When we think of Paris, we often think of its romantic side, this paradise of gastronomy, the city of fashion... But the capital is far more than just an idyllic setting worthy of a luxury perfume ad: it's also a leisure destination with some completely off-the-wall concepts that promise unforgettable memories with friends.
Surprising monuments and heritage, supernatural urban legends, fun activities unique in the world, immersive experiences, games, walks, restaurants and bars that surprise our taste buds...
Paris and the surrounding region are brimming with unusual and often thrilling spots that should delight the most adventurous souls. So, are you ready for a visit to some of the craziest spots in Paris and the Ile-de-France region?
Walks to do :
Dark Tourism, discovering the creepiest places in Paris
For lovers of thrilling discoveries and dark tourism, discover the dark side of Paris through secret places and monuments with a fascinating history. [Read more]
Unusual exhibitions in Paris: original art events to see now
Paris is a veritable open-air museum, and beautiful exhibitions are a constant feature of this cultural capital. This time, we're taking you on a voyage of discovery of unusual exhibitions, those whose scenography and themes will surprise you with their originality! So, are you ready to be surprised? [Read more]
Le Saviez-Vous? discover Paris's unusual anecdotes, places and stories
Do you really know everything about Paris? We'll be happy to tell you all about the most unusual places, anecdotes and stories that will help you discover the capital's secrets! [Read more]
Unusual parks and gardens in Paris & the Ile-de-France region: the perfect place for an original stroll!
Paris, often praised for its architectural heritage and vibrant cultural life, is also home to gardens, squares and parks of surprising beauty and originality. Here we reveal the unusual nuggets to be discovered in Paris and the Paris region. Let's discover the most original parks and gardens in the Paris region. [Read more]
At the moment :
The Rooftop of the Tour Montparnasse: a panoramic view of Paris 210 metres above ground
Sponsored - For lovers of breathtaking panoramas, don't hesitate to climb up to the rooftop of the Tour Montparnasse. Perched 210 meters high, this terrace offers a unique view of the capital: not only the Eiffel Tower, so grandiose by day and magical at night when it sparkles, but also all the city's emblematic monuments (Les Invalides, the Sacré-Coeur, the Louvre...). Whether you're visiting the capital for the first time or are already familiar with the city, the view from the terrace of the Tour Montparnasse is breathtaking! A must-do if you want to discover Paris in a different way and make unforgettable memories! [Read more]
For Christmas, give or enjoy an unforgettable VR experience at the Eiffel Tower!
Looking for a unique and memorable Christmas gift? Experience the immersive virtual reality tour of the Eiffel Tower, brought to you by Viality Tour. Relive the construction and grand opening of the Iron Lady during the 1889 Universal Exposition. And to make it even better, we’ve got a special promo code just for you! [Read more]
Visit the Christmas lights with Big Bus Paris
Sponsored - Panoramic views of Paris, flexibility, multilingual audio guides—discover an unusual tour of Paris on a double-decker bus with Big Bus, with a 15% discount on certain dates. [Read more]
Lumières en Seine 2025-2026 at the Domaine de Saint-Cloud: we tested the new light trail
The Domaine National de Saint-Cloud will host Lumières en Seine from November 14, 2025, to January 11, 2026. This 2-kilometer illuminated trail features light and music installations for a magical nighttime stroll in the Hauts-de-Seine department. [Read more]
The Luminous Odyssey at Parc Floral 2025: discover a magical journey with a drone show.
