Discover Paris: 8 secret places worth seeing

By dint of visiting the capital, you certainly think you know all the secrets of Paris. Have you traveled to every corner of the city and you don’t know where to go to discover new places? Here are 8 places you might not know yet.

Summary

  • 1. The Alpine Garden
  • 2. The Expiatory Chapel
  • 3. The little belt
  • 4. The garden of the Buddhist Pantheon
  • 5. The bunker under the Gare de l’Est
  • 6. Poplar Village
  • 7. St. Sergius Orthodox Church
  • 8. The Bernardine College

1. The Alpine Garden

The Alpine garden is a small haven of peace in the heart of the Jardin des Plantes in the 5th arrondissement of Paris. Much less frequented than most of the other parks in the French capital, you can enjoy these beautiful settings in peace.

alpine garden, Paris
Credits: Wikipedia

2. The Expiatory Chapel

On the square Louis-XVI, in the 8th arrondissement, it is possible to admire a magnificent chapel dating from 1826. This one was built on the old cemetery of the Madeleine where Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette had been buried. This building is therefore dedicated to the memory of these former king and queen. Much less visited than other major tourist sites in Paris, you can contemplate, but also visit the interior of this monument far from the crowds.

Expiatory Chapel, Paris
Credits: Wikimedia Commons

3. The little belt

To walk away from the tourist sites and the hustle and bustle of the city, we advise you to go to what is called the small belt. This is an old railway line built around Paris during the 19th century. Abandoned since, it now allows you to discover many plant and animal species. More than an unusual walk, this one is also very rewarding!

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Small belt, Paris
Credits: Flickr

4. The garden of the Buddhist Pantheon

To disconnect from the city, venture into the 16th arrondissement of Paris and discover this magnificent Buddhist garden. Within seconds, you will have transported yourself to another country. This relaxing garden will also allow you to learn more about the culture and the tea ceremony.

garden of the Buddhist Pantheon
Credits: Wikimedia Commons

5. The bunker under the Gare de l’Est

Even after several years of passage in this station, you surely did not notice the small hatch which leads to the bunker. Preserved for more than 80 years, it bears witness to the history of France. Unfortunately, this place which belongs to the SNCF is very rarely open to the public. However, it sometimes happens that visits are organised, in particular on the occasion of heritage days.

6. Poplar Village

Despite the fact that many buildings in Paris are magnificent, the city can sometimes seem very dull… If you are looking for color, go to the village of poplars in the 12th arrondissement. Yes, yes, there are indeed streets worthy of Notting Hill in Paris!

7. St. Sergius Orthodox Church

During a walk in the 19th arrondissement, take a short detour to the Saint-Serge Orthodox Church and enjoy its charm. In a green environment, this religious building transports us once again to the other side of the world.

orthodox church, paris
Credits: Wikimedia Commons

8. The Bernardine College

This time in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, head to the Collège des Bernardins. Just for the pleasure of the eyes, enter the premises and admire this magnificent architecture. You can also visit this monument on the occasion of one of the many gatherings of debate or reflection which are organized there.

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Bernardin College, Paris
Credits: Wikipedia

Article updated on 7 December 2022

Mohamed SAKHRI
Mohamed SAKHRI

I am Mohamed, the creator and editor-in-chief of this Blog, "Exploring Earth's Wonders" is your ultimate travel guide, offering expert tips, destination insights, and inspiration for every traveler. Discover new horizons with endless adventures, unique experiences, and world-class travel advice

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