I won’t lie—I was incredibly disappointed on my first trip to Paris. Just like many of us, growing up, I had much higher expectations for the City of Lights that were shattered the first time I visited. On my second trip, which came 7 years later, I made amends with the French capital when I decided to go off the beaten path. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of unique things to do in Paris for other solo travelers hoping to make the best out of their trip.

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What Are Some Unique Things to Do in Paris Alone?

If it’s your first time in Paris, despite the temptation to skip everything touristic, I still don’t think you should eliminate all tourist attractions. For instance, you can’t go to Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower or exploring the Louvre. They’re still absolutely worth it—just make sure you plan ahead and book your tickets online for better time management. Skipping the line will spare you plenty of time that you can spend doing unique things in Paris that are both off the beaten path and solo travel-friendly.

#1 Go on a pastry walk

If you have a sweet tooth, then going on a pastry walk would be one the most unique things to do in Paris. Think bar hopping, but instead of grabbing drinks, you’d be indulging in fresh pastries at the finest bakeries. 

Areas that are worth exploring if you’re going on a quest to find the best croissants and pain au chocolat include Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Le Marais, and Montmartre. I highly recommend booking a tour, though, as no one would know the best spots like a local. Plus, joining a tour is a great way to make friends as a solo traveler.

#2 Take a baking class at a Parisian cooking school

On the other hand, if you’re more than just a foodie, taking a baking class would be the next level. Needless to say that just like cooking classes, and tours, baking classes are also the perfect place to meet other solo travelers with similar interests. Learn how to make croissants or macarons from scratch in their homeland—sounds like a bucket list experience, right?

#3 Picnic along the Seine with local treats

Most travelers just pay a visit to Paris’s iconic river—I like to stick around for a bit longer. To some, it may seem like a waste of time, and they would rather just snap a photo in front of the Seine on one of the bridges as they’re passing through. However, a few more minutes won’t harm and this will end up being one of the best unique things to do in Paris by yourself. 

Stop by a local boulangerie and market to grab fresh baguettes, cheese, and maybe some wine, and enjoy a laid-back solo picnic by the Seine. My personal favorite? St. Michel’s Madeleines! I’ve been obsessed with these since my Erasmus experience in Rennes back in 2016. I carry a small bag around to snack on, and it will always be a good idea on an impromptu (or planned) picnic like this.

#4 Or picnic in one of the many beautiful parks

Speaking of picnics, you can also opt for a traditional one in any of the city’s many beautiful parks. There are endless options in Paris for spending a scenic afternoon, like Jardin du Luxembourg and Jardin des Tuileries. However, my all-time favorite is Champ de Mars for its unique view of the Eiffel Tower. 

#5 Go on a photography walk

While you’re taking in beautiful views of Paris, you might want to document them and make a fun activity out of them, even if you’re not a photographer. Trust me, Paris will never run out of things to capture—be it landscapes, architecture, or faces. Also, walking around with the eye of the photographer will actually help you see the city differently.

Aside from regular photography as a hobby, I got into film photography a few years ago, and I took my camera to Paris, which is one of the best things I’ve done. And if you run out of film rolls or need to have your camera checked, I’ve had good experiences with Nation Photo and NEGATIF+ Argentique.

#6 Explore artists’ studios

If you’re an art lover, you don’t have to limit yourself to art museums like the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay. Exploring the local independent art scene is one of the most unique things to do in Paris. In fact, stumbling upon 59 Rivoli, an art collective on Rue de Rivoli, was one of the highlights of my first trip to Paris. At the time, it was still a hidden gem, but now, it’s gained so much popularity and traction. However, I still highly recommend paying the building a visit for a closer look at local artists in their element. 

For a more underrated and exclusive experience, you might want to look up Portes Ouvertes. This means “opening doors” in English. The event type, usually happening on the weekend, is exactly what the name suggests. An event like that invites visitors to up-and-coming artists’ ateliers and studios for a chance to see and maybe buy their artwork. 