The Luminous Odyssey awaits you once again at the Parc Floral de Paris, in the 12th arrondissement, from November 19, 2025, to January 11, 2026. This new edition features no less than 1,000 monumental lanterns, a drone show, and the Northern Lights in a huge immersive experience. We'll tell you all about it. [Read more]
Catacombs closed: other underground and mysterious visits to make in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
The Catacombs of Paris will close their doors in November 2025 for renovation work. While we wait for them to reopen, we take you on a tour of the mysterious and sometimes still too little-known underground sites to discover in the Paris region. It's the perfect opportunity to conquer an unusual heritage in the Paris region! [Read more]
10 Escape Routes for Japan Enthusiasts in Paris: Top Ideas to Satisfy Your Travel Cravings
Are you a fan of Japanese culture and gastronomy, and looking for places to celebrate Japan in Paris? From original restaurants to exotic parks, cafés, exhibitions and cultural venues, here's a round-up of the best ways to experience Japanese culture in Paris. [Read more]
Attend the rekindling ceremony at the tomb of the unknown soldier under the Arc de Triomphe
Every evening, under the Arc de Triomphe, you can attend a free, silent ceremony in tribute to the soldiers who died for France. At 6.30pm, the Flame of the Nation, on the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, is rekindled to burn endlessly. We tell you the story of this special ceremony. [Read more]
Crazy immersive experiences in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
Immersive experiences are adventures that use the codes of escape games, immersive theater and video games to create scenarios that are truer to life. Ready to take up the challenge? [Read more]
Unusual experience: hop aboard the Fip Bus Tour for a musical journey across Paris
This Friday, December 19, 2025, to celebrate the launch of the new Fip Cultes web radio, Radio France invites you to hop aboard the Fip Tour Bus. What's on the agenda? A musical journey through Paris, enhanced by a series of lively interactive animations created by Bingo Disco. [Read more]
On the trail of Paris's most notorious criminals and serial killers
Follow in the footsteps of Paris's most notorious criminals and serial killers, in our company. From Landru to Guy Georges, the "killer of Eastern Paris", not forgetting Doctor Petiot and the Cabard and Miquelon duo, discover the dark side of the capital over the centuries and along the streets. [Read more]
Unusual and beautiful buildings to discover in Paris
How about discovering some of the most beautiful buildings in Parisian architectural history? Unusual facades to discover all over the capital. The editorial team invites you on an aesthetic journey through the heart of the City of Light, from medieval splendor to Art Nouveau and contemporary boldness, revealing an unusual Paris that is sometimes unsuspected. [Read more]
Did you know? Why are the Champs-Elysées so named?
Do you know the origin of the name of the Champs-Elysées, the famous Parisian avenue? Created in 1674 by André le Nôtre and officially named in 1698, this royal thoroughfare takes its name from Greek mythology, we tell you. [Read more]
Did you know? The Félix Potin on rue Réaumur hid more than 200 skeletons in its basements.
As you pass the corner of rue Réaumur and Sébastopol, you marvel at the historic facade once built by Félix Potin, a store to which you return, tell the story, but where you also stay, a priori... The former headquarters of the brand that was once Paris' first department store, now a Monoprix, hides a macabre history. [Read more]
The oldest and most beautiful swimming pools in Paris, listed as Historic Monuments
In Paris, you can choose to take a dip in a classic municipal swimming pool, or you can opt for a magnificent pool listed as a Monument Historique. The choice is yours! [Read more]
Unusual or lively barges: enjoying the Seine banks in Paris
Looking for a quirky spot for your cultural outings? Head to the banks of the Seine, where converted barges serve as stages, bookstores, nightclubs, and floating art galleries—offering one-of-a-kind experiences lined right on the water! [Read more]
Guided tour of Hôtel de la Païva, a mysterious residence with erotic decorations
The Champs-Elysées harbor many secrets, including the home of the Marquise de la Païva, a former courtesan who had an opulent mansion built, also known as the "Louvre of the ass"... Coming for a visit? [Read more]
Harry Potter in Paris: a walk in the footsteps of the famous wizard
Are you a fan of Harry Potter and the magical world created by J.K. Rowling? Then you've come to the right place: Paris is overflowing with wonderful places linked to the little wizard and his adventures... Let's follow in the footsteps of Harry Potter and the Fantastic Beasts saga in the capital! [Read more]
Little-known flavours :
Unusual bars in Paris, our favorite original spots
Want to have a drink in an unusual setting? Paris has no shortage of unusual bars: hidden, quirky, spectacular, immersive... Here are some great places for an experience that goes beyond a simple cocktail. [Read more]
Unusual restaurants in Paris, our original addresses
Looking for something new, something spectacular, some wow factor on your plate and some glitter in your eyes? Here are our top addresses for unusual restaurants in Paris! [Read more]
Unusual brunches in Paris and the Ile-de-France region: our favorite original spots
Set off to discover the unusual brunches of Paris and the Ile-de-France region for a weekend full of flavors and surprises! [Read more]
Unusual tea rooms in Paris, our favorite original spots
In Paris, unusual tea rooms offer much more than just hot drinks. Surprising decor, original concepts, and creative treats make every break an unexpected moment. [Read more]
The most unusual ice cream shops in Paris, our top picks with unique concepts
Looking for an original ice cream parlour in Paris? Discover the most unusual ice cream parlors in Paris! [Read more]
At the moment :
Located on the outskirts of Paris, this restaurant offers cocktails inspired by astrological signs.
