Musée Carnavalet: A Journey Through Parisian History
La Petite Ceinture: An Abandoned Railway Turned Urban Oasis
59 Rivoli: A Quirky Artist Squat Turned Gallery
Musée de la Vie Romantique: A Time Capsule of 19th Century Paris
The Hidden Vineyard of Montmartre
Le Musée des Égouts de Paris: Exploring the City’s Sewers
La Coulée Verte René-Dumont: Paris’s Elevated Park
Le Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil: A Tropical Paradise in the City
Musée Bourdelle: A Sculptor’s Haven
Le Petit Palais: An Architectural Gem Often Overshadowed
Conclusion: Embracing the Lesser-Known Side of Paris
Article:
10 Hidden Gems in Paris You Won’t Believe Exist
Unveiling Paris’s Hidden Treasures
Paris, known far & wide as the City of Light, is famed for its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. But guess what? There’s more to this glittering metropolis than meets the eye. Let’s dive into 10 hidden Gems in Paris that will make you say, “Ooh la la!” Get your explorer’s hat on, and let’s unearth the magical side of this charming city.
The Catacombs of Paris: A Subterranean Wonderland
Have you ever wondered what’s beneath Paris’s lively streets? The Catacombs are here to blow your mind as a hidden gem in Paris! Picture this: tunnels filled with bones—yes, millions of Parisians call it their final resting place. It’s spooky yet cool, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s past mixed with eerie beauty. Walking these bone-lined halls feels like a spooky-artistic underground adventure.
You can find more information and book your visit on the official website here.
Musée Carnavalet: A Journey Through Parisian History
Tucked away in the enchanting Marais district, Musée Carnavalet is a hidden gem in Paris. It takes you on an epic journey from old Paris to now. Housed in two grand Renaissance buildings, it’s brimming with artifacts, paintings, & furniture that make history come alive. As you meander through recreated rooms and ancient finds, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a time machine. Don’t miss the lovely courtyard gardens. They’re perfect for chilling amidst your historical voyage. Visit their official website here.
La Petite Ceinture: An Abandoned Railway Turned Urban Oasis
Imagine stumbling upon a secret green path winding through Paris! That’s La Petite Ceinture—a forgotten railway turned into an explorer’s dream. This 32-kilometer track, once used for goods transport, is now overgrown & offers unique urban views. Wandering along these tracks, you’ll meet plants and critters who call it home—an awesome escape from city chaos.
59 Rivoli: A Quirky Artist Squat-Turned Gallery
Smack in the heart of downtown near the Louvre lies 59 Rivoli—a quirky marvel. This hidden gem spot in Paris was an abandoned bank-turned-artist hideout and now sings with vibrant art. Step inside this six-story wonderland where colors & sounds blast from every corner. Each floor showcases different artists; wild creativity that’s utterly mesmerizing.
Musée de la Vie Romantique: A Time Capsule of 19th Century Paris
Hidden gem spot in the Nouvelle Athènes quarter in Paris, Musée de la Vie Romantique is like entering a secret garden from yesteryear. Once home to painter Ary Scheffer, it’s filled with George Sand’s belongings & Chopin’s keepsakes. Wandering through its painting-filled rooms feels like you’re inside a romantic artwork. And hey—don’t forget tea at the garden café to soak up those old-time vibes. Visit the museum’s official page here.
The Hidden Vineyard of Montmartre
Bet you didn’t know there’s a working vineyard in Paris! Just behind Sacré-Cœur lies Clos Montmartre, producing around 1,500 bottles yearly. You might not always get in but can catch glimpses or visit in October for Fête des Vendanges. Sip some wine & join the fun amidst urban hustle. And of course, while in Montmartre, don’t miss getting a unique portrait from the local artists.
Le Musée des Égouts de Paris: Exploring the City’s Sewers
Dive into Le Musée des Égouts to explore sewers shaping the city’s development. Walk through dimly lit tunnels to learn water management evolution—a newfound appreciation for unseen roles keeping Paris smooth.
La Coulée Verte René-Dumont: Paris’s Elevated Park
Way before NYC had High Line, Paris had La Coulée Verte René-Dumont aka Promenade Plantée. This elevated park along an old railway mixes tree-top vistas with stunning architecture. Starting near Bastille & stretching across arrondissements, it offers peaceful retreats amid busy streets —perfect for leisurely walks or delightful picnics. Find on Google map here.
