Summary
Did you know Paris is one of the most densely populated cities on the planet, even surpassing crowded metropolises like Mumbai and Cairo? Coupling this with the fact that the City of Light is the world’s top urban tourist destination, it is no surprise that navigating its streets or using the Paris metro can often feel overwhelming.
Fortunately for those who prefer a quieter experience, the city is dotted with charming havens that feel reminiscent of French villages, many of which may remain unnoticed by most visitors.
Butte aux Cailles: Art Deco Charms, Street Art, and Cobblestones
Address: Butte-aux-Cailles, 75013 Paris, France
In this picturesque village, you will discover a natural spring in a quiet square and Art Nouveau and Alsatian-style homes on leafy, narrow lanes. Sidewalk cafes extend onto cobblestone streets devoid of traffic, enhancing the lovely experience. This district, located in the southeastern 13th arrondissement, near the bustling Chinatown, is popular among artists with its vivid murals and street art. Enjoy exploring this non-touristy corner of Paris.
Charonne, Rue St. Blaise and Environs: An Offbeat Haven in the Northeast
Address: 75011 Paris, France
Charonne is often overlooked in popular travel guides, making it a hidden gem. Situated on Paris’ northeastern edge, close to the vibrant, artistic Belleville and Gambetta, this area still retains its charming, rustic appeal. As you stroll along Rue St Blaise, lined with eateries and cafes amidst the area’s gentle gentrification, you’ll find it hard to believe you’re in a bustling city. The understated appeal lies in its tranquility, away from the usual tourist attractions.
Make sure to peek at the quaint Eglise de Charonne across the street, featuring a modest belltower and a small, active cemetery in the back.
Passy: A Chic, but Ultracute, Niche Near Trocadero
Address: Passy, Paris, France
Moving westward, Passy emerges as an unassuming yet charming village within the chic 16th arrondissement. Just steps away from upscale boutiques and the buzzing atmosphere around Palais de Tokyo or Trocadero, Passy offers a serene escape. Its narrow pathways, quaint museums like the Maison de Balzac, and lovely old cemetery provide an experience that echoes the essence of Paris without burdening the wallet.
Batignolles: An Old-World Getaway in the Northwest
Address: Batignolles, 75017 Paris, France
Just a stone’s throw from the lively Place de Clichy and the infamous Pigalle district, Batignolles stands as yet another area rarely explored by tourists. Once the beloved haunt of Impressionist painters like Degas, Pissarro, and Renoir, the Batignolles district offers a fantastic way to experience Paris off the beaten track. Additionally, food lovers will appreciate its renowned bakeries, traditional markets, and enticing brasseries nestled in leafy squares, ideal for a leisurely lunch or picnic by the park’s tranquil duck pond in Square des Batignolles.
Rue Montorgueil: Adorable Market Area in the Smack-Center
Located just a few blocks from the chaotic Chatelet/Les Halles district, Rue Montorgueil might not always be quiet, but it bustling life captures the essence of Paris. Traditional markets, artisanal bakeries, fabulous restaurants, trendy shops, and the inviting atmosphere of terrace cafes are harmoniously intertwined within this vibrant hub. Even more intriguing is the medieval tower at its edge, which invites you to climb and relish the panoramic views reminiscent of an Impressionist painting.
