Have you been all over Paris? Are you sure? Have you discovered its hidden treasures? But your journey doesn't stop there, because all around the capital, the Île-de-France region reveals a rich heritage and often little-known treasures that are well worth the detour. If you're thirsty for originality, we'd like to introduce you to the most unusual spots to discover in the Paris region, all around Paris, original nuggets you might not have known existed.
A Saturday at Drouot: go behind the scenes of auction house sales with immersive experiences
Hôtel Drouot opens its doors to the general public every Saturday starting September 19, 2026, offering a behind-the-scenes look at auction sales and the art market through free immersive experiences. [Read more]
Pavillon des Indes: a cultural center with the air of an unusual oriental palace on the outskirts of Pairs
Nestled in the Parc de Bécon in the heart of Courbevoie, the Pavillon des Indes is an astonishing example of Oriental palace architecture. Part World's Fair legacy, part lively cultural venue, this exotic gem is well worth a visit. [Read more]
Yvelines: have you heard of this temple of love, a romantic kiosk-bridge set in a lush green haven?
In the Yvelines, at the heart of the Bonnelles pond nature reserve, a charming bridge-kiosk nicknamed the “Temple of Love” still bears witness to an 18th-century parc à fabriques—an elaborate garden of follies. Open to the public for discovery in 2026. [Read more]
Le Jardin Yili, the unusual Chinese garden hidden away in the Yvelines
Jardin Yili is the only privately-owned traditional Chinese garden in France. Head for Saint-Rémy-l'Honoré in the Yvelines, about 33 km from Paris, for a change of scenery. Discover this 10,000 m² green space, imbued with spirituality and tranquility, where you can discover the art of Chinese gardens and immerse yourself in a feng shui setting inspired by age-old traditions. [Read more]
This steel giant is one of the wildest curiosities in Île-de-France, and you can visit it — reviews & photos.
In the heart of the Milly-la-Forêt woods, a strange steel creature awaits walkers. Monumental, immersive, and framed by cultural events, this extraordinary work invites visitors to a surprising and transportive artistic pause in Essonne. It reopens for a new season on Sunday, April 4, 2026. [Read more]
Maison des Jardies in Sèvres: Explore the former homes of Honoré de Balzac and Léon Gambetta in the 92nd arrondissement
In Sèvres (92), the Maison des Jardies, recognized as a House of Illustrious Figures, hides behind its trellis facade a rich and captivating 19th-century history. Once a refuge for Balzac and later for Gambetta, this former winemaker’s home now opens its doors to visitors eager to explore. Just a short drive from Paris, it offers an intimate dive into France’s cultural heritage. [Read more]
The Merovingian Crypt of Jouarre: A Must-Visit Treasure in Seine-et-Marne (77)
Are you eager to uncover the treasures of Seine-et-Marne? Experience a step back in time with a visit to the Merovingian crypt at Notre-Dame de Jouarre Abbey, one of the few remaining monuments of its kind that’s open to the public. [Read more]
The cellars of Pontoise (95): plunge into the city's mysterious underground world
Beneath the medieval streets of Pontoise, in the Val d'Oise, lies an astonishing treasure: medieval cellars that bear witness to the town's past. An unusual, original and little-known tour of the Île-de-France region awaits you, upon reservation. Find out more about Les caves de Pontoise, an astonishing place within easy reach of the Navigo transport network! [Read more]
The Catacombs of Paris, an unusual visit to the bowels of the capital
Have you ever ventured into the Catacombs of Paris? Let's go and discover this creepy brown place, known to all but where most have never been. A fascinating and historic site, a guided tour of the Catacombs is well worth the detour, as well as keeping you cool on hot days. [Read more]
(Re)discover Royaumont Abbey, the largest Cistercian abbey in Ile-de-France
Just north of Paris, in the Val d'Oise, stands the Abbaye de Royaumont, founded in 1228 by Saint Louis and his mother Blanche de Castille. This royal abbey, the largest Cistercian abbey in the Île-de-France region, is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture. With its listed buildings, Royaumont offers a fascinating insight into French medieval history. Many events now take place on the premises, and we take you on a journey of rediscovery. [Read more]
The Verrerie d'art de Soisy-sur-École (91), where you can admire glassblowers at work
In Essonne (91), in the midst of a verdant setting, the Verrerie d'art de Soisy-sur-École reveals the magic of glass being shaped before your very eyes. Free tours from Wednesday to Sunday allow you to watch the glassblowers at work and follow every bubble, every gesture. A unique, lively experience at the heart of an age-old know-how. [Read more]
Did you know? The Bois de Vincennes is home to Ile-de-France's only Tibetan temple, Kagyu-Dzong.
