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The best non-touristy things to do in NYC

If you're looking for non-touristy things to do in NYC, check out these alternatives to crowded, popular attractions

While there’s nothing wrong with touristy attractions—some things you just have to see—the experience might be memorable for the wrong reasons: crowds, wait times, lack of time to fully enjoy. If you’re a repeat visitor or a local looking to get off the beaten path , these non-touristy things to do in NYC are for you.

Visitors to New York flock to well-known attractions like the Empire State Building, Central Park, Chelsea, and Times Square. You can find equally impressive views, natural beauty, art galleries, and colorful photo ops at other lesser-known spots. These alternative things to do in New York are just as memorable and far less crowded. After you’ve explored these non-touristy alternatives, go a little deeper and discover the best secret spots in NYC .

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best New York attractions   RECOMMENDED: The best attractions in Manhattan   RECOMMENDED: The best crime tours in NYC

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

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Manhattan view

Touristy: Empire State Building

• Monuments and memorials
• Midtown West

It’s as iconic as a landmark gets, but it’s definitely not the only show in town. Nearby  Top of the Rock , for example, affords a view of the Empire State Building, which is definitely worth seeing. Still, there’s something to be said for following in the giant footsteps of Kong, plus learning the fascinating history of this landmark.

Alternative: Sunset Park

• Parks and gardens
• Sunset Park

The thing about the wondrous Manhattan skyline is that you can’t really appreciate it from Manhattan. For a truly memorable look at the cityscape, travel to the highest point in this South Brooklyn park. The vista is especially striking during the time of day for which the green space is named. Hell, from here, even New Jersey looks good.

Touristy: The Metropolitan Museum of Art

• Art and design
• Central Park

New York has many prestigious institutions, but the Met might just have them all beat. Near-constant herds trample through the exhibits and for good reason. One travel site calls it the most beloved attraction in America (and we have to agree with that). 

Alternative: The Cloisters

• Washington Heights

Tucked away in scenic Fort Tryon Park, the Cloisters—an annex of the Met—showcase art and architecture from medieval Europe. Numerous artifacts, illuminated manuscripts, and ephemera fill the halls. Even the building itself—constructed from European monasteries transferred to the U.S.—looks like something out of Game of Thrones .

Touristy: Central Park

This is where people go to escape the concrete jungle, and as such, it’s not really a place to escape other people trying to escape the city.

Alternative: Fort Tryon Park

This Washington Heights green space was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., son of one of the men behind Central Park. And in some ways, the little guy’s work outshines his dad’s. Fort Tryon Park provides a much more intimate outdoor experience than does Central Park, Prospect Park or most other designated open-air acres in the city. For some of the most breathtaking views, make your way to Linden Terrace near the Cloisters, or wander through the two main gardens.

Touristy: Downtown Manhattan

• Things to do

Hey, we still love Nom Wah Tea Parlor as much as the next dumpling enthusiast, but the neighborhood sometimes reaches chaotic levels of crowdedness.

Alternative: Flushing, Queens

Queens has been a prime borough for non-American fare for a while now, and generally speaking, its Asian restaurants offer more variety than the ones in the Manhattan enclave. On the whole, it’s a slightly less overwhelming experience—and it’s tough to go wrong here, so take your pick among Zhu Ji Dumpling Stall , Pho Hoang or the original Xi’an Famous Foods .

Artsy neighborhood

Touristy: Chelsea

Between the Gagosian galleries, Andrea Rosen, Anton Kern and dozens of other spaces, this neighborhood remains a destination for huge, museum-sized shows and art openings. But it ain’t the only one.

Alternative: Long Island City

• Long Island City

LIC may lack Chelsea’s number of galleries, but in terms of quality, it more than holds its own. There’s MoMA PS1, which mounts cutting-edge shows. During the summer, the museum also hosts Warm Up, its weekly outdoor music series. And if you’re still jonesing for a culture fix, hit nearby attractions like the Noguchi Museum, the Flux Factory or SculptureCenter.

Touristy: Times Square

Everybody wants to see the center of the world, we get it. But we also get why New Yorkers tend to scoff at the destination. When you're tired of the hectic sidewalks, honking horns, dizzying billboards and chain restaurants, we've got some other ideas for you. The M&Ms Store doesn't really compare to some other NYC spots when it comes to photo ops anyway.

Alternative: Bushwick street art

Thanks to The Bushwick Collective and other local muralists, this neighborhood's alleys and warehouses have become examples of some of the best local street art. Wander through the outdoor galleries of Morgan Avenue, Siegel Street, East Moore Street and other local thoroughfares to snap some truly Instagram-worthy photos.

Historic architecture

Touristy: Grand Central Terminal

• Historic buildings and sites
• Midtown East

With its grand Beaux Arts architecture,  beloved brass clock and  cerulean blue ceiling dotted with constellations, Grand Central Terminal is certainly an architectural wonder. You can take it all in with a brisk walk through the subway station (but history nerds ought to to take a behind-the-scenes tour). 

Alternative: New York Public Library, Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

• Libraries, archives and foundations

This iconic location, proudly guarded by regal-looking marble lions, is among the city's most ornate public spaces. The pièce de résistance is of course the Rose Reading Room—who wouldn’t be inspired by all those crystal chandeliers? But if you’re here for the books, you won’t be disappointed either: There are some 50 million items spread out across these stacks.

There are free guided tours daily , but they fill up quickly so get there early.

Brooklyn Bridge view

Touristy: Brooklyn Bridge

Close to 100,000 cars cross the toll-free Brooklyn Bridge every day, and we’d be willing to bet that the daily foot traffic also numbers in the thousands. In fact, on a clear, sunny day, you can barely find space to walk, let alone bike, on the upper pedestrian deck. Yes, the granite and limestone Gothic towers and views of lower Manhattan are pretty spectacular, but is braving a sea of selfies worth it?

Alternative: Brooklyn Bridge Park

• Brooklyn Heights

For the exact same views of Manhattan and an even better look at the Brooklyn Bridge, stroll the footpaths in Brooklyn Bridge Park. It never feels as crowded as the bridge itself, thanks to the 85 acres of waterfront. After you snap the obligatory photos, take a spin on Jane’s Carousel or go for ice cream at Ample Hills Creamery.

Food market

Touristy: Chelsea Market

• Shopping centers

Thanks to its picturesque location in a former National Biscuit Company factory and collection of cult-favorite eateries, Chelsea Market has become the city’s most popular food hall. This fact is especially obvious to anyone who visits on a weekend: The hordes of tourists wandering through the building makes it nearly impossible to enjoy your street tacos from Los Tacos No. 1 or halva ice cream from Seed+Mill.

Alternative: Smorgasburg

• Restaurants

Though just as many hungry patrons flock to Smorgasburg, the outdoor setting at least makes the crowds a little more manageable. The beloved food festival also draws just as many locals as tourists—a distinction that’s especially apparent at its Prospect Park location. A wider selection of vendors also cuts down on long lines, although the year’s hottest trends—think 2013’s ramen burger or 2016’s raindrop cake—will likely create a healthy queue.

Touristy: New York Botanical Garden

We love the Orchid Show as much as the next guy, but it can be tough to appreciate the flora and fauna when you’re pushing your way through a throng of visitors. If you must get your flower fix, head up to the Bronx on a weekday or stick to the outer edges of the 50-acre forest to evade the crowds.

Alternative: Snug Harbor Cultural Center

• Staten Island

Once a retirement home for aging sailors, Snug Harbor reinvented itself as an arts center and botanical garden in the 1970s. Explore the property's nine distinctive gardens, including the bamboo forest and koi ponds of the Chinese Scholar’s Garden and the intricate maze of boxwoods at the Connie Gretz Secret Garden. Since it’s on the north shore of Staten Island, you’ll encounter far fewer tourists than you would in any of the other boroughs.

Classic venue

Touristy: Radio City Music Hall

Known as the “showplace of the nation,” Radio City Music Hall has hosted everything from Lady Gaga concerts to the Rockettes’ high-kicking Christmas Spectacular. The Art Deco decor is lovely and you can even go behind the scenes on a tour. The massive marquee is what most tourists come to see. Snap a picture or two from the sidewalk if you must, but know that it's not the only game in town for spectacular shows.

Alternative: Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts

• Performing arts space
• Upper West Side

You’ll be blown away by the architecture of Lincoln Center’s main plaza: The gurgling fountain is framed on three sides by the gorgeous glass facades of the Metropolitan Opera House, David Geffen Hall and the David H. Koch Theater. It’s certainly a more elegant environment. And, since it’s the home to the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Ballet, the New York Philharmonic, Jazz at Lincoln Center and a bevy of Broadway and off-Broadway shows, you also have a much wider array of performances to choose from.

Filming location

Touristy: The Friends apartment

On any given day, you’ll find several Friends fans jostling position on the corner of Bedford Street and Grove Street. Why? They’re trying to get just the right angle for their photo in front of the apartment at 90 Bedford Street, which you might recognize as the exterior of Monica and Rachel’s place. Not only can the crowds be annoying, but the visit isn’t even worth it: You can’t enter the apartment, there’s no Central Perk on the ground floor and the show wasn’t even filmed in NYC.

Alternative: The Royal Tenenbaums house

Hamilton Heights is known for its stunning architecture and the home at the corner of 144th Street and Convent Avenue is no exception. In fact, Wes Anderson was so taken with its red brick facade and intricate tile work that he used it as the family home in The Royal Tenenbaums . The home is a private residence today, but visitors can peep its gorgeous exterior from the sidewalk. The best part? It's on Airbnb. Time to book your stay!

Sweet treat

Touristy: Dominique Ansel Bakery

No shade to the creator of the Cronut—in fact, Dominique Ansel Bakery is one of our favorite French bakeries in NYC —but the line at the Soho location can be torturous. Travelers who don’t have several hours to spend waiting for frozen s’mores or a chocolate chip cookie and milk shot would be better off skipping this bakery.

Alternative: L'Appartement 4F

Ok, fair warning, there's likely to be a line—a long line—if you go here on the weekends, but it's worth for these buttery croissants that will basically transport you to Paris. In addition to Parisian pastries, L'Appartement 4F is also known for its best-selling tahini chocolate chip cookie au sel de mer.

Kid-friendly attraction

Touristy: American Museum of Natural History

• Science and technology

There’s something about walking under a blue whale or standing next to a cast of a T. Rex footprint that makes a ten-year-old out of even the most jaded Gothamite.

Alternative: Museum of Mathematics

Long division, algebra, geometry—they’re all pretty much the worst. Or are they? MoMath pushes the reset button on deep-seated calculus hate and seeks to make the art of numbers more accessible. Now that the pressures of homework and the SATs are long past, maybe it’s time to re-engage with the Euclidean party, people.

Ready to explore more of New York City?

18 things you can only do in NYC

Thanks to its dense population (one in every 38 people in the United States live here) and storied history, NYC offers plenty of things to do you won’t find anywhere else.

New York’s off-beat museums

• Special interest

Check out these oddities in the city’s strangest and perhaps most interesting museums and attractions.

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64 Best Non-Touristy Things To Do In NYC (From A Local)

By Dale P & Jessie Festa. This guide to alternative things to do in New York City contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Looking for non-touristy things to do in NYC ?

Then you’re in the right place!

New York may be one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, receiving over 66 million visitors per year, but there are still many unique things to do in NYC. In a city so large, it’s not hard to get off the beaten path.

Whether you are a tourist wanting to see a different side of the city or a local looking for something different for your weekend plans, there are many cool non touristy things to do in NYC.

To help you create a memorable itinerary, here are some of the best not-so-touristy things to do in NYC — written by two local New Yorkers!

💡 Quick tip: Not all guided tours are necessarily touristy! A few top picks that take you away from the typical attractions include: 😋 Lower East Side Culture and Food Tastings Tour 🥘 Private Indian & Soul Food Cooking Class in East Harlem 📸 Chinatown Photography Workshop

Table of Contents

Unique Things To Do In NYC (Free Guide!)

But first, before we go over some of New York’s non-touristy attractions and experiences, we invite you to grab a copy of Jessie’s  NYC Top Picks From A Local Guide . The printable PDF guide takes you beyond the popular attractions to uncover a more local and lesser-known side of New York City.

Just a few highlights from the guide include:

• Where to get creative java drinks and delicious dishes
• How to discover opportunities for exploring nature in New York City
• Ways to get off-the-beaten-track to discover a side of the city many tourists miss

Note: If you’re thinking “I just want a local to plan my trip to NYC ” Jessie also offers custom travel planning services. Keep in mind, she is a New Yorker as well as a licensed sightseeing guide, so she can speak to both tourist attractions and lesser-known experiences.

On that note, keep reading to dive into some cool things to do in NYC beyond the typical tourist attractions.

Fun Non-Touristy Things To Do In NYC (Citywide)

While there are plenty of specific non-touristy places in New York City, certain experiences can be enjoyed across the boroughs, like:

1. Strike a pose on an NYC photo tour

Shameless plug: Jessie’s company, NYC Photo Journeys, offers private NYC photo tours that allow you to visit scenic spots with a local guide and photographer. Not only do you get a tour, but you’ll leave with stunning photos of your group to keep. It’s a great way to create — and preserve — memories from your trip to New York .

2. Upgrade your Instagram feed on an NYC Influencer Shoot

If you’re an influencer, blogger, or solopreneur looking to get gorgeous imagery for your social media accounts and website, a private NYC Influencer Shoot is a must. These are led by Jessie, and include a pre-shoot call to go over your shoot goals so that you end up with exactly what you want. You can choose between a budget-friendly unedited shoot, or opt to have Jessie edit the photos for you!

3. Preserve cherished memories on a Custom NYC Photoshoot

Not an influencer, but want a custom photoshoot in New York City? Jessie also offers professional NYC photoshoots . These come with more photos than the photo tours, as well as everything mentioned above with the influencer shoots, but are geared toward those wanting to preserve memories or celebrate a milestone (vs uplevel with social feeds).

4. Enjoy free entertainment in NYC parks

Ever wondered “What do locals do in NYC?” Are you looking to explore New York on a budget ?

Here’s a hack: check the park calendars around NYC, as they often showcase free movies, tours, concerts, comedy shows, and more.

This is especially true during the warmer months, when you’ll find programs like Summerstage, Free Summer Movies, Free Summer Concerts, and BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn!

Overall, visiting the parks is one of the underrated things to do in NYC.

5. Take a local class

One of the best ways to enjoy non-touristy NYC while exploring your own creativity is through one of the countless local classes. What is really special about doing a class in New York is that the options are limitless, with plenty of opportunities to try things you couldn’t easily do elsewhere.

A few schools with interesting classes to check out include Trapeze School New York (aerial arts), 92Y (everything), Brooklyn Brainery (everything), SassClass (dance), CocuSocial (cooking), The PIT (improv), and East Village Hats (hatwork).

These are also great options if you’re visiting NYC alone , as classes can make it easier to meet other people.

Keep in mind, if you’re looking for the best NYC souvenirs , taking a class where you physically make something allows you to preserve a fun trip memory in a personal way!

Taking a local class is definitely one of the fun non touristy things to do in NYC!

6. Explore the city by bike

One of the best non-tourist things to do in NYC is explore the city by bike. You can rent and drop off Citi Bikes from hundreds of locations. A few scenic New York City bike trails include the:

• Bronx Greenway, connecting the largest parks in The Bronx
• Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway, offering beautiful skyline views
• Hudson River Greenway, stretching from Battery Park to Fort Tryon Park in Manhattan
• Eastern Queens Greenway, showcasing golf courses, lakes, and parks
• LaTourette Park, a lovely 2-mile ride in Staten Island

7. Enjoy (boozy) brunch in NYC

Why is New York so popular? The delicious restaurants certainly help!

Now, while many tourists focus on food, one aspect of local dining many miss is brunch — particularly boozy brunch in NYC . For a set price, you can savor a delicious meal with unlimited drinks, and sometimes even unlimited food if you’re at a place like Maya in the Upper East Side (which also happens to be one of the most Instagrammable restaurants in NYC !).

Even if you’re not a big drinker, brunch is a staple in NYC and it’s a great experience to enjoy the atmosphere during a tasty morning meal.

It’s one of the local things to do in NYC.

Want beautiful photos taken of you in scenic New York spots? Book a Private Photo Journey , a walking tour that includes photos of your group to keep. Or get a styled, custom shoot that tells your unique story through an NYC Influencer Shoot or Professional New York City Shoot . Email [email protected] with inquiries.

Non-Touristy Things to Do In Manhattan

Manhattan is the most popular of New York’s five boroughs. Most tourists stay in Manhattan, and most of New York’s tourist activities are located here; however, it’s still possible to discover hidden gems, like:

8. Ride the Roosevelt Island Tram

One of the best non touristy things to do in NYC is to ride the Roosevelt Island Tram.

This bright red tram connects Manhattan with Roosevelt Island, a small sliver of land in the middle of the East River between Manhattan and Queens. The tram offers spectacular city views as it glides high above the water parallel to the Queensboro Bridge.

The cost? A single swipe of your MetroCard ($2.75) each way.

9. Explore Roosevelt Island

If you’re going to take the Roosevelt Island Tram, you might as well spend some time exploring Roosevelt Island before you head back to Manhattan proper. Hop onto the free Red Bus that makes a loop around the NY island , or relax in the sun at one of the island’s tranquil parks.

10. Visit the Met Cloisters

The Metropolitan Museum of Art on the Upper East Side of Manhattan is one of the most popular museums in the city, and on any given day, you’ll find it packed with crowds, even on rainy days in NYC .

But a few miles to the north, the Met Cloisters offers a calming oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. In fact, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported out of NYC entirely as you explore this NYC off the beaten path spot with a focus on medieval art and architecture.

Exploring the Met Cloisters is among the best non touristy things to do in New York.

11. Check out the Morgan Library and Museum

New York’s most famous library is the New York Public Library, but just a few blocks away, you can find the breathtaking Morgan Library and Museum. This beautiful library is a must-visit for book lovers, especially as it features some of the world’s rarest books and manuscripts.

12. Get drinks at a hidden speakeasy

There is no shortage of great speakeasies in New York City — you just have to know where to look! Some of the best speakeasies to grab a drink in Manhattan specifically include:

• Employees Only: Hidden behind a psychic and tarot reader in Greenwich Village
• UES: Tucked away behind an ice cream shop on the Upper East Side
• Please Don’t Tell: Accessible through a phone booth at the back of a hot dog joint in the East Village

This is one of the best not so touristy things to do in NYC.

13. Take an architecture cruise

While Circle Line sightseeing cruises are popular with tourists wanting a Manhattan skyline tour , taking a cruise with AIANY (the American Society of Architects, New York) is a great way to get a deeper understanding of New York’s history and architecture. Plus, they offer some of the top architectural tours in NYC !

Another option is booking a Manhattan Architecture Yacht Cruise , which includes a welcome drink, gorgeous views, and narration provided by AIANY.

Click here for a full list of cruise and sailing excursions .

14. Visit the Dyckman Farmhouse Museum

One of the most unique and non touristy things to do in Manhattan is to visit the Dyckman Farmhouse Museum.

It’s hard to imagine New York City’s rural past, but that’s exactly what you can do at the Dyckman Farmhouse Museum. Dating back to 1785, this museum is housed in the last farmhouse in Manhattan.

15. Visit the American Folk Art Museum

Most tourists visiting the Lincoln Center area are there to catch a ballet or orchestra performance and have no idea about the American Folk Art Museum — which is free to visit and boasts one of the most impressive collections of folk art in the United States. It’s one of the top things to do on the Upper West Side !

16. Eat pizza inside a church in Times Square

Times Square , a staple of any Manhattan tourism guide , might be the last place you imagine when you think “best non-touristy things to do in New York City” — and you would not be wrong; but beyond the flashing billboards and sea of selfie sticks, there are a few hidden gems to be discovered in Times Square.

One of those is John’s Pizza , a restaurant housed in a former church where you can feast on pizza underneath a soaring stained glass ceiling.

17. Watch a free comedy improv show

The Peoples Improv Theater is a comedy theater and training center that hosts performances every night. You can grab a drink from the bar before heading downstairs to catch the show. Best of all, tickets are free.

It’s one of the best things to do in NYC as a local!

18. Eat in a local home

While it’s not always easy to meet locals while traveling , in New York City you can actually book a cooking class or at-home dinner through EatWith .

The platform features loads of experiences to choose from, so whether you want to take a homemade pasta-making class in a New Yorker’s kitchen or sit down at their apartment table for a seasonal Japanese-inspired seafood-tasting menu, you can.

Another option is League of Kitchens , which allows you to cook in the homes of immigrant women from around the world. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in a different culture without leaving New York.

19. Find an oasis in Midtown

Midtown Manhattan is known for its constant crowds, but savvy locals know that there’s a hidden oasis right in the heart of some of the city’s busiest blocks. Greenacre Park is a small park with a 25-foot waterfall tucked away in the midst of Midtown.

20. See where NYC’s mayor lives

Gracie Mansion, tucked away in Carl Schurz Park on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, has historically been the residence of New York City’s mayor. You can book a tour of this elegant and historic home, which dates back to 1799.

21. Enjoy a scenic NYC picnic

Curious about the things locals do in NYC? We’ll let you in on a secret: when the weather is nice, what locals do in NYC is head to the park.

Of course there is Central Park, but if you want to get away from the crowds, try Fort Tryon Park in northern Manhattan. Here you can enjoy seasonal gardens, scenic paths, and beautiful views over the Hudson River out toward the George Washington Bridge .

22. Go for an urban hike

Going for a hike is one of the things to do in NYC that aren’t touristy. In fact, many travelers miss out on discovering these gorgeous trails.

You may be surprised to learn that there is some really great hiking in Manhattan . One of the most rugged trails is the moderate-hard 1.3-mile Orange Trail in Inwood Hill Park, where you’ll find historic sites, scenic overlooks, and the largest remaining natural forest and last remaining salt marsh in Manhattan. Check it out here:

23. Go gallery hopping

New York is full of art galleries, so gallery hopping is one of the fun things to do in NYC for locals. Some of the best neighborhoods in Manhattan for gallery hopping are Chelsea, the Upper East Side, and the Lower East Side.

For a unique guided tour, you can book a contemporary art tour of Chelsea or a contemporary art tour of the Lower East Side — both of which are led by a professional art critic!

24. Browse for books at Albertine

Located a couple blocks from the Metropolitan Museum of Art and directly across from Central Park, most tourists walk right past Albertine without even knowing it exists.

But if you step into this bookstore that shares a building with the Cultural Services of the French Embassy, you will discover a collection of French and English books in an enchanting space.

25. Watch an off-Broadway show

Broadway shows are a popular tourist activity in New York, but tickets can be expensive and hard to get.

Off-Broadway shows (and Off-Off-Broadway shows), on the other hand, are often more affordable and still very entertaining.

One top-rated recommendation is Titanique the Musical , which features Céline Dion taking over a Titanic Museum tour for a creative retelling of the iconic film.

You can also check out the current lineup at theaters like the Lucille Lortel Theatre, Linda Gross Theater, and Cherry Lane Theater, to name a few.

26. Go glamping on Governors Island

Governors Island is a 172-acre car-free island accessible via a short ferry ride from Lower Manhattan. While it has a rich military history, today it is known for its incredible views, outdoor recreation, public art, and many annual events like the Jazz Age Lawn Party, a celebration of all things 1920s, and Pinknic, a music festival with lots of rose wine.

If you’re looking for one of the most quirky things to do in New York, you can even stay overnight on Governors Island in a luxury camping retreat!

Bonus: thanks to the views, Governors Island is also one of the most Instagrammable places in NYC .

By the way, if you’re looking for fun things to do for your birthday in NYC , consider renting a grill for the day at Picnic Point — which offers epic views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline!

27. Check out the 191st Street tunnel

The subway station at 191st Street in Manhattan is the deepest in the city, at 18 stories underground. This subway station is also home to the colorful “Tunnel Street” which is New York’s only underground street, making it one of the most unusual places in NYC.

Although it’s off the beaten path for most tourists, the 191st Street tunnel is worth a visit due to the colorful graffiti murals lining the underground street.

And while lesser known, it’s one of the best places to take photos in New York City !

28. Eat your way through Harlem

Because of its location further uptown, Harlem is a Manhattan neighborhood that often gets overlooked by tourists; however, this culturally rich neighborhood has tons to offer, including some of the best soul and comfort food restaurants such as:

• Sylvia’s
• Red Rooster
• Melba’s

You can also click here to book a fun local tour of Harlem!

29. Shop a sample sale

New York is known for its great shopping, but skip the expensive designer stores of Fifth Avenue and hit a sample sale instead. Sample sales are a great way to score designer clothing at a steep discount. Here is a calendar to help you find a few you’re interested in.

30. Visit El Museo del Barrio

El Museo del Barrio is a museum of Latin American and Caribbean art. It’s part of Upper East Side’s “Museum Mile”, making it easy to visit other nearby cultural institutions, too.

