments.
A slice of Paris
If you are a foodie, this is a must in Paris! It’s a secret Montmartre food tour organized by Secret Food Tour Paris (SFT). The food tour starts in Montmartre, one of our favorite places in Paris. During a scrumptious three hours with an unforgettable finishing touch, we sampled a variety of baguettes, an array of delicious cheese, French wine and piquant meat. It doesn’t stop there; the sweet tooth kicks in with French desserts, macaroons, chocolates, crepes and more.
Our charismatic guide Emma knew all there is to know about the French culinary history and served every story with a hint of humor. When you think you’ve eaten all you can possible hold, you'll find you are mistaken. You will be escorted to their beautiful private dining space in their wine cellar for dinner. Make sure you have some space left for more cheese, meat, and wine. Sometimes we live to eat, not eat to live. Bon appétit!
Food, drinks, and ping-pong
We all enjoy grabbing a drink with a friend, but have you tried having a drink over a lively game of ping-pong? If you are someone that loves trying new things off the beaten track, then Gossima Ping Pong Bar is the place to go.
The bar is buzzing with locals, yellow balls flying through the air, and two floors of glowing ping-pong tables. Go in, order a drink, reserve a table and start ping-pong with your buddies. The bar is brimming with life throughout the evening and it’s hard to get out without making new friends.
If you are not the kind for the crowd and want someplace quiet, Gossima Ping Pong has you covered with a private room and a bar all to yourself. What are you waiting for?
