5 truly unique things to do in Paris
By Mathilde Vuillemenot | Last update on September 13, 2023
Paris is famous for its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, but there's so much more to discover beyond the tourist hotspots. In this blog post, I'm going to share some truly unique things to do in Paris: get ready for a journey that goes beyond the classic Paris bucket list!
Let's dive into the heart of Paris and explore 5 exclusive experiences that will make your stay absolutely unique. You'll return home with amazing memories and countless stories to tell.
- A private consultation to find your signature scent
- A Paris night walking tour
- A Paris pastry class in English
- An afternoon tea at the Ritz in Paris
- A yoga session among art masterpieces (French speaking only)
A private consultation to find your signature scent
Galerie Vivienne is a charming covered passage and shopping arcade that feels like a trip back in time. There are many lovely stores to check out there, but one stands out: 'Binet Papillon,' a French niche perfume brand. This brand has a rich history, dating back to the time of King Louis XIV! They have a unique approach of using traditional scents to create modern and distinctive fragrances.
In this small, cute shop, they offer a complimentary private consultation. Imagine being in Paris, with a French perfume expert, to explore different scents and find the one that's perfect for you! You'll get to smell scents like patchouli, myrrh, vetiver, and bergamot, among others. The perfumer will guide you through the magic of perfumery, so you finally find your signature scent.
Ready to discover your signature scent? Book your consultation here.
A Paris night walking tour
We usually think about daytime guided tours, but have you ever considered a night walking tour? It offers a special view of Paris, the City of Lights! Many tourists enjoy bus or boat night tours, and those are cool too. But a nighttime walking tour in Paris? That's something truly special. It's romantic, iconic, and beautiful. Paris by night has it all!
So, imagine being led by a friendly guide who shares stories and fun facts about Paris's iconic spots. Here's my suggestion: Le Paris de Sophie. Sophie is a French guide who speaks excellent English and boasts top-notch ratings on Google and TripAdvisor (5/5 with more than 100 reviews!). Full disclosure, I haven't taken a tour with Sophie yet, but it's on my bucket list! Even as a Parisian, I'm sure I'll have a unique and fascinating experience with her.
In the meantime, let me share one of the reviews from Brice on Google: 'What a wonderful experience. More than just a historic visit, you will discover Paris like if you were just wandering around with your friend speaking next to you. From history to fun unknown anecdotes, Sophie knows Paris by heart and makes you feel that she loves sharing her knowledge with you so you can better understand the city of lights.'
A Paris pastry class in English
Whether you're on traveling solo, with a partner, family, or friends, this activity suits everyone and every age! No matter your cooking skills, you'll have a blast and relish your Paris pastry class. I suggest choosing a class with a small group. That way, you'll receive personal attention and assistance from the expert chef. And opt for a hands-on class, not just a demonstration. It's more engaging and fun! My favorite classes: croissants and macarons.
I highly recommend Le Foodist. Their classes are conducted in small groups, and are for all skill levels (a maximum of 6 people for the croissant class and a maximum of 8 people for the macaron class, for example). The Chefs are supportive, keeping you engaged and ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Additionally, the charming setting features a cozy kitchen. A nice break from all the museums and churches, something unique to try!
An afternoon tea at the Ritz in Paris
Indulging in tea time at the Ritz? It's simply amazing! Imagine this: a brigade of elegant waiters in a gorgeous place called Salon Proust. They serve you 11 delicious sweet treats and tea. Take it slow, savor the moment, the surroundings, and of course, the pastries. Don't stress though, not many finish all 11 pastries (no one did when I was there!). They'll pack up your extras in a fancy Ritz Paris bag to take back to your hotel. And guess what? You can even have Champagne with it, perfect for special celebrations like birthdays!
When I visited, there were people of all ages, including teenagers and young adults. If you're traveling with family, it's a fancy and tasty treat for everyone. So, dress up and get ready for a fantastic time! To book your afternoon tea at Ritz Paris, it's here.
A yoga session among masterpieces (French speaking)
Imagine striking a yoga pose with ancient sculptures and priceless art as your backdrop. It's a one-of-a-kind experience that'll make your Paris trip extra special. Only a handful of sessions are available, it's a little secret known only to savvy Parisians. This experience is incredibly rare and exclusive, so be sure to make your reservation in advance (check months before your trip).
Here are the links to book your session:
As I finish my list of 5 truly unique things to do in Paris, remember Paris is full of magic and charm. My recommendations will help you discover a side of Paris that's extraordinary. Your time here will be packed with moments you'll treasure forever!
And if you're looking for more things to do in Paris, check my other blog posts: The 3 most interesting small museums in Paris, Cool things to do in Paris when it rains and Visiting the Louvre tips.