Lovebird is a place full of good vibes waiting for you in the Hauts-de-Seine (92)! On the menu: seasonal cuisine, gourmet tapas, and cocktails based on your astrological sign! [Read more]
Cafés, coffee shops, and cat bars in Paris: our favorite feline spots
In Paris, cat cafés offer a haven of tranquility. With hot drinks, comfortable armchairs, and cats roaming freely, these cafés invite you to relax in a peaceful atmosphere. [Read more]
The oldest tearooms and bakeries in Paris
For a walk that's original, historic and gourmet, let's discover the oldest tea rooms and bakeries in Paris. [Read more]
Cafés and coffee shops with creative workshops in Paris, combining relaxation and artistic activities
Halfway between a coffee shop and a DIY workshop, Paris's creative cafés offer a unique setting for sipping a hot drink while exploring your artistic side. A friendly interlude where you can create something with your own hands and leave with your creation. [Read more]
Solera, the craziest cocktail bar in Paris
Solera is the crazy cocktail bar on the Left Bank. Here you'll discover a stunning menu of spectacular signature creations. The perfect place for an unusual cocktail experience! [Read more]
Immersive cocktail bars in Paris: our top picks
In Paris, immersive bars transport you to amazing worlds with their carefully crafted decor, strong concepts, and original cocktails. It's an experience to be enjoyed to the fullest, offering a change from traditional nights out. [Read more]
Leisure and activities :
Escape games and investigative games to discover in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
Addicted to the adventures of Sherlock Holmes and other enigmas? Head for the various escape games in Paris and the Île-de-France region to experience the adventurous life for an hour, with family or friends. And because we're so fond of you, we've come up with a selection of the ones we've tried out. Ready to solve some puzzles? [Read more]
iFLY Paris, the indoor freefall address for an unusual flying experience
Sponsored - iFLY Paris welcomes the general public, companies and experienced athletes to indoor skydiving in a huge glass tube. iFLY lets you fly, risk-free and inexperienced, from 5 to 105 years of age! [Read more]
The Star Academy's Christmas Lounge: a free, immersive pop-up featuring karaoke and watch parties
Enjoy an exclusive glimpse into the lives of Star Academy students with a festive pop-up event from December 18 to 21, 2025. The weekend will feature a cozy pajama party, meet-and-greets with teachers and alumni, and a host of free entertainment and activities. [Read more]
Sound and light shows and experiences in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
Sound and light shows have become a must in Paris and the Ile-de-France region. These immersive, poetic projections sublimate the facades of the capital's most beautiful monuments, and can also be found in unusual exhibition venues. To make sure you don't miss out on any of these magical shows, follow the guide! [Read more]
Drone shows to discover in the Paris region
Drone shows are becoming increasingly popular, much to our delight. Whether complementing fireworks for a unique visual effect or standing alone as a delightful alternative to fireworks, they offer a magical spectacle and ballet to discover. Here is an overview of the drone shows coming soon to Paris and the Ile-de-France region. [Read more]
SIGMA: 5e Acte's new immersive survey
Sponsored - Discover Sigma, an immersive crime theater at the Hôtel Kergorlay Langsdorff. A meeting is in the offing, and the atmosphere is heavy with secrets. Tonight, in this sumptuous mansion, pretences will be shattered, and you'll have a front-row seat. You'll be free to walk through the doors, listen to the whispers and track down the truth. You're the guest, the witness, the detective. [Read more]
Heroes Academy, the first action game in France - CLOSED
