Discover a Different Side of Paris: 10 Unique & Affordable Experiences You’ll Love
- Sam Burden
- May 24
- 3 min read
Paris may be known for the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Champs-Élysées, but there’s so much more to this enchanting city than its postcard-perfect landmarks. If you're looking to skip the tourist crowds and dive into the real Paris — the creative, quirky, and culture-rich side — then this list is for you.
From underground speakeasies to street art safaris, hands-on pastry classes to zine-making workshops, these 10 alternative activities offer an authentic taste of Parisian life without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a solo traveller, couple, or digital nomad, these experiences are designed to connect you with locals, uncover hidden gems, and make your trip unforgettable.
Oh, and the best part? Most of these experiences are available to book directly through trusted platforms like Airbnb Experiences, Viator, and Booking.com — so you can plan your Paris adventure with confidence.
Ready to explore Paris like a local? Let’s go.
1. Uncover Hidden Speakeasies with a Local Guide
Dive into Paris's clandestine nightlife on a speakeasy tour. Explore secret bars tucked behind unmarked doors and savour crafted cocktails in intimate settings. This highly-rated experience (4.9/5) is led by a local nightlife expert.
2. Express Yourself in a Graffiti Art Workshop
Join a hands-on graffiti workshop in Paris. Learn various techniques from lettering to fine lines, and create your own street art masterpiece under the guidance of experienced artists.
3. Master Classic French Pastries in a Sweet-Focused Cooking Class
Satisfy your sweet tooth in a relaxed baking workshop where you’ll learn to make iconic French pastries like mille-feuille, madeleines, or fruit tarts. This class focuses entirely on desserts and is perfect for pastry lovers looking to bring a taste of Paris home.
👉 Book the Pastry Class on Viator
4. Embark on a Vintage Shopping Tour in Le Marais
Discover the charm of Parisian vintage fashion on a guided tour through Le Marais. Explore curated thrift shops and uncover unique pieces with the help of a local stylist.
5. Create Your Signature Scent in a Perfume Workshop
Delve into the world of perfumery with a hands-on workshop. Learn about fragrance composition and craft your own personalised perfume under the guidance of experts from Candora, a Paris-based brand.
6. Explore the Paris Catacombs with Special Access
Venture beneath the city streets to explore the historic Catacombs of Paris. This special access tour allows you to skip the long lines and discover hidden chambers filled with the skeletal remains of over 6 million Parisians.
7. Sketch Parisians with an Acclaimed Comic Artist
Join a celebrated comic artist for a unique drawing workshop in Paris. Learn how to capture the city’s vibrant street life and iconic characters through sketches. This hands-on experience is perfect for art lovers wanting to create personal souvenirs and see Paris through an artist’s eyes.
8. Visit Père Lachaise Cemetery and Spot Famous Graves
Stroll through the peaceful and historical Père Lachaise Cemetery, home to the final resting places of legends like Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf, Jim Morrison, and Frédéric Chopin. A walk here offers quiet reflection, incredible sculptures, and a different perspective on Parisian history.
9. Have a Drink in a Former Brothel-Turned-Bar
Step into the sultry and eclectic ambiance of a Parisian bar that once served as a brothel. Places like Little Red Door or Lulu White offer gorgeous interiors, crafted cocktails, and a dash of risqué history.
10. Cruise the Canal Saint-Martin with Natural Wine
Experience Paris from a different perspective with a leisurely cruise along the Canal Saint-Martin. Sip on natural wines as you glide past charming bridges and quaint neighbourhoods.
Paris is a city that rewards the curious. Whether you're sipping cocktails in a hidden speakeasy or getting your hands flour-dusted in a mille-feuille masterclass, the experiences that lie off the beaten path often become the most memorable. These alternative activities not only offer a richer perspective of Paris but also support local creatives, guides, and artisans. So next time you're in the City of Light, ditch the tourist queues and dive into the unexpected — you'll come home with stories that no guidebook could have written.
Ready to start planning? Click the links above to book your favourite experiences today and support this blog through trusted affiliate platforms like Airbnb, Viator, and Booking.com — at no extra cost to you.
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