31. Eat your way around Chelsea Market

Chelsea Market is a large indoor food hall in the Meatpacking District. While tourists certainly visit, it’s a local favorite as well, thanks to the dozens of food vendors to choose from.

Oh, and there is a rich history to explore here, too. In fact, this used to be the Nabisco Factory and was the birthplace of the Oreo Cookie!

Along with food, you can shop local makers at Artists & Fleas, immerse yourself in a moving art installation at Artechouse, see a show at Chelsea Music Hall, and more.

32. Walk the Manhattan Bridge

While the Brooklyn Bridge is undeniably gorgeous and a uniquely New York attraction , it’s also incredibly touristy, thanks to the fact that it’s famous and is also one of the best places to take pictures in NYC .

Luckily, if you’re looking to explore non-touristy NYC, there are alternative options — like the Manhattan Bridge, which offers a view of the Brooklyn Bridge, or the more industrial-looking Williamsburg Bridge .

Here is a short video sharing what walking across the Manhattan Bridge is like:

33. Bike the George Washington Bridge

Prefer to cycle? Biking the George Washington Bridge is a fun and scenic experience that takes you from Manhattan to New Jersey’s Palisades Interstate Park. The Palisades connects smaller parks, one of which is the beautiful 33-acre clifftop Fort Lee Historic Park.

Non-Touristy Things To Do In Brooklyn

Brooklyn is another popular borough in New York . Here are some of the best NYC non-tourist attractions that can be found in Brooklyn:

34. See (& paint) street art in Bushwick

Bushwick is one of Brooklyn’s best neighborhoods for art, especially public street art and graffiti. You can easily spend a couple hours on foot exploring this artistic neighborhood.

Feeling inspired? You can take a graffiti lesson to create your own street art. It’s one of the most fun things to do in Bushwick !

35. Eat at DeKalb Market Hall

DeKalb Market Hall is an indoor food hall located in Downtown Brooklyn . With over 40 food vendors, you won’t go hungry here.

36. Stroll the Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Strolling the Brooklyn Heights Promenade is one of the best non touristy things to do in NYC.

Brooklyn Heights is a charming residential neighborhood filled with brownstones and leafy green trees.

The Brooklyn Heights Promenade runs along the waterfront and offers some of the best views in NYC , particularly of the Manhattan skyline. It’s the perfect place to go for a walk on a nice day, especially since it also connects to Brooklyn Bridge Park in DUMBO for even more incredible views.

37. Relax in Prospect Park

Manhattan might have Central Park, but Brooklyn has Prospect Park. Hanging out in this sprawling oasis is one of the best things to do in NYC that are not for tourists. You’ll find tons of locals hanging out with friends and enjoying a picnic on sunny days.

Bonus: as with Central Park — which has the same designer and architect — you’ll also find loads of attractions within the park.

38. Hunt for treasures at Brooklyn Flea

Love vintage shopping? Head to Brooklyn Flea , a large weekend flea market in DUMBO where you can browse vintage clothing, furniture, art, and antiques. Note that this market also has a location in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood.

39. Check out Green-Wood Cemetery

One of the more unusual things to do in New York City is visiting Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn. This historic cemetery is the final resting place of many famous New Yorkers like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Leonard Bernstein, and is surprisingly beautiful. Explore their self-guided resources and group tours here .

40. Explore the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

One of the most tranquil places in New York is the Brooklyn Botanic Garden , which is open year-round. It is among one of the underrated things to do in New York.

You can catch spring blooms, fall foliage, and a special winter lights display.

Love hot food? Their annual Chile Pepper Festival is a must, with live music, spicy samples, and a spicy chocolate village.

41. Visit a rooftop farm

Looking for more NYC off-the-beaten-path spots?

You wouldn’t expect to find a working farm in New York City, but that’s exactly what Brooklyn Grange is! This urban rooftop farm offers yoga, events, and tours that shed light on their operations and sustainability efforts.

42. Check out the Brooklyn Museum

While Manhattan is better known for having great museums, Brooklyn has its fair share too. The Brooklyn Museum is an incredible art museum that is the third-largest in New York City. Dating back to the 1820s, their permanent collection includes Arts of Africa, Arts of the Islamic World, Decorative Arts, Contemporary Art, and American Art.

43. Feast at Smorgasburg

Smorgasburg is an outdoor food market that happens in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn, as well as several other locations. The market features creative and inventive food from all around the city in one place.

Williamsburg also hosts some of the best Brooklyn walking food tours if you’d like to continue eating!

44. Sip wine at Rooftop Reds

Rooftop Reds is the world’s first rooftop vineyard — and it’s located right in the Brooklyn Navy Yard! Sip a glass or opt for a flight while taking in epic skyline views.

45. Visit the City Reliquary

One of the more unusual things to do in NYC is visiting the City Reliquary, one of the most fun things to do in Williamsburg, Brooklyn . Along with putting on rotating exhibitions that promote local stories and makers, this offbeat museum displays quirky NYC artifacts like L-train paint fragments, a decaying birthday cake, vintage signs, and more. This is certainly one of the more weird NYC attractions — in a good way!

46. Get some sun at Coney Island

Coney Island is a waterfront neighborhood in Brooklyn that is home to a popular beach and amusement park. This has long been a popular weekend getaway for New Yorkers during the summer.

Pro tip: if you can time your visit to align with the annual Mermaid Parade, you won’t regret it, as it’s the largest art parade in the United States .

Non-Touristy Things To Do In Queens

Queens is the most diverse borough in NYC and is home to many offbeat New York City attractions. Here are some of the best things to do in Queens .

47. Surf at Rockaway Beach

Did you know it’s possible to go surfing in New York City? It’s true! One of the most offbeat things to do in NYC is go surfing at Rockaway Beach in Queens, the city’s only legal surfing beach.

Can’t surf? Don’t worry, there are also stretches of beach with gentler waves along the Rockaway Peninsula. One pick is Jacob Riis Park, a gay and topless beach with soft sand and a party atmosphere.

48. Check out Socrates Sculpture Park

Located in the Long Island City neighborhood of Queens , Socrates Sculpture Park is an awesome free attraction. It’s a beautiful park featuring large-scale sculpture and multimedia installations.

49. Explore the Flushing Chinatown

The Chinatown neighborhood of Manhattan is very popular, but it is often overrun with tourists; however, Queens is home to another even large Chinatown in Flushing. This authentic and diverse neighborhood is home to tons of great food, shopping, and the popular Queens Night Market.

You can also book a food tour of Flushing to have a local show you the best spots to eat while sharing the fascinating history of the area.

50. Visit the Queens Museum

The Queens Museum is a hidden gem when it comes to New York City cultural institutions. This visual arts museum houses an impressive collection, and is completely free to visit.

51. Visit the Noguchi Museum

Another excellent museum that’s part of the vibrant arts scene in Queens is the Noguchi Museum , which is dedicated to the works of Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi.

52. Relax at Gantry Plaza State Park

Gantry Plaza State Park is a waterfront park that offers ample space and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline from Queens . It’s a great spot to sit and relax on a nice day, or even enjoy some great NYC views at night when the skyline is lit up.

53. Visit the MoMA PS1

The Museum of Modern Art in Manhattan is one of New York’s most popular museums for tourists to visit; but MoMA PS1 — the museum’s branch in Queens that is housed in a former public school — is one of the most underrated places in NYC for contemporary works. Additionally, if visiting in the summer don’t miss their “Warm Up” series for live outdoor music.

Non-Touristy Things To Do In The Bronx

The Bronx is another one of New York City’s boroughs that is often skipped by tourists — unless they are going to a Yankees game; however, this borough has more to offer than just baseball. Here are some unusual places to visit in New York City that can be found in The Bronx:

54. Check out the Bronx’s Little Italy

While Little Italy in Manhattan used to be a real Italian neighborhood, it’s now more known for overpriced tourist traps than authentic Italian food.

Luckily, Arthur Avenue in The Bronx fills the gap by showcasing what Little Italy in Manhattan used to be. This Italian-American neighborhood is still very authentic and home to many delicious Italian restaurants.

Pro tip: don’t miss the fresh mozzarella at Joe’s Italian Deli. Delicious!

55. Eat your way through the Bronx Night Market

Another activity foodies will love is visiting the Bronx Night Market , an outdoor food market that also showcases live music, arts and crafts vendors, art installations, and family fun.

56. Relax at Wave Hill

Wave Hill is one of the most peaceful and beautiful places in The Bronx. These beautiful public gardens along the Hudson River in the Riverdale neighborhood will make you feel like you’ve been transported out of the city entirely.

57. Visit NYC’s largest park at Pelham Bay Park

If you thought Central Park in Manhattan’s Upper East Side was NYC’s largest public park, think again. Actually, at 843 acres, Central Park clocks in at number five in terms of size.

The largest public park is actually Pelham Bay Park in The Bronx at 2,772 acres. Here you can hike the local trails (keep your eyes out for deer!), explore the historic Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum, play a round at the Pelham Bay & Split Rock Golf Courses, sunbathe at Orchard Beach, and more.

This New York City off the beaten path location won’t disappoint you!

58. Explore City Island

On a small island next to The Bronx, you’ll find City Island — a neighborhood that feels a world apart from the rest of NYC. With its quaint cottages, lighthouses, seafood restaurants, and marinas, the vibe is more that of a coastal New England town than typical New York City.

59. Check out the Bronx Museum

The Bronx is home to several world-class museums, including the Bronx Museum of the Arts , which is home to various contemporary art exhibitions and over 2,000 works.

60. Visit the New York Botanical Garden

For more tranquil gardens, you can’t miss the New York Botanical Garden in The Bronx. This sprawling garden — which is also home to waterfalls — is the perfect place to spend a sunny weekend day.

Non-Touristy Things To Do On Staten Island

Almost everything you do on Staten Island can be considered non-touristy, because this is New York City’s least-visited borough. Here are some offbeat things to do on Staten Island :

61. Enjoy the cooking of global grandmas

Looking for the best non-touristy places to eat in NYC? At Enoteca Maria , one of the more unique restaurants in New York , nonnas (grandmothers) take center stage.

Nobody cooks better than grandma, and here you can savor organic meals cooked by grandmothers from around the world — from Italy to Japan and beyond.

62. Visit the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden

A highlight of Staten Island is the beautiful and tranquil Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden . With seasonal gardens, a heritage farm, and visual and performing arts programming, you can easily spend hours exploring.

63. Go back in time in Historic Richmond Town

One of the most offbeat things to do in New York City is visiting Historic Richmond Town , a living-history village and museum complex that features restored buildings dating back to the late 1600s and actors helping to bring history to life.

64. Ride the Staten Island Ferry

If you’re wondering what to do in NYC that is also free, the Staten Island ferry connects Manhattan to Staten Island and offers great views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. Best of all, it’s completely free to ride, and you can take beer on board for a DIY cruise or romantic NYC experience .

Tips For Finding The Best Non-Touristy Things To Do In NYC

While this list provides a great starting point for going beyond your guidebook and exploring New York like a local, here is some additional advice for finding the top not-touristy things to do in NYC:

Subscribe to New York City newsletters. These are typically written by locals and share cool non-touristy things to do in NYC from events to pop-ups and beyond. A few to check out include The Skint , Secret NYC , Bucketlisters NYC , and Nonsense NYC , all of which share things to do in NYC for locals.

Research your interests. No matter what niche interest you may have, you’ll likely be able to explore it in NYC through museums, classes, and experiences. This is also true if you’re looking for New York’s more unusual places, as there are plenty!

Look for alternative things to do in NYC. If everyone is walking the Brooklyn Bridge, try walking the Manhattan Bridge or the Williamsburg Bridge instead. Or if you hear the Top of the Rock offers a great view, opt for something more secret — like the rooftop at the Kimberly Hotel, which is also perfect for those looking to explore New York after midnight . Actively seeking out alternatives to popular options can help you have a unique NYC experience.

Wander without a plan. You can walk for hours in New York City without getting bored, as there is something to see on every corner. If you really want to explore NYC like a local, pick an interesting neighborhood to wander like SoHo or Long Island City and see what you discover.

Unique Tours In NYC

Looking for unique things to do in New York City? The following tours can help take you beyond the guidebook:

• Private NYC Photo Tours & Custom Shoots (Jessie’s company!)
• Second-Hand & Vintage Shopping Tours in NYC
• Secrets of Central Park
• NYC Salsa & Latin Dancing Experience
• Cupcake Walking Tour in NYC
• NYC Lower East Side Culture & Food Tastings Tour
• High Line Park & Greenwich Village Food Tour

➡️ Click here for a full list of NYC tours!

Best Hotels In NYC

Looking to stay overnight in NYC? There are so many incredible hotels, like NoMo SoHo , the  Arlo Williamsburg , and The Ludlow .

➡️ Click here for a full list of New York City hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

➡️ Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays. It is set to SoHo, but you can easily change it to your specific NYC neighborhood.

And if you’re interested in  living in a hotel in NYC , there are numerous extended stay hotel options too!

Travel Insurance For NYC

When visiting New York City—or anywhere else in the world—it’s wise to get travel insurance.

For this, I have two recommendations:

SafetyWing . If you’re looking for something straightforward and budget-friendly, you can’t beat SafetyWing. They offer one global policy that you can cancel at any time or continue paying for long-term coverage (making it the perfect option for digital nomads!).

Their plan includes medical coverage, trip interruptions, personal liability, unplanned overnight stays, lost luggage, and more.

World Nomads . For something more comprehensive, World Nomads is a great option. While you’ll pay a bit more, you’ll typically get higher coverage maximums as well as additional inclusions—like trip cancellation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Non-Touristy Things To Do In NYC

Q) what part of manhattan is the least visited by tourists.

Roosevelt Island is one of the least visited parts of Manhattan by tourists.

Q) What do locals do in NYC?

Locals usually visit the parks, brunch with friends, explore lesser-known museums, go for urban hikes, or watch off-Broadway shows.

What non-touristy things to do in NYC would you add to this list?

Enjoyed this guide to off the beaten path things to do in NYC ? Pin these New York alternative things to do for later!

Related posts:

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14 Best Non-Touristy Cities and Towns in Italy You Must Visit Before They’re Crowded

Traveling to Italy and want to escape the notorious crowds in most famous Italian destinations? We’ve got a list of the best non-touristy cities and towns in Italy you should visit before they’re crowded.

Given that Italy is one of the most popular countries for tourists across the globe, the excessive numbers of attactions here are seriously overwhelming. Every destination is better than the last, what with its powerhouse cities such as Rome , Florence , Venice, and Milan – and there’s also the fabulous Italian Riviera.

All these popular destinations are nice to visit – after all, they’re popular for a reason! – but it’s so much nicer to have a destination all to yourself. This allows for seeing a bit more of the “real” side of Italy.

While these major destinations are all must-visits on your grand Italian vacation, many other great points of interest get overlooked. Know that Italy is a perfect place for lucky finds – you just gotta know where to look!

Let’s guide you to these perfect finds – the best non-touristy cities and towns in Italy.

Table of Contents

14 Best Non-Touristy Cities and Towns in Italy

From the advantages of art, architecture, and history to great food and wonders of nature, here are 14 of the best non-touristy cities and towns in Italy you must visit before they get too crowded.

1. Pitigliano, Tuscany

This quaint old Tuscan town is built on a mountain of lava. As it literally clings to the cliff face of the tuffaceous rock, Pitigliano is truly a paradise for vloggers and photographers.

There are plenty of lanes and labyrinth vicoli to explore, with houses in most improbable positions. And although a bit steep, the historical center of this non-touristy Italian town is an easy walk. You can relax and enjoy the views of the valley below in the terrace of one of the restaurants.

There is nothing quite like the experience you can get from visiting Pitigliano. A real treat for those who prefer the non-touristy cities and towns in Italy.

2. Tropea, Calabria

Legend says that Hercules founded the non-touristy Italian town of Tropea, an area on Italy’s west coast that’s noted for producing the prized red onions called cipolle di Tropea (Tropea onions) that are well-known in Italy.

Tropea is an old fortified town that is perched on the cliffs overlooking splendid beaches and the stunning Tyrrhenian Sea. The sea alone is a great reason to visit Tropea. However, the place offers so much more.

Like all the other towns on the Amalfi Coast, beautiful sandy beaches await you beneath the picturesque cliffs. It’s the best place to enjoy sunset with calzone or cipolla gelato . That’s right, it’s onion gelato – one of the not-to-be-missed when visiting Tropea and its top restaurants .

You also shouldn’t miss Cattedrale di Maria Santissima di Romania, a 12th-century cathedral built on a former Byzantine cemetery. It features marble sarcophagi and a painting of the Madonna of Romania.

3. Bergamo, Lombardy

Situated in the alpine region of Lombardy , Bergamo is just about 30 km. from the Swiss border and some 40 km. northeast of Milan. This stunning city is a treasure of Northern Italy.

Its upper town, the Città Alta, is encompassed by a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the massive Venetian defensive systems . The view from high up is fantastic. The old town offers ample opportunity to dander through the old narrow streets. It’s connected to the lower city, the Bassa, by walking trails and a funicular.

Bergamo houses the quirky mausoleum of the world famous juggler Rastelli, historic sites like palaces and churches, and a shopping district. It’s truly one of those quaint little non-touristy towns in Italy that is absolutely well-worth a visit.

If you’re visiting the city and need a place to eat, check out the best restaurants in Bergamo !

4. Bolzano, South Tyrol

Bolzano is a gateway to the super-impressive Dolomites in the Italian Alps, nestled in a valley amidst seemingly endless hills of vineyards.

This non-touristy Italian city in South Thyrol is distinctly Germanic since it has only been Italian during World War I, so you’ll see an incredible mix of the two cultural influences.

Bolzano is home to the famous Neolithic mummy, Ötzi the Iceman, who lived in circa 3300 BC. You can “meet” him at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, in the vicinity of the Duomo di Bolzano and Mareccio Castle.

The city center is a good place for some delicious bakeries and other various foods, with spectacular views as an added treat.

• ALSO READ : 9 Prettiest Villages in the Dolomites You Should Visit or Stay In

5. Ferrara, Emilia-Romagna

While its convenient location between Venice and Bologna makes it easy to reach, Ferrara is still relatively off the beaten track of tourists.

Ferrara has been designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its beauty and cultural significance. It is one of Europe’ capitals of culture, arts, politics, and gastronomy. It is also a reference point for artists, poets, and minstrels.

Ferrara boasts numerous Renaissance palaces that its former rules, the Estes, had built. The city’s historic center is well-preserved and easy to visit. This is a must if you want a nice view of the evolution from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.

This beautiful medieval city is a treasure trove of cultural and historical delights, with little streets you will have fun getting lost in. It’s an absolute must in your itinerary, especially if you want to explore some non-touristy cities and towns in Italy’s north.

6. Cagliari, Sardinia

Cagliari is built upon several hills so you can imagine the views from up there. This non-touristy Italian city has been the capital of Sardinia for centuries. It is also the island region’s largest city.

Cagliari is famous for its diverse Art Nouveau architecture, several monuments, clear and pristine waters, and gorgeous stretches of coastline.

The place is vibrant and charming. You can find restaurants, especially pizzerias, in practically every corner. Within the city limits is the 5-mile-long Poetto Beach, which is among the best on the Mediterranean.

For culture and history buffs, you will love Castello, the city’s medieval district that’s still guarded by 13th-century towers.

One of the most exciting non-touristy cities and towns in Italy, Cagliari offers the perfect combination of recreation and exploration activities – Cagliari has it all!

• ALSO READ: 10 Best Beaches in Sardinia, Italy

7. Matera , Basilicata

With its designation as a European Capital of Culture in 2019, Matera in the region of Basilicata has become Italy’s pride. It wasn’t always like this, though.

Some 50 years ago, Matera was maligned as “the shame of Italy” mainly due to the extremely poor living conditions of its cave-dwelling citizens. They lived among animals in the caves and had no running water and electricity, which led to diseases that hit the population until the place was evacuated in the early 1950s. Today these caves house shops, cafés, and hotels.

The little troglodyte city in Southern Italy came out of obscurity when the 2021 James Bond film No Time to Die featured it. Now the world wants to explore it.

Deemed as Italy’s magical city of stones, Matera is a fabulous non-touristy Italian town you should visit before it becomes crowded with visitors from all over the world. Its fantastic setting and intriguing history, added by its exquisite cuisine, make Matera a must-visit in Italy.

• MUST-READ: The City of Caves: Your Best Guide to Matera, Italy

8. Ostuni, Puglia

Known for its whitewashed old town, Ostuni is in the heart of the Puglia region, situated in the heel of the “boot.” The city consists of a series of levels, staircases, arches, and small streets and alleys that lead to corners that have traces of the Middle Ages.

Like so many other historical towns and villages in Italy, walking around in Ostuni’s historic center feels like being there in the past. It’s a delight to wander around and get lost in the city’s nooks and crannies (which are many). You can see olive trees all over the city, so remember to buy their high-quality olive oil.

The non-touristy Italian city is beginning to be popular among day trippers, so visit before it gets too crowded.

9. Sant’Angelo, Isola d’Ischia, Campania

The village of Sant’Angelo is on the south coast of the Isola d’Ischia, a mountainous volcanic island that’s part of the Campanian Archipelago.

Ischia is the largest of those pretty islands in the Bay of Naples with fantastic sceneries of rolling hills and rocky beaches. While the island is famous for thermal spas and natural springs, it attracts only a fraction of the summer day-trippers from Naples who are actually headed for Capri. So the best time to visit is now, before this non-touristy Italian town gets crowded.

Towered over by the beautiful Mount Epomeo, Sant’Angelo offers authentic Italian village experience. From superb seafood dishes at the village’s charming restaurants to ultimate relaxation at curative spas and long stretches of secluded beaches – this colorful borgo won’t disappoint!

10. Turin , Piedmont

Best-known for the Holy Shroud and white truffles, Turin (Torino in Italian) is the capital city of the region of Piedmont in the northwest of Italy.

It is one of the country’s renowned cities and also its first capital city before the national headquarters transferred to Rome.

Turin is embellished with palaces and elegant architecture. It has been a center of European culture for centuries, offering attractions of great artistic and cultural values.

Turin is one of the most interesting non-touristy cities in Italy, although it often serves just as the springboard to ski resorts in the Alps.

Turin also takes pride in sports cars and chocolate, as well as the world’s most impressive collections of Egyptian artifacts.

Turin is also where you can find the best coffee in all of Italy. Check out the best restaurants in the city when you visit!

11. Trieste, Friuli-Venezia Giulia

While Trieste is a prosperous trading hub in the Mediterranean, this non-touristy city in Italy has yet to be crowded with a lot of tourists.

This charming seaside port city serves more of a stopover for most visitors headed to somewhere else. After all, it’s nestled right up against the border to Slovenia, just about 40 minutes to Piran and a little over an hour to the capital, Ljubljana. Zagreb in Croatia is also just 2.5 hours away.

However, the capital city of Friuli-Venezia Giulia offers more than that with its mixture of history and heritage that sets it apart from the rest of Italy. The city is in the easternmost tip of Italy with Italian, Austro-Hungarian, and Slovenian influences all evident in its layout.

Trieste takes pride in being home to one of the country’s largest coffee brands and the Mediterranean’s biggest coffee port, castles , and seafood-based Mediterranean dishes, as well as stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

12. Orvieto, Umbria

Orvieto is a city perched on the flat peak of a large butte of volcanic tuff, rising dramatically above the nearly-upright faces of tuff cliffs. So, imagine the spectacular views!

But this still non-touristy Italian city has more to offer than views, no matter how fabulous they are.

The site where Orvieto stands today was once an Etruscan acropolis. This is attested to by an incredible underground cave network which you can (and should) visit.

There’s also the Duomo di Orvieto that dates to 1290, imposing with its mosaic façade and a marble Pietà sculpture.

The 16th-century well shaft called the Pozzo di San Patrizio (“Saint Patrick’s Well”) is an absolute must-experience in Orvieto. Be prepared to tackle a lot of stairs, though! 248 steps, to be exact. But you’ll be rewarded when you hit the bottom of the well, where the water is so still and clear you’d think it’s not real.

13. Cefalù, Sicily

Cefalù was built by the Normans in the 12th century, located on the Tyrrhenian coast of Sicily . The city is dominated by the “promontory of Hercules,” a 270-meter high monumental rock on which the Temple of Diana stands. So the backdrop says it all.

Most visitors come to Cefalù for the beautiful beach , so no doubt this is a popular holiday destination.

However, compared to other major Italian cities, Cefalù is not given the proper attention it deserves from tourists. But if you’re looking for non-touristy cities and towns in Italy, this is one of the best ones you could go to.

This Sicilian city is not all about the stunning beach and vivid blue Thyrrhenian waters. Cefalù is also famous for having some of the most precious Byzantine mosaics in the world.

It is a great place for walking, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops along the charming cobbled streets.

Cefalù also has a Gothic cathedral, ancient ruins, and of course – the breathtaking views over the town, the sea and the wooded mountains.