The first Action Game in France is waiting for you in Paris! Let's go to the Heroes Academy, a unique experience that mixes sport, skill and speed in challenges between friends. Adrenaline rush guaranteed! DEFINITIVELY CLOSED [Read more]
The Fury Room, the place to let off steam in Paris
Feel like smashing things up? Head for the Fury Room, which reopened its doors on May 12, to let off steam without having to tidy up after yourself. An unusual place to go in Paris! [Read more]
Les Cognées: Paris' first axe-throwing venue
If you've always been fascinated by Canadian lumberjacks, then head for Les Cognées, the capital's very first axe-throwing center! [Read more]
At the moment :
Christmas gift idea: Pilates Reformer Discovery Pack at Semper Wellness
Sponsored - Just a stone's throw from the Champs-Élysées, SEMPER Wellness welcomes you to a high-end gym, designed for active Parisians seeking wellness, personalized coaching, and a crowd-free workout, Monday through Sunday. Treat your loved ones to a Discovery Pack to try out Pilates Reformer! [Read more]
Fresh Headspa Paris: the wellness destination for shiny hair
Sponsored - Treat your scalp to an exceptional treatment at Fresh Headspa Paris, a center dedicated to scalp massage and customized hair care for revitalized, shiny, and strengthened hair from the very first session. [Read more]
Where to Take a Driving Course in Île-de-France? The Race Tracks in the Paris Region
Looking to try your hand at racing? Around the Paris region, several racing circuits offer the perfect opportunity to dive into this exhilarating passion! You can even experience a thrilling test drive alongside stunt performers to feel like you're starring in your own action movie... So, are you ready to take the plunge? [Read more]
On this historic racetrack in the Île-de-France region, driving courses are offered for motorsport enthusiasts.
Looking for an adrenaline rush in the Paris region?
The legendary Linas-Montlhéry circuit is welcoming driving experiences on tracks featuring Ferrari, Alpine, or Formula Renault models. Explore this iconic location where speed, history, and motorsport passion come together for an unforgettable thrill. [Read more]
In the Paris region, this racing circuit offers driving courses and stunt driver experiences.
Did you know? In Seine-et-Marne, specifically near La Ferté-Gaucher, you'll find the largest race track in Île-de-France. Here, motorsport enthusiasts and stunt lovers can indulge in full-throttle experiences, with driving schools and introductory sessions that guarantee a serious adrenaline rush! [Read more]
Christmas 2025: an ice rink on the outskirts of Paris, in Vincennes (94)
Get your skates on! This Christmas 2025, Vincennes is delighting young and old alike with an open-air ice rink on the esplanade of the Town Hall. See you there from December 5, 2025, to January 4, 2026! [Read more]
Sweat it out and enjoy it: gyms that combine exercise with a clubbing atmosphere
A sports class... in a nightclub? It's a concept that should come as a surprise to many! And yet, some Parisian gyms and studios have found the winning combo: turn a restrictive activity (sport) into a pure moment of pleasure, with music, lights and a good atmosphere, so that no time goes by! [Read more]
Yoga at the museum: free your body and mind in front of works of art at the Louvre or Musée d'Orsay
For unusual wellness spots, try yoga classes in the heart of a Paris museum! A number of cultural institutions regularly offer these activities as a way of cultivating yourself while doing some sport. [Read more]
Experiences for thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
Are you a real daredevil or just want to push your limits? Baptisms of the air, impressive loops, terrifying experiences or free-fall, the Île-de-France region has plenty of spots to give you a few scares! [Read more]
Horseback riding with Henson Horses in the Fontainebleau forest, we've tried it!
