Ah, Paris. It’s the city of love, the city of lights, the city of art. It’s a destination most of us want to visit at least once in our life and not without reason. Yet all too often, we limit ourselves to the somewhat cliché activities while visiting the French capital. Sure, the Eiffel Tower is impressive. And yes, the croissants in France tend to be pretty good. A kissing photo in front of the Butte de Montmartre? Can’t miss in your photo album. Yet even though it’s cool to finally see all those famous sights in real life, sometimes, it’s better to go for the unknown.
Series like ‘Emily in Paris’ have turned Paris into a very sweet, very ‘French’, very dreamy city. Everything is possible, everything is well-organized and clean, everything is perfect.
Yet everyone who knows Paris a little bit, knows that that image isn’t realistic at all. Honestly, people tend to be a bit grumpy in the French capital – no wonder, considering the very high cost of living. And the streets aren’t so clean at all, if you ask us. And all those pastel colors you see in the movies? Keep on dreaming, we’re in a city, so you’ll be surrounded by fifty shades of grey.
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t be smitten after a visit to the city of love. There’s a lot to see and a lot to do, so you better start planning that trip. However, in our opinion, it’s better to get off the beaten track and go explore some of Paris’ lesser-known sights.
Art on the tube
If you’re interested in street art, we’ve found a pretty cool new map for you to use. It’s the RATP, Paris’ public transport operator, who’s put it together and it’s pretty original. Anyone who’s been to Paris before will know the city is full of street art gems but finding them isn’t always as easy as it sounds. The RATP therefore has made an interactive map showing all the street art pieces scattered around the tube stations of the city.
Of course, you could choose to just visit them little by little, when by chance you have to get out at one of the featured stations. Yet if you’re a true fanatic, it could be very fun to spend the day seeing them all – of course, while taking the time to eat a croissant every now and then. You’re in France, after all.
