Paris isn’t just a destination, it’s a full-body experience. It’s the sound of your heels clicking down a cobblestone street, the smell of fresh baguettes wafting from a corner boulangerie, the feeling of being exactly where you’re supposed to be.
Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’ve been dreaming of a return, I’m here to help you go beyond the basic tourist stops and fully experience the city in a way that feels personal, inspiring, and just the right amount of indulgent.
Here are 10 unique experiences in Paris that will make your trip unforgettable, and maybe even a little transformational.
1. Cruise the Seine River at Sunset
Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s 100% worth it.
There’s something wildly romantic about seeing Paris from the water. Cruising down the Seine—especially at sunset—lets you soak in the city’s most iconic sights (hello, Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame) without rushing or crowd-dodging. Whether you go for a simple daytime cruise or splurge on a dinner cruise with champagne and views, this is your chance to slow down and see Paris glow.
2. People-Watch from a Café (For as Long as You Want)
One of my absolute favorite things about Paris is the café culture. You can sit for hours with a cappuccino or a glass of wine, and no one will ask you to leave. Ever.
Settle in at a sidewalk café in Le Marais or Saint-Germain, order something delicious, and take in the fashion, the dogs, the locals living their best lives. Don’t be afraid to go alone—this city was made for solo café vibes and quiet reflection. Add a croissant and it’s basically therapy.
3. Hop on a Motorcycle Sidecar Tour
If you’re looking for something a little unexpected and a lot of fun, book a vintage motorcycle sidecar tour. I know—it sounds wild, especially if you’ve never been on a motorcycle before (I hadn’t either!). But once you’re cruising through the streets with the wind in your hair and your guide sharing the most fascinating stories about Paris, you’ll wonder why everyone doesn’t see the city this way.
It’s the kind of unforgettable experience that will have you saying “yes” to more adventures in life.
4. Take a French Cooking Class
One of my favorite meals in Paris? The one I made myself.
I took a cooking class with a local chef, and not only did I learn to whip up some incredible French dishes, but I had the best time doing it. It’s hands-on, fun, and way more meaningful than another night out at a restaurant (though those are lovely too). You leave with new skills, great memories, and a belly full of coq au vin or fresh-baked soufflé.
5. Book a Photoshoot at the Eiffel Tower
You can take a million selfies—but nothing compares to the feeling of having a professional capture you in your element with the Eiffel Tower as your backdrop.
Get up early to avoid crowds (trust me, sunrise is magic), and head to Trocadéro for that picture-perfect view. Whether you’re solo, with friends, or traveling with a partner, this is the kind of Paris moment you’ll want to frame forever.
6. Master the Paris Métro Like a Local
Don’t let the maps and multiple lines scare you off—the Métro is so much easier than it looks. Grab a multi-day pass and download the Citymapper app. Within a day, you’ll be zipping from Montmartre to the Latin Quarter like a pro.
Just a heads-up: when they say the doors are closing, they mean it. Do not try to sneak in at the last second unless you want a very cinematic moment involving a trapped handbag.
7. Say Yes to a Boudoir Photoshoot
This might sound a little out there—but hear me out. Doing a boudoir shoot in Paris is one of the most empowering things you can do.
Imagine soft lighting, a gorgeous Parisian apartment, and a photographer who knows how to make you feel like your most confident, radiant self. Whether you do it as a gift for someone or (even better) as a gift to yourself, this is the kind of self-love moment you’ll never forget.
And where better to feel beautiful than the City of Love?
8. Wander the Jardin du Luxembourg
Need a slow, grounding moment in the middle of a fast-paced trip? The Jardin du Luxembourg is your answer. It’s peaceful, elegant, and the perfect place to sit, journal, or simply do nothing at all.
Grab one of the iconic green chairs, let the breeze hit your face, and allow yourself to feel everything—gratitude, joy, aliveness. That’s the magic of Paris. That’s why we keep coming back.
9. Try Foods You’ve Never Dared to Before
When in Paris, eat like a Parisian—and don’t be afraid to try something new.
Some dishes to add to your list:
🥐 Croque Monsieur – A rich ham and cheese sandwich with béchamel.
🍲 Soupe à l’oignon – Caramelized onion soup with gooey cheese and croutons.
🐌 Escargots – Yes, snails! Cooked in garlicky butter and totally worth it.
🥩 Steak Tartare – Seasoned raw beef with capers and onions.
🍷 Coq au Vin – Chicken (or rooster) braised in red wine.
🍬 Macarons – Because obviously.
Even if you’re a picky eater, Paris might just surprise you.
10. Let Go of the Checklist and Just Be
This might be the most important one of all: you don’t need to do everything.
The Louvre will still be there if you skip it. The Eiffel Tower won’t be offended if you only see it from a distance. Let yourself slow down. Meander. Sit by the Seine. Talk to strangers. Take the long way home.
The most beautiful Paris moments are the ones you don’t plan for.
Final Thoughts
There’s Paris the postcard version—and then there’s Paris the feeling.
When you give yourself permission to explore it fully, to try something new, to get a little lost, and to be fully present… that’s when the real magic happens.
So whether you’re sipping coffee at a corner café, flying through the city in a sidecar, or saying oui to a boudoir shoot you never thought you’d do—know this:
Paris has a way of reflecting who you truly are, and who you’re becoming.
Let her.