14. Civita di Bagnoregio, Lazio

Less than 2 hours from Rome is the fantastic Civita di Bagnoregio, part of the province of Viterbo in Lazio . It’s a suburb of the comune of Bagnoregio, the nearest town, and can only be reached via footbridge from the latter.

An ornate gateway to Civita is guarded by a variety of cats bathing in the sun. Inside the village, you’ll have fun strolling the warren of tiny streets and alleys that will either lead you to viewpoints or private dwellings. The buildings are pretty; however, the real attraction of this non-touristy Italian town is the amazing views from up there.

Civita is so rare because of its location. It’s on a slim bluff of land rising up from the valley floor, cut off from Bagnoregio – and, heck, the rest of Italy and the world – by a small canyon.

Civita di Bagnoregio is famously known as “the dying city” because the hill it’s built on is progressively being eroded, hence, the threat that the village could disappear. So hurry up before it’s gone – or crowded!

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• 1 Café Méricourt
• 2 La Planque Hotel
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• 10 La Cave de Septime

You’re Not A Tourist: Paris

American author Henry Miller was right on the money when he said, “To know Paris is to know a great deal.” But what happens when you know—quite intimately (by trip three or four)—the city’s every tourist attraction? That’s when you put down the guidebooks and follow the locals to their favorite haunts. Here, the newest jewel-box properties, long-adored arthouse cinemas, ultra-curated concept stores, and more. Bon voyage , Jetsetters!

A Brooklyn-based writer and editor, Chelsea's work has appeared in Matador Network, The Huffington Post, the TripAdvisor blog, and more. When not planning her next trip, you'll usually find her drinking way too much iced coffee (always iced—she’s from New England) or bingeing a Netflix original series.

See recent posts by Chelsea Stuart

Café Méricourt

When this airy, design-forward café opened its doors in 2017, it had a major leg to lean on: the high praise of its sister establishment, Café Oberkampf. Its interior is the stuff of Instagram dreams: stark white walls, shelves of potted succulents, and pastel paintings all for sale. The hip spot instantly made a name for itself among native Parisians courtesy of dishes you wouldn’t typically find in other patisseries or boulangeries—we're talking shakshuka, orange blossom ricotta pancakes, and brioche BECs slathered with chili jam. Let's not forget their extensive menu of specialty French roasts—something you’d be equally hard-pressed to find at any neighboring shop.

TOUR TO BOOK: Interested to see the inner workings of a real boulangerie ? On this one-hour insider tour of a famous Parisian bakery, you'll go behind the scenes and learn a few secrets to making proper French baguettes, cakes, and pastries—and leave with a freshly baked croissant and baguette to enjoy.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BpZr61tlkio/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

La Planque Hotel

When it opened in October 2018, La Planque chose to sell itself not as a hotel but as a guest house where sexy velvet headboards, vintage flea market finds, and a whole lot of jewel tones playfully collide. Situated between Canal Saint-Martin and equally trendy Belleville, the bobo 36-room boutique takes up residence in a former sweet shop and apartment building. Despite its tony interiors and enviable address, rooms start at just over 100 euros, so you can check in and take yourself out for drinks with cash to spare.

RELATED: The 10 Best Boutique Hotels in Paris

Those with a penchant for pasta will revel in Passerini ’s carb-forward menu. Dubbed the best Italian restaurant in Paris by both professional critics and couch commentators the internet over, Roman chef Giovanni Passerini’s handsome, minimalist trattoria doesn’t disappoint. If you can swing by during lunch hours, you’ll find a four-course menu (small plate, pasta, entrée, and dessert) for just 48 euros. In recent weeks, dishes have included fillet of stingray with miso and endives, casarecce lamb ragu with chard and pecorino, and pork loin with roasted carrots, cabbage, and bottarga ("Mediterranean" caviar).

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

If it’s your first or second trip to Paris, an afternoon spent in Jardin du Luxembourg or Jardin des Tuileries would in no way be a waste. However,  if you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, head for Parc des Buttes-Chaumont in northeast Paris. The Napoleon III-era, 61-acre expanse is full of grottos, waterfalls, temples, suspension bridges designed by Gustave Eiffel himself, and loads of indigenous and exotic foliage. Pack a picnic lunch—we're thinking baguettes and wine aplenty—and laze around the artificial lake for an afternoon of prime people-watching.

RELATED: 15 of the Most Romantic Things to Do in Paris

Musée Rodin

So you’ve descended into the Louvre via I.M. Pei’s pyramid and you’ve caught sight of Monet, Manet, and Degas masterpieces at Musée d'Orsay . Where next, you ask? Musée Rodin . The pioneering French sculptor may be best known for The Thinker (which is housed here), but the artist also produced thousands of other sculptures, drawings, and photographs in addition to maintaining an impressive personal collection that includes pieces from names like Van Gogh and Renoir. When it comes to admiring Rodin’s art, you have two different options: Hôtel Biron—the Paris-proper location that once served as his workshop, as well as his old home—or Villa des Brillants, which is situated just outside the city limits in Hauts-de-Seine.

Don’t let your inability to speak fluent French deter you from seeing a film in Paris. Thanks to VOSTFR screenings (original versions with French subtitles for locals), English-speaking visitors will find plenty of opportunity to hit the cinema. On Boulevard de Strasbourg in the city’s 10th arrondissement, Le Brady offers an intimate, arthouse alternative to multiplexes like UGC Cine Cite and MK2. With just two screens, the Art Deco theater shows a variety of indie, cult-classic, and contemporary features; recent events included a Lars Von Trier marathon and a shadow-casted, prop-filled screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show .  

RELATED: 25 Places in Paris You Really Shouldn't Miss

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La Régulière

If you’re a Paris first-timer, you may be surprised to spot a bookstore on nearly every corner. While Shakespeare & Co. is worth a visit at least once (it was a favorite haunt of Ezra Pound, Ernest Hemingway, and James Joyce), in the future, skip the queue and head to La Régulière , where graphic novels, comic books, and large coffee table titles mingle with macramé-strung hanging plants and wire memo boards packed with tote bags, postcards, and art prints. While you’re browsing, sip on a double espresso and munch on an artisanal pastry. Inspired by the art and written word all around you? Sign up for a workshop (stamp making; graphic art lessons); La Régulière hosts them every Saturday with the aid of local artists.

TOUR TO BOOK: Walk in the footsteps of Balzac, Sartre, Fitzgerald, and Wilde during this private, three-hour book lover's tour of Paris , which winds from the Latin Quarter to Saint Germain—home to two iconic literary cafés. 

What do you get when you cross the best parts of IKEA with a highly curated fashion boutique and a bookstore-cum-coffeeshop? Enter Merci , one of the dreamiest concept stores in Paris. Don't let the nondescript name fool you: the Haut-Marais hotspot is a treasure trove of au courant designer pieces from the likes of Alexander Wang, Solid & Striped, and Bang & Olufsen. Fair warning: if you’re not traveling with the deepest pocket, this may be a window-shopping-only destination. Still, it's worth the visit just to peruse the collections and grab a coffee.

Images Courtesy of Guilhem Vellut

Coulée verte René-Dumont

If you live in NYC or have visited a few times, you’re likely familiar with the High Line—an abandoned rail-line-cum-elevated-urban-park which hovers over Manhattan’s West Side from Gansevoort to 34th Street. In Paris’ 12th arrondissement, you’ll find the promenade’s predecessor, and the world’s very first elevated greenway: Coulée verte René-Dumont . Also known as the Promenade Plantée, the linear trail (devised by Philippe Mathieux and Jacques Vergely and built over the former Vincennes railway line) stretches from Opera Bastille to the Bois de Vincennes for nearly three miles. Take a stroll from start to finish and you’ll encounter hazelnut trees, cable footbridges, railway tunnels, and some of the city’s most modern buildings.

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La Cave de Septime

Chef Bertrand Grébaut’s Michelin-starred Septime may have opened back in 2011, but it’s still one of city’s hardest-to-score reservations. Rather than wait for a highly contested table or miss out on the perennially-packed spot altogether, head across the street to La Cave , the restaurant’s cozy satellite bar. There, you’ll find equally delectable charcuterie boards, unfussy cheese and anchovy plates, and natural wines that won’t run you more than 8 euro a glass.

RELATED: 10 Killer Restaurants to Try on Your Next Trip to Paris

What to Wear in Paris

Women’s satin mustard dress, shop the look.

Satin Tie Dress

Flowy Lapel Trench Coat

Petit Swarovski Imitation Necklace

Leather Half Moon Crossbody Bag

Shannon Knee-High Boots

Men’s fall outfit with plaid blazer.

Houndstooth Jacket

The Chore Pant

Polarized Sunglasses

Elbow Patch Structured Sweater

Chukka Boot

Stylish outfit for paris with green pants.

The Medium Transport Tote

Bow Knit Sweater

Check Pants

Loraine Loafers

Men’s plaid scarf for the fall.

Flecked Wool Tailored Coat

The Air Chino

Grey Black Red Plaid Scarf

Cotton Turtleneck Sweater

Men's Dress Chino Belt

Tweed blazer for women.

Buttons Tweed Blazer

Flared Jeans

Waverly Thong Pullover Body Suit

Leather Bucket Bag

• You’re Not A Tourist: New York City
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From Inwood Out

24 Non-Touristy Things to do in NYC (From a Local)

Michele · October 7, 2021 ·

[Updated April 28, 2023] Are you ready to veer off the beaten path to find non-touristy things to do in NYC ?

Of course, some attractions in New York City should not be missed. Everyone, for example, should lose themselves in the beautiful chaos of Times Square at least once in their lives. And don’t get me wrong, I love popular landmarks like the  High Line and Hudson Yards . They’re crowded for good reason! But after living in NYC for more than a decade, I also love exploring the hidden underbelly of the city.

Often, that means heading out of the most popular parts of the city and winding up at the edges of Manhattan in a neighborhood like Inwood , or in another borough altogether. 

One thing to note: visiting non-touristy places doesn’t always mean they’re not crowded! Plenty of attractions are off the typical tourist path but draw crowds from the neighborhood. However, I’ve done everything on this list and often had the venue either entirely to myself or was surrounded by local neighborhood folks who all seemed to know each other–just like a small town.

So…are you ready?

Maybe you’re on your third or fourth or tenth visit and are looking for a new adventure. Or maybe you’re a local, hoping to try something new. 

Whatever the case may be, please read on for 2 4  non-touristy things to do in New York City. You’ll find things to do in every borough.

Table of Contents

Non-Touristy Things to do in Manhattan

1. view rare art and manuscripts at the morgan library & museum.

It’s hard to say what’s more impressive here: the opulent décor at every turn or the rare manuscripts towering from floor to ceiling. 

Decide for yourself by checking out the galleries at the Morgan Library & Museum. The ornate East Room has glossy walnut bookshelves that reach an exquisitely painted ceiling. Among the rare books in this gallery is a Bible printed by Johannes Gutenberg in 1455.

Next, see handwritten manuscripts by Edgar Allan Poe and other literary masters of the 19th century in The Rotunda, decorated with intricate paintings, mosaics, and marble columns. And don’t miss Morgan’s personal study, accented in rich red silks and Renaissance paintings. 

J. Pierpont Morgan was a New York financier and investment banker. He was also an avid collector of art and rare books, favoring Medieval illuminated manuscripts (hand-written books with illustrations painted in shimmery gold, silver, or other rich colors), early printed books, old master drawings, and manuscripts handwritten by writers and composers from the Renaissance period onward. 

The Morgan Library & Museum started as Morgan’s personal library. The Italian Renaissance-style palazzo that is now the museum was built from 1902 to 1906 and was adjacent to his Madison Avenue townhouse. In 1924, Morgan’s son J.P. Morgan Jr. honored his father’s wishes of making the collection available for public viewing.

TIP: If you’re interested in the origins of the Morgan Library, I highly recommend The Personal Librarian , a novel about Belle da Costa Greene, the real-life librarian who played a large role in collecting and curating the rare materials on display at the museum today.

• Address: 225 Madison Ave., New York, NY
• See hours and admission
• Free Fridays: 5-7 p.m. Reservations required.
• Subway: 4, 5, 6, 7, or S trains to Grand Central Terminal

2. Relax Under the Gaze of Antique Statues at Elizabeth Street Garden  

A lush garden decorated with antique statues and ornamental architecture takes up just one acre of space in Manhattan’s SoHo neighborhood . Once a vacant lot filled with trash, the garden became a public space when art collector and gallery owner Allan Reiver leased the land, cleaned it up, and decorated it with his own art. 

Elizabeth Street Garden is a fraction of the size of Central Park and attracts only a fraction of visitors. Despite its small size, the garden offers an appealing post-shopping or post-brunch SoHo respite. Perfect for taking a leisurely afternoon stroll or spreading out a blanket for a couple hours of urban escape. 

• Location: Elizabeth St. between Prince & Spring Streets in Manhattan
• Subway: R/W to Prince St. Station. B/D/F/M to Broadway-Lafayette St. 6 to Spring St.

3. Learn About History, Heritage, and Immigration at the Museum of Chinese in America

Sure, The Met has 35,000 pieces of Asian art and artifacts. The collection is breathtaking in scale and alone worth a trip to the largest museum in the U.S. 

Lesser known but no less fascinating is the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA), located in Lower Manhattan’s Chinatown neighborhood. 

MOCA, like The Met, features art that showcases Chinese artistic traditions; however, this much smaller venue brings more into focus the lived experiences of Chinese people in America. The exhibits educate visitors on the long history of immigration from China to the United States, and describe the many contributions made by Chinese immigrants in the fields of film, science, aviation, agriculture and really, in the very foundation of this country’s infrastructure. 

Also on display is evidence of the struggles and hardships that Chinese immigrants and the Chinese American community have undergone because of racism and racist policies. 

MOCA’s tradition of bringing attention to injustice continues with their current exhibit, “Responses: Asian American Voices Resisting the Tides of Racism.” The exhibit responds to the most recent stream of violence occurring in America against people of Asian descent.

Visiting the Museum of Chinese in America is also a wonderful way to learn about New York’s immigration history .

• Address: 215 Centre Street, New York, NY
• Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible .
• Subway : N/Q/R/W to Canal St. 6 to Canal St. A/C/E to Canal St. B/D to Grand St

4. Frolic in the Formal Conservatory Garden in Central Park 

Whenever I visit the northern end of  Central Park , I am both delighted at how different it looks from the rest of the park and surprised at the solitude and silence that can be found in a metropolis like New York.

The Conservatory Garden is the most formal garden in Central Park, a fact that becomes apparent once you pass through the 20-foot-tall ornate iron and brass entrance gate. The gate was made in the 1890s and served as the entrance to a Fifth Avenue mansion owned by Cornelius Vanderbilt II. 

After entering Vanderbilt Gate, visitors will find three unique and immaculately landscaped gardens: the North Garden (French-style), the Center Garden (Italianate), and the South Garden (English-style). Decorating the landscape—depending on the time of year—are thousands of tulips and daffodils, a lovely wisteria pergola, whimsical fountains, and lilacs in white, pink, purple, and blue.

Once you’ve seen Central Park’s weekend crowds at Sheep Meadow, the runners at Onassis Reservoir, and a marriage proposal or two at Bow Bridge, head north to the solitude and elegance of the Conservatory Garden. 

• Address: 1233 Fifth Avenue (between 104th and 106th Streets), New York, NY
• Subway: 6 train to 103rd St. 2/3 to Central Park North (110th St.).

5. Attend an Event at an Ornate 1930s Movie Palace

If you attend an event at the United Palace in  Washington Heights , I recommend arriving early to give yourself time to gawk at all the incredible architectural wonders that this grand movie palace is made of. 

The lush gold-toned lobby alone is stunning, with Moroccan chandeliers hanging from the arched painted ceiling, and elephants, sea creatures, and deities carved into the woodwork. Inside the theater, you’ll marvel at the soaring arched ceiling and at the sheer size of the theater, which seats more than 3,000 people.

United Palace was built in 1930 as one of Loew’s Wonder Theatres. It was a vaudeville house and movie theater and had seats for more than 3,000 people.

Now serves the community in the best way: by offering a regular program of movies, concerts, and events that are of interest to the local uptown community. The Movies at United Palace program is an annual series that features popular films followed by Lin-Manuel Miranda in conversation with film makers and actors.

These events are sponsored by the Miranda Family Fund (and New York-Presbyterian Hospital) and are FREE to the public. Note that advanced tickets are required, and they go very quickly!

If you’d like a more in-depth experience, I recommend a guided tour , offered monthly at United Palace. We took the Happy Hour Historical Tour , where guests are treated to a beer or glass of wine during the 90-minute tour. Keep an eye on all upcoming events .

As an exciting side note, for the first time ever, United Palace will host the 2023 Tony Awards on June 11!

• Address: 4140 Broadway (at 176th St.), New York, NY
• Subway: A train to 175th Street Station; 1 train to 181st Street Station

6. Satisfy Your Hunger at Northend Food Hall

Not that you need food as a   special reason to go to Upper Manhattan but just in case you do, here’s a good one!

Northend Food Hall is located in Washington Heights. Lots of seating is available inside the industrial-chic food hall, where patrons can order specialty cocktails, wine, and beer, and creative takes on pub comfort food from Harlem Public. In addition to Northend Bar , there are currently three food vendors at Northend Food Hall: Harlem Public , La Chula Taqueria , and Wahizza Pizza .

• Address: 4300 Broadway (between 183rd and 184th Streets), New York, NY
• Subway: A or 1 to 181 St.

7. Head to Uptown Night Market for a Taste of Local Food, Music, and Fun

If you like your food markets outdoors and with live music, the seasonal Uptown Night Market in Harlem  is a must. The market aims to celebrate community and culture and features food prepared by local Harlem restaurants and chefs. That means you get to try dishes from places like Fried Lasagna Mama , Butterfunk Biscuit Co ., and Dre’s Water Ice and Ice Cream . And it all takes place under the Harlem Arches in beautiful West Harlem.

Uptown Night Market takes place every second Thursday from April to October, from 4-10 p.m.

• Location : Under the arches on 12th. Ave. and 135th St. in Harlem.
• Subway: 1 to 137th St.

8. Watch a Free Outdoor Movie in Inwood

When the sun sets on a summer evening in New York City, there’s a good chance that somewhere, a movie screen flickers to life in the fading daylight, while an audience settles on their blankets or adjusts their chairs, ready to watch whatever free film is on the screen that week. 

To escape the crowds that places like Bryant Park draw during their summer film series, consider heading to Inwood in Upper Manhattan. Not only will you take part in a very local New York experience, you’ll also attend the city’s only bilingual summer film series, known as Film Works Alfresco .

The event is made possible through Inwood Art Works, a local non-profit agency that strives to highlight the arts and artists of Upper Manhattan. (For more information, read my interview with the founder of Inwood Art Works). 

This summer event is as local as it gets. Live music performed, by local musicians and on theme with the evening’s film, play a set or two before the sun goes down, and the movies, in a nod to Inwood’s Spanish-speaking community, alternate between Spanish one week and English the next, always with subtitles in the other language. 

Movies will be shown under a covered space at The Hudson , a restaurant located on the Hudson River at Dyckman Marina. 

• Address: The Hudson, 348 Dyckman Street, New York, NY
• Admission: FREE. Food and beverages are available for purchase at The Hudson.
• See the Summer Film Works Alfresco schedule .

Non-touristy Things to do in the Bronx

9. tour the bronx’s oldest home, the van cortlandt house museum.

In mild weather, Van Cortlandt Park appears always in motion. A huge plot of land at the northwest corner of the Bronx, the park is a destination for runners, hikers, and players of group sports like soccer and cricket. 

On the contrary, the giant stone house that sits on the edge of the park is quiet, with few people going in or out. Van Cortlandt House Museum , a Georgian-style home that was built in 1748, is the oldest building in the Bronx and was also the very first house museum in New York City.

It was lived in continuously by members of the Van Cortlandt family for 140 years and visitors can tour the home to see how wealthy plantation owners lived throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. 

More significantly, the museum continues to research and bring to light the lived experiences of individuals who were enslaved by the Van Cortlandt family, the same individuals who built the house and made their wheat plantation—located where the park is now—operate successfully. 

Census records show that the family owned slaves for close to 120 years and now, thanks to the museum’s ongoing research, the lives of enslaved individuals are now part of the narrative history of the home.

Much like the Dyckman Farmhouse Museum in Inwood , these old homesteads are record-keepers of the history and development of New York, but now it’s becoming more possible to tell the stories of the enslaved individuals who made this growth possible. 

• Address: 6036 Broadway, Van Cortlandt Park, Bronx
• Subway: 1 to 242nd St.

10. Find Peace Among the Plants at Wave Hill Public Garden  

This relatively small public garden is located in a quiet corner of the Bronx; therefore, it’s less touristy than its splashy big sister, the New York Botanical Garden, also located in the Bronx. 

Wave Hill calls itself an urban oasis, a description that is obviously accurate immediately upon entering the gates, where woodland paths, stately old trees, and grand buildings greet visitors. Perched high above the Hudson River with the edges of the property sloping downward, the garden offers picturesque views with nearly every step.

The most scenic viewing point is at the Pergola, which acts as a picture frame from which to view the Palisades across the river. The rest of the garden is visually lovely, too, and manageable to see in one afternoon.

It’s satisfying to simply wander on the woodland trails or in the gardens, popping in and out of greenhouses that grow plants from varying climates such as alpine, desert, and tropical. To dig a little deeper, visitors can take a guided Garden Highlights Walk, occurring every Sunday at 2:00 p.m. Wave Hill also features special events with art exhibits, performances, and concerts.

The Café at Wave Hill serves sandwiches, salads, snacks, and beverages. 

• Address: 4900 Independence Ave., Bronx, NY
• Accessibility: Indoor spaces are accessible to all visitors. Areas of the garden that are less accessible are indicated on the Wave Hill map.
• See options for traveling to Wave Hill.

11. Spend a Day in the Sun at Orchard Beach

It took Matt and I the pandemic summer of 2020 to think outside the box and head to a beach other than Coney Island or Rockaway Beach. We found that it was not only closer to where we live, but a destination where we could spend a day swimming and walking on nature trails and then around sundown, head to nearby City Island for a fresh seafood meal.

Orchard Beach is 1.1 miles long and sits on the Long Island Sound. It’s the Bronx’s only public beach and when it was created in the 1930’s, it was called “The Riviera of New York.” There’s a pleasant promenade with public restrooms and snack bars, and lifeguards are on duty during the summer months.

Barbecue facilities are also available in specified areas. 

Orchard Beach draws large crowds on nice summer days but there’s usually plenty of room for everyone to spread out. If you need a break from the beach, lace up your sneakers and take a nature walk on the Kazimiroff Nature Trail, which meanders through the forest, out onto the rocky shore, and into the wetlands. NOTE: Bring insect repellent!

A huge parking lot is on site. The Bx29 bus also stops at Orchard Beach. 

• Location: On Long Island Sound in Pelham Bay Park, Bronx
• Season: Orchard Beach is open from Memorial Day-mid-September.
• Parking: $9.00 Monday-Friday. $11.00 on weekends and holidays.

12. Get Your Fill of Local Cuisine at the Bronx Night Market

Arthur Avenue, the Bronx’s Little Italy, is indisputably a popular food destination but to try an alternative food adventure in the Bronx, I recommend checking out the variety of vendors at the seasonal Bronx Night Market .

A wide range of cuisines are available in a relatively small space, making it the perfect opportunity to sample lots of food from the dozens of vendors. Try a plate of fried lasagna, Caribbean inspired tacos, Dominican barbecue, and so much more.

They also host occasional events with live music. The Bronx Night Market is also a great excuse to check out the lively neighborhood around Fordham Plaza.

• Address: 1 Fordham Plaza, Bronx, NY
• Season: Last Saturday of every month, from April-October. 1-7 p.m.
• Subway: D train or 4 train to Fordham Road.

Non-touristy Things to do in Brooklyn

13. come face to face with creatures at the new york aquarium  .

A 2018 news article announcing the exhibit called Ocean Wonder: Sharks stated that four out of five Aquarium visitors come from within only a ten-mile radius, confirming that most of the tourists are local visitors.

And for good reason.

The Aquarium is a neighborhood gem, especially since the completion of the 40-foot overhead tunnel loaded with sharks, fish, rays, and other marine animals straight from the Great Barrier Reef and Fiji.  

If you visit the New York Aquarium during the summer, you’ll be able to take advantage of the boardwalk, beach, and amusement rides of Coney Island. However, the Aquarium, which was originally founded at Castle Garden in Battery Park in 1896, is worth the subway ride any time of year. 

After strolling under the aquarium tunnel and communing with the sharks, tropical fish, and neon-colored eels, visit the penguins or check out a feeding of the sea lions in the Aquatheater. 

As you may be able to tell from our video, Coney Island is one of our favorite destinations in New York City!

• Address: 602 Surf Ave., Brooklyn, NY
• Accessibility: All aquarium buildings and exhibits are wheelchair accessible.
• Subway: Take the F or Q to West 8th St. Take the N or D to to Coney Island-Stillwell Ave.