Dreaming of an authentic horseback ride near Paris? We've tested the Espace Equestre Henson in the Fontainebleau forest. This unique equestrian experience with the famous Henson horses awaits you in Seine-et-Marne - 77. [Read more]
SalsaNueva Paris: the Latin dance and solo school that rocks the 12th arrondissement (and the 20th)
Sponsored - At the crossroads of passion, movement and collective energy, SalsaNueva Paris is much more than a dance school: it's a truly sensory and social experience, designed for all adults who dream of dancing while having fun, without judgment. Located in the heart of the 12th and 20th arrondissements, the school offers classes in salsa, bachata, kizomba and solo dances such as heels, reggaeton, samba and afro. All in a friendly, dynamic atmosphere that already attracts over 500 students every week. [Read more]
Unusual and original sports to try out in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
Parkour, chess, quidditch, surfing or even mermaids: here's our selection of the best unusual sports to try out in Paris and the Île-de-France region. If you're still curious about other disciplines, follow the guide! [Read more]
Automobile: discover the Beltoise speed circuit, in Trappes (78) with karting track
In Trappes, the Beltoise circuit offers you the chance to practice motor sports at your leisure, or to take your first trip on a speed circuit. [Read more]
Royal Beer Spa, an unbelievably relaxing course of private treatments based around beer
Newly opened in the 9th arrondissement of Paris, Royal Beer Spa offers an incredibly relaxing interlude, with a range of treatments - for one person only! - around the theme of beer. On the program: Nordic sauna, hop bath and relaxation in front of a Himalayan salt wall. Absolute relaxation guaranteed. [Read more]
Climbing District Sèvres-Lecourbe, the climbing gym in the heart of a church Paris 15th arrondissement
In the 15th arrondissement of Paris, the church of Sainte-Rita, once dedicated to the saint of desperate causes, has found a new vocation: becoming a temple to rock climbing. Welcome to the Climbing District Sèvres-Lecourbe, a unique climbing gym where you can climb under the vaults of a former church. A blend of sport, relaxation and coworking, this unusual venue has everything to seduce those of us in search of something new and out of the ordinary. [Read more]
The best spots to play petanque and Mölkky in Paris
Fancy a game of pétanque in the heart of Paris? With the warmer weather just around the corner, many Parisians are getting together to try their hand at the cochonnet, as well as Mölkky. Discover the top places to play boules in the capital! [Read more]
Puppy Yoga Paris, cuddly yoga sessions with adorable puppies!
Puppy Yoga Paris is the most unusual and adorable sports experience in Paris! The idea? Practice yoga in the company of cute puppies. Playful, relaxing sessions invite you to enjoy the benefits of yoga while playing with the little furballs. You're sure to fall in love! [Read more]
Ice rinks open all year round in Paris and Île-de-France to keep skating
For skating on (real) ice, Paris and the Île-de-France region boast a number of excellent rinks where you can spend hours with family, friends, lovers or solo, enjoying this winter sport even after the festive season is over. [Read more]
Unusual: this aquatic spa offers unique treatments while floating on water
Need to take a breather? We take you to Clemens, Paris' first aquatic spa. This hot spot unveils pools in vaulted cellars in the heart of the Latin Quarter and invites you to try massages while floating on water. It's one of the capital's most exhilarating experiences. [Read more]
Weekly classes to discover historic dances with Carnet de Bals
Carnet de Bals is an association dedicated to reviving the great Parisian balls, offering courses in historic dances such as waltz, quadrille and polka throughout the year, so you can take part in future re-enactments! [Read more]
Dream Machine: a relaxing mind massage at Ho Karan, Burning Bar
Try the mind massage, an immersive experience between relaxation and hypnosis, for a psychedelic half-hour in a pleasant altered state of consciousness, thanks to photo stimulation. [Read more]
Unusual sport: discover footgolf and disc-golf in Morangis (91)
Tired of just playing golf? Then try footgolf or disc-golf for a change of pace, and hit the ball with your foot or your hand - two fun family activities! [Read more]
Climbing District Saint-Lazare, a climbing gym and coworking space hidden in a chapel
How about a climb in an atypical location? Climbing District is located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, close to the Saint-Lazare train station. Housed in a hidden former chapel, this climbing gym, which looks like an old library, is sure to surprise. Tip: coworking spaces with free wifi and coffee shop. [Read more]
Body Float, sensory deprivation floatation sessions for deep relaxation
Why not relax in the heart of Paris? On the Pereire side of Paris, Body Float offers floating relaxation sessions in a sensory deprivation room, to be enjoyed solo or as a duo! [Read more]
La Belle Boucle Studio, the hair salon and boutique for wavy to frizzy hair
After Lyon and Marseille, La Belle Boucle Studio is moving to Paris, to the delight of the capital's curlies. From October onwards, curly, frizzy and frizzy hair will benefit from a new boutique and specialized hairdressing salon. [Read more]
Unusual sports: where can you go for a paramotor or paragliding first flight in the Paris region?
