Selected atypical experiences in Paris... or in very close proximity

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Montmartre
© Emma's Roadmap - Montmartre

Reading time: 0 minPublished on 14 January 2025

Would you like to explore unusual places off the beaten track on your next visit to Paris? Let Explore Paris be your guide. We've put together a selection of 8 guided walks to discover nuggets of Parisian history and new districts. Whether you're into art, history, architecture, wine, sport or nature... there's something for everyone!

Feel the art of “Les Frigos” in the 13ᵉ arrondissement of Paris

Les Frigos, Rue des Frigos, Paris, France

The "Frigos"
© Interkultur - The "Frigos"

Integral to the history of the Halles market in Paris, the Atelier des Frigos has reinvented itself from the industrial era to the present day. Now a one-of-a-kind artist's studio, it brings together a host of personalities from a variety of artistic disciplines. Discover a place as confidential as it is world-renowned. 

Guided by a renowned artist, explore this preserved architecture and become immersed in the daily life of its residents. Areas closed to the public, such as the hidden Frigos bar, will open their doors for you. Discovering this village in the city, its anecdotes and origins, will also give you access to the temporary exhibition of the moment. 

Discover l’Atelier des Frigos

Playing with reflections in the La Défense district

La Défense de Paris, Courbevoie, France

Figures of Miro
© HDS tourisme - Figures of Miro

During the day, the La Défense district is a buzzing hive of activity. As soon as night falls, calm returns.It's the perfect time to admire the architecture and art hidden in this little Parisian Manhattan.Take a guided tour like no other and immerse yourself in this unique setting, discovering it from a whole new angle. From the reflections of the setting sun in its many windows, to the works of art revealing themselves to you, you'll find that La Défense is one of the world's most beautiful buildings.

Along the way, you'll see the French gardens designed by André Le Nôtre. Beyond this 17th-century estate once owned by Colbert, you'll discover architectural marvels from the 1930s and 1950s. In just 3 hours, it's a journey back in time to discover Sceaux.

Discover the La Défense district

Travel through time at Sceaux

Sceaux, France

Château de Sceaux
© Stéphanie Gutierrez-Ortéga - Château de Sceaux

Located 20 minutes to the south of Paris, accessible via the RER B, the town of Sceaux is perfect if you’re strolling around by foot. You’ll discover delicatessens and a fresh produce market. Your guide, Corinne Jager, will invite you to enjoy a taste of French charcuterie and discover its history along the way. 

The walk reveals the French-style gardens designed by André Le Nôtre. You’ll get the opportunity to admire architectural marvels of the 1930s and 1950s in addition to the 17th-century estate that was once the property of Colbert. In a mere three hours, you'll step through time and get acquainted with Sceaux. 

Discover the gourmet circuit of Sceaux

Replay the 2024 Paris Olympics in Seine-Saint-Denis

Le Bourget, France

JOP Legacy Georges Valbon Park
© Eventeam.png - JOP Legacy Georges Valbon Park

The 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics set their mark on this sporting year. But what has become of the infrastructures built for the occasion? Discover the legacy of the Olympics along a two-and-a-half-hour guided circuit. Le Bourget, Dugny and La Courneuve invite you to explore the new Le Bourget sports complex and discover the conversions of the media village and of the largest fan zone in Île-de-France. 

The motto here is “Nothing is lost, everything is transformed.” Two licensed guides will take you on this unprecedented excursion to explain the evolution of each space, from its initial state to its purpose during the Paris Olympics and on to its second life for the common good. 

Discover the new lives of the Paris Olympics infrastructures in Seine-Saint-Denis

Explore the Paris Gravelle vineyards

Bois de Vincennes, Route de la Pyramide, Paris, France

UrbAgri
© UrbAgri

Did you know that the Bois de Vincennes is home to a unique wine estate? Explore its 7.9 acres and uncover the fascinating story behind this project, including the carefully selected grape varieties cultivated here. You'll gain insight into the benefits of the local climate and rich soil, enhancing your appreciation for this remarkable estate. Excitingly, a first taste of this exquisite wine, produced using agroforestry and circular economy principles, will be available in 2025.

Discover the Paris Gravelle wine estate

Seek out street art from Pantin to Bobigny

Pantin, France

Street Art along the Ourcq canal
© Arthur Crestani Seine-Saint-Denis Tourisme - Street Art along the Ourcq canal

Strap on your trainers and check out the graffiti as you stroll along the Canal de l’Ourcq. Follow Meuh, a journalist and graffer, for a deep dive into the history and culture of street art. This enthusiast takes two hours to explain how to interpret graffiti and understand its meaning. From Pantin to Bobigny, you’ll explore every graffiti style, from classic to calligraphic. 

And once you’ve brushed up on your knowledge, you’ll put it to use. If you want to leave a trace of your passage there, you and your group will choose a word to add to a wall in Bobigny. 

Discover graffiti on a walk from Pantin to Bobigny

Walk in the footsteps of Grand Slam champions in Roland-Garros

Roland Garros Stadium, Avenue Gordon Bennett, Paris, France

Roland-Garros Stadium
© Christophe Guibbaud - Roland-Garros Stadium

Roland-Garros stadium is as well-known as its Grand Slam tournament and clay courts. 100 years of history and innovation are explained in an exceptional guided tour and a behind the scene of this unique stadium. From anecdotes about the “Four Musketeers” (Henri Cochet, René Lacoste, Jean Borotra and Jaques Brugnon) to the routines of players like Rafael Nadal, Martina Hingis, and Steffi Graff. Roland-Garros is also a technological gem dedicated to tennis. You’ll explore the press rooms, changing rooms, and presidential stand, as well as the legendary corridor that leads the players to their court. 

Discover the Roland-Garros stadium

Get away from it all to watch birds in Bois de Vincennes

Bois de Vincennes, Route de la Pyramide, Paris, France

Observe the birds
© David Rosane - Observe the birds

How about a three-hour escape into nature? The adventure kicks off with a stroll through the wooded park surrounding Château de Vincennes. As you meander through the botanical gardens, fields, and forests, you'll have the chance to spot various birds that dwell there. Join David Rosane to learn about "slow birding," the perfect technique for observing Eurasian collared doves, kestrels, and even European kingfishers without causing them any disturbance. Open to visitors aged eight and older, this tour offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the often-overlooked birds that share our environment.

Discover the birds of Bois de Vincennes

To know more :

Discover other atypical experiences on the Explore Paris website 

By Nelly Levain

A writer specialising in culture, travel, and heritage, Nelly takes you on a journey through France and the Vosges, exploring their landscapes, must-sees, and fine dining destinations.