14. Examine Cultural Relics at the City Reliquary  

Plenty of popular New York City museums will take you on a deep dive of the city’s history but for the most unusual take, check out the City Reliquary in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn. 

The venue is somehow both out in plain view but also inconspicuous enough that people passing by may not even be aware of what’s behind the closed doors.

What  is  behind those doors is hard to explain: A large center room holds most of the museum’s permanent collection and it’s packed to the rafters with various artifacts that represent New York at different times and places in history.

Old subway signs line the walls next to the antique straps that subway riders once held onto. Souvenirs from the 1939 World’s Fair, including a ticket, a postcard, and a keychain are framed under glass. There’s an endless number of Statue of Liberty statues in miniature. There’s a row of old-fashioned seltzer bottles lining a shelf beneath what appears to be a shrine to baseball legend Jackie Robinson.

If you have a curiosity for collectibles or quirky New York City memorabilia, or want a unique place to spend an hour in Brooklyn, be sure to visit this unusual venue. The City Reliquary also displays collections from the local community and hold events in their garden.

• Address: 370 Metropolitan Ave., Brooklyn, NY
• Hours: Saturday and Sunday noon-6 p.m.
• See admission
• Subway: G to Metropolitan Ave. L to Lorimer St. J/M/Z to Marcy Ave.

15. Get a Taste of Brooklyn at Dekalb Market Hall  

Brooklyn loves food markets, from the open-air Smorgasbord to the enclosed Time Out Market, both of which are popular venues with dozens of vendors selling a diverse variety of cuisines.

Both of the above markets are lucky to have waterfront locations. That is to say, they tend to, with good reason, get very crowded. If you want to escape the crowds, try Dekalb Market Hall as an alternative, an indoor food market located on the bottom floor of City Point, a residential and commercial building in downtown Brooklyn.

There are more than 40 vendors to choose from, all of which are meant to represent the diversity of Brooklyn and New York City.

I had a deeply satisfying meal of jerk chicken from Likkle More Jerk —it honestly tasted homemade-fresh—while Matt had fantastic bulgogi Poke Bowl from Wiki Wiki .  Both of us felt we’d eaten the best meals we’d had in a long time.

Seating is available throughout Dekalb Market Hall. Lots of wine, beer, and dessert vendors are also on location to round out your meal. See full list of vendors .

• Address: 445 Albee Square W, Brooklyn, NY (downstairs at City Point)
• Hours: Open Monday-Sunday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Breakfast vendors: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Accessibility: It’s possible to take an elevator to the bottom floor at City Point, where Dekalb Market Hall is located.
• Subway: 2/3 to Hoyt St. B to Dekalb Ave. Q to Dekalb Ave. A/C to Jay St.-MetroTech.

16. Appreciate Artistic Talent at Bushwick Collective Street Art Gallery

There is no shortage of  street art across the boroughs of New York but there’s no place like Bushwick, where colorful murals adorn the walls of dozens of neighborhood buildings. The open-air gallery known as the Bushwick Collective has been displaying street art for a decade now, and artists come from around the world to show off their talent and skill. 

This is a popular attraction that does tend to draw a lot of people, especially every summer during the annual Bushwick Collective Block Party. Fortunately, though, the murals are spread across nearly 100 blocks, making plenty of space for everyone.

For more information, read this guide on everything you need to know about visiting.

• Where to view street art: Take the L train to Jefferson Street Station. Many of the murals can be seen on Troutman Ave. between Cypress Ave. and Irving Ave. 

17. See Avant-garde Performances at Hip Brooklyn Venues

Some of my favorite early memories of living in New York are watching obscure theater performances that took place in dark basements in out-the-way locations around the city.

At the end of many of these shows, Matt and I often left unsure if we understood the plot, or the ending, or the message. But I was hooked. I felt like I’d stumbled onto an underground culture I’d never known about, one that made me understand that New York is place where people are buzzing with talent and where they’ll take action to bring that talent to light, even if the light is in a dark basement somewhere in the East Village.

So, yes, you must experience the razzle-dazzle of Broadway plays but after you do, consider getting off the beaten path for some really interesting live theater. 

Brooklyn happens to have a selection of venues that focus on inclusive, avant-garde performances by both emerging and established talent. Three of these venues are Bushwick Starr , the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), and St. Ann’s Warehouse .

These are not dank performance spaces of my early years in the city, but the energy of creativity is similar. Also the lighting is better and the seats are more comfortable!

I hope you are as pleasantly surprised as I was at how far and wide talent spreads throughout this city.

• Bushwick Starr: 419 Eldert St., Brooklyn, NY (currently in process of moving from this address)
• Brooklyn Academy of Music: 30 Lafayette Ave., Brooklyn, NY
• St. Ann’s Warehouse: 45 Water St., Brooklyn, NY

18. Sip Wine With a View at Rooftop Reds

Sipping wine on a vineyard-covered rooftop in Brooklyn is an experience you likely won’t share with a lot of other tourists! Located at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Rooftop Reds is certainly off the beaten path but worth the effort to get here for wine lovers and anyone looking for a unique outing. 

The urban rooftop vineyard was founded in 2016. On the rooftop are 42 planters that grow the grapes they harvest and then, in collaboration Point of the Bluff Vineyards, a  winery on Keuka Lake  in the Finger Lakes, produce their signature wine. The rooftop vineyard produces enough grapes for 20-25 cases of wine. The rest are sourced from the Finger Lakes. 

Rooftop Reds is open seasonally . Reservations are required and come with a fee of $10 and a specific time frame that must be adhered to. A light fare menu is available. 

Be sure to check the  calendar  for lots of special Rooftop Reds events. 

• Address: Brooklyn Navy Yard, 299 Sands St. Building 275, Brooklyn, NY. See more details on getting to Rooftop Reds
• Subway: F to York Street (then B67 Bus to Market St./9th Ave.). A/C to Jay St.-MetroTech (then B67 Bus to Market St./9th Ave.)

Non-Touristy Things to do in Queens

19. enjoy a mix of nature, history, and culture at flushing meadows corona park  .

Make no mistake—this is a busy, thriving park that’s popular with people who come to play soccer, and cricket, relax by the lake with a picnic, or get some exercise on one of the park’s scenic hiking trails. 

History buffs are also drawn here by the iconic Unisphere and other relics left over from the two World’s Fairs that were held here—first in 1939 and again in 1964. 

Flushing Meadows Corona Park is the largest park in Queens and while it’s an incredibly popular destination for local residents, it’s not particularly a tourist magnet (with the exception of special events like the U.S. Open).

One takeaway I’ve always gotten after visiting is that it’s an ideal glimpse into how much New Yorkers love and make constant use of the incomparable public parks we are blessed with throughout the city.

If you time your visit right, it might coincide with the seasonal Queens International Night Market , a large foodie event that showcases through cuisine and performing arts the incredible diversity that makes Queens the unique borough that it is.

• Location: Between Grand Central Pkwy and Van Wyck Expy, Flushing, Queens
• Subway: 7 train to Mets-Willet Point or 111 Street Station

20. Get a Birds-eye View of New York at the Queens Museum  

Also located in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, the Queens Museum is a significant historical landmark. The building that now houses the museum was used as an official pavilion for both the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs, and now visitors can peruse more than 10,000 objects that commemorate those events. 

The museum’s main attraction, which was built for the 1964 World’s Fair, is the Panorama of the City of New York, a rendering of New York City in miniature that turned out to be the most popular attraction at the fair. 

The 9,335 square-foot three-dimensional diorama is so life-like that visitors can spend hours spotting the city’s major bridges, skyscrapers, and landmarks, and waiting for the lighting to cycle from dawn to dusk to night, causing the miniature city to twinkle like it does in real life. 

You can even watch miniature planes landing at LaGuardia Airport, though don’t expect it to be the newly renovated LaGuardia–the panorama hasn’t been updated since 1992.

And beware: while this is the diorama that Fran Lebowitz tiptoed her way through in “Pretend It’s a City,” visitors must stand on an elevated ramp and view the mini-Big Apple from above. 

• Address: New York City Building, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens, NY
• Accessibility: Queens Museum is accessible to all visitors.
• Subway: 7 train to Mets-Willet Point

21. Visit a Jazz Legend at Louis Armstrong House Museum

Historic house museums are scattered throughout New York City and in my experience, they don’t usually attract huge crowds (except maybe  Alexander Hamilton’s home  around 2015, when the big Broadway musical debuted).

Usually they tend to be such gently visited places that I’ve often been the only tourist present. That was true for the home in Corona, Queens where Louis Armstrong and his wife Lucille Wilson lived together for 28 years, until Armstrong’s death in 1971.

The Louis Armstrong House Museum is now a National Historic Landmark and museum, allowing visitors to see the home and neighborhood that the couple loved so much. 

The only way to tour the home is with a guide, who will tell stories of the couple’s life, talk about Armstrong’s adoration of the neighborhood kids, and play recordings of Armstrong talking, sometimes with Lucille, and sometimes musing about his music and his life.

Visitors will also get to see how meticulous and stylish Lucille’s taste in décor was—the custom-made aquamarine kitchen is to die for. Also on display are photographs, souvenirs from the couple’s travels, and a painting of Armstrong done by a young and talented friend named Tony Bennet, who was a talented artist before he–like Armstrong–also became a household name for his music.

Photographs inside the Louis Armstrong House Museum are not allowed. 

• Address: 34-56 107th Street, Queens, NY
• Accessibility: Welcome Center and garden are wheelchair accessible. The historic house is not.
• Subway: 7 train to 103 St.-Corona Plaza

Non-Touristy Things to do in Staten Island

22. visit a site of historical lgbtq significance at the alice austen house museum.

This is a house museum that should be bursting at the seams with tourists but somehow isn’t.

At least not yet.

The Alice Austen House Museum tells the story of an independent woman who was born into a wealthy family in the Victorian era in New York City. Austen grew up on an estate in Staten Island that the family named  Clear Comfort  and when she was ten years old, her uncle gave her a camera he’d brought from Germany.

Austen taught herself how to use the camera and develop the photos and in her adult life she became one of the first female photographers in the country. 

But that’s only part of her story as a trailblazer. Austen took endless photos of her friends, many of which feature women wearing men’s clothes and vice versa, something that was unheard of in her conservative Gilded Age society .  

Austen was also in a lifelong relationship with Gertrude Tate and the couple lived in the house together for 30 years. They were eventually evicted after Austen lost her wealth in the stock market crash of 1929, but they remained committed to each other until Austen died in 1952. 

One of the goals of the Alice Austen House is to bring Austen’s 53-year relationship with Tate to the forefront of her life, rather than in the background where it hovered for many years after their deaths. In the past, Tate was often referred to as Austen’s “friend” whereas she was, essentially, her wife for more than half a century.

The property where the home now sits is a nationally designated site of LGBTQ history .

Visitors can tour the home and see much of the original furnishings and fixtures, as well as souvenirs that Austen and Tate picked up on their world travels.

Also on view are many of Austen’s photographs. She was known for her work in capturing images of New York’s immigrant population. She also took photos of the city’s immigrant quarantine stations in the 1890s. Alice Austen House is only offering pre-booked ticketed tours via their online scheduling platform.

• Address : 2 Hyland Blvd., Staten Island, NY
• Accessibility: The public areas of the museum are largely wheelchair accessible.
• How to get there: Staten Island Ferry to St. George Ferry Terminal. S51 bus to Bay St./Hylan Blvd. or S78 to Hylan Blvd./Vaughn St.

23. Contemplate Nature at the New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden  

Of all the non-touristy things to do in New York, this classical Chinese garden in Staten Island prompted my biggest “wow” moment. It is the most beautiful and the most serene garden I’ve seen in New York City. Where else in NYC can visitors sit and simply appreciate a setting made up of quiet streams of Koi fish, flowering plum trees, and intricate Chinese architecture? This garden is like nothing else I can think of anywhere nearby.

The New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden is modeled after gardens of the Ming Dynasty era. The space consists of several pavilions, bamboo pathways, stone bridges, and small cascading waterfalls.

At the entrance to the pavilion, visitors can take one of several informational cards on hand to help them identify things they’ll encounter, such as the meanings of the plants in the garden, translation of the calligraphy, and the architectural elements. 

It was from these cards that I learned that a Moon Gate is a symbol of the completeness of the universe. It also provides a changing view of the garden; the view changes depending on where you view the Moon Gate from. (See Moon Gate in above photo).

I also learned about Lingering in Clouds Peak which evokes an image of attaining lofty heights.

The New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden is located inside Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, which is also the site of the Staten Island Museum and the Staten Island Children’s Museum, so a solid full day or more could be made out an excursion. 

• Address: 1000 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY
• How to get there: Staten Island Ferry to St. George Ferry Terminal. S40 to Richmond Terr./Snug Harbor Rd. S44 bus to Henderson Ave./Westbury Ave.

24. Explore Little Sri Lanka in Staten Island 

If you’re on the island, it’s the ideal opportunity to learn about Sri Lankan culture at the many establishments that make up Little Sri Lanka. 

Searching for inner peace?

Visit Staten Island Buddhist Vihara , which was started by Sri Lankan Buddhists and is open for weekly meditation classes.

Curious about the country’s rich history?

Head to the Sri Lankan Art and Cultural Museum , which displays art and artifacts from Sri Lanka, which is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean.

The museum was founded by Julia Wijesinghe, who also happens to be the General Manager of Lakruwana , a Sri Lankan restaurant serving up traditional fare such as spicy lamprais wrapped in a banana leaf. The restaurant is owned by her father Lakruwana Wijesinghe and has been around since 1995.

What have I missed? I’m all about seeking out the non-touristy places in my city, so don’t hesitate to let me know your favorites!

Final Thoughts on Non-Touristy Things to Do in New York City

New York City is home to some of the most famous landmarks in the world and in my opinion, every one of them is worth a visit. But to really get to know the city in a more intimate way, you have to get adventurous and explore the neighborhoods and attractions that many tourists visit.

That adventurous spirit will lead you to a different version of the city, more of an off-the-beaten-path NYC . You’ll discover residential neighborhoods, cozy parks, and unique museums you’ll never forget.

When you’re planning your NYC vacation , don’t forget to leave time for paths less traveled!

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18 Fun Non-Touristy Things To Do In Paris For an Amazing Trip

Are you looking for things to do in Paris beyond what is mentioned in all the Paris guidebooks ? Then check out this list of the non-touristy things to do in Paris !

Paris has so much to offer but unfortunately, many people just visit the famous attractions and stop there! Trust me, as someone who lives in Paris and has roamed its streets more times than I can count, there’s so much more to see!

But I can understand why, I mean who wouldn’t want to take photos of the Eiffel Tower or see the famous Mona Lisa in the Louvre museum especially if they’re visiting Paris for the first time ?

Nevertheless, beyond all the popular things to do, there are so many non-touristy things to do in Paris! But being non-touristy doesn’t mean that they’re not worthy of your time! 

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From small gardens to hidden art galleries, my extensive strolls around the city have uncovered some true gems.

Of course, if you’re in Paris for a weekend or just a few days, you can stick to the famous landmarks but if you have more time or have visited the city countless times and you’ve exhausted all the popular places, I recommend taking the off the beaten path in Paris to see what the city offers past the usual attractions.

So if you’re ready to see what Paris has to offer beyond the charms of the Eiffel Tower, Sacre Coeur, or even the Louvre Museum, here are the non-touristy things to do in Paris you shouldn’t miss out on!

Before You Go, Here’s How to Plan Your Visit To Paris: Practical Quick Tips

WHERE TO STAY Best Eiffel Tower Views:  Hôtel Le Walt  (9.0) Luxury stay:  Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel  (8.2) Mid-range stay:  Hôtel Eiffel  (8.7) Budget Stay:  People – Paris Bercy  (8.9) Apartment Rental:  Résidence Charles Floquet  (9.1)  

BEST GUIDED TOURS Louvre Museum guided tour : (4.5/5) Seine River Dinner Cruise : (4.7/5) Montmartre Walking Tour : (4.8/5) Le Marais Walking Food Tour : (4.5/5) Versailles Guided Tour : (4.8/5) Eiffel Tower Guided Tour : (4.4/5) 

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Prepare your trip extensively with this Paris Travel guidebook .
• Don’t forget a universal travel adapter , a travel neck pouch , and comfortable walking shoes .
• Consider getting either the museum pass or the Paris city pass if you plan to visit many attractions. The city pass comes with free transportation and access to the hop-on-hop-off bus. You can read my Paris museum pass review to see if it’s right for you.
• Book this private transfer from CDG airport to Paris to avoid the hustle of figuring out how to get to Paris.

Psst… Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Non-touristy things to do in Paris

Whether you prefer taking a walk in a forest, seeing the most bizarre attractions, or even just exploring the city in the most unique way possible, here are the most unusual things to do in Paris that are guaranteed to give you a rare glimpse of Paris.

1. Admire Various Fish Species at The Aquarium de Paris 

Though it’s located in the Trocadero Gardens opposite the Eiffel Tower, not so many people know that Paris even has an aquarium!

This is partly because there is no real sign that talks about it and it’s underground! Add the fact that there is a restaurant in front of it, many people pass it without even realizing that there is something! 

Despite being hidden, it’s actually interesting and cool! The place has lots of beautiful fish species of various colors and forms and if you’ve never seen a shark, you’re in luck because there is plenty (50 to be exact)!

Plus, the aquarium has over 15 tanks dedicated to the exhibition of jellyfish which are a true wonder to look at!

It isn’t quite big but try to take your time and you’ll enjoy every tank display while watching thousands of fish swim away! And if you’re traveling to Paris with kids, this is one of the unique things to add to your Parisian bucket list .

>>> You can book your ticket to Aquarium de Paris from here to avoid waiting in queues <<<

2. Take a walk in Bois de Boulogne

Did you know that there is a forest in Paris? Probably not! Though not right in the middle of the city, Bois de Boulogne is located on the outskirts of Paris on the western edge of the 16th arrondissement but can be easily accessed! 

For those days you feel like connecting with nature, it’s the perfect place to go! It’s even perfect if you’re visiting Paris in the fall as the trees put on a beautiful display of fall colors!

The forest has well-marked pathways to walk in and some small rivers that create a sense of wilderness and calmness as you listen to the sound of water falling! 

But note that this place is for some reason associated with nudists! I hear there is a group of nudists who go there to express themselves freely!

Of course, they will not bother you and you can just ignore them as well if you find them! I didn’t see anyone the few times I’ve been to the forest but I heard it’s not uncommon to see some! 

3. Admire the architectural beauty of the Fondation Louis Vuitton Building

If you walk through the forest and come out on the opposite end (depending on where you started your walk), you’ll be able to find the Fondation Louis Vuitton building right next to Jardin d’Acclimatation .

Owned by the famous Louis Vuitton group, the beauty of this building speaks for itself! 

Constructed in a unique and impressive way, this building takes on a complex shape that came to life after over 400 designers submitted design and architectural plans.

Besides the impressive architectural design, the building houses over 11 galleries where various exhibitions are held, multilevel roof terraces for events and art installations, and a large auditorium.

You can take as many pictures as you can and after that, you can even visit its art galleries if there is an exhibition at the time of your visit.

You can buy the Fondation Louis Vuitton ticket here to get access to both permanent and temporary exhibitions and also get an up-close look at the design of the building.

This ticket will also give you free access to the shuttle bus service from Paris to the Foundation and back.

However, if you end up not visiting the galleries, just admiring the building from the outside is equally impressive!

>>> Click here to book your ticket to Fondation Louis Vuitton <<<

4. Hang with the locals at Saint Canal Martin

While the banks of the Seine are some of the famous places for tourists and locals to chill, there is another place that not many tourists know about yet it’s a local’s favorite!

Located in the 10th arrondissement, Saint Canal Martin is where the fun is at! The vibe is always lively and chic with various coffee shops, bars, and restaurants surrounding it!

Of course, you can pack your own picnic and hang with your friends, or people-watch during the day but when night comes don’t be afraid to bring some drinks with you to take in the full fun air-filled ambiance.

Besides picnicking, there are other things to do at Saint Canal Martin including but not limited to cruising along the canal, ( this boat cruise will take you through the Canal while seeing various Parisian attractions), appreciating the street art on various walls, and going on a dinner cruise!

>>> You can book your 2-hour audio-guided cruise on Saint Canal Martin from here <<<

5. Take a Trip to Parc Astérix

Trifonneke , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

I love Disneyland Paris! I mean it’s the most magical place in the city and I can’t tell you how happy and excited I was the first time I visited it! Surprisingly, the same excitement comes through even at Parc Astérix.

If you’ve been to Paris a number of times and have been to Disneyland already, there is another equally beautiful theme park that not so many tourists know about! 

Based on the comic book series Asterix, Parc Astérix is the second-largest theme park in France. Though it’s fun and exciting, Disney overshadows it that so many people don’t get to visit it hence missing out on a great deal of fun.

It may be hard to believe but most locals frequent it more than Disney because it’s not only exciting but it’s also cheaper compared to its counterpart!

The park is located 35 km (22 mi) north of Paris and offers so much that you’ll be surprised that you haven’t visited it yet!

It has a variety of roller coasters that go into detail when it comes to telling visual stories while incorporating historical cultures like ancient Egypt, Ancient Greek, Vikings, and so many others.

Some of the famous must-try rides in Astérix include Goudurix which is not for the faint-hearted, Oziris , La Galère , Le Grand Splatch , and so many others. The park also offers other types of fun shows and activities that you ought not to miss.

On top of that, the park has more thrilling rides compared to Disney so if you’re an adult or have kids who want to take their thrill experience to the next level, Parc Astérix is the place to go! 

And while you’re there, be sure to sleep in one of its cool wooden hotels, Les Quais de Lutèce located onsite that overlooks the water! But these hotel rooms book out fast, so you’ll want to book it here in advance so as not to miss out on that experience!

>>> You can book your stay at Les Quais de Lutèce from here and be sure to book this 1 day-ticket to Parc Astérix in advance to avoid the long queues <<<

6. Try Out bowling

If you’re traveling with your loved one and looking for alternative romantic things to do in Paris beyond the usual date nights, then I recommend trying out bowling!

Paris has a number of bowling alleys from the somewhat high-end ones for a romantic date night to other fun-filled alleys for people looking for an energetic night out with friends.

Some of the bowling places to check out include Bowling Mouffetard if you’re looking for wild parties, Bowling Champerret if you prefer a chill environment, La Gamelle for a mix of bowling and quick bites, Bowling de Paris Front de Seine for another date night and so many others!

So if you’re looking for less touristy things to do in Paris at night , this is one of them!

7. picnic At parc monceau

You can’t come to Paris and not go for a picnic! And while many tourists stick to the famous Parisian parks like Tuileries Gardens or even Luxembourg Gardens , there is another park that I think doesn’t get the recognition it deserves! 

Of course, locals know about it so you’ll find plenty of them but it still bothers me that many tourists miss out on this hidden beauty! 

Besides the obvious green grass, the park has stunning features that can’t be found in any other park!

From a beautiful pond where you can see birds quenching their thirst, the Egyptian pyramids replica, the nice little bridge that adds to the beauty of any photo to the statues dotted around that make it look like an open-air museum, Parc Monceau is one of the beautiful parks perfect for a picnic in Paris !

And if you visit Paris in spring , you’ll be able to see some beautiful cherry blossoms here but fall is also a good time to visit as it puts on a nice display of fall colors! 

Regardless of the time of the year you visit, picnicking at Parc Monceau is one of the fun non-touristy things to do in Paris!

8. Test Your Rock Climbing Abilities at Climb Up

Indoor rock climbing is taking the world by storm and it’s the newest activity that everyone wants to participate in on either a Sunday or after work when they want to have a light workout while still having fun!

And it didn’t take Paris long to jump on the bandwagon! Of course, this is not for everyone but if you’re looking for unique things to do in Paris, this is one of them!

There are quite a number of rock climbing studios that have popped up in recent years but the largest and currently the most famous is Climb Up .

Located in the 13th arrondissement, Climb Up is France’s biggest climbing gym. The gym is large enough to offer space for many climbers at a time including kids.

Besides the colorful climbing blocks of various designs and layouts, Climb Up also has space for other activities like yoga, a coworking space, a massage area, and a relaxing area to grab some quick bites!

Think of this as your one-stop shop for fun, sweat, and relaxation while in Paris!

But it’s not just Climb Up that offers rock climbing, other indoor rock climbing gyms in Paris include; Arkose Nation , Block’Out Paris , Escalad’Indoor, Climbing District, and many others.

9. Take in the views of Paris From Buttes Chaumont Park

While there are many places to go to enjoy Paris views , one that is usually not frequented by most tourists is Buttes Chaumont Park.

Situated on a hill in the 19th arrondissement, this park offers equally beautiful views if you climb to the top of  Temple de la Sibylle  which is the most famous feature in the park.

Besides the views, the park also offers more features and a unique setting compared to other parks in Paris.

From caves, an artificial lake, and waterfalls, to a suspended bridge, Buttes Chaumont Park is a true beauty that shouldn’t be missed.