Would you like to throw yourself into the void in complete safety? Let yourself be tempted by a paramotor flight and admire the superb landscapes of the Île-de-France region! Discover the best spots in the area to try out this unusual sport. [Read more]
The Butte-aux-Cailles swimming pool, a historic site with year-round heated outdoor pool
The Butte-aux-Cailles swimming pool is a historic spot in Paris, nestled in the heart of a village-like neighborhood in the 13th arrondissement. It is one of the few swimming facilities to offer an outdoor Nordic pool heated to 28°C all year round. [Read more]
Piscine Roger Le Gall, a naturist swimming pool in Paris
The Piscine Roger Le Gall is a swimming spot located in the 12th arrondissement of Paris that offers swimmers an open-air pool on sunny days, a 100% indoor pool, a solarium and dedicated slots for naturist sessions! [Read more]
Michel Brosseau, the excellent hair salon specializing in dry cuts
A dry-cutting specialist since 2003, Michel Brosseau's salon, just a stone's throw from Parc Monceau, excels in customer care and the mastery of its hairdressers and colorists. [Read more]
Decibel, the brand-new dance studio and club a stone's throw from Beaubourg
Just 200 meters from the Centre Georges Pompidou, on rue Quincampoix, Decibel recently opened with its dance workout classes, for a different kind of gym experience. [Read more]
Wave In Paris: Indoor surfing in Paris!
How about surfing in the heart of Paris? The first indoor static wave sports complex awaits you in the capital's 15th arrondissement. A unique new venue, where you can experience unprecedented sliding sensations on flowboard and bodyboard boards, a mix of surf, snowboard and skateboard. [Read more]
At Aûm, the holistic coworking space, yoga studio and healthy coffee shop
A yoga studio, coworking space and café in Paris? We've found it: At Aûm, a holistic living space offering a 100% organic, homemade menu alongside numerous yoga classes. [Read more]
Spa Luxury Paris, an immersive moment of relaxation in a dream setting
In need of a little relaxation for yourself, your partner or your friends? Head for Spa Luxury Paris, where you can escape to Bali, Greece or the Caribbean, without leaving the Paris region! [Read more]
La Maison des Marronniers an idyllic and gourmet yoga retreat within easy reach of
Imagine a holistic place where you can take yoga retreats and disconnect without leaving the Paris region? La Maison des Marronniers is just such a haven, within easy navigational reach, where well-being and indulgence reign supreme. We take you on a tour of this unusual spot in Essonne. [Read more]
The most unusual pools in Paris
Floating, perched, open-air or naturist... Paris is brimming with the most unusual swimming pools. Let's take the plunge! [Read more]
Unusual in Paris: Water skiing on the Seine
Water skiing on the Seine? Yes, it's possible, and it's happening in Paris! A Club offers 3.5km of skiable water with learning workshops. Whether you're interested in bi-skiing, mono-skiing or even learning to do tricks and wakeboarding, here's an unusual spot that could well help you discover a new passion. [Read more]
Studio MVMT, a clubbing gym dedicated to Party Fitness in Paris
Here's a sports club that's making Paris vibrate. MVMT Club is a concept fresh from the United States that introduces us to Party Fitness. The idea? Exercise in a festive way by combining a clubbing atmosphere, positive energies, muscle strengthening, cardio and meditation combined with dance moves. [Read more]
Do you dare to venture down these unexpected and unusual paths?
Thematic tourism in Paris, our ideas for addresses and walks to discover the capital differently
Would you like to discover cheap Paris, cultural Paris, gourmet Paris, cinema Paris or LGBT Paris? Discover all the facets of the City of Light by following our recommendations! [Read more]
Thematic tourism in Paris, our ideas for addresses and walks to discover the capital differently