Le Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil: A Tropical Paradise in the City
Over west lies Le Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil—botanical heaven boasting impressive greenhouses filled with exotic plants! Escape urban life by strolling lush greenery enjoying serene vibes.
Musée Bourdelle: A Sculptor’s Haven
Hidden in Montparnasse is Musée Bourdelle dedicated to sculptor Antoine Bourdelle’s works—wander his studio filled with sculptures & personal artifacts! The museum’s tranquil garden dotted with his works makes art-nature harmony real.
Le Petit Palais: An Architectural Gem Often Overshadowed Overshadowed by its neighbor (Grand Palais), Le Petit Palais is a Belle Époque gem housing variety artworks with free permanent exhibits—a budget-friendly stop for art lovers! Its lovely garden café adds charm offering serene relaxation spot.
Conclusion: Embracing the Lesser-Known Side of Paris
Paris is way more than just famous landmarks folks; peek under the surface to see these 10 hidden gems in paris away from usual tourist trails offering richer personal experience—Happy exploring 💛
If you’re planning to explore another beautiful European city after Paris, I recommend visiting Barcelona. Check out the post below for essential tips and advice.
Barcelona! It’s where Gaudí’s whimsical buildings mix with the sun-drenched Mediterranean shores. But, the real question is: what should you eat in Barcelona? As a travel blogger who loves food as much as breathing, I’m here to navigate you through Barcelona’s delightful maze of culinary wonders.
Embracing Spanish Mealtimes
First things first, let’s talk timing. Spaniards eat LATE. Breakfast? Routine 7-8 AM thing. But lunch and dinner? Lunch drifts from 12:30 PM to 4 PM, & dinner can tick as late as midnight. Don’t freak out if restaurants are closed at 6 PM—it’s just the way Spain rolls.
Breakfast: Start Light, Start Right
Breakfast here is light & quick. Think coffee and a croissant or maybe a bocadillo—a Spanish-style sandwich made with baguette. Channel the local vibe by sitting at a café terrace, sipping coffee while watching Barcelona wake up.
Coffee Pro Tips:
Café Solo: Espresso.
Café Americano: Like a watered-down espresso (apologies, but it’s true).
Café con Leche: Coffee with milk.
Cortado: Espresso with a bit of milk.
Café Bombon: Espresso with sweetened condensed milk. Sweet enough to banish any diet guilt. Need iced coffee? Just ask for “con hielo” (with ice) & you’ll get a glass of ice on the side.
Café Bombon
Lunch: Discover Menu del Día
For lunch, embrace the Menu del Día—a budget-friendly three-course meal many places offer. It usually includes an appetizer, main course, dessert, and drink—all for about €12-16. Centfocs is my go-to spot! Pick one dish from each section and enjoy the feast.
Pro Tip: On Thursdays, look for paella on menus—it’s tradition!
Snack Time: Tapas and Pintxos
Between meals? Hold off hunger with tapas (small plates) or pintxos (tapas on bread held together with toothpick). Tapas bars or simply “bars” are core to Spanish culture offering everything from coffee and snacks to full meals.
Must-Try Tapas:
Tortilla: Spanish omelette with potatoes & onions.
Patatas Bravas: Fried potatoes with spicy sauce.
Croquetas: Fried mashed potato balls mixed with meat.
Calamares a la Romana: Fried squid.
Jamón: Cured ham.
For pintxos? Head to Blai Street—grab what you want & pay by counting toothpicks left on your plate.
Dinner: The Grand Finale
Dinner is the highlight of the Spanish culinary experience. After exploring all day, indulge in some top dishes Barcelona offers.
making Pan con Tomato
Must-Try Dishes:
Pan con Tomate: Bread smeared with fresh tomato, olive oil & salt—Simple yet divine!
Paella: Rice dish with seafood/meat/mix—try Arroz Negro (squid ink) or Fideuà (pasta instead of rice).
Secreto Ibérico: Juicy Iberian pork.
Pulpo a la Gallega: Octopus with paprika & olive oil—a must for seafood lovers.
Gambas al Ajillo: Shrimp sautéed in garlic and olive oil—perfect with white wine!
