Vive la France: 5 Lesser-Known Paris Attractions Sure to Punctuate Your Visit

Known around the world as The City of Light, Paris is home to no fewer than 2 million residents. Another 50 million visit this remarkable metropolitan paradise each year (1). Whether you have been bitten by the wanderlust bug, you are enamored with French culture, or you are required to visit Paris for business-related purposes, there are many attractions to experience.

As you may have already guessed, this city is no stranger to opulence. There is no doubt that you will come across countless high-end boutiques. Famous strips such as the Avenue des Champs-Élysées represent the very epitome of Parisian style. There are likewise many options when securing a luxury apartment rental in Paris; enabling you to choose the most logical location based on your itinerary.

However, what if you are hoping to avoid the throngs of tourists that have become virtually synonymous with Parisian streets? Let's quickly examine five lesser-known venues that will still provide you with memories to last a lifetime by taking a step off the beaten track.

This first recommendation is often referred to in English as the Promenade Planteè. It is also one of the many green areas that have come to define Paris over the past few decades. The Promenade Planteè is 4.5 kilometers long and represents the ideal getaway for those hoping to enjoy a lazy afternoon before heading out on the town. Expect to experience lush ivy-covered arches, a handful of well-maintained rose gardens, and bamboo plantations.

Paris has become equally famous for its world-class museums, and the issue here concerns the number of visitors to these sites. Do you instead wish to create a more private experience? The Musée de la Vie Romantique could very well represent the ideal alternative. This museum is the former home of Ary Scheffer (a Parisian painter from Dordrecht), and many of his works are on display. After browsing the art, feel free to enjoy a cup of tea while sitting within a nearby greenhouse.

Yet another must-see museum that should be included within any itinerary is the Musée Nissim de Camondo. This venue is actually a spectacularly preserved mansion that can trace its original construction back to the 18th century. It now houses an unrivaled collection of furniture, art, and housewares associated with the upper class. The fact that Musée Nissim de Camondo is located only a stone's throw away from Parc Monceau is another benefit if you happen to enjoy the outdoors.

This next location is arguably one of the most surprising, as it was a rather notorious home to squatters. Thankfully, the government has transformed what was once a dilapidated building into one of the most eclectic structures in Paris. 59 Rivoli is now an artist collective that displays the works of many talented personalities. While graffiti may still cover the facade of 59 Rivoli, this hardly represents what you will find within its walls. Those who are lucky enough could even find themselves speaking with a local artist. This is not a bad way to spend an afternoon, and you can enter at no charge.

Many have compared this final destination to the Lower East Side of New York fame. Butte-aux-Cailles is located in the 13th arrondissement and has become particularly known for its rather bohemian lifestyle. Visitors will immediately find themselves immersed in brightly colored buildings and narrow cobblestone streets, and it seems as if vibrant works of art can be found around every corner. Let's also not fail to mention that some of the most intimate dining establishments are located within close proximity.

Although there is certainly nothing wrong with exploring the better-known attractions throughout Paris, there can also be times when a touch of peace and quiet is in order. In these situations, there is little doubt that the venues highlighted above will provide a pleasant experience.

Still, always take the time to plan your journey well in advance. It is wise to perform online searches to obtain additional information about the suggestions highlighted throughout this article, as a wealth of details will begin to emerge. Whether arriving for business or pleasure, Paris will quickly find its way into your heart and remain long after you have departed.