Be sure to pack a picnic to fully enjoy what this park has to offer!

10. Search for street art in Paris

Another equally fun but lesser-done activity in Paris is searching for street art!

It’s no secret that Paris is the capital of art and you’re bound to find many art exhibitions, museums, and galleries!

But this doesn’t stop in fancy buildings, it also extends to the streets where talented artists show off their artwork in style!

Some of the popular districts to find street art include the 13th Arrondissement and the 11th Arrondissement. Every once in a while, I go out and search for street art and one of the interesting things is that street art changes with time!

For example, the art I initially saw at Rue Beaurepaire near Place de la République was removed and now there is something else!

At first, I wondered why they remove cool art but I came to know that it’s a way of giving other artists a chance to also showcase their work!

If you’re up for this, you can find street art in Belleville, Rue Oberkampf in the 11th arrondissement, Boulevard de la Villette in the 3rd and so many others!

Alternatively, you can book this street art walking tour if you don’t like the hustle of planning the trip yourself!

This tour won’t only take you to the exact spots but the guide will also give you background history of the murals or paintings. But if you want to visit in style, you can opt for this segway street art tour instead .

>>> Click here to book your street art walking tour <<<

11. Visit Banksy Museum

Street art by Banksy – Confusedmiked , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

If you love street art, you won’t want to miss Banksy Museum to immerse yourself in “The World of Banksy”.

Besides just wandering the streets of Paris and looking for street art, you can find a collection of some of the best works of Bansksy, an England-based street artist who has become one of the most famous street artists in this museum.

The gallery has over 100 pieces of artwork on display ranging from fun, quirky, memorable, to utter bizarre.

The gallery is located in the 9th arrondissement not far from Montmartre.

>>> You can purchase your ticket here to visit this art gallery <<<

12. Pick up an antique at the Paul Bert Serpette Flea market

If you’re looking for unusual Paris attractions and are an antique lover who enjoys collecting valuable vintage pieces, then you should pass by Paul Bert Serpette flea market .

Though technically not in Paris but rather in Saint-Ouen (less than 20 minutes from Paris), this place has plenty of shops that sell high-value and rare antiques ranging from interior decor pieces, antique kitchenware, furniture, and life-size antique sculptures that will make your house or backyard look like a museum!

Now I have to warn you that these are high-value items; so be ready to dig deep in your pockets if you choose to buy anything! 

To give you an idea, I got curious seeing all these pieces that I asked for the price of one stunning vintage chandelier; I was blown away when they told me it was 8k Euros — yes, you read it right, Eight thousand Euros!

There are others that could be lower than that but that was enough to turn me into just a window shopper!

But even if you don’t intend to buy anything, I still recommend going there and doing some window shopping! 

However, if you still want to pick up an antique while in Paris without robbing a bank, then head to Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen , or the covered passage, Passage du Grand Cerf which has a number of antique and textile shops.

13. Explore the covered passages of Paris

Speaking of covered passages, Paris is blessed with a number of covered passages that are perfect to explore especially on a rainy day! 

These are not just passages that are covered but rather places worth visiting! First, they have impressive glass roofs that look like pieces of art and they also house many shops perfect for shopping; from clothes, and textiles to furniture.

Some of my favorite covered passages in Paris include; Passage du Grand Cerf in the 2nd arrondissement which is great for picking up antiques and textiles — it has many shops with affordable antiques you’d want to take home with you, Galerie Vivienne in the 2nd arrondissement which is known for its upscale shops, Passage Jouffroy in the 9th arrondissement, Galerie de la Madeleine in the 8th arrondissement and many others.

14. Check out temporary exhibitions at La Défense

Though located in the esplanade of La Défense which is a popular spot, not so many tourists slope down to see the temporary open-air exhibitions that happen annually since a few years ago — usually between June to October.

Starting from the Takis Basin to the Agam Fountain, a number of artists fill this place with lots of interesting modern art pieces that are worth checking out.

Some of the exhibitions are fun, colorful, and interactive while others are downright quirky.

A few of the art installations that I found quite interesting include the inverted house that shows everything you’d see in a home from the interior to the exterior but in an inverted way, a huge whip , a cute Cube Sphere Gold and so many others. You can check the official website before you go to know exactly what to expect.

With all those cool art installations, seeing them is definitely one of the non-touristy things to do in Paris despite being right in the center of a popular place like La Defense! 

15. Fly Over Paris in a Hot Air Balloon

Photo by Craig D’Arville /Flickr

Paris doesn’t usually come to mind when you think of a hot air balloon since such titles are reserved for places like Cappadocia in Turkey or even on a safari in Kenya but there are some in Paris you can take and have a bird’s eye view over the city.

Expensive? Yes! One-of-a-kind activity? Also yes! Several companies organize these rides, but the most affordable and the largest hot air balloon in the world is the Ballon de Paris Generali which flies over Parc André Citroën in the 15th arrondissement.

However, if budget is not an issue, you can opt for  this Viator Balloons in Paris tour  that flies over Fontainebleau Chateau.

With a spectacular view over the beautiful chateau, flying over Fontainebleau in a hot air balloon is truly one of the fun but unusual things to do in Paris, France.

>>> Click here to book your Hot Air Balloon experience in Paris <<<

16. Create Your Own Perfume

Paris is known for having some of the fanciest perfume brands in the world, and a trip to the French capital is not complete without getting yourself one!

But how about this time around you make your own perfume instead of shopping for an already-made one? There is no better place to become a perfumer than in Paris.

Specifically, in  this workshop at Maison Molinard , one of the most famous French perfume factories, you’ll be able to bring out your creative side and create a perfume with the scent you like.

You won’t only make the perfume and take it home, but you’ll also learn more history and traditions of the perfume-making process.

>>> Click here to book your Perfume Making workshop <<<

17. Make Your Own Jewelry in Le Marais

Prefer making your own jewelry to perfume? Don’t worry; there is still something for you in Paris in the chic neighborhood of Le Marais .

With  this jewelry-making workshop , you’ll learn all the specifics about making luxury jewelry while bringing out your artsy side of putting together jewelry pieces.

And instead of just grabbing a souvenir from a souvenir shop, the piece you’ll make will be the perfect souvenir coupled with beautiful memories.

Whether you’re looking for something to do on a girl’s trip or test out your crafting abilities, making jewelry is one of the unique things to do in Paris

>>> Click here to book your Jewelry making workshop <<<

18. Visit Some Lesser-Known Museums in Paris

Since the Louvre Museum is the biggest museum in Paris and the world in general, this is where most tourists head to and forego other equally interesting museums.

If you want to embark on an off-the-beaten path, I recommend checking out some of the lesser-known museums and you’ll be surprised by how much there is to see!

On top of visiting the Louvre Museum , Orsay Museum, Centre Pompidou, and others, you should also visit smaller museums like  Musée de la Vie Romantique  (Museum of romantic life),  Museum of Vampires ,  Musée Zadkine ,  Musée Carnavalet , Musée Jacquemart-André , Musée Bourdelle, and many others.

You can also check out these free museums in Paris . They may be classified as unusual sights in Paris but they’re definitely worth a visit.

Final Thoughts on the Best Non-Touristy Things to Do in Paris

While there are so many things to do in Paris , if you’ve been to the city more than once or your trip is extended, you’ll get the most out of your visit if you embark on some off-the-beaten paths!

And with these suggestions above, I hope that you’ll have plenty to do when you’re in the city.

Don’t be afraid to wander around; after all, Paris is best explored on foot! Yes, these places may not even be in the popular books about Paris but they’ll give you a better understanding of the city while connecting more with the locals.

So get your walking shoes on and wait to be mesmerized by these hidden gems of Paris !

NEVER TRAVEL TO PARIS WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE One of the biggest mistakes you’ll ever make when planning a trip to Paris is to forego Travel Insurance ! You might think that it’s expensive, but when you think of how much it will save you when you lose your valuables or even get sick, then you’ll know that it’s NOT that expensive! Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Paris

• What to do in Paris at night
• Best things to do in Paris in January
• How to spend Christmas in Paris
• Fun facts about Paris
• Best things to do in Paris in Spring
• Where to find the best views of Paris
• Big mistakes to avoid in Paris
• What to Pack for Paris
• Skip the line tickets for Paris’ popular attractions
• Interesting jokes about Paris
• Paris captions for Instagram
• Famous quotes on Paris

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Esther is the face and voice behind Dreams in Paris! She has always been obsessed with Paris even before she moved there. She has lived in Paris for a couple of years, and that obsession has not changed! That love for Paris, plus her passion for writing led to the birth of Dreams in Paris! She now shares all the practical tips and guides she’s picked along the way to help you plan a memorable trip to the city of love! You can learn more about her here !

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6 Under-the-Radar Beach Towns that Aren’t Touristy

For times when you want the surf and sand but not all the hype

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Beach trips are supposed to feel relaxing and slow-paced. Whether you’re looking to surf, dive, paddle, or just read a book in a hammock, the point is that you’re getting away from it all. Which is why sometimes you need to escape the hustle and bustle of more well-known seaside destinations (we’re looking at you, Cancún and Waikiki) and find those beach towns that are a little sleepier.

Oak Island, North Carolina

Oak Island, one of North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands, has a laid-back vibe. With 13 miles of uncrowded beaches, there’s no need to stake out a spot at sunrise. While this area was hit by Hurricane Florence last fall, most damaged properties have since been restored. Check out  Oak Island Accommodations  for more than 330 rentals that include oceanfront and pet-friendly options. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from  Mr. Beach Rentals  and it’ll be delivered to wherever you’re staying, and take the kids fishing or crabbing off the piers or to spot butterflies in at the  Oak Island Nature Center . Don’t miss climbing to the top of the Oak Island Lighthouse, but be sure to book a tour beforehand.

Willemstad, Curaçao

Let the crowds go to neighboring Aruba. On the Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao, off the coast of Venezuela, you’ll have 35 white-sand beaches more or less to yourself. Check out the capital city of Willemstad for colorful Dutch architecture, a floating market, and a selection of local restaurants that specialize in catches of the day. Snorkel from Playa Lagun, spot flamingos on salt flats, and hike the trail to the top of 1,227-foot Mount Christoffel within Shete Boka National Park. The  Oasis Coral Estate (from $574) has a dive center, a spa, and an infinity pool overlooking the ocean.

Narragansett, Rhode Island

If you don’t think of Rhode Island as a beach-getaway destination, think again. The vibrant seaside town of Narragansett has plenty to do and sees fewer crowds than others on the East Coast. Cruise along the seven-mile-long  South County’s William C. O’Neill Bike Path , sign up for a surf lesson or pick up new boardshorts at  Warm Winds surf shop, and enjoy a sunset paddleboard outing with  Narrow River Kayaks . Narragansett Beach is the go-to spot for surfing and sandcastles, and its boutique hotel, the  Break (from $472), has 16 rooms with ocean views, a rooftop bar, and a saltwater pool.

Morro Bay, California

In between the more populous beach destinations of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Santa Barbara, you’ll find the quaint, easygoing town of Morro Bay. Its biggest landmark is 576-foot-tall Morro Rock, a state historic landmark on the waterfront that was once used as a navigational icon for seafarers. Kayak among harbor seals and sea lions with a guide from  Central Coast Outdoors , or fly a kite on the shoreline. Book a room at the seaside  456 Embarcadero Inn and Suites (from $249), where you’ll have views of Morro Bay National Estuary and easy access to the Embarcadero boardwalk.

San Pancho, Mexico

You can still get to the tequila-fueled nightlife and popular surf breaks in nearby Sayulita, but the town of San Pancho, ten minutes north, has a quieter, off-the-radar vibe. Its official name is actually San Francisco, but everyone calls it San Pancho, a Spanish nickname that plays off the fact that it has become Sayulita’s cooler sibling. Take yoga classes in the plaza, hike in the jungles above town, or catch a wave without anyone dropping in on you.  Hotel Cielo Rojo (from $74) has a wine shop and organic restaurant on-site, and the beach is just steps away.

Chebeague Island, Maine

Hop a 15-minute ferry ride from the town of Yarmouth, Maine, and you’ll arrive at friendly Chebeague Island, where there’s not a ton going on—which is exactly the point. Book the beach-getaway package at the restored 1920s-era  Chebeague Island Inn (from $180) in Casco Bay and you’ll get breakfast, a picnic lunch for the beach, and L.L.Bean bicycles to ride around the five-mile-long island. Lobster cookouts on the lawn overlooking the sea and bonfires near the beach are nightly occurrences.

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Top 31 best non-tourist places to visit in Europe

Why not travel somewhere different on your next holiday with our top 31 best non-tourist places to visit in Europe. It seems most people travelling Europe go to the tourist hot spots such as Rome, London, Venice, Santorini and many other popular cities. However I hope this list will inspire you to try something new and go off the beaten path and see some the less travelled destinations around Europe.

Let’s get started…

• Rick Steves Best of Europe
• Lonely Planet Europe Travel Guide
• Rick Steves Europe Through the Back Door
• DK Eyewitness Eastern & Centeral Europe

#1. Siena, Italy

Take a step back to medieval Tuscany, Siena is probably one of Italy’s most beautiful medieval cities. Making it a ‘must do’ trip even if you are in Tuscany for just a couple of days. A visit to the inside of the beautiful Gothic Duomo in Siena is highly recommended.

Check out this Tuscany Travel Book for the everything you need to know!

• Best hotels
• Check for flights
• Best things to do

#2. Bosnia and Herzegovina

Its countryside is home to medieval villages, rivers and lakes, plus the craggy Dinaric Alps. Some of the highlights are visiting the stunning Mostar bridge, take a trip to Sarajevo and swimming at Kravice Falls.

Check out the Bosnia Travel Book for the best things to do.

#3. Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia is known for its distinctive fairy chimneys, tall, cone-shaped rock formations clustered. Cappadocia is a landscape that you will have never witnessed before in your lifetime. Thanks to its beautiful landscapes and great weather conditions Cappadocia is famous for its hot air balloon festival and the views are simply breathtaking. Cappadocia is a destination not to be missed.

Check out the Cappadocia Travel Book for the best things to do.

#4. I nnsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is one of Europe’s most idyllic cities nestled in the heart of the Alps. It is also known for its Imperial and modern architecture. Getting around is made cheap and easy with use of the tram.

Check out the Innsbruck Travel Book for the best things to do.

#5. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana, is a perfect example of this blend of German, Mediterranean, and Slovenian culture. The old town is a blend of Baroque, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau buildings, watched over by a medieval castle. Cut through the gardens of Tivoli Park to the National Museum of Contemporary History for a history of modern Slovenia.

Check out the Slovenia Travel Book for the best things to do.

#6. Lucca, Italy

Lucca is a city on the Serchio river in Italy’s Tuscany region. Lucca is the perfect destination for a day trip from Florence. There’s a lot to do and see also in the surroundings of Lucca. Make sure you check out Versilia and its beaches, the Apuan Alps and the splendid Garfagnana with its small characteristic villages as Barga.

Check out this Tuscany Travel Book for the best things to do.

#7. Bolonga, Italy

Bologna is the lively, historic capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, in northern Italy. While the crowds of tourists flock to Venice, Florence and Rome, Bologna remains relatively quiet in comparison. This mediaeval university town is charming, historic and fun to explore.

Check out this Bologna Travel Book for the best things to do.

#8. Tolmin, Slovenia

Tolmin is a small town in northwestern Slovenia. Tolmin, named the Alpine Town of 2016, is the largest town in the Soča Valley. It is located in the picturesque confluence of the Soča and the Tolminka. Be sure to check out Tolmin Gorges, Triglav National Park and try white water rafting on the Soca River.

#9. Wrocław, Poland

Wrocław is a city on the Oder River in western Poland. It’s known for its Market Square, lined with elegant townhouses and featuring a modern fountain. Also on the square is the Gothic Old Town Hall, with its large astronomical clock.

Check out the Poland Travel Book for the best things to do.

#10. Sarajevo, Bosnia

Nestled among dramatic peaks, a bustling and welcoming city. War took its toll, with the 1992-1996 siege hitting hard. But the lively, diverse, museum-rich city has been almost entirely reconstructed. Don’t miss Bijambare caves, set in thick forests and amid lakes to the north of the city, or Bosna Springs, from which the country takes its name. Site of 1984’s Winter Olympics, Sarajevo offers spectacular skiing on Mount Bjelasnica Jahorina.

#11. Azores, Portugal

The Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal, are an archipelago in the mid-Atlantic characterised by dramatic landscapes. With whale watching, diving, hiking and host of other adventure sports on offer, the Azores are a great destination for adrenaline junkies.

Check out the Azores Travel Book for the best things to do.

#12. Lublin, Poland

Lublin is the largest city in southeastern Poland, with a thriving cultural and academic scene. It’s also a main transport hub, with excellent road and rail connections to all parts of Poland making it a great destination to visit while in Poland for travellers.

#13. Zadar, Croatia

Zadar, a city on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, is known for the Roman and Venetian ruins of its peninsular Old Town. Most tourists flock to Dubrovnik leaving Zadar a somewhat untapped gem, it is a great hub for visiting Kikra National Park and Plitvice National Park to see the stunning waterfalls.

Check out the Croatia Travel Book for the best things to do.

#14. Bretagne, France

Brittany is one of the great historic provinces of France. The most Atlantic of France’s regions, Brittany is proud of its Celtic heritage, that sets it apart from the rest of France. From here you can take day tours to Normandy, Saint Malo and Mont St Michel.

Check out the Brittany Travel Book for the best things to do.

#15. Haarlem, Netherlands

Haarlem is a city outside of Amsterdam famous for its ancient buildings, cobbled streets and winding waterways, the medieval city of Haarlem is one of the most photogenic destinations in the Netherlands. It’s the center of a major flower-bulb-growing district, and famous for its tulip fields.

Check out the Netherlands Travel Book for the best things to do.

#16. San Sebastian, Spain

San Sebastián is a resort town on the Bay of Biscay in Spain’s mountainous Basque Country. The Old Quarter’s narrow, winding streets are full of bars and restaurants, and in the modern city, sidewalk cafes are all around. The city specialises in seafood!

Check out the Spain Travel Book for the best things to do.

#17. Koper, Slovenia

Koper is a charming seaside hub with a picturesque old city core and quaint villages on its outskirts. From Koper you can take day tours to Ljubljana, Postojna Caves and Lake Bled making it a great hub to see more of Slovenia.

#18. Berat, Albania

Berat is a city on the Osum River, in central Albania. It’s known for its white Ottoman houses climbing up the hill to its castle, earning it the title of ‘town of a thousand windows’ and was added to the Unesco World Heritage sites in 2008. However, tourism is on the increase and Berat has managed to retain its easy-going charm and friendly atmosphere making it a recommended destination.

Check out the Albania Travel Book for the best things to do.

#19. Perugia, Italy

Perugia is an Italian city and the capital of the Umbria region. It’s known for its defensive walls around the historic center. if you have a sweet tooth, visit during the Eurochocolate festival, held in October, when the entire town reportedly smells of chocolate.

There are some beautiful picturesque villages in Umbria that you can visit from Perugia such as Montefalco, Spello, Assisi, Todi and Gubbio. So its probably worth hiring a car here if your planning on travelling around.

Check out the Umbria Travel Book for the best things to do.

#20. Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb, Croatia’s northwestern capital, is distinguished by its 18th- and 19th-century Austro-Hungarian architecture. The unique blend of medieval towers, 19th century palaces, open-air markets, and ancient cathedrals, make Zagreb the perfect city to explore. Zagreb is also another great hub if you are wanting to visit Krka National Park and Plitvice National Park

#21. Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade is not on many people’s holiday list due to wars of the 1990s and the NATO bombing campaign and prefer to stay away. It may not be the most picturesque European cities, however Belgrade you will find a captivating, lively city, with some surprisingly quaint streets and a certain charm. It is worth going to see Belgrades most significant landmark the Beogradska Tvrđava.

Check out the Serbia Travel Book for the best things to do.

#22. Kotor, Montenegró

The beautiful country of Montenegro only became an independent nation in 2006. The entire old town area declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kotor is situated in a secluded tip of Boka Kotorsky Bay offering an idyllic retreat from the modern world which few people get to experience. Take a wonder down winding streets, its medieval old town has several Romanesque churches, palaces, cathedrals and dine on gorgeous Mediterranean food.

Check out the Montenegro Travel Book for the best things to do.

#23. Luxembourg

Often forgotten about by tourists Luxembourg has plenty to offer and is famous for its brewery. While you’re here, you can also visit Vianden Castle which built between the 11th and 14th centuries. In the city centre make sure you take the Wenzel Walk which is a two hour signposted walk, taking in the sights of the historic buildings, churches, towers and cobbled streets.

Check out the Luxembourg Travel Book for the best things to do.

#24. Utrecht, Netherlands

This ancient and historic city houses many buildings going back to the early Middle Ages. Utrecht is small enough to explore walking but don’t worry there is plenty of things to keep you entertained. If you fancy a beer make sure you head down to Oliver a Belgium beer bar which boasts 70 different beers and great food.

#25. Puglia, Italy

Puglia is known for its whitewashed hill towns, centuries-old farmland and picture perfect Mediterranean coastline making it a great destination to go on holiday. It hosts stunning countryside and some of the prettiest beaches in Italy. Be sure to visit Alberobello’s Trulli for an unforgettable visit.

Check out the Southern Italy Travel Book for the best things to do.

#26. Galway, Ireland

Most holiday makers travel to Dublin however they are missing a trick not visiting the lesser known Galway. A heaven for people who love good food and music, head down to Quay Street for a wide variety of pubs and restaurants which host a selection of traditional live Irish music.

From Galway you can take day trips to see Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands and Dublin. Make sure you check out ‘Wild Atlantic Way’ and Connemara National Park.

Check out the Ireland Travel Book for the best things to do.

#27. Salina, Italy

Salina is one of the Aeolian islands, a cluster of seven volcanic islands in the far south of Italy. Salina boasts a lush landscape from its natural freshwater springs and offers incredible views of the twin volcanos of Salina. A great place for exploring, hiking and swimming in the crystal clear waters. There is lots of quaint little streets to wonder around and gorgeous walks along the water front.

Check out the Italy Travel Book for the best things to do.

#28.  Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is one of the best preserved medieval towns in the whole of Europe. It’s a small city, and the tourist areas are safe and easily explored on foot. You will be surrounded by medieval charm and tradition with every turn. Make sure you visit Toompea Hill for some stunning views of the city, the old town and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

Check out the Estonia Travel Book for the best things to do.

#29. G ranada, Spain

Granada is a city in southern Spain’s Andalusia region, in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. It’s known for grand examples of medieval architecture dating to the Moorish occupation. Do not miss a visit to The Alhambra so be sure to book in advance, the downside is that it does get very busy as its one of the main attractions to see.

Check out the Grenada and Southern Spain Travel Book for the best things to do.

#30.  Dresden, Germany

It’s hard to believe that a city as beautiful as Dresden was all but wiped off the map by Allied bombings in 1945. However Dresden is filled with forests, gardens, parks and is full of history making it a great city break that is not as busy as places such as Berlin and Munich.

There are lots of museums,  cathedrals and beautiful architecture to absorb. Make sure you visit the ‘Panometer’ for a 360 degree impression of Old Dresden or Dresden in 1945 after the bombings.

Check out the Germany Travel Book for the best things to do.

#31. Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, France

Aubeterre-sur-Dronne has been officially listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France and it has an amazing underground church hewn out from the rock. In the centre of the village is a lovely picturesque square filled with shops, bars and restaurants.

Just up one of the little roads near the square there is a viewpoint which looks out over Aubeterre, check out our Instagram picture from our visit here . Just outside the village you can swim in the river and there is a nice park perfect for picnics.

Check out the France Travel Book for the best things to do.

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Each destination has its own charm and history to tell. Well written article. Tallinn and Cappadocia interests me.

Wow! What a great list! Happy to see some of the cities we’ve visited make the list but now we have a plenty of new cities and towns to add to our To Travel List! Thanks for the great read ?

Really thanks for sharing this useful post !! Europe is a nice place to visit for holidays and I will definitely visit these places with my friends.

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The Best Non-Touristy Things to do in NYC (2024)

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TRAVEL GUIDE: NON-TOURISTY THINGS TO DO IN NEW YORK CITY

There are a lot of blogs out there, listing “non-touristy things to do in NYC,” but they’re full of sites and activities which don’t really interest me. Frankly, they’re full of things that I doubt would interest my readers or viewers!

SO! Here’s my entry 😀 and a list of my favorite (semi) non-touristy things to do in NYC.

Granted, some of these items would be considered at least “semi-touristy” by NYC locals (I asked my Manhattan friends) … BUT … they’re also all things real New Yorkers do, and places real New Yorkers visit.

For the record, I’m defining “ non-touristy things to do in NYC ” as places, restaurants, sites, and events that represent iconic New York City destinations, and are also enjoyed daily by New Yorkers.

I Love New York … but …

New York City is a difficult destination to visit for first-timers, and is even a challenge for people who’ve been there a few times.