Nestled in the heart of the Bois de Vincennes, the Tibetan temple of Kaguy-Dzong, the only one of its kind in the region, is a colorful jewel that reveals the full richness of Tibetan sacred art. With its colorful architecture and soothing atmosphere, it invites you on a true spiritual journey without leaving Paris. [Read more]
The Junot garden, a free, well-hidden place to go green on the Butte Montmartre
On Avenue Junot, the eponymous garden has just opened its doors to the general public, offering an oasis of greenery and, above all, a small tree-lined oasis on the Butte Montmartre. [Read more]
Domaine Bois Brillant, the rebirth of a historic Île-de-France vineyard
In Seine-et-Marne, set in a verdant valley on the banks of the Grand Morin river, Domaine Bois Brillant marks the rebirth of a historic vineyard, reconnecting the surrounding area with its winegrowing history. Today, visitors can enjoy guided tours of the vineyards, and discover every step of the way, right up to the tasting of wines from the Ile-de-France region. [Read more]
Le Couvent de l'Annonciation, discover this church and its secret cloister in the heart of Paris's 8th arrondissement.
In the 8th arrondissement of Paris, a church with Byzantine charm and an Art Deco cloister are hidden away at the Couvent de l'Annonciation. Founded by the Dominicans in 1613, this discreet and inspiring site is open to visitors free of charge all year round. [Read more]
The Jardin d'Agronomie Tropicale, a hidden garden of exotic treasures
Do you know the Jardin d'Agronomie Tropicale René-Dumont? This exotic place steeped in history, hidden away in the Bois de Vincennes? We'll take you on a tour of this unusual garden with its many exotic treasures. [Read more]
Discover Chevreuse: the Little Venice of the Yvelines and its lovely Petits Ponts walk
Just 40 minutes from Paris, Chevreuse, nicknamed the Little Venice of the Yvelines, offers a splendid stroll across its small bridges. This verdant setting, accessible by RER train, offers an unsuspectedly charming escape. We invite you to embark on a nature adventure between canals and picturesque paths! [Read more]
Le Skit du Saint-Esprit, the unusual treasure hidden in the Mesnil-Saint-Denis forest in the Yvelines department
Have you heard of the Skit du Saint-Esprit, a small Orthodox monastery nestling in the Bois de Fay at Mesnil-Saint-Denis in the Yvelines? This small edifice, which in fact forms 3 churches, reveals a veritable treasure trove hidden within, a must-see for lovers of the unusual and art history. [Read more]
The superb Japanese garden at Château de Courances: a bucolic and exotic stroll in the Paris region
The Japanese garden at Château de Courances is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful Japanese gardens around Paris, and particularly so in France. Located on the fabulous Courances estate in Essonne, this Anglo-Japanese garden will delight you with its exotic landscapes. Come and discover it from April 5 to November 2, 2025. [Read more]
The Château de Monte-Cristo, Alexandre Dumas' hidden and unusual home
Discover the Château de Monte-Cristo, the residence imagined by the writer Alexandre Dumas. Set in an English garden on the Saint-Germain-en-Laye side of the Yvelines region, this exuberantly styled 19th-century château and its small Château d'If (Yew Castle) are waiting to be discovered. We take you on a tour of this hidden heritage, listed as a historic monument. [Read more]
So why not treat yourself to an unusual discovery in the Paris region?
