On any trip to Paris the most precious thing you have is time. So you want to be sure you’re using it in the best possible way – seeing what’s worth seeing and avoiding what isn’t. With so much information about Paris online, it can be difficult to tell. This week on the podcast, I’m talking to Paris expert Marie Segura from My Private Paris about the most overrated and underrated things to do in Paris. Sure, this is a subjective thing, but Marie is so in touch with what’s happening here that I trust her opinion and, I have to say, I agree with her. Together we’ve made a list of ten underrated and overrated things to do in Paris.
The podcast episode
Listen below, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find the episode on iTunes or Spotify or via my website here.
1. Montmartre – OVERRATED
There’s a bit of a caveat with this one, because Marie is talking about a specific part of Montmartre and, overall, the expectation of what a visit to this neighbourhood will be. If you visit the crowded Place de Tertre in the high season then this is a surefire way to consider Montmartre as overrated. However, Marie concedes that the quieter, less exploited side of Montmartre hasn’t lost its authentic charm.
Find more in the 18th arrondissement.
2. The Mona Lisa – UNDERRATED
Visiting the Mona Lisa has sadly become one of many checklist items to be done on a Paris trip. Marie implores visitors to go beyond taking a quick selfie and moving on and, rather, seeing the real person and listening to the story behind this A-list painting.
Find more in the 1st arrondissement.
3. The summit of the Eiffel Tower – OVERRATED
Visiting the Eiffel Tower is one of the most popular activities to do in Paris, but, according to Marie, there’s a hack to have the best experience. And that doesn’t involve going to the very top. “To me the best part is the second floor, where you have the cafes, the view is great…to go to the summit, you have to queue again and it’s cloudy and windy.”
Find more in the 7th arrondissement.
4. Opéra Garnier – UNDERRATED
The Opéra Garnier is a spectacular building, reminiscent of the Palace of Versailles, which is easily overlooked. It’s true that its central Paris location, whilst easy to access, isn’t the nicest to walk around and can be off-putting. If you’re willing to look past this drawback, Marie cannot recommend its stunning design (both interior and exterior) enough.
Find more in the 9th arrondissement.
5. Avenue des Champs-Elysées – OVERRATED
The most famous avenue in the world, but is it worth it? In a word – no. The expectations of this street are high, but the reality is quite underwhelming. It’s long, it’s uphill and, whilst it’s home to many luxury brands, the underwhelming restaurants and fast food chains make for a disappointing atmosphere. However, what is not overrated is the Arc de Triomphe, which is more than worth a visit.
Find more in the 8th arrondissement.
6. Châtelet & Les Halles – UNDERRATED
Central Paris has long had the reputation of being very poor and seedy. But, this image is totally outdated and today the area around the church of Saint-Eustache, as well as Rue Montorgueil and Rue Montmartre, is a hub of charming streets and excellent gastronomic establishments. A terrific part of the city to explore on foot.
Find more in the 2nd arrondissement.
7. The Catacombs – OVERRATED
The anticipation of visiting this famous ossuary is tantalising, as there is an air of the clandestine floating around the Catacombs. However, Marie believes that the true-life experience doesn’t live up to the hype. The ticket prices are pretty steep and the actual space open to the public is quite limited (though if you book to go with an accredited guide you can see more than the regular punters). If you want to visit the dead, go to Père Lachaise cemetery instead.
Find more in the 14th arrondissement.
8. Rodin museum – UNDERRATED
One of the most special museums in Paris. Its amazing garden is home to treasures like the iconic sculpture The Thinker, as well as beautiful roses and a spectacular view of the dome of Invalides. The hôtel particulier was a space where Rodin actually sculpted and created. Stuffed full of history and art, all in the heart of the 7th arrondissement.
9. The tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte – OVERRATED
The complex of the hôtel des Invalides with the museum and the cathedral is beautiful and interesting. Although, as far as Marie is concerned, the actual area where Napoleon’s remains are buried is cold and quite impersonal. Without many references to the man himself, the tomb of Napoleon is a bit of a let down.
Find more in the 7th arrondissement.
10. Musée de Cluny – UNDERRATED
The Musée de Cluny is dedicated to the medieval history of Paris and a visit here plunges you right into ancient history. Originally a series Roman baths which have been well-preserved, the museum is primarily contained within a 16th century abbey. Its main attraction, The Lady and the Unicorn, might not initially pique your interest, but its history, attention to detail and craftsmanship will take your breath away.
Find more in the 5th arrondissement.
That’s it for this episode. Thanks for listening.
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I respectfully disagree with Marie’s comments on Napoleon’s tomb. Tombs are burial sites not museums. The tombs in Pere Lachaise and the Pantheon have few if any references to the persons buried in them.