The city changed a lot during the pandemic. I think the biggest change impacting tourists is: hotels are far more expensive than they used to be.

On the positive side, the subway is easier to use than ever! It’s hard to believe I used to use tokens to ride the trains when I was young. The MetroCard was easy enough, but they’re easy to lose and can be time-consuming to reload with money if there’s a line at the kiosk.

Now, you can just swipe your credit card right at the entrance and walk through!

Non-Touristy Things in NYC: The Best Walks

I’m not putting the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, or Rockefeller Plaza on this list.

They’re all worth visiting… but I figure: if you’re seeking advice on the best non-touristy things to do in NYC, then you’ve already visited the main sites.

Let’s go over some of the best walks in the city, if you’re looking to stretch your legs and get some exercise in the city!

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

This remains one of my favorite things to do in New York City. Tourists love it, but so do resident New Yorkers!

I don’t know of many first-time visitors who’ve been adventurous enough to make the trek, so I’m putting this on the list.

The bridge is stunning itself, and you can’t beat the skyline views of Manhattan as you cross.

While tourists love walking the Brooklyn Bridge, most of the non-vehicular traffic is made up of New Yorkers, walking or biking between Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn.

The walk across is about 1.5 miles. If you don’t feel like walking the roundtrip, you can choose from two subway stops in Brooklyn to take you back into Manhattan:

• The F Train from York Street
• The A Train from High Street

In Manhattan, you’ll find an entrance to the pedestrian walkway right next to City Hall Park.

There are two entrances to the Brooklyn Bridge from Brooklyn. I usually use the walkway at Tillary Street & Brooklyn Bridge Blvd.

When the Brooklyn Bridge first opened in the 1880s, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world.

Walking the bridge is free 24/7, though it originally cost a penny to cross!

I avoid it if it’s too cold or windy, but most of the year you’ll love the views and the exercise.

Walk the Manhattan Bridge

You can also choose to walk across the slightly longer Manhattan Bridge, which is just down the river from the Brooklyn Bridge. It has a pedestrian walkway, which isn’t as well-known.

The Manhattan Bridge starts in the Chinatown neighborhood of Manhattan, and ends in the DUMBO neighborhood of Brooklyn. (DUMBO = Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass).

Visit the Park at Little Island NYC

The remnants of an old pier on Manhattan’s west side have been given new life, in the form of a large public park called “Little Island.”

While tickets were required at first, and had to be booked weeks in advance, they are no longer needed (unless you’re going to attend a specific performance).

It’s beautiful to visit during the day, or after sunset.

More than a century ago, the Titanic survivors were dropped off by the Carpathia on the pier, which later served as the final dock for the Lusitania, before it was sunk by a German U-Boat.

Over the decades, the pier was abandoned, and then severely damaged by SuperStorm Sandy in 2012. The following year, plans began for the park.

Little Island’s development was largely funded by a foundation run by designer Diane von Furstenberg and her husband, Barry Diller. Their businesses have deep histories in this part of Manhattan.

The foundation spent more than $250 million on Little Island, which includes upkeep for a few decades.

I have to admit: I’m hoping Little Island develops more. We went shortly after it opened, and while it’s beautifully done (and another nice green city oasis)… activities are a bit lacking.

It offers great views of the Hudson River, the Empire State Building, and Lower Manhattan.

Over time, maybe they’ll add more eating and drinking options.  At times, you can buy alcohol at one of the kiosks inside.  It would be a great place to have a glass of wine and sit and enjoy the views and gardens.

But for the most part, Little Island is built to be a public green space, 2.4 acres in size, for people to enjoy for free.

The park opens to the public at 6:00am daily, and remains open well after dark. Little Island closes between 9:00pm and midnight, depending on the season.

➡️ CLICK HERE for a link to current events on Little Island.

Bryant Park’s Bathrooms

While you’re walking around, you’ll notice: it can be hard to find a bathroom to duck into.

Bryant Park is home to the cleanest public bathrooms in New York City!

Bryant Park is great to visit year-round. While it’s usually crowded, I still consider it an escape from the pedestrian traffic in nearby Times Square.

The bathrooms are an added perk. They’re located on a corner, in large concrete or cement structures.

The interiors are nicely-tiled, and usually have fresh floral bouquets (seriously!!). There’s a guard at the door for security.

Bryant Park is also home to different events throughout the year.

The winter months are probably my favorite, as vendors setup a Christmas Market, and skaters show up to do laps around the beautifully-lit ice rink.

Non-Touristy Things to Do in NYC: The Best City Views

I’m leaving the view from One World Trade off the list, but it really does offer amazing views.

There are plenty of less-touristy options if you’re looking for those sweeping skyline views!

Take the Ferry to New Jersey

I’ve become a fan of using the ferry system to explore different parts of the area.

Another route I’d recommend begins at a ferry terminal on 39th Street, right behind the Javits Center in Manhattan (west of Times Square).

You’ll take the Lincoln Harbor Ferry across the Hudson River to Hoboken, NJ.  

It’s a short 15-minute ride, which will give you great views of the skyline.

On weekdays and weekends, the ferry usually departs every 20 to 30 minutes.   Adult tickets are $9 each way.

Walk south along the shore on the Jersey side, and you’ll come across restaurants and parks.  You can also grab a Citi Bike to ride around.

⛴ The Lincoln Harbor Ferry leaves from the pier on West 39th Street

⛴ CLICK HERE for a link to the ferry schedule and timetable

Ride Citi Bikes

I admit: I didn’t jump on the Citi Bike bandwagon until the pandemic.   The streets were empty enough for me to find the courage to ride alongside NYC traffic!

Even now, with things back closer to “normal” they’re easy and pretty safe to use… especially on the Avenues which run north-south on Manhattan.

I really enjoy grabbing a bike and riding on one of the bike paths along the waterfront. They always deliver great skyline views!

🚲 CLICK HERE for a link to the Brooklyn Bridge Park bike route.

🚲 CLICK HERE for a link to the Hudson River Greenway bike route.

I’ve found: the easiest way to get a bike (which are available in large quantities at racks all over the city) is to use the Lyft app.

The app includes an option to scan a QR code on the bike, which unlocks it.

Citi Bike Costs:

• $3.99 for the first 30 minutes
• $0.23 for each additional minute
• $15 for a full day pass

Visit Governors Island

Taking the ferry over to Governors Island is another great way to spend the day, if the weather is nice!

Side note: I have no idea why there’s no apostrophe in “Governors.”

Governors Island is a great deal … in a city known for its expenses.

The ferry usually runs hourly from Manhattan, making stops in Brooklyn before dropping you off at Governors Island.

Tickets are $4 each way, and you can easily buy them from the kiosk at the pier.

Directions to Governors Island :

📍 Take the South Brooklyn Line ferry from Wall Street Pier 11

Check out the great view from the ferry ride:

Governors Island was built as a military academy, but it’s mostly abandoned now. The buildings are empty, which gives the whole place a bit of an eerie feeling.

You can rent Citi Bikes right at the pier where you land, and cruise around the streets.

The great lawn has a view of the Statue of Liberty, and is perfect for a picnic lunch or nap.

Governors Island hosts glamping in the summer, and features several artists-in-residence in big old homes where the generals used to live.

Activities usually run April through October, which is also when the restaurants are open.

➡️ Jared’s Detours Blog : 15 Reasons to Visit Governors Island

(Kinda) Non-Touristy NYC Food & Restaurants

This is, by no means, a collection of trendy, high-end dining spots. Instead, these are some of the well-known, established favorites.

A sure sign that they’re some of the best? They’re always busy with local New Yorkers!

Sing at Marie’s Crisis

I wanted to include one unique late-night option on the list.

Marie’s Crisis has been a favorite spot of mine for two decades. My grandmother’s name was Marie, so it always brings a smile to my face.

It’s a destination for Broadway-loving tourists, but is mostly full of local (Tri-State area) people who make the trip to the West Village specifically to gather around a piano in a small semi-underground room to sing show tunes.

Marie’s is across 7th Avenue from the Christopher Street subway station.

Some of the staff has been there for decades, and it’s clear: they know many of their regulars very well.

As an outsider, you’ll be amazed that everyone else in the bar knows ALL of the lyrics to ANY song the piano player chooses.

It’s a welcoming crowd, as long as you play by their rules:

• Don’t just stand there and sing; you should order drinks
• Tip the piano player
• Don’t record videos
• The bar is mostly lit by strings of Christmas lights. Don’t knock their plugs out of the wall sockets!

Best Bagel & Coffee

This is a great breakfast spot on 35th Street, between 7th and 8th Avenues

Expect a long line, sometimes snaking out the door, but it moves quickly. You’ll be able to place your order in 10 minutes.

I recommend sticking with a bagel and cream cheese over some of the breakfast sandwich options. The eggs, avocado, and other toppings can make the deliciously chewy bagels kind of soggy if you don’t eat them immediately.

There are only a couple of tables inside, so don’t expect a leisurely sit-down breakfast.

If the weather is nice, I’d recommend taking your bagels over to Bryant Park. There are a lot of tables to sit at there, and the park always has interesting things going on (and great people-watching).

Brooklyn Bagels

This is a chain, which is very popular with New Yorkers.

Brooklyn Bagels is making my list of recommendations for visitors because it’s one of the few remaining “good deals” in NYC.

You can snag a huge, fresh bagel with flavored cream cheese spread for less than $5.

Brooklyn Bagels has locations in Chelsea, on 8th Avenue & 24th Street, and in the NoHo neighborhood, near 8th Street & Mercer.

The long line moves very quickly. You’ll be able to scope out the bagel options and the spread options as you move toward the ordering stand.

You’ll most likely have to take your food to go, since the handful of tables in the front are usually taken.

Pazza Notte

Pazza Notte is a longtime favorite for my family, and it’s popular enough with local New Yorkers that I’d consider it a non-touristy spot in NYC.

I found it many years ago, by searching for martini happy hour deals. I believe at the time, the martinis were 2-for-1, for $12.

These days, Pazza Notte is still home to one of the best martini deals in Manhattan. It’s 2-for-1 … for $18. Ice cold and dirty, please 🍸

It’s a popular Italian and pizza restaurant on 6th Avenue, up between 55th and 56th Streets. It’s far enough north of Times Square to avoid the crush of tourists, but also convenient to Central Park, 5th Avenue, Carnegie Hall, and other popular NYC sites.

It became a tradition to stop at Pazza Notte late night, after a Broadway show, for a martini and pizza.

The pandemic changed everything in NYC. Pazza Notte, like many restaurants, expanded into the street. Their “patio” dining is still open, and gets very busy on Saturdays (in spring, summer, and fall).

I’d definitely recommend their thin-crust pizza, the beet salad, and/or the lasagna. I’ve honestly never been disappointed by any of their meals.

Their brunch is also a great option, too!

Pizza Suprema

I’m not going to venture into the un-winnable debate over the best pizza in New York. Yes, the top contenders are likely in Brooklyn or Queens.

But this blog is about the best non-touristy spots in Manhattan, where you’ll likely be staying on your visit to NYC.

So my nominee is a total crowd-pleaser, and a pizza shop that’s super popular with local New Yorkers!

Pizza Suprema opened 60 years ago, right across the street from Madison Square Garden.

It’s a small brick pizza shop on 8th Avenue between 30th and 31st Streets, which is open from around 10:30am to midnight, everyday.

No matter your preference in pizza type, Pizza Suprema has it! I love the classics and basics: the grandmother pie, the margherita, and the pepperoni.

You’ll pay for the quality. This is definitely not one of the “dollar slice” shops you’ll see around Manhattan.

The slices are around $7 each. You can order a pizza pie for $45.

You’ll usually find a line out the door, but don’t be intimidated by the wait time (the line moves quickly). And don’t worry about the loud, chaotic ordering process.

You’ll see the two-dozen (or so) slice options in the display windows as you enter, and you’ll be expected to make a choice quickly.

It’s tough! They have thin and thick crust options. Just shout it out. They’ll stick the slices in the oven to warm while you slide down the line to pay.

You’ll usually be able to find a booth to sit in.

Pizza Suprema is no-frills, but very enjoyable and satisfying.

Ferrara Bakery & Cafe

This one, I’ll admit, is kind of touristy … but it’s enough of an institution (and local favorite) that it’s making the list of best non-touristy things to do in NYC!

Ferrara is home to delicious desserts and coffees (and gelato during the summer).

It’s located at the end of Little Italy’s Mulberry Street, which is really cute to walk down … but a tourist trap. It’s festive, but it’s not home to the city’s best Italian food.

Ferrara is a stand-out on Grand Street, at the corner of Mulberry.

It’s open late-night on Fridays and Saturdays, so it’s an option to head down to after a Broadway show.

The cannolis, Napoleons, and tiramisu are classics. They’re also happy to spike your coffees with liquor or pour a glass of Prosecco.

Somehow, two drinks and two desserts will set you back $50… but it’s a great NYC spot to check out.

Is Broadway a Non-Touristy Thing in NYC? Sure!

For me, a trip to NYC isn’t complete without seeing at least one Broadway show.

Prices are higher than ever, so here are the steps I follow to figure out what show I want to see, and how much I’ll pay.

TodayTix and TKTS

TodayTix is a free app which offers discounts to Broadway and off-Broadway shows. It’s grown to offer tickets in cities all over the world.

A couple of Broadway producers started it in New York City in 2013.

Years ago, you used to have to go to a TKTS booth in Times Square or the World Trade Center and wait in line for hours for day-of discounted show tickets.

TodayTix has evolved, and now offers tickets several weeks in advance. You’ll see discounts range, between 20% and 50% off.

Another key difference is: TodayTix will only tell you the *section you’ll be sitting in.

Staff at the TKTS booth will tell you the exact seats you’ll be purchasing, with discounts up to 50%.

Also, TKTS purchases include a fee, which goes to benefit the nonprofit Theater Development Fund.

For same-day tickets, TKTS still operates two booths, and the recommendation is: show up an hour before opening to wait in line.

📍 TKTS hours in Times Square (Broadway & 47th Street)

• Monday 3pm – 8pm
• Tuesday 3pm – 8pm
• Wednesday 11am – 8pm
• Thursday 11am – 8pm
• Friday 3pm – 8pm
• Saturday 11am – 8pm
• Sunday 11a – 7pm

📍 TKTS hours at the Lincoln Center  (61 West 62nd Street)

• Tuesday 11am – 6pm
• Wednesday 11am – 6pm
• Thursday 11am – 6pm
• Friday 11am – 6pm
• Saturday 11a – 6pm

Broadway Previews

A lot of visitors will go to the classic big-name shows on Broadway, like “Hamilton” or “The Lion King.”

A great non-touristy thing to do in NYC is to check out the new, upcoming shows known as “previews.”

Broadway producers, directors, and casts use previews to gauge audience reaction, and test what works and what needs to be changed.

As a theater-goer, it’s your chance to see a show which is still in the final stages of the creative process.  Though, as a member of the audience, you won’t notice much of a difference.

I saw Hamilton in its last week of previews, before it exploded in popularity. Orchestra seats were $120!

Previews of Spiderman, which set a record for its lengthy run of previews, were interesting, as the cast and crew worked out the problems involving the actors flying around the stage and theater.

➡️ Playbill.com offers a full list of shows in previews, and the dates they’ll run.

Rush Tickets

This is something longtime theater-goers have known about for years.

Many Broadway shows offer “rush tickets,” which you can line up for when the box office opens the morning of the show you’d like to see.

They often offer unsold seats for $35 each.

Each show has a different policy. Some are for students only. Other shows only offer standing-room-only options for rush. Several have what they call “general rush,” which means anyone can purchase them.

It’s a game of chance, since you never know if a show will be sold out, or how many rush tickets will be available at the box office on a given morning.

➡️ Playbill.com has a listing of rush ticket policies, broken down by show.

Apps to Download for a Trip to NYC

I rely on a series of apps when I’m in New York. It definitely helps having cell signal in the subways these days!

➡️First, Google Maps will help you get anywhere you need to be, with very accurate subway directions.

➡️The New York Subway MTA Map app is a good one to download, because it provides color-coded subway routes to follow.

➡️The TKTS and TodayTix apps are great for searching for show tickets.

➡️You can use either the Lyft or the Citi Bike app to rent bikes.

Wrap: Best Non-Touristy Things to do in NYC

I grew up making day-trips into Manhattan for food, Broadway shows, and shopping. The city is easier than ever to navigate thanks to NYC subway directions from Google Maps, and Uber options in addition to taxis.

There’s definitely no need to be intimidated about visiting!

I’ll keep adding to my list of the best non-touristy things to do in Manhattan and NYC over time, and as always: I welcome your suggestions, too!

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February 26, 2023 By Lyndsay

30+ Extraordinary Non-Touristy Places to Visit in Italy

• 1.1 1. Drive to the top of Tre Cime di Lavaredo in the Dolomites
• 1.2 2. Take an early morning drive through the Italian Alps’ Gavia Pass
• 1.3 3. Experience the Dolomites’ infamous “Italian Front” at Cinque Torri
• 1.4 4. Swim in the emerald waters of Pozze Smeraldine in Tramonti di Sopra
• 1.5 5. Climb to the top of Scala Contarini del Bovolo in Venice
• 1.6 6. Visit the House of Savoy residence, Villa della Regina, on the outskirts of Turin
• 1.7 7. Marvel at the architecture of the Russian Orthodox Church in Sanremo
• 1.8 8. Taste true Tuscan food at Podere il Casale in Pienza
• 1.9 9. Take in the view from the top of Monte Capanne on Elba
• 1.10 10. Check out the bridge nicknamed “Devil’s Bridge,” Ponte della Maddalena, outside Borgo a Mozzano
• 1.11 11. Visit the underground Etruscan caves in Orvieto
• 1.12 12. Explore the Sant’Agnese Fuori Le Mura Basilica and Complex outside Rome
• 1.13 13. See thousands of Capuchin friars’ bones at the Bone Chapel Capuchin Crypt in Rome
• 1.14 14. Wander through the gardens at Villa d’Este in Tivoli
• 1.15 15. Visit Palazzo dei Papi, the home for the first-ever conclave in Viterbo
• 1.16 16. Check out the beautifully preserved ruins of Herculaneum in Ercolano
• 1.17 17. Explore the ruins of the Ancient Greek city Paestum in Paestum
• 1.18 18. Enjoy panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast from the Villa Cimbrone Gardens in Ravello
• 1.19 19. Experience one of the fastest zip lines in Europe at Volo dell’Angelo in Castelmezzano
• 1.20 20. Discover Matera’s Paleolithic cave homes in the Sassi di Matera
• 1.21 21. See the seaside cave church in Pizzo Calabro, Piedigrotta Church
• 1.22 22. Swim inside Roca Vecchia’s Grotta della Poesia, the “Cave of Poetry”
• 1.23 23. Explore the Medieval city center of Erice
• 1.24 24. Marvel at the huge collection of Roman mosaics at the Villa Romana del Casale near Piazza Armerina
• 1.25 25. Escape to the Dolomite Mountains from Bolzano
• 1.26 26. See the ancient trulli houses in Alberobello
• 1.27 27. Marvel at panoramic views of Lake Garda in Sirmione
• 1.28 28. Spend a night in one of Europe’s oldest castles at CastelBrando
• 1.29 29. Climb one of the remaining Medieval towers in San Gimignano 
• 1.30 30. Dip your toes in the Tyrrhenian Sea on the Aeolian Islands
• 2 The Best Non-Touristy Things to do in Italy

This post may contain affiliate links! I will receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you purchase something recommended here.

It’s not just the incredible food and wine that makes Italy so special.

There’s also its culture, history, art, architecture, and scenery.

But most tourists only see the significant landmarks in the largest cities like Rome , Florence, or Venice .

Although I love visiting Vatican City or the Leaning Tower of Pisa as much as anyone, I (and several of my other favorite travel writers) am going to share with you the best non-touristy things to do in Italy.

These aren’t your typical “must-see” spots–they’re all non-touristy places to visit in Italy that will blow your mind and make you want to book your flights right now. 

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A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a creation or landmark chosen for conservation by the United Nations Organization for Education, Science and Culture (UNESCO) due to its cultural, historical, scientific or natural significance. It must meet a minimum of one of ten selection criteria to be considered for the World Heritage List, and once chosen, it becomes protected for preservation by various international treaties.

The Best Non-Touristy Places to Visit in Italy

1. drive to the top of tre cime di lavaredo in the dolomites.

The Dolomites/The Italian Alps, South Tyrol, Italy

If you’re looking for a breathtaking location in Italy without crowds of tourists, head to  Tre Cime di Lavaredo .

Tre Cime is a mountain with 3 peaks (hence the name), and the incredible rock formations can be seen from miles away.

What most people don’t know, however, is that you can drive your vehicle up to the top and even, if you’re  campervanning in Italy , stay overnight in your van.

You need to pay to be allowed to drive up, and it’s not cheap- about 45€ for 24 hours. However, the views are unlike anything you’ll see anywhere else–simply breathtaking.

There are toilets, a cafe, a gift shop, and the hostel (rifugio) at the top, but very few other services. People come up here to hike, take photographs and enjoy the incredible views.

The most famous hike is the Tre Cime loop, which is about 10km and takes around 3 hours to walk (depending on how frequently you stop to take photos!)

Pay close attention to the weather while you’re up there, particularly hiking the loop or off the beaten path.

You might find yourself surrounded by thick clouds while up there, where you won’t see more than 2ft in front of you!

On the plus side, it clears quickly, and the spectacular views will be visible again.

If the forecast shows lousy weather, you don’t need to bother paying to go up the mountain–without the views, it’s not as incredible.

You definitely need to consider staying up there at least for one night to watch the sunrise over the mountains.

It’s one of the most amazing things you’ll ever see and a definite trip highlight. 

By Kathryn Bird from Wandering Bird

2. Take an early morning drive through the Italian Alps’ Gavia Pass

The Italian Alps, Lombardy, Italy

If you’re looking for somewhere to escape the noise and madness of Italian cities, head to the little-known Gavia Pass.

Gavia Pass is a mountain pass high up in the Italian Alps. It’s actually the tenth HIGHEST paved road in the Alps.

This road offers breathtaking views on a sunny day and is a beautiful place to escape and take in the sheer majesty of the mountains around you.

It is single-track in areas, particularly in the southern section, so drive with caution and don’t park up in the laybys- those are passing places to let vehicles pass. 

The road’s name is the SP29/ SS330/ SP300 (yes, there are 3) and runs from Bormio south to Ponte di Legno. There are plenty of accommodation options in both places.

It’s in the same region as the famous Stelvio Pass but is less well-known, so fewer motorcyclists and cyclists are whizzing around.

However, if you are  motorcycling in Italy , don’t leave the region without riding this road- although you’ll be stopping regularly to take photos of the scenery!

The route does close during winter due to snowfall . You’re usually fine until the end of October, but do check in advance and the road generally reopens when the snows clear in April. 

If you’re visiting this area of Italy in the summer , the road is often part of the Giro d’Italia, so check before you set out.

If you’re a nervous driver or don’t like switchbacks, drive it as early as possible–traffic is much quieter then.

By Kat from Biker Girl Life

3. Experience the Dolomites’ infamous “Italian Front” at Cinque Torri

The Dolomites, Veneto, Italy

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the magnificent Dolomite mountains of northern Italy delight summer and winter travelers.

The Cinque Torri (five towers) rock formation and free outdoor World War I museum enchants visitors that want a slice of culture with their adventure plans.

The site is a popular stop on the  Dolomites hiking hut to hut trail  called the Alta Via 1.

It is filled with dramatic rocky spires, green meadows, and extraordinary views of mountains reaching almost 10,000 feet.

Scramble along the paths taken by actual soldiers in WWI filled with placards in multiple languages, including English, German and Italian.

You can really feel what it was like to be on the infamous “Italian Front.”

The Dolomites are a true wonder home to skiing in winter and a hiker’s paradise in summer.

Filled with milky blue lakes and impossibly cute mountain villages, this area near Cortina d’Ampezzo requires planning ahead as most lodging is booked 6 months prior.

Cinque Torri is easily reached by car or bus from the town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, which is a 2-3 hour drive from Venice Marco Polo International Airport.

In addition to the ample rock climbing opportunities, multiple mountain rifugios serve delicious hot food.

If hiking isn’t your thing, you can utilize the ski lifts in summer to get to the Cinque Torri.

By Morgan Fielder from Crave the Planet

4. Swim in the emerald waters of Pozze Smeraldine in Tramonti di Sopra

Tramonti di Sopra, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy

In Friuli Venezia Giulia, more precisely in the Tramontina valley, within the Friulian Dolomites Park on the shore of the Meduna river, surrounded by a natural landscape made of rocks and white pebbles with lush vegetation and crystal clear waters, you will find a magical place.

In fact, in this idyllic setting, you’ll find the natural pools, called Pozze Smeraldine or Emerald Pools, which the Guardian newspaper included in 2014 among the 10 most beautiful natural pools in Italy to bathe.

An environment that is difficult to find in other Alps areas, the Friuli Dolomites have landscapes of rare beauty.