Arroz NegroSecreto Ibérico
Seafood Galore
Barcelona’s coastal spot means fresh seafood galore. Treat yourself to Bogavante a la Plancha (grilled lobster) or Navajas a la Plancha (razor clams). For ultimate indulgence? Try Mejillones con Tomate (mussels in tomato sauce).
Bogaventa a la Plancha
Pro Tip: Street Markets and Beyond
For an authentic experience, visit La Boqueria Market. Wander vibrant stalls, sample local goodies…maybe grab a bite at El Quim de la Boqueria.
For fresh seafood, I also recommend La Paradeta. It feels like stepping into a seafood market where you can select your own fresh catch. The chefs then prepare it for you on the spot. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a variety of Mediterranean seafood at reasonable prices.
La paradeta
Late-Night Snacks & Drinks
To close out your night, munch on some Mejillones con Tomate (mussels with tomato sauce). Or try Navajas la Plancha (grilled razor clams). Love oysters? Just pop onto Google Maps & find oyster bars. Barcelona has plenty. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
Wrapping It Up
Barcelona isn’t just about food; it’s an Experience. From their light breakfasts and leisurely lunches to vibrant tapas culture and exquisite dinners—each meal gets you deeper into the city’s soul. I’ll cover Barcelona’s desserts next time! Till then—eat well & travel often!
Bon appétit…or as they say in Catalonia…Bon profit!
and If you are looking for more information on Barcelona check under post
Hey there, fellow travelers & souvenir lovers! Just recently, I had a blast wandering through the lively streets of Barcelona. It’s a city full of color, culture, and way too many keepsakes to count. As someone who loves finding unique gifts for friends, I hit the jackpot with this one: Sabater Soap, the ultimate Barcelona souvenir.
The Search for That Perfect Souvenir Tucked away in the charming Gothic Quarter is Sabater Soap. But don’t think it’s just any soap. This stuff is handmade, totally natural, and promises to take your soap game to a whole new level of yummy smells. What’s even cooler? You can only find these in Barcelona and Buenos Aires. Giving Sabater Soap as a gift pretty much shouts, “I traveled far and wide for this!”
Imagine taking a stroll through the winding streets of the Gothic Quarter (cool right?), when suddenly you catch this enchanting scent. It pulls you closer until you find yourself at Savater Hnos. And there it is—Sabater Soap, calling out to you to take a whiff and be swept away by its amazing fragrance.
Why Sabater Soap is The Best There are tons of reasons you’ll want to stock up on Sabater Soap. First off, they look incredible. Wrapped in pretty packaging, they’re perfect gifts that look as good as they smell. Whether it’s shaped like a duck, a whale, or even a heart, there’s something for everyone on your list.
But wait—there’s more! These soaps aren’t just good-looking—they’re useful too. Take the Calendula soap; it’s awesome for sensitive skin. Got acne? Try Arbol de Té soap! Plus, the staff are super friendly and always ready to help you pick out exactly what you need.
Tips for Buying Sabater Soap When you’re picking out your soaps, size actually matters if you care about getting the best deal. Smaller soaps are cheap & great for multiple gifts. Bigger bars give you more value though. Personally, I grabbed a bunch of smaller ones so everyone could get a piece of my Barcelona adventure.
They even offer cute gift wrapping (makes it extra special), but heads up—it costs extra. Paying is super easy since they accept credit cards like Visa. I walked out with my arms full of delicious-smelling soaps that made my luggage smell divine without taking up much space—perfect travel souvenir!
Final Thoughts So next time you’re exploring beautiful Barcelona, make sure to stop by Sabater Soap. Trust me; your friends and family will love it & you’ll have an awesome reminder of your travels every time you use them.
Oh, Barcelona! What a magical city. It’s like jumping right into a storybook where every page spills over with adventure, art, and fun surprises that make your trip extra special. Yeah, places like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell are big hits – but get ready for some real hidden gems that not everybody knows about. We’re gonna have a fun little adventure exploring some of these cool spots, just like the author Bill Bryson might do!
1.Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera
Now, this place is tucked away on the Montjuïc hillside & oh boy – it’s more than just a garden. You could call it a botanical journey! It’s famous for its cacti and succulents – imagine seeing over 800 kinds of these spiky friends in one spot! Strolling here feels kinda like landing on a desert planet in outer space. And the view? Totally stunning! You’ve got the whole city & the sea spread out below you. Trust me, it’s THE perfect place to chill out from the busy vibes of the city center. Maybe pack a picnic & bring along your favorite book?