How to Find Portes Ouvertes Events When in Paris

• Do online research and look up events on relevant local websites like Time Out Paris or Parisinfo, the official Paris tourism website.
• Look up local artists on social media and check out relevant hashtags. 
• Most open studio events are hosted in certain areas like Montmartre, Ménilmontant, and Belleville. So, visit local associations’ websites or follow neighborhood community groups for updates.

#7 Join a speakeasy tour

Discovering the speakeasy scene in Paris was one of the highlights of my trip. I’ve always wanted to go to a speakeasy, and since I already knew that Paris had lots of those, I decided to explore what the city had to offer. So, if you’re looking for unique things to do in Paris or you’re searching for some hidden bars (or gems), you might want to check out my top 5 speakeasies in Paris here. My guide will give you a headstart, but I highly recommend booking a tour to make some friends as you enjoy this super fun activity. Also, there’s always safety in numbers, especially if you’ll be drinking. 

#8 Catch performances at Parc de la Villette

Another highlight of my first trip to Paris, the experience that truly saved my trip, was attending The Nutcracker at Parc de la Villette. Attending a ballet performance in Paris is a bucket list experience and I got lucky crossing it off–it’s a good story.

At first, I wanted to see Swan Lake at the opera house but I didn’t manage to plan my travel dates to align with the show. Fast-forward a month later, when I was actually in Paris, I remember spotting a glimpse of a billboard of The Nutcracker when I was in the metro. I looked it up, went to Fnac where tickets were being sold, and literally bought the very last ticket for the performance the next day. 

You now might be thinking that the venue is limited to ballet shows, but this is where you’re wrong. Parc de la Villette is actually one of the largest parks in Paris, but it’s not just green spaces—it’s a multi-disciplinary arts and culture venue. The park boasts multiple venues such as Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, Grande Halle de la Villette, and Zénith Paris, where I attended the ballet show. That’s why going there is one of the most unique things to do in Paris. At Parc de la Villette, expect all sorts of events— live music, comedy shows, art exhibitions, food festivals, you name it! There’s even a planetarium and an IMAX theater! 

#9 Attend the Fête de La Musique in the summer

This was by far one of my favorite unique things to do in Paris. So, if you’re traveling to Paris in the summer, on June 21st, to be more precise, you’re in luck! Held every year during the same time, this vibrant festival turns the entire country into a massive, open-air concert. From street corners to grand stages, musicians of all genres fill the air with music.

Attending the Fête de La Musique celebrations made my time in Paris truly unforgettable. I remember I first stumbled upon the festivities by coincidence, and as I hopped from one bar and restaurant to the other, I realized what was happening. That night, I arrived at a Lebanese restaurant that played vibrant Arabic music and decided this was my final stop—as an Egyptian, I just can’t resist tabla! I literally had the time of my life at that party, dancing and singing my heart out with people of all different nationalities. Also, I went viral twice in two different years because of this event, so I kind of consider it a good luck charm!

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#10 Go vintage/thrift shopping 

As you already know, Paris is the world’s fashion capital, that’s why the city’s also a treasure trove for vintage shops and thrift stores! So, if you’re obsessed with vintage fashion or keen on sustainability and hunting for pre-loved garments, add vintage and thrift shopping to your list of unique things to do in Paris. Here’s where you should head:

• Le Marais: This artsy neighborhood’s trendy boutiques make it the heart of vintage shopping in Paris.
• Montmartre: This bohemian area is also known for its hidden vintage and thrift stores.
• Canal Saint-Martin: If you’re looking for a hipster vibe, this is the place to go for curated thrift stores.
• Belleville, République, and Bastille: Off-the-beaten-path, less touristy destination for vintage and thrift shopping.
• Saint-Ouen Flea Market: The Paris flea market is held every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. 

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So, aside from the must-visit tourist attractions, which of those unique things to do in Paris would you add to your itinerary? Let me know in the comments.

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• Paris Travel Tips: How to Make the Best of Your Solo Trip
• Is Paris Safe? A Solo Female Traveler’s Ultimate Guide

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