After you reach the car park (indicated by appropriate signs) in Tramonti di Sopra, leave the car there and follow the signs.

First, they’re placed on the paved road and then on an easy path to follow.

As you proceed, you will come across the source of the Sgurlina, where you can quench your thirst and enjoy the view of an uncontaminated landscape. 

After a walk of about 20 minutes, you reach the goal.

Here, the water collects in deep natural pools of a dazzling emerald color, thanks to the white rocks surrounding them.

Since it’s not one of Italy’s hot springs , it’s a perfect platform for a dip in the river’s cool waters.

You can lie down to sunbathe, sit for a picnic, linger and contemplate the landscape. 

Insider Tip:  Due to an influx of tourists, if you can, avoid visiting the emerald pools in August.

By Miriam from  Miry Giramondo

5. Climb to the top of Scala Contarini del Bovolo in Venice

Venice, Veneto, Italy

The  Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo  is a small palazzo tucked in an alleyway of Venice, best known for its external spiral staircase, the Scala Contarini del Bovolo.

The fifteenth-century Palazzo’s staircase leads to a small arcade with stunning views over the rooftops of neighboring buildings.

This unique staircase deserves to be on your Venice bucket list because of the different architectural styles it combines: Renaissance, Gothic, and Byzantine influences give the stairs’ tower its distinctive look.

The staircase is open for visitors to ascend and enjoy the 360-degree views of Venice from its arcade.

Usually, the staircase is not busy, so take your time photographing the many angles of the heart of Venice.

Visitors must buy a €7.00 ticket to the Palazzo, including access to the palace’s small gallery.

You can also gain entry as an add-on to one of the best city passes in Venice , the Venice Unica Pass.

The Palazzo is off Campo Manin and somewhat hard to find, but you will definitely be rewarded if you’re determined.

If you’ve just arrived in  Venice from Florence by bus , arriving at the Tronchetto ​​bus station, make your way east, following the Piazza San Marco signs. 

From this famous piazza, wind through the streets as follows: head northwest on Calle de Fabri, take the stairs on the left and turn onto S. Marco.

Turn left on Calle del Magazen, left on Calle Fuseri, and then right on the very narrow Calle de la Vida o de le Locande, and look for the yellow sign pointing you toward the “Scala Contarini del Bovolo.”

There are plenty of accommodation options within a short walk of the Palazzo.

Still, if you want to stay incredibly close, two top hotels are located right on Campo Manin: Hotel Centauro ( Booking | Hotels ) and Palazzo San Luca ( Booking | Hotels ).

A more affordable choice is a room at the quaint Ca’ Dei Fuseri Bed & Breakfast .

By Mary King from WanderU

6. Visit the House of Savoy residence, Villa della Regina, on the outskirts of Turin

Turin, Piedmont, Italy

One of the  best places to visit in Turin  overlooking the city from the eastern side of the River Po, the hilltop  Villa della Regina  is a lesser-known Italian UNESCO World Heritage Site you don’t want to miss. 

The entire region of Piedmont was ruled by the Savoy family for centuries (and Turin was the capital city of several of their kingdoms.)

So, the region is home to more than ten royal residences, all listed as one UNESCO site, and Villa della Regina is one of them.

Built in the 17th century and remodeled throughout the years, it was used by the princes and princesses of the House of Savoy until the 19th century.

While its front facade is relatively modest, on your tour, you can see its luxurious rooms, packed with beautiful frescoes, paintings by famous Italian painters, marble decorations, and more.

Next, head out to the vast gardens dotted with pavilions, sculptures, and fountains.

Last but not least, you’ll see the Villa’s royal vineyard, which was replanted a few years ago.

From Turin’s city center, you can take bus number 56, but the final ascent to Villa della Regina must be done on foot.

The visit costs only 7 euros, but admission is free with the Torino+Piemonte Card.

The Villa is only open from Friday to Sunday, and if you want to visit on Saturday, you must reserve your spot in advance via email.

The best area to stay in Turin is the Historic Center, so you can book a stay at the highly-rated Savoia Suites Torino , though you can also stay in the quiet Crocetta neighborhood at Hotel Liberty ( Booking | Hotels ).

By Or from My Path in the World

7. Marvel at the architecture of the Russian Orthodox Church in Sanremo

Sanremo, Liguria, Italy

An unexpected sight on the Italian Riviera is a Russian Orthodox Church–called  Chiesa Russa Ortodossa  or  Cathedral of Christ the Saviour –in the elegant port city of Sanremo.

Constructed in 1912-1913, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour was opened to serve the local well-to-do Russian community.

Another reason for the inauguration of this church was to pay homage to Empress Maria Aleksandrovna, who spent some time in Sanremo.

She was so well-liked in Sanremo that an entire street lined with palm trees has been named after her – the Corso Imperatrice.

While the outside of the church is intricately decorated in vivid colors and rotund domes typical of Russian Orthodox churches, the church’s interior, in stark contrast, remains relatively bare.

The onset of the First World War prevented the completion of the ambitious plan to decorate the interior.

Recently, renovations of the church’s exterior have been completed to repair the damage from the Second World War.

The interior restoration is also in the works so that a richly decorated interior might still come to fruition an entire century after the original inauguration of the church.

The Russian Orthodox Church in Sanremo should be a must-see on every visitor’s itinerary.

Such an unlikely landmark is not often found outside Russia and especially not in Italy.

This small church proudly takes its place on the Sanremo skyline.

The church is located at 2 Via Nuvoloni in Sanremo.

The church is open 10 am – 12:30 pm and 3 pm – 6:00 pm. Sunday service is at 10 am and on Saturdays at 5 pm. 

The closest airports to Sanremo are Nice and Turin. For amazing views of the sea, stay at Lolli Palace Hotel ( Booking | Hotels ) on Corso Imperatrice.

By Bea Cińska from  Pack Your Bags

8. Taste true Tuscan food at Podere il Casale in Pienza

Pienza, Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany, Italy, is a beautiful place to visit, but it’s also a great place to taste the local food.

If you love finding non-touristy things to do in Italy and want to learn more about the local history and culture of Tuscany, plan a visit to Podere il Casale, a unique Tuscan cheese farm and restaurant.

Located in the stunning Val d’Orcia in central Tuscany along the ancient pilgrimage road from Rome,  Podere il Casale  is one of the area’s most delicious farm-to-table restaurants, with all of its cheese produced on-site and much of its produce and meat as well.

Adding to its charm is the scenic location it occupies, overlooking the Tuscan Val d’Orcia where the movie Gladiator was filmed.

The landscape is so iconic; it’s been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The farm is open for cheese tastings and short tours of the grounds and sheep herds, but for a more immersive experience, sign up to take their cheese-making class.

Their expertise in making the local pecorino cheese is undeniable, and cheese tastings also include samples of their own small-barrel wines.

You can purchase cheese and other local foods  Podere il Casale  produces to take home if it makes it that far.

You’ll need to rent a car to get to this rural location, but in this case, the journey is definitely as good as the destination. 

By Lori Sorrentino from Travlinmad

Fun Fact : Italy doesn’t have any laws that mandate the country’s legal drinking age. You can read more about the country’s alcohol consumption laws here .

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9. Take in the view from the top of Monte Capanne on Elba

Elba, Tuscany, Italy

Most people only have the beautiful beaches in mind when thinking of the tiny island called Elba.

But did you know that the lovely island does have a mountain higher than 1000 meters above sea level?

Only 10km away from the Italian mainland, Elba is the biggest island in the Tuscan Archipelago.

The tiny airport is serviced by national flights only; therefore, most people  arrive at Elba by ferry  from Piombino.

The Monte Capanne can already be seen from the boat and basically from nearly everywhere on the beautiful island.

At 1,019 meters, it’s the highest mountain on Elba.

From the peak, you have breathtaking views of the entire island, the Italian coastline, and the French island of Corsica. You will be surprised to see how green Elba is.

The most accessible starting point for hikers is the villages of Marciana or Poggio on the mountain’s north face.

It is a fantastic hike but with 3,5hrs to reach the summit and 600 meters of altitude to overcome, it is no hike for beginners.

A great alternative is the yellow chair lift from Pozzatello. In less than 20 minutes, you will be taken to the top.

The ride is an adventure of its own, as you have to stand in the small gondolas, which only fit 2 people.

The round trip costs €18.00, but the view over the fantastic island is definitely worth it!

By Linda from Hiking the Alps

10. Check out the bridge nicknamed “Devil’s Bridge,” Ponte della Maddalena, outside Borgo a Mozzano

Borgo a Mozzano, Tuscany, Italy

About a half-hour north of Lucca, just before Borgo a Mozzano, you’ll find the picturesque Ponte della Maddalena, a bridge like you’ve never seen before.

With a sizeable 60-foot arch followed by three smaller arches, the Medieval stone bridge almost has a dinosaur shape, yet it is strikingly beautiful.

You’ll know at first glance that you should stop and explore this Italian hidden gem, also referred to as Devil’s Bridge. 

Legend has it that the bridge’s construction was significantly behind schedule, so a pact was made with the devil. In exchange for completion, the devil would receive the soul of the first one to cross the bridge.

The townspeople fooled the devil and lured a dog across first. Everyone except the dog lived happily ever after. 

To visit Ponte della Maddalena, pull into the small parking lot at the foot of the bridge just off the SS12.

You can easily snap your photos from here or walk across the bridge over the Fiume Serchio (Serchio River). 

Although the bridge is quite intriguing, you will not need more than 30 minutes to an hour.

You can visit the nearby village of Bagni de Lucca, and have some lunch. Tortelli and Farro Soup are two  Italian specialty dishes  of this region.

Since Bagni de Lucca is very small, staying in Lucca is the best option.

The Grand Universe Lucca Autograph Collection inside the city walls is an excellent option near two of the main squares. 

By Denise from Chef Denise

11. Visit the underground Etruscan caves in Orvieto

Orvieto, Umbria, Italy

If you don’t have time for in-depth research on Orvieto, you might miss one of the most unique places to visit in Italy.

Orvieto, a 90-minute train ride for a day trip outside of Rome, is not only a stunning and picturesque  town in Italy for photographers  but also a perfect destination full of rich and unusual history.

As you disembark from the train, be sure to purchase funicular tickets for a quick ride up the side of the cliff.

The city sits atop a huge underground complex of man-made caves dug out of soft volcanic rock that has been in existence since the Etruscan times.

Many of these caves are connected by passages and are literally the “coolest” feature in Orvieto. 

Out of the 1,200 caves in Orvieto dug out under homes and businesses (following strict specifications), many have been used over the years as wine cellars, wells, bomb shelters, and cold storage.

On your underground tour of the  Orvieto Underground , you’ll see olive presses, storage areas, and dovecotes or nests for pigeons. In fact, during many of the ancient attacks on the city, residents survived on pigeons.

You can even take a guided tour of the Etruscan caves , which includes a visit to the city’s cathedral.

If you choose to stay in Orvieto, there are several unique apartment stays that are steps from the heart of Orvieto’s Old Town with the Duomo, shopping, and eateries moments away.

Otherwise, plan to return to Rome on the evening train.

By Jolayne Kline from Simply Jolayne

12. Explore the Sant’Agnese Fuori Le Mura Basilica and Complex outside Rome

Rome, Lazio, Italy

One of the most fascinating  hidden gems in Rome  is the complex of  Sant’Agnese Fuori Le Mura Basilica , located in Via Nomentana and bearing this name due to its position outside of the Aurelian Walls. 

The complex is fascinating because it shows art and history to explore outside the walls and the city center.

Among the landmarks to visit here, travelers should start with the modern church, the look of which depends on several renovations of the 7th-century Basilica built by Pope Honorius I. 

The catacombs underneath the whole complex are a must: built in the 3rd century, this is the early-Christian cemetery where the young Roman martyr Sant’Agnese was buried at the beginning of the 4th century.

The whole complex focuses on the saint, also thanks to Costanza, the daughter of Emperor Constantine the Great.

She was the first to officially end the persecutions against the Christians. 

Costanza, who had a deep devotion to Saint Agnes, commissioned the building of the so-called Constantinian Basilica, a covered cemetery near the burial place of the saint, and the ruins are still visible behind the complex. 

Finally, one of the must-see landmarks and probably the most visually stunning is the funerary Mausoleum of Santa Costanza, commissioned by the same Costanza in the 3rd century.

Its architecture was inspired by Roman temples, and its ceiling is coated with wonderful mosaics.

This area is straightforward to reach by metro (line B, Sant’Agnese-Annibaliano stop) or by bus (66, 82).

In the Nomentano/Trieste neighborhood, there are other landmarks to visit, such as Villa Torlonia urban park and the quirky Quartiere Coppedè, as well as several excellent restaurants, including Ops! vegan restaurant, the Scandinavian-inspired street food place Smor, and Berberè pizza place, all near Piazza Fiume.

By Angela Corrias from Rome Actually

13. See thousands of Capuchin friars’ bones at the Bone Chapel Capuchin Crypt in Rome

If you are looking for a unique and chilling experience in Italy, look no further than the capital city.

The Capuchin Crypt–also known as the Bone Chapel–isn’t only  off the beaten path in Rome , but relatively unknown in Italy.

Situated near the Piazza Barberini and Palazzo Barberini, it gives you an insight into the history of the Capuchin Order in the museum that you can visit together with the bone chapel.

The chapel itself actually consists of several chapels side by side, carefully ornated with the bones of several thousands of Capuchin friars.

The Capuchins believed this to be a reminder of human mortality.

The walls and ceilings are covered in artwork using different human bones.

Even the chandeliers above your head are made of human bones.

But the most unsettling might just be the skeletons in black capes guarding the chapels.

It is not allowed to take pictures inside the chapels, but this is truly an experience that will stay with you forever.

To get to the Capuchin Crypt, take the metro to Barberini and walk the last couple of minutes. An excellent place to stay nearby is the Relais Barberini Hotel.

From there you can easily walk around a lesser visited part of Rome and explore the astounding Palazzo Barberini, Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Antica and the Chiesa di San Carlino alle Quattro Fontane.

By Linn Haglund from Brainy Backpackers

14. Wander through the gardens at Villa d’Este in Tivoli

Tivoli, Lazio, Italy

Magical Villa d’Este, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Tivoli, is a water fountain lover’s paradise.

UNESCO considers the five hundred water jets scattered through the grounds in fountains, pools, grottoes, and stone statues.

Various other water features a “remarkable illustration of Renaissance culture at its most refined … a true water garden and a unique example of an Italian 16th-century garden,” which became an oft-copied model for others throughout Europe.

The features descend several levels from the Villa’s palace (once a monastery) to the main garden area.

The water for this ambitious project comes to the Villa through an underground canal connected to the Anio River, which flows through the charming town of Tivoli.

The terraced design facilitates the water flow through natural gravity. 

One of the most fun features is the water organ. A relatively simple interaction of water and air makes trumpets blow and fills the air with music.

Historical descriptions describe the incredulity with which observers watched the organ produce several madrigal songs as if by magic.  

The variety of features play with the water in so many different ways … many of them are whimsical, others ethereal.

There’s no predicting what lies around the next corner, making a genuinely delightful playground for children and adults. 

Tickets are reasonably priced, and the hours vary by season.

If you don’t have a car, Villa d’Este is easy to reach by train from Rome, less than an hour away.

From the train station in Tivoli, it’s a simple well-marked walk or bus ride to the Villa. Villa Adriana, the country estate of the Roman Emperor Hadrian and another UNESCO site, is close by (walking distance), and the two villas are taken together, making for a perfect day trip from Rome.  

By Shara Johnson from  SKJ Travel

15. Visit Palazzo dei Papi, the home for the first-ever conclave in Viterbo

Viterbo, Lazio, Italy

Not many know it, but Viterbo, the capital of the beautiful region of Tuscia (which spans across Northern Lazio, Southern Tuscany, and Umbria), is home to the first-ever conclave.

Quick History:  A conclave is a meeting during which Roman Catholic cardinals are literally locked inside a room until they agree on the election of the future pope. 

During the 13th century and for about two decades after, Viterbo was considered a much safer place for clerics to live than Rome. 

The Palazzo dei Papi  (Palace of the Popes) is located in the central Piazza San Lorenzo. Popes resided in this Gothic-style building between 1257 and 1281.

Highlights of the visit include the main room – the Aula del Conclave; the beautifully frescoed Sala Gualterio; and the Loggia della Benedizione – a beautiful balcony overlooking the square below from which the newly elected popes would make their first public appearance.

Viterbo’s Palazzo dei Papi is open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 or 7:00 pm, depending on the season. Admission is €9 and includes an audio guide that will help you go through the history of the palace and its most notable pieces of art. 

Next to the Palace of the Popes, you will find the Duomo di Viterbo, the main church in the city. This Romanesque-style church is the resting place of two 13th-century popes.

You can easily reach  Viterbo  by train from Rome.

Catch a northbound train from Roma Termini or Roma Tiburtina and get off at Viterbo Porta Romana station.

If you have a car, Viterbo is an excellent base for a road trip around Tuscia. 

The best place to stay in town is Hotel Palazzo Verdi ( Booking | Hotels ), right by the theater and a 2-minute walk to the Corso Italia, from where you can easily reach all the most important landmarks in town.

By Claudia Tavani from Strictly Rome

16. Check out the beautifully preserved ruins of Herculaneum in Ercolano

Ercolano, Campania, Italy

Most people have heard of the ancient ruin of Pompeii, buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius thousands of years ago. It’s an incredible place to visit to learn about living in ancient Italy.

Not far away is a smaller, even better-preserved city called Herculaneum. It was on the coast near Mount Vesuvius and where the wealthy people of the time lived.

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a special place worth seeing when visiting Rome, Naples, Sorrento, or the Amalfi Coast.

Though it’s much smaller than Pompeii, it’s in much better condition.

Like Pompeii, it was buried under layers of debris from the eruption. However, you can still see the ancient wood beams, frescoes, and mosaics. 

Most of the public buildings remain unexcavated, but what’s remarkable is you can tour many of the wealthy homes to see what they might have once looked like.

You can visit the old baths as well.

It’s generally less crowded, and you can almost hear the echoes of the past. Definitely get a guide to wander through this ruin so you can learn about the history.

Also, there are no facilities inside Herculaneum, so make sure you eat and visit the restrooms at the entrance.

It’s easy to visit Herculaneum as just a ten-minute walk from the Ercolano-Scavi stop on the Circumvesuviana train. Hold your bags close on this local train as it gets pretty busy.

Many people visit on a day trip from Naples or Sorrento and stay in those cities.

If you want to stay closer to the ruin to spend more time there, check out Hotel Herculaneum ( Booking | Hotels ), just steps from the ruin.

Visiting Herculaneum is a bucket-list experience you won’t want to miss.

By Sam from My Flying Leap

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17. Explore the ruins of the Ancient Greek city Paestum in Paestum

Paestum, Campania, Italy

Italy is home to countless ancient ruins scattered all around the country.

Aside from the deservedly popular site of Pompeii and the lesser-known Herculaneum, there is another significant ruin close to the city.

If you head further south of Naples, you’ll reach the ruins of  Paestum , once a major Greek city and one of the most impressive ancient Greek sites anywhere in Europe.

The site’s highlights are the three Doric Greek temples, two dedicated to Hera and one to Athena, in a magnificent state of preservation. 

Paestum is also home to a largely intact Greek amphitheater, plus many of the paved roads and buildings foundations remain, allowing you to imagine the ancient city.

Walking around the site and through the temples is an awe-inspiring experience. 

Paestum is only a short drive south of Naples, about 75 minutes in a car.

Alternatively, there is a train station within walking distance of the ruins, with regular trains from Napoli Centrale taking just over an hour–so you don’t need to drive if you don’t want to.

It’s also just over half an hour south of Salerno. 

The area around Paestum is a popular beach resort area, with multiple lidos to swim at during the summer season.

Over the winter months, the site is relatively quiet, and accommodation can be harder to come by, with the better option to stay in Naples or along the Amalfi Coast.

While in the region, it’s also worthwhile stopping off at one of the many buffalo mozzarella farms dotted throughout the area and signposted from the highway–another one of the coolest, most non-touristy things to do in Italy.

You’ll have the chance to come face to face with the buffalo who produce the famous cheese and purchase some directly from the farm gate.

By Shandos Cleaver from  Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel

18. Enjoy panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast from the Villa Cimbrone Gardens in Ravello

Ravello, Campania, Italy

If you’re looking for the best non-touristy things to do in Italy, go to the Villa Cimbrone Gardens in Ravello.

Ravello is a hilltop town on the Amalfi Coast.

Most people visiting the Amalfi Coast just go to Amalfi and Positano, which are super crowded, but it’s definitely worth getting off the path and going to Ravello.

It is a beautiful drive to get there – winding through the hills surrounded by vineyards.

One of the prettiest spots in Ravello is the Villa Cimbrone Gardens.

They are beautifully landscaped gardens. But the best thing about the gardens is the views over the Amalfi Coast.

There is a viewing platform at the very end of the gardens on a cliff that looks out over the Amalfi Coast. It’s worth going to Ravello just for these views.

You can get a bus from most places along the Amalfi Coast to Ravello.

Once you are at Ravello, it’s then a short walk to the Villa Cimbrone Gardens.

The viewing platform is at the very back of the gardens – make sure you don’t miss it since it’s the best part of the gardens and the main reason it’s worth visiting.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, you could either remain in Ravello or book accommodation in any of the little villages along the Amalfi Coast if you wanted somewhere a bit more central.

By Ashleigh from  Ashleigh’s Atlas

19. Experience one of the fastest zip lines in Europe at Volo dell’Angelo in Castelmezzano

Castelmezzano, Basilicata, Italy

Volo dell’Angelo  is situated in the picturesque mountain village Castelmezzano.

Over the town lies one of the fastest zip lines in Europe, where visitors can admire a scenic spot 400 meters above ground level.

It’s one of the numerous non-touristy places to visit in Italy due to its remote destination in the south.

The location is blessed with stunning nature, and the village itself is gorgeous.

That’s why it’s also a hidden gem, known mainly by the locals.

The best things to see and do there are hiking around the beautiful village, visiting Gradinata Normanna, and strolling around a stone village.

But Castelmezzano  is known chiefly for the high-speed zip line.

It starts from Castelmezzano, then winds with speeds of 120km/h to the neighboring village Pietrapertosa and back.

It’s better to book “flight” tickets in advance because sometimes there might be long queues. 

The best way to get there is by car. There is some public transportation option, but it’s not sufficient enough. It would be an ideal day trip option from Matera.

There are multiple accommodation options in the village to stay a night.

One of them is Casa delle Stelle , which offers magnificent views of the Castelmezzano and surrounding dolomite hills.

By Erki from Genem Travels

20. Discover Matera’s Paleolithic cave homes in the Sassi di Matera

Matera, Basilicata, Italy

Found in the south’s Basilicata region, the city of Matera is home to two incredible non-touristy things to do in Italy.

This magnificent metropolis can be traced back to the Paleolithic period, when ancient peoples lived in the large caves that encircle today’s city center.

When I was teaching English in Italy in Matera, my host family and I spent a day climbing up to these caves.

However, the city is most famous for its Sassi di Matera.

The Sassi is made up of structures and residences carved into the side of the mountain.

While these exquisite white stone houses were abandoned for many years beginning in the 1950s from poor sanitation, they have now been refurbished and restored to modern-day standards.

Today, you must explore the Sassi’s twisting streets and discover locally-owned stores and excellent restaurants.

You can also discover some outstanding, one-of-a-kind apartment stay properties to rent during your vacation in this historic area.

If time allows, visit the Palombaro Lungo, a now-inactive underground water reservoir once the largest in the ancient city.

This historical way of delivering water to the town’s residents was critical to the city’s survival.

Spend an afternoon with a tour guide wandering through these fifteen-meter-high tunnels and learning how the city’s people received water.

While Matera is a beautiful city to explore during the day, the city comes alive in the evenings.

Their central plaza, Piazza Vittorio Veneto, is bustling with families and friends out for after-dinner strolls. 

Although the city’s popularity has soared since it was chosen as a 2019 European Capital of Culture, you’ll still be immersed in authentic Southern Italian culture when you visit the ancient city.

By Lyndsay from The Purposely Lost

21. See the seaside cave church in Pizzo Calabro, Piedigrotta Church

Pizzo Calabro, Calabria, Italy

When in Pizzo Calabro, in the province of Vibo Valentia in  Calabria , you can’t miss a visit to the Piedigrotta Church.

The church is only 20 minute’s walk from Pizzo city center, or just 5 if driving a car and following the road SS 522.

To get to the stunning cave church, you’ll walk down a granite flight of steps and pass through a scenic path facing the Gulf of Sant’Eufemia. 

The Piedigrotta Church is a seaside cave church with carved sculptures from the 19th and 20th centuries.

The Piedigrotta church is unique because the religious place was carved on sedimentary rocks of marine origin, even if improperly defined by many as a cave dug into the earth. 

The stone facade is quite simple and made of poor materials.

