Many people keep asking what to do in Paris, and it’s tempting to just rattle off the usual tourist spots, especially if it’s their first trip to the city.
However, Paris is way more than the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. Get lost in its streets and you’ll bump into hidden, charming spots you’d never find in a travel guide.
Lucky for you, I’ve spent a lot of time in Paris, so I pulled together my favorite places, the ones that skip the tourist clichés and make you feel truly Parisian. Here are my go‑to picks for a real local‑style adventure.
1. Lapin Agile
Hidden in Montmartre, this still‑family‑run cabaret feels like stepping back in time. The warm, crowded room, the singers belting out old chansons, the stories, the laughter, pure French joie de vivre.
Remember that it’s more of a cabaret than a restaurant; you’re not really going there for a full meal. I recommend a glass of house red, it just fits the mood perfectly.
PRO TRAVELER: In 1905, at the age of 24, Picasso painted Au Lapin Agile. It’s an oil on canvas that depicts this very historic Parisian cabaret (photo above).
2. Marché aux Puces de Saint‑Ouen
The Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen is beloved by Parisians but remains relatively unknown to most tourists.
It’s a massive flea market that blew me away with its mix of antiques, vinyl, and one‑of‑a‑kind finds.
If you’ve got a sharp eye, you can score real bargains, so I recommend spending some time wandering around; you might stumble upon some truly unique treasures to take home.
Just one important recommendation: bring only the cash you need and leave valuables at home. Like many areas of Paris, pickpockets are always on the lookout, especially targeting tourists.
3. La Recyclerie
Just a ten‑minute walk from the flea market, and you can reach one of my favorite restaurants in Paris.
Set inside an old train station, La Recyclerie is built on up‑cycling, but the food is fresh, made with local ingredients, and very tasty. Even if you just swing in for a coffee, the vibe alone is totally worth it.
It’s located on 83 Boulevard Ornano, so you can easily access it via the Porte de Clignancourt metro station (Line 4). You can basically visit the Saint-Ouen flea market and then stop here for lunch or brunch.
4. Crazy Horse
I personally think that Crazy Horse is the best cabaret in Paris.
Skip the touristy flash of the Moulin Rouge: Crazy Horse is all about elegant, perfectly choreographed seduction.
When you book, you can choose between several packages. They can include your seat, a bottle of champagne, and even dinner at a partner restaurant.
FUN FACT: Beyoncé visited Crazy Horse the day she got engaged to Jay-Z and was so inspired by the show, she later filmed part of her “Partition” video there.
5. Château de Sceaux
When Parisians need a break from the city’s buzz, they head to Château de Sceaux.
As the name says, it’s a castle, or better a manor or stately home, built in the classical French style.
Getting there is super easy by public transport. Just hop on the RER B train from central Paris and get off at either Sceaux or Parc de Sceaux station.
From there, it’s just a short walk to the park and château. The whole trip takes about 30 minutes, and it’s a lovely way to spend a relaxing sunny afternoon away from the city noise.
It’s also a beloved spot for picnicking, especially during the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
If you visit Paris in April, you absolutely have to go. It’s when the annual Hanami Festival takes place, with tons of lovely events and activities happening all around the park.