2.Bunkers El carmel
Oh, imagine this—beautiful Barcelona without loads of tourists blocking your view. That’s exactly what you get at Bunkers del Carmel. These cool old bits from the Spanish Civil War sit on top of Turó de la Rovira, giving you a stunning 360-degree look at the city. Locals LOVE it here, especially during sunset. Why? Because everything looks kinda magical with that golden light shining over the city. So hey, bring a blanket, pack some yummy snacks & maybe even a bottle of wine, and enjoy a gorgeous evening full of peace & beauty.
3.El Poblenou Cemetery
Now, a cemetery as a tourist spot might sound weird, right? But trust me, El Poblenou Cemetery is something else! It started back in 1775 & it’s pretty much an open-air museum packed with fancy tombs, big mausoleums & super cool sculptures. There’s this one sculpture called “El Beso de la Muerte” (The Kiss of Death). It’s eerily beautiful and definitely worth checking out. Take a walk, enjoy the quiet paths & take in all the art & history around you.
4.Carrer de Blai
If you wanna dive into Barcelona’s lively nightlife, Carrer de Blai is THE place to be. This buzzing street in Poble Sec is full of pintxo bars where locals hang out WAY more than tourists do. Imagine jumping from one bar to another trying all sorts of tasty snacks—from bread topped with jamón to seafood on sticks—all washed down with some yummy vermouth. It’s not just eating; it’s like an adventure for your taste buds where the vibe is just electric!
5.Biblioteca Arús
Bookworms? You’re gonna love Biblioteca Arús! Tucked away since 1895 in this stunning Modernist building (which is really nice to look at by the way), it’s where loads of books on social sciences live—practically whispering stories from the past through their antique covers! Walking between those grand wooden shelves and going up that majestic staircase really feels like you’ve jumped straight into some kind of literary paradise.
6.Parc del Laberint d’Horta
Ready for a fairytale adventure? Check out Parc del Laberint d’Horta—the oldest garden in Barcelona! Right at its heart lies an enchanting hedge maze meant for loads of fun (& maybe getting lost a bit). Once you figure your way out (and you will!), make sure to wander around the romantic neoclassical gardens filled with beautiful statues, lovely pavilions & even a peaceful canal. It’s usually quieter than most spots as fewer tourists find their way here—it’s like your own secret escape filled with beauty and history!
7.Mercat de Sant Antoni
Oh the Mercat de Sant Antoni! It a real gem, almost neck & neck with La Boqueria for its charm and authenticity. They spruced it up not long ago, & now, it buzzes with life every day. Here you’ll find piled high with fresh veggies, quality meats, and fish so fresh—you can almost hear the sea. Every Sunday, things get even cooler when books take over—the market turns into a hub for those hunting second-hand books, comics, or some vintage goodies. Totally captures that everyday Barcelona vibe.
8.Museu del Disseny de Barcelona (Design Museum)
Anyone with a knack for design will dig the Museu del Disseny. Nestled in the ultra-modern Disseny Hub, this spot is all about exploring fashion trends, graphic wizardry, & artsy decor stuff. Travel through time as you wander among items that tell Barcelona’s story of design—from age-old relics to the latest inventions in creativity. This place has got it all; more than 70,000 items showing off the city’s clever soul!
9.Refugi 307
Whew! Refugi 307 is quite the eye-opener into Barcelona during its tougher times. Hidden in Poble Sec, this civil war shelter—made up of winding tunnels—offered safety from air raids back then. Nowadays? You get to stroll through historic dimly lit corridors on guided tours that share touching tales of bravery & survival from those harsh days. It’s kinda spooky but absolutely enlightening; really deepens your grasp of this city’s gritty past.
10.Plaça de Sant Felip Neri
Hidden in the Gothic Quarter lays Plaça de Sant Felip Neri—a peaceful square that’s like stepping through a time machine. With its baroque church & pretty central fountain, this spot is straight off a postcard! But look close at the church’s façade—it carries scars from past bombings in the Spanish Civil War. It’s calm and quaint—an ideal place for some quiet soul-searching or just to catch your breath away from the city hustle.
So there you go! Barcelona’s lesser-known spots offer an authentic slice of the city full of stories & surprises around every corner. These hidden gems provide a closer look into what makes Barcelona truly special.
