Paris is more than just the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. The capital hides a thousand and one ways to have fun, marvel and get away from it all. If you're looking for an original activity in Paris, whether with friends, lovers or family, follow our guide to discover some truly unusual ideas.
The best original things to do in Paris with friends
Between two metro stations or a stroll along the Seine, Paris abounds in places perfect for creating unforgettable memories with friends.
- Immersive Escape Games: plunge into a variety of universes, from futuristic worlds to historical mysteries. These experiences are among the favorite outings of Parisians in search of fun and adrenalin.
- Creative workshops: painting, ceramics, cooking, mixology... You can take your work home with you, or sample your creations. A fun way to share a moment of conviviality.
- Theme bars and restaurants: some places turn your meal into a real show. Such is the case with immersive restaurants like those of the Éphéméra group, which take you on a journey to a jungle, under the sea or even into space, without leaving Paris.
Many online reviews underline the originality of these places, perfect for a weekend with friends, even if it's raining outside.
Unusual experiences for couples in the capital
For two, unusual experiences take on a whole new dimension. Forget the classic candlelit dinner and dare to be original:
- A private spa: some Parisian hotels offer wellness areas just for you. Relax in a timeless bubble.
- Immersive dining: savor homemade dishes in a theatrical setting. Imagine dining surrounded by fluorescent coral or under a starry sky. It's a refreshing change from the traditional Parisian restaurant.
- Night-time boat trip: admire the monuments of the City of Light from the Seine, a romantic and original experience.
Sailing to the Île de la Cité or the Île Saint-Louis, you'll enjoy a unique panorama that few capital cities in France can offer.
Free and unusual activities to enjoy Paris in a different way
Who says you have to break out the bank card to have fun in Paris? The capital abounds in unusual and free activities:
- Parisian gardens: Jardin des Plantes, Jardin du Luxembourg, Buttes-Chaumont... perfect for an original stroll with family or friends.
- Free access to temporary exhibitions: some museums and galleries open their doors free of charge at certain times.
- Open-air street art: in the 13ᵉ and 20ᵉ arrondissements, discover the colorful frescoes that adorn the capital's walls.
Each arrondissement reveals a different face of the city, reminding us that Paris remains a cultural region in its own right at the heart of France.
Immersive outings and unique experiences: from museums to themed restaurants
Paris has no shortage of unusual places to visit.
- Original museums: like the Musée des Arts Forains or the Musée de la Magie, perfect for getting off the beaten track.
- Ephemera immersive restaurants: Jungle Palace, Stellar, Under the Sea... Each place plunges you into a unique atmosphere where the décor, the dishes and even the fragrances transport you elsewhere. It's the perfect idea to surprise your loved ones during an original outing in Paris.
Visitors' reviews often mention the quality of the decor and the attention to detail, which explains why these restaurants sometimes sell out weeks in advance.
- Sensory experiences: blind tastings, immersive shows, interactive exhibitions... Paris is a playground for the curious.
Unusual walks and games to explore Paris in a different way
How about rediscovering Paris as you've never seen it before?
- Urban treasure hunts: several platforms like Funbooker offer treasure hunts in different arrondissements.
- Unusual walks: explore the Butte-aux-Cailles district, with its cobbled streets and street art frescoes.
- Themed guided tours: Haunted Paris, Medieval Paris, Paris of the grand hotels... So many ideas for a fun, cultural activity. Some tours even link the capital to its wider history, tracing the evolution of the Île-de-France region and its legends.
FAQ: your questions about original activities in Paris
What original activities are available in Paris?
You can opt for an immersive escape game, a creative workshop, dinner in a themed restaurant or an unusual stroll through a little-known neighborhood.
What are the fun things to do in Paris?
With friends or family, try treasure hunts, unusual museums, immersive evenings or unique bars.
What unusual activities are available for lovers in Paris?
A private spa, a night cruise on the Seine or an immersive dinner are perfect options for surprising your other half.
What are the unusual free activities in Paris?
Explore Parisian gardens, discover free temporary exhibitions or be amazed by the works of street art scattered around the capital.
And to extend the experience, don't hesitate to plan a full weekend in Paris: the city is full of surprises, whatever arrondissement you're staying in, even if it's raining.
Paris never ceases to surprise. So, are you ready to swap routine for an original activity in Paris? Why not start with an immersive experience in an Ephemera restaurant for a unique journey... without leaving the city?
