European Summer is about to be in full swing as hundreds of travelers make their way across the Atlantic. On the top of everyone’s list is Paris, a city famous for its art, pastries and the iconic Eiffel Tower. Though most people have an itinerary for their Parisian adventure including stops at the Louvre or the Sacre Coeur, some travelers want to avoid the hustle and bustle of the city by visiting Paris’ more niche sights. If you’re looking to add some unique spots to your travel itinerary, look no further. Here are 5 underrated must-sees in Paris.
1. The Pantheon
The Pantheon is an incredible monument in Paris’s 5th arrondissement that is not only a place of extreme beauty, but also of rich French history. After entering the building, travelers can look upon the incredible architecture used to build the grand rotunda and statues within or travel beneath to visit the mausoleum, which houses the gravesites of influential historical figures, including Voltaire. Afterward, visitors can head upstairs to the Pantheon’s gorgeous panorama to see one of the best views in Paris.
2. The Opera Garnier
The original inspiration for the Phantom of the Opera, the Opera Garnier is one of the most beautiful sites in the entire city of Paris. Whether you’re visiting the inside of its massive theater or exploring the wings of the building, the Opera Garnier is truly one of a kind. And, if you can’t make it to The Palace of Versailles during your trip, the Opera Garnier’s grand foyer is equally as opulent as the iconic Hall of Mirrors.
3. Jardin du Luxembourg
If you’re ever looking for a place to unwind, the Jardin du Luxembourg—Luxembourg Garden—is the perfect spot for relaxation. The garden is also home to the Palace of Luxembourg, which hosts the French Senate. With free entry, travelers can easily stride into the garden to have a seat in its iconic green chairs and enjoy a quiet escape from the city.
4. The Paris Catacombs
@prettyfnspooky I had a brief like 2 minutes alone in the paris catacombs and this is all I could hear. #paranormal #hauntedplaces #paranormalinvestigator #spookytravel #pariscatacombs #paris
♬ original sound – Amanda D. Paulson
If you’re looking for something more on the scary side, the Paris Catacombs are sure to bring both fear—and a little history—to your night in Paris. The catacombs are home to the gravesites of millions of Parisians who were buried underneath the city due to the unsanitary, over-flowing conditions of 16th-century cemeteries. Tourists are recommended to take a guided tour, as entrance into the catacombs is unsafe without an expert navigator.
5. Bois de Vincennes
Created by Napoleon the Third, the Bois de Vincennes is the largest park in Paris. Here, visitors can enjoy a quiet picnic outside of the city or canoe on Lake Daumesnil. The park features a botanical garden, a zoo and is next to the Chateau de Vincennes, a gothic castle that used to house French royalty. The park is serene, with incredible gardens, temples and bridges for families and couples looking to enjoy some fresh air.
From the exceptional architecture of the Pantheon, to the tranquility of the Luxembourg gardens, vacationers are sure to enjoy the city of love and everything it has to offer. There are many incredible sites in Paris, more than can be visited within a week, but avoiding the droves of tourists is a great way to see the lesser known, but equally mesmerizing, parts of this beautiful city.
What's Your Reaction?