Curious yet? Just go explore these treasures—happy adventuring!
Barcelona pulses with culture, history, and an invigorating vibe. It’s definitely a must-visit place! To make your trip impactful, here are some handy tips to ensure you savor every moment.
Best Time to Visit
Language and Communication
Currency and Payments
Transportation
Safety Tips
Cultural Etiquette
Must-Visit Attractions
Food and Dining
Local Festivals and Events
Health and Travel Insurance
1. Best Time to visit
You can enjoy Barcelona any time of the year. Spring (April to June) & fall (September to October) are prime times for a visit. The weather’s great and it’s less packed. You’ll get perfect sightseeing conditions with lovely temperatures between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Flowers bloom in spring and fall brings colorful leaves – both add stunning backdrops to your photos!
Summer: Beach lovers, this is for YOU. It does get up to 30°C (86°F), though, & quite crowded. Yet, it’s the peak season for hitting the beach & enjoying local festivals.
Winter: Experience a mild winter here with temperatures hovering between 8°C and 15°C (46°F to 59°F). Christmas and New Year fill the city with festive joy, sparkly lights, and cozy markets.
2. Language and Communication
Nested in Catalonia, Barcelona embraces Catalan & Spanish as its official tongues. Most folks speak Spanish but prefer Catalan. Why not try a few phrases like “Hola” (Hello), “Gràcies” (Thank you), or “Bon dia” (Good day)? It shows respect & can really brighten someone’s day!
In tourist spots? Don’t sweat it; English is pretty common.
3. Currency and Payments
Handling money? Euros (€) are the way here! Cards work fine in most places but keep some cash for smaller buys or cash-only spots.
A few tips:
ATMs are everywhere but might charge fees.
Carry smaller notes & coins – they’re handy!
Popping into stores? Cards are welcome almost everywhere.
4. Transportation
Getting around is a breeze thanks to buses, trams, and an impressive metro network. Grab a T10 ticket for ten rides across any transport mode – super for tourists!
Metro stuff: The metro reaches all over with lines like L1-L5 and Line 9 linking the airport directly with downtown spots. Remember – opening metro doors needs a button press or lever pull!
Buses & More: Daytime buses crisscross the city; at night, hop on a NitBus. Lots start from Plaça de Catalunya – staying nearby makes travel easy! Need a cab? They’re reasonably priced &, using the FREENOW app can make booking one smoother.
Trams mainly whisk you around outer parts of town while funiculars offer picturesque journeys up places like Montjuïc or Tibidabo.
5. Safety Tips
Barcelona is generally safe but keeping alert in crowds or tourist hubs pays off.
Tips:
Opt for a crossbody bag; keep it close.
Shun flashy valuables.
Fewer worries when you know emergency numbers & where your embassy’s at!
6. Cultural Etiquette
Respect goes far here due to deep-rooted traditions in Catalonia.
Remember:
Simple greetings mean a lot!
Tipping isn’t mandatory but always welcomed.
Dining? Take it slow – it’s about enjoying the experience together.
7. Must-Visit Attractions
Filled with iconic sights from Gaudí’s La Sagrada Família to colorful Park Güell; ancient Gothic Quarter streets to lively La Rambla; plus gorgeous modernist landmarks like Casa Batlló & Casa Milà – you’re spoilt for choice!
8. Food and Dining
Get ready for culinary delights – tapas, paella, fresh seafood, AND churros dipped in chocolate are just starters here!
Strolling La Boqueria Market or sitting down late for dinner blends food with cultural immersion neatly.
9.Local Festivals & Events
From the bustling La Mercè festival in September to Sant Jordi’s book-and-rose exchange in April; encapsulating music at Primavera Sound or magical Christmas markets – festivals showcase Barcelona at its most vibrant.
10.Health & Travel Insurance
Smartly sort out that travel insurance covering health issues, accidents & theft helps relax more while exploring Discover vaccinations needed ahead of time too!
By tuning into these snippets of advice before setting off for Barcelona – comfort meets excitement head-on ensuring cherished memories await eagerly! Dive into this vibrant community heartbeat by heartbeat; taste every morsel of tradition tailored just for you: unwind knowing this fantastic journey has got everything prepared right! Have phenomenal days ahead!
