Paris, the City of Lights, has a special place in my heart. I lived there for a year and try to visit at least once a year. I love exploring its charming streets, but sometimes you need a little extra help to uncover its true hidden gems. The places I’m going to share are not the kind you’d stumble upon by chance. You need to know they exist to find them.
Uncovering Parisian Secrets
I’m a big believer in researching a place thoroughly before traveling. I spend countless hours browsing travel blogs, newspaper articles, and glossy magazines to find the hidden gems most people miss. From restaurants and bars to hotels, I hope you’ll find a few new favorites that will capture your heart just like Paris captured mine. These suggestions will help you see Paris through the eyes of a local, far away from the tourist traps.
Parisian Courtyards and Gardens
Imagine walking through some imposing doors on the Boulevard St Germain and discovering a beautiful courtyard restaurant. This place is a hidden gem I found after doing some online research. From the street, you wouldn’t know it existed. The food has an American flair – think burgers, lobster, and Cobb salad – but it’s the setting that truly steals the show. Whether you’re enjoying lunch in the sun or a romantic candlelit dinner, the ambiance is stunning. You wouldn’t believe you’re just steps away from one of Paris’s busiest streets. It’s a relaxed dining experience in the heart of Paris that feels like you’re worlds away from reality.
Just west of Paris, nestled in the Seine River, lies a small island called Île St Germain. Even most Parisians haven’t heard of this island, let alone the restaurant hidden within its parkland. The entire island is a beautiful park, with a stunning restaurant nestled in its gardens. L’île is absolutely breathtaking, especially on a sunny day when you can dine outside on the terrace under the gorgeous cherry blossoms. The menu offers chic brasserie-style dishes, including salads, steaks, seafood, and fresh ingredients. I’ve enjoyed the goat cheese millefeuille as a starter and the tuna tartare, and the freshness of the produce is phenomenal. Delicious, simple food in a beautiful setting – what more could you ask for?
If you’re planning to stroll through the Bois de Boulogne on a sunny day, don’t miss this amazing restaurant. Tucked away in the rose gardens on the far west side of the park, it’s a hidden gem indeed. With a fantastic terrace for outdoor dining and a light, bright dining room for those who prefer to eat indoors, this place is a must-visit. The menu is light and elegant, with plenty of salads and seafood – perfect for a light lunch outdoors with a crisp glass of white wine. You can even rent the entire place, making it a beautiful setting for private events or a wedding reception.
Parisian Oasis
My absolute favorite hidden gem in Paris is the Pavillon de la Reine. While exploring Places des Vosges, I spotted a discreet sign on the wall that said Pavillon de la Reine. Venturing through the grand doors, I found myself in an oasis, far from the hustle and bustle of the main square. The Pavillon de la Reine is a spa hotel nestled just behind the Place des Vosges. While I’ve never stayed there, I’m completely enchanted by its beautiful courtyard. You can relax in the sun with a glass of wine and forget you’re in the center of Paris.
The courtyard itself is stunning, with lush greenery, ivy climbing the walls, and modern art sculptures from the gallery next door. I’ve spent many afternoons here, taking a quick break from the city’s energy. The staff is incredibly friendly, and the bar is an honesty bar where you help yourself to wine or champagne and pay at the reception at the end. It’s a true haven of tranquility in a bustling city, leaving you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. I’m sure staying there would be incredible, but it seems a bit pricey! We usually just visit for the wine, peace, and sunshine. It’s a favorite spot for both me and my mom!
Parisian Splendor
I used to live just down the street from this hotel and never paid much attention to it until one day when the main door was open, and I could see all the way through to the stunning courtyard at the back. I’ve never stayed here, so I can’t vouch for the rooms or service – I’m simply captivated by the terrace and courtyard area and can’t wait to stay there someday.
I can just imagine enjoying breakfast with the newspapers in a sunny spot – pure heaven! They used to only allow bookings three months in advance, which meant we never managed to get a room because they filled up so quickly. Recently, they’ve changed their booking system, allowing bookings up to nine months in advance. So hopefully, next time I’m in Paris, I’ll finally get a room!
Parisian Views
This bar isn’t so much a hidden gem in Paris as it is an impossibility to find. Situated at the top of the Tour Montparnasse, it boasts the best view in all of Paris. Most people head to the Eiffel Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the city, but from the Tour Montparnasse, you get the same view with the Eiffel Tower included!
I had done some research and knew it was up there, but when we got to the tower, there were no signs or directions, and we thought we’d gotten it wrong. Finally, we asked someone who explained we had to go to a special door around the side and take the lift to the top – you’d never know what to do unless you asked! When you arrive, you step into a beautiful champagne bar with an unparalleled view of Paris and the Eiffel Tower.
It’s amazing during the day but even more spectacular at night when all of Paris is lit up, and the Eiffel Tower sparkles. It truly offers the best view in town!
Parisian Charm
While all the tourists flock to the crowded Artist’s Square in Montmartre for a drink, you can feel smug as you venture just one street over to find this tucked-away courtyard cocktail bar. Bathed in sunlight, you can enjoy an afternoon drink amidst the cobblestone streets and lush vegetation. The cocktails are fantastic, the vibe is relaxed, and it’s easy to lose track of time here, realizing you’ve spent an entire afternoon sitting in the sun and sipping cocktails.
If you’re looking for old-school glamour, head to the 16th arrondissement and find the luxury St James Hotel. This beautiful Parisian mansion is definitely one of the hidden gems in Paris.
A luxury boutique hotel and private members club, it’s way out of my budget for a night’s stay, but I can afford a drink in their beautiful library bar. A martini here is the perfect aperitif to any night out in Paris, and the relaxed environment is both charming and luxurious.
Exploring Parisian Gems
So there you have it – all my favorite hidden gems in Paris. I’ve done the hard work for you – now all you have to do is go and enjoy them! If you love finding unique places, check out my post on Top Restaurants in the Algarve or my post on the Most Authentic & Traditional Restaurants in Madrid.
Pin Hidden Gems in Paris for later
This article has showcased some of the most delightful and lesser-known hidden gems that Paris has to offer. From charming courtyards to breathtaking views, these places offer a unique perspective on the City of Lights, revealing a side that most tourists never see. So, the next time you find yourself in Paris, don’t just stick to the tourist traps – venture off the beaten path and discover the hidden treasures that await you.
