Paris is one of the world’s most visited cities, famous for its landmarks, museums, and bustling cafés. However, to truly experience Paris, it’s worth exploring beyond the tourist trails and getting a taste of the city from a local’s perspective. Here’s your guide to experiencing Paris like a resident, from enjoying neighborhood markets to discovering hidden gems.

Start the Day with a Café and People-Watch
One of the quintessential Parisian experiences is enjoying a morning coffee at a sidewalk café. Parisians love to take their time over a coffee, often paired with a simple pastry or tartine (bread with butter and jam). Find a café, grab a seat facing the street, and observe the city waking up around you.
Local Café Suggestions:
Café de Flore (6th arrondissement) – A classic spot with a literary history where you can enjoy coffee among locals and tourists alike.
Le Progrès (Montmartre) – A laid-back café popular with Parisians, offering a relaxed, local vibe.

Wander Around Neighborhood Markets
Skip the supermarkets and visit one of Paris’s many open-air markets, where locals buy fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and artisanal bread. Visiting a market is one of the best ways to connect with the local culture, sample seasonal ingredients, and shop like a true Parisian.
Top Markets to Visit:
Marché d’Aligre (12th arrondissement) – One of Paris’s liveliest markets, known for affordable produce and a flea market section.
Marché Bastille (11th arrondissement) – A large market offering everything from fresh produce to regional French specialties.

Stroll Through Non-Touristy Neighborhoods
To get a taste of authentic Paris, explore some of the city’s less-touristy neighborhoods. Each area has its own distinct character, and you’ll find charming streets, independent boutiques, and local eateries.
Local Neighborhood Suggestions:
Belleville – A vibrant area known for its diverse food scene, street art, and the Parc de Belleville with beautiful views of the city.
Canal Saint-Martin – Popular with young Parisians, this neighborhood has a relaxed vibe with bohemian cafés, vintage shops, and lovely canalside views.

Enjoy an Afternoon Picnic at a Park
Parisians love spending time outdoors, especially when the weather is nice. Pick up a fresh baguette, cheese, and some charcuterie from a nearby shop and head to one of the city’s beautiful parks for a picnic.
Best Parks for a Picnic:
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont (19th arrondissement) – A local favorite with rolling hills, a lake, and beautiful views.
Square du Vert-Galant (Île de la Cité) – A serene spot near the Seine, perfect for a quiet afternoon picnic by the water.

Visit Art Galleries Beyond the Louvre
While the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay are must-sees, Paris also has a thriving art scene in smaller galleries and artist studios. Exploring these spaces gives you a chance to see emerging artists and lesser-known masterpieces.
Local Art Gallery Suggestions:
Galerie Perrotin (Marais) – One of the most popular contemporary galleries, showcasing both French and international artists.
Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson (14th arrondissement) – Dedicated to the famous photographer, this gallery offers a unique view of Paris and photography.

Dine Like a Local at a Parisian Bistro
Avoid restaurants that feel overly touristy and look for authentic bistros where Parisians dine. These spots often serve classic French dishes, such as duck confit, coq au vin, and steak frites, in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Recommended Bistros:
Le Temps des Cerises (Marais) – A charming, traditional bistro with a laid-back vibe and delicious French cuisine.
Chez Janou (3rd arrondissement) – Known for its Provençal dishes and warm, inviting atmosphere.

Catch a Film at a Classic Cinema
Parisians have a deep love for cinema, and the city is home to many charming, historic theaters. Watching a French film (with subtitles available in some places) or an international classic in a beautiful cinema is a favorite pastime for locals.
Iconic Cinemas to Visit:
Le Champo (Latin Quarter) – A historic cinema known for screening classic and independent films.
Cinéma du Panthéon (5th arrondissement) – Paris’s oldest cinema, offering a unique viewing experience and a rooftop café.

Take an Evening Stroll Along the Seine
Instead of rushing through the city’s sights, take a leisurely evening stroll along the Seine River, a favorite activity for Parisians. The ambiance along the river is magical at night, with illuminated bridges and a peaceful atmosphere.
Key Walking Routes:
Pont des Arts to Pont Neuf – Start near the Louvre and cross these famous bridges to enjoy beautiful views of the Seine and the Île de la Cité.
Île Saint-Louis – Walk around this charming island, filled with cozy cafés, boutiques, and narrow streets that feel frozen in time.

Experience Parisian Jazz and Live Music
Parisians have a strong appreciation for jazz and live music, and the city has many cozy jazz bars and music venues where you can enjoy performances in an intimate setting.
Best Jazz Bars and Music Venues:
Le Caveau de la Huchette (5th arrondissement) – A historic jazz club with a lively atmosphere, where locals come to dance.
New Morning (10th arrondissement) – A great spot for jazz, blues, and live music performances in a casual setting.

Explore the Parisian Bouquinistes and Vintage Shops
Embrace your inner book lover at the bouquinistes along the Seine, where vendors sell secondhand books, vintage magazines, and old prints. Exploring these stalls is a wonderful way to discover literary treasures and souvenirs with Parisian charm.
Where to Find Bouquinistes and Vintage Shops:
Along the Seine, near Notre-Dame – Stalls line the Seine and offer everything from novels to antique postcards.
Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen – Paris’s largest flea market, with everything from vintage clothing to antiques.