The true wonder is its interiors: three caves with statues created from the same sedimentary rock narrating scenes from the Holy Scriptures. 

It’s believed that the church was carved as a devotion act for the Madonna of Piedigrotta.

The legend says that the painting of this Madonna and the crew were able to save themselves after a catastrophic shipwreck, and building the church was a way to thank her. 

This little gem is only a step away from the beautiful Piedigrotta Church’s beach, where you can spend some time sunbathing and relaxing.

Alternatively, you can drive back to Pizzo and explore the narrow streets and piazzas of the small historical city center. 

If you decide to do that, you can’t leave without trying the tartufo di Pizzo , a delicious gelato dessert composed of many layers of gelato flavors!

You can stay at the Palazzo Paladini for a wonderful stay in modern and luxurious flats right in the city center of Pizzo Calabro.

By Dan from Urban Abroad

22. Swim inside Roca Vecchia’s Grotta della Poesia, the “Cave of Poetry”

Roca Vecchia, Puglia, Italy

The Grotta della Poesia is a natural sea cave with an intriguing history.

Rumored to have been frequented by an enchanting Princess, the cave drew in poets inspired by the scene’s beauty – hence the name, which translates to “Cave of Poetry” in English.

Fairytales aside, there is evidence that the cave was used in worship throughout history, dating back to the Messapian period. 

Today, the caves are frequented by locals and tourists alike who come to sunbathe on the cliffs, dive into the natural pool, or explore other nearby archaeological ruins.

It’s a truly beautiful and unique place to swim.

And if you’re not brave enough to dive into the crystalline water from above, there’s a stone staircase etched into the side of the cave for a more demure entrance.

From the cave, it’s possible to swim out to the sea, but beware that the sea can be rough on the other side of the thick rocky sea wall, so this is best only untaken by strong swimmers.

While you’re in the area, be sure to take a walk along to the Archeology park of Roca Vecchia, which is hidden in plain sight.

Here you’ll find ruins dating back to the 14th century BC. The cave is easily reached via car, or you can take a bus from Lecce, which will take about an hour.

Nearby Torre dell’Orso and San Foca are among the  best places to stay in Puglia , and both are within walking distance of the cave.

Consider a stay at the Hotel Belvedere ( Booking | Hotels ), and you’ll be able to wander along the coast for about 15 minutes to be first in line for a morning swim at the grotto.

By Nadine Maffre from Le Long Weekend

23. Explore the Medieval city center of Erice

Erice, Sicily, Italy

The village of Erice in western Sicily (Trapani province) contains two parts: The modern part of the city at the bottom of the hill and the medieval village precariously perched on the aptly named Mount Erice (750 meters or 2.460 feet above sea level).

The real reason for visiting Erice lies not in the modern part of town but hidden deep between the quaint alleys of historical Erice, where time has somehow stood still.

Highlights of Erice include Porta Trapani, Church of San Martino (a Norman Church), Mother Church, a walk through the Spanish Neighborhood, and of course, a visit to the extraordinarily well preserved Venus Castle, overlooking the Egadi Islands.

As is the case for many typical  Sicilian villages , Erice has its very own typical and age-old biscuits to try: Genovesi Ericine or Mustaccioli is a local favorite.

There are a few different ways to get to the Historical Center of Erice, the most scenic being the cable car (starts in Via F. Milana, 102, 91016 Erice TP, Italy) which runs from April on (€6.00 one way or €9.50 to and back).

Alternatively, drive up the winding roads and park outside Porta Trapani (€1/hour parking fee to be paid with cash at the meter).

By Caroline from Veggie Wayfarer

24. Marvel at the huge collection of Roman mosaics at the Villa Romana del Casale near Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina, Sicily, Italy

Villa Romana del Casale  is an incredible UNESCO site located near the town of Piazza Armerina in central Sicily,  Italy .

The site contains a vast collection of Roman mosaics, remarkably well preserved over the centuries.

The house is thought to have belonged to a wealthy Roman family – the excavated rooms were likely once used for administrative and residential purposes. 

The mosaics are particularly colorful and skilfully produced, depicting various scenes, including hunting and fighting, mythical stories, and everyday Roman life.

The craftsmen who created the beautiful mosaics are thought to have come from North Africa.

Villa Romana del Casale is very rural, so it is best reached by car or as part of a guided tour.

The site is around 160 kilometers from the capital of Sicily – Palermo – and 100 kilometers from Catania.

There are some wonderful small Italian towns and villages to explore in the vicinity of the Roman site, including the hilltop town of Enna.

The best places to stay nearby are the family-run agriturismo farm stays such as Baglio Pollicarini , which is a unique place in Italy on its own.

This important archaeological site is one of the essential non-touristy places to visit in Italy for anyone interested in Roman history visiting Italy.

By Annabel Kirk from Smudged Postcard

25. Escape to the Dolomite Mountains from Bolzano

Bolzano, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, Italy

Nestled in the heart of the Dolomite Mountains, Bolzano is a stunning city that offers a unique blend of Italian and Austrian cultures.

While it may not be as well-known as other Italian destinations, Bolzano is a hidden gem that boasts a wealth of historical and cultural treasures.

Visitors can explore the city’s medieval center, which is home to several impressive landmarks, including the iconic Duomo and the South Tyrol Archeological Museum. 

Just outside the city center, you can visit the imposing, Medieval castle, Castel Mareccio, or take the cable car Funivia Renon for incredible views of the mountains.

As an excellent gateway to the stunning Dolomite Mountains, offering access to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in Italy, Bolzano offers some of the best non touristy things to do in Italy.

It’s also home to one of the largest Christmas markets in Italy . 

26. See the ancient trulli houses in Alberobello

Alberobello, Puglia, Italy

Found in the southern region of Puglia, Alberobello is a small town that has managed to preserve its unique character and history.

What makes this town stand out is its unusual architecture – the town is dotted with dozens of traditional trulli , small stone houses with conical roofs that date back to the 14th century.

The town’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visitors can stroll along the winding streets and marvel at the trulli that dot the landscape.

Alberobello also boasts a rich culinary tradition, with local specialties such as orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese, and Primitivo wine.

27. Marvel at panoramic views of Lake Garda in Sirmione

Sirmione, Lombardy, Italy

Sirmione is a charming town located on a narrow peninsula that juts into Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake.

Despite its stunning beauty and historic significance, Sirmione remains relatively undiscovered by tourists, making it a hidden gem that’s worth exploring.

The town is home to several impressive Roman ruins, including the ruins of a grand villa and a 13th-century castle that overlooks the lake.

Visitors can also take a dip in the lake or the town’s thermal baths and Italian hot springs or stroll along the winding streets of the historic center.

With its picturesque setting, rich history, and laid-back vibe, Sirmione is undoubtedly one of the most extraordinary non-touristy places to visit in Italy.

28. Spend a night in one of Europe’s oldest castles at CastelBrando

Cison di Valmarino, Veneto, Italy

Found right in the heart of the Veneto’s UNESCO-protected Prosecco Hills, CastelBrando is a medieval castle that has been converted into a unique hotel and spa.

The castle’s rich history dates back all the way back to the Romans when it was first built as a fortress.

Later, the ruling families of the region expanded the structure and developed it into the castle it is today.

Now, CastelBrando has been beautifully restored and offers luxurious accommodations, spa treatments, and dining options.

Guests can explore the castle’s many rooms and halls, take in breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside from the castle’s towers, and enjoy the finest Prosecco, either on a Prosecco tour or in the castle’s restaurant or bar.

If you’re interested, you can read more about my experience visiting this historic site in my complete CastelBrando review .

29. Climb one of the remaining Medieval towers in San Gimignano 

San Gimignano, Tuscany, Italy

San Gimignano is a small medieval town that has managed to preserve its authentic character and charm over the centuries.

Often overshadowed by more famous Tuscan destinations like Florence and Siena, San Gimignano is a hidden gem that should not be missed by those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

The town is famous for its many towers, which were built by wealthy families during the Medieval period as a sign of their wealth, status, and for protection.

Stroll along the town’s narrow streets, take in stunning views of the surrounding hills and vineyards, and sample local specialties such as Vernaccia di San Gimignano wine and saffron-flavored dishes.

And, you must taste some of the best gelato in Italy, found at Gelateria Dondoli in the town’s piazza.

30. Dip your toes in the Tyrrhenian Sea on the Aeolian Islands

Aeolian Islands, Sicily, Italy

Off the coast of Sicily, you’ll find a stunning archipelago–the Aeolian Islands. 

Comprised of seven islands and relatively undiscovered by tourists, the Aeolian Islands offer a unique blend of natural beauty and Mediterranean heritage.

Visitors can explore the islands’ volcanic landscapes, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and sample delicious seafood dishes at local restaurants.

Each island has its own distinct character and attractions, from the dramatic cliffs of Stromboli to the stunning beaches of Panarea.

With its pristine beaches, rugged terrain, and laid-back vibe, the Aeolian Islands are undoubtedly one of the most extraordinary non-touristy places to visit in Italy.

The Best Non-Touristy Things to do in Italy

1. Tre Cime di Lavaredo in the Dolomites/Italian Alps 2. Gavia Pass in the Italian Alps 3. Cinque Torri in the Dolomites 4. Pozze Smeraldine in the Tramontina valley 5. Scala Contarini del Bovolo in Venice 6. Villa della Regina in Turin 7. Russian Orthodox Church in Sanremo  8. Podere il Casale in Pienza 9. Monte Capanne on Elba 10. Ponte della Maddalena in Borgo a Mozzano 11. The Etruscan underground caves in Orvieto 12. Sant’Agnese Fuori Le Mura Basilica and Complex in Rome 13. Bone Chapel Capuchin Crypt in Rome 14. Villa d’Este in Tivoli 15. Palazzo dei Papi in Viterbo 16. The Ancient Roman ruins of Herculaneum in Ercolano 17. The Ancient Greek ruins of Paestum in Paestum 18. Villa Cimbrone Gardens in Ravello 19. Volo dell’Angelo in Castelmezzano 20. Sassi di Matera in Matera 21. Piedigrotta Church in Pizzo Calabro 22. Grotta della Poesia in Puglia 23. The Medieval city center in Erice 24. Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina 25. Escape to the Dolomite Mountains from Bolzano 26. See the ancient trulli houses in Alberobello 27. Marvel at panoramic views of Lake Garda in Sirmione 28. Spend a night in one of Europe’s oldest castles at CastelBrando 29. Climb one of the remaining Medieval towers in San Gimignano  30. Dip your toes in the Tyrrhenian Sea on the Aeolian Islands

If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful country, there are some absolutely incredible non touristy places in Italy you definitely need to visit.

Although they’re off the beaten path, they offer truly unique experiences and beautiful views that will leave you wanting more.

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29 Non-Touristy Things To Do In Nashville

From the Author: I've lived in Nashville for 12 years, and my wife was born here. We love Nashville and know it well, having worked downtown for five years. As a tour guide at the Musicians Hall of Fame, I always speak with visitors, and I'm thrilled to give you my local advice. If you have any questions, we respond quickly to comments!

I will show you that there's more to do in Nashville than just drink.

We're getting a bad reputation for becoming a crowded party town where it's fun to get wasted on Broadway. We are so much more than that!

I hope you find this list helpful.

#1. Wine and Food Tasting at Chef & I

• Cost:  Mid-range ($30-$60 per person, depending on the tasting menu)
• Location:  East Nashville
• Availability:  Daily (5 PM-7 PM) | Dinner (Saturday and Sunday (5 PM – 10 PM)
• Specialty:  Wine pairing with inventive dishes
• Website: https://www.thechefandinashville.com/

Wine and Food tasting at Chef & I is an authentic Nashville experience offering an exciting culinary journey. As a Nashville local, I can vouch for this as a standout spot where you can watch the magic of food creation right before your eyes. You might not find crowds of tourists here, but the locals swear by the creative and changing menus paired with exceptional wines. It's a culinary treat not to be missed!

#2. Sweet Pizza At Midnight Oil

• Cost:  Budget-friendly ($10-$20 per pizza)
• Location:  The nation's Neighborhood
• Availability:  Opens daily (Evening hours) | Sunday (11 AM-11 PM)
• Specialty:  Unique sweet pizzas

If you think you know pizza, wait until you've tasted the sweet concoctions at Midnight Oil. As a resident of Nashville, I must tell you this spot surprise your taste buds. It's the perfect detour from the typical Nashville barbecue and hot chicken joints. Tourists rarely venture here, but if you're in the mood for pizza with a sweet twist, make sure to pay a visit. Their sweet pizzas are out-of-the-ordinary and mouth-watering!

#3. Bag Cocktails At The Mockingbird

• Cost:  Reasonable ($10-$15 per cocktail)
• Location:  North of The Gulch
• Availability:  All Days Of The Week (Except Mon, Tue)
• Specialty:  Quirky cocktails in a bag.
• Website: https://www.mockingbirdnashville.com/

The Mockingbird is a hidden gem where the cocktails come in a bag, and let me tell you, they're more fun than you could imagine. This isn't your average bar; it's a cocktail wonderland where the beverages are as entertaining as they are tasty. Many tourists do not frequent the Mockingbird, but it's a go-to spot for locals looking to unwind with some unique cocktails. Don't miss the chance to try these fun and flavorful bagged concoctions!

Related: Things To Do in Nashville (You Don't Want to Miss!)

#4. Mead Tasting at HoneyTree Meadery

• Cost:  Affordable ($10-$20 per tasting flight)
• Location:  East Nashville
• Availability:  Opens every day in the Evening | Whole Day on Weekends
• Specialty:  Artisanal honey wines
• Website : https://honeytreemeadery.com/

Step into HoneyTree Meadery, and you're stepping into a taste of Nashville's history. This local gem offers an extensive tasting menu of mead, an ancient honey wine, that's both a delicious and cultural experience. Only a few tourists know about this place, making it a unique and non-touristy spot for an authentic Nashville experience. If you're up for a sweet adventure, this is one stop that should make it to your itinerary!

#5. Giant Beer Pong at Pins Mechanical

• Cost:  Moderate ($10-$20 per game)
• Location:  Downtown Nashville
• Availability:  Open every day (Evening to Midnight hours)
• Specialty:  Oversized beer pong games
• Website: https://www.pinsbar.com/nashville

One place I highly recommend for an offbeat experience is Pins Mechanical, where beer pong gets supersized. It's a fun-filled local spot that has turned the casual game into a grand affair. Seldom on a tourist's radar, it's popular with locals who enjoy the good-humored competition, craft beers , and lively atmosphere. If you're in for some fun and games, you won't find a more vibrant place than this.

#6. Rejuvenation at Bella E Famosa Spa

• Cost:  Luxurious ($80-$200 depending on the treatment)
• Location: In the heart of Music Row
• Availability:  Schedule Appointment
• Specialty:  Relaxing and pampering spa services
• Website : https://rivieraspanashville.com/

For a tranquil escape from the Nashville hustle, I can't recommend Bella E Famosa Spa enough. This exclusive spa offers a truly rejuvenating experience that keeps the locals returning. Tourists are often too busy hitting the music scenes to indulge in a day at the spa, so this spot remains a serene and undiscovered gem. If you're looking for some relaxation, this is your oasis in the city.

#7. Exotic Cocktails and Volleyball at Sandbar

• Cost:  Affordable ($10-$20 per cocktail)
• Availability:  Open every day (9 AM-11 PM)
• Specialty:  Tropical cocktails and beach volleyball
• Website : https://www.sandbarnashville.com/

There's nothing more Nashville than enjoying tropical cocktails while playing a game of volleyball at Sandbar. It is one of the go-to spots for a mini-vacation without leaving town. This place offers an unlikely combination of beach vibes and sports in the heart of Nashville. It's not typically bustling with tourists, making it a unique spot for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in the city.

#8. Hidden Bars at Printer's Alley

• Cost:  Varied ($10-$50 per drink)
• Location:  Between Third and Fourth Avenue, Downtown Nashville
• Availability:  Most bars open daily (Hours vary)
• Specialty: Historic, hidden bars with live music

When it comes to the secret of Nashville, Printer's Alley tops the list. Home to a selection of hidden bars that date back to the 1900s, this historic alley provides an intimate look at Nashville's past. It's tucked away from the typical tourist hustle of Broadway, making it a favorite of locals who appreciate a good drink and some fine tunes. For a true sense of Nashville's soul, this is a must-visit.

#9. Bluegrass Sessions at Station Inn

• Cost:  Moderate ($10-$20 per ticket)
• Location:  The Gulch, Nashville
• Availability:  Open every day, shows usually start at 7 PM
• Specialty:  Premier venue for bluegrass music
• Website : https://stationinn.com/

For those who love an authentic music experience, Station Inn offers bluegrass sessions that are a treat for the ears. Frequented mainly by locals and savvy music lovers, it gives you a rare opportunity to enjoy world-class bluegrass in an intimate setting. This place is a gem if you want to immerse yourself in Nashville's vibrant music scene without wading through the usual tourist crowd.

#10. Live Music at Bowery Vault, East Nashville

• Cost:  Varied (Free to $20)
• Availability:  Open every day (11 AM-7 PM), Live music often in the evenings
• Specialty:  Unique boutique and live music venue.
• Website : https://theboweryvault.com/

Bowery Vault in East Nashville is a unique blend of retail boutiques and live music venues. Often overlooked by tourists in favor of louder, more bustling venues, it's a favorite haunt of locals and savvy visitors who appreciate its intimate vibe and original performances. This spot is a must if you want to witness Nashville's music scene in a more relaxed and personal setting.

#11. Burgers with Chips at Jack's Brown

• Cost:  Affordable ($7-$15 per meal)
• Location:  Germantown Nashville
• Availability:  Open every day (11 AM-2 AM)
• Specialty:  Gourmet burgers with chips.
• Website : https://www.jackbrownsjoint.com/locations/germantown-nashville/

In a city famous for its culinary scene, the burgers at Jack's Brown manage to stand out. This joint is known for its unique twist: a burger served with chips right on it. It's more frequented by locals than tourists, who usually opt for Nashville's more famous hot chicken. If you're a burger enthusiast seeking a tasty adventure, you will want to take advantage of this spot.

#12. Historic Biscuits at Loveless Café

• Cost:  Moderate ($10-$20 per meal)
• Location:  Southwest of downtown Nashville
• Availability:  Open daily (8 AM-8 PM weekdays) | (7 PM-8 PM weekends)
• Specialty:  Southern comfort food, famous for biscuits.
• Website : https://www.lovelesscafe.com/

This café, set away from the bustling city center, provides a taste of Southern comfort food that locals have loved for generations. While it attracts some out-of-towners, it retains an authentic charm that's hard to find. This is the place to be for a genuine taste of Nashville's culinary heritage.

#13. Giant Beer Steins at Von Elrod's

• Cost:  Moderate ($10-$20 per drink)
• Location:  Germantown, Nashville
• Availability:  Open every day (Morning to night hours)
• Specialty:  Handmade sausages and giant beer steins
• Website : https://vonelrods.com/

Von Elrod's, situated in the heart of Germantown, is the place for beer enthusiasts. You won't find many tourists nursing their giant steins here. The venue boasts an impressive selection of craft beers, which you can enjoy in a laid-back, traditional beer garden atmosphere. If you want to drink like a local, you've got to visit Von Elrod's.

#14. Picnic at Centennial Park

• Cost:  Free (excluding picnic supplies)
• Location:  West End, Nashville
• Availability:  Open every day (6 AM till 8 PM)
• Specialty:  Wide-open space for picnics, recreation, and cultural events

Situated away from the crowded downtown area, Centennial Park offers a breath of fresh air. Locals love this place for a quiet, leisurely picnic amidst lush green settings. The park, with its scenic beauty and iconic Parthenon, is a lesser-known gem among tourists making it an ideal spot for a tranquil escape.

#15. Comedy Show at Zanies

• Cost:  Moderate ($15-$30 per ticket, plus two-item minimum)
• Location:  8th Avenue South, Nashville
• Availability:  Shows usually start at 7 PM; check the schedule for specifics
• Specialty:  Live stand-up comedy shows
• Website : https://nashville.zanies.com/

Zanies is where locals go to let loose and laugh out loud. This comedy club is slightly off the tourist radar, providing a genuine opportunity to mingle with the Nashville crowd. With top-notch comedians gracing the stage and a cozy, intimate setting, Zanies guarantees an evening of laughter.

#16. Top Golf Experience

• Cost:  Varies ($25-$45 per hour per bay, up to six players)
• Location:  East Bank, Nashville
• Availability:  Open every day (Morning to midnight hours)
• Specialty:  High-tech golf games and upscale bar food.
• Website : https://topgolf.com/us/nashville/

Top Golf is the place to be if you're a golf enthusiast or looking for an unconventional Nashville experience. This entertainment venue, often missed by tourists, combines golfing with modern technology for a unique gaming experience. With an array of other fun activities and a full-service restaurant and bar , Top Golf makes for an engaging visit.

#17. The Greenhouse Bar, Green Hills

• Cost:  Moderate ($10-$30 per drink)
• Location: Green Hills , Nashville
• Availability:  Every day (Morning to Late night hours)
• Specialty:  Extraordinary botanical ambiance and artisan cocktails.
• Website : https://www.greenhousenash.com/

Tucked in the vibrant Neighborhood of Green Hills, the greenhouse is an oasis rich in plant life, offering imaginative beverages. It's a popular relaxation spot among residents, providing a breather from the city's hectic pace. This unique and cool lounge boasts an appeal that's hard to resist and take advantage of.

#18. Food Trucks at 6th and Peabody

• Cost:  Affordable ($5-$20 per meal)
• Location:  SoBro, Nashville
• Availability:  Open every day from 11 AM
• Specialty:  Variety of food trucks and outdoor games

Experience a different side of Nashville's culinary scene at 6th and Peabody. This food truck haven is a hit among the locals for its diverse cuisines and relaxed atmosphere. It's a fantastic way to savor Nashville's food culture without the touristy crowd while enjoying some cornhole or giant Jenga.

#19. Bluebirds Café Concerts

• Cost:  Depends on the show ($15-$25 per show)
• Location:  Green Hills, Nashville
• Availability:  Shows typically start at 6 PM or 9 PM; check the schedule for specifics
• Specialty:  Intimate live music performances, particularly singer-songwriters.
• Website : https://store.bluebirdcafe.com/

Bluebird Café, though famous, still retains an authentically local atmosphere. This modest-looking café hosts some of the town's most inspiring and intimate concerts. Bluebird Café is a perfect place to discover up-and-coming talent and gives you a taste of Nashville's heart and soul.

#20. Pinewood Social's Bowling and Dining

• Cost:  Moderate ($40-$60 per hour for bowling, plus Food and drinks)
• Location:  Rolling Mill Hill, Nashville
• Availability:  Open every day (Morning to Late night)
• Specialty:  Extensive entertainment venue with a bowling alley, pool, and restaurant.
• Website : https://www.pinewoodsocial.com/

Pinewood Social is a Nashville gem that marries dining, bowling, and socializing, often skipped by the conventional tourist. This local favorite promises a wholesome, fun-filled evening with its retro bowling lanes and delightful menu. A perfect spot to truly experience Nashville's vibrant and playful side.

#21. Rooftop Drinks at Harriet's Downtown

• Cost:  Moderate to Expensive ($12-$30 per drink)
• Availability:  Open every day (2 PM-10:30 PM)
• Specialty:  Panoramic city views and cocktails.

Harriet's Downtown is a rooftop lounge that offers a unique perspective of Nashville, away from the usual tourist gaze. While sipping on an expertly crafted cocktail, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic city view. It's a serene and sophisticated spot to unwind after a day of exploration.

#22. Opryland Resort Exploration

• Cost:  Free to explore; prices vary for dining and activities
• Location:  Donelson, Nashville
• Availability:  Open every day, 24 hours
• Specialty:  Large hotel complex with gardens, shops, and restaurants.

The Opryland Re­sort is a hidden gem that often goe­s unnoticed by typical tourists visiting Nashville. Howeve­r, it is truly a must-see destination for any visitor to the­ city. This remarkable resort offe­rs an immersive expe­rience with its vast acres of indoor garde­ns, cascading waterfalls, and meandering rive­r. Exploring Opryland provides a tranquil escape from the­ lively music scene that de­fines Nashville's reputation.

#23. Brunch at Big Machine Tavern

• Cost:  Moderate ($25 for unlimited brunch beverages)
• Location:  Berry Hill, Nashville
• Availability:  Opens Everyday (10 AM-10 PM)
• Specialty:  Endless brunch beverages.
• Website : https://www.bigmachinevodka.com/berry-hill

Located in Be­rry Hill, the Big Machine Tavern is re­nowned for its exceptional local brunch offe­rings. The establishment is ce­lebrated for its wide se­lection of unlimited brunch beve­rages, providing the perfe­ct setting for a relaxed and e­njoyable weeke­nd experience­. With a unique Nashville twist, it has become­ a paradise for brunch enthusiasts see­king something genuinely distinct. 

#24. Explore The Art Crawl

• Cost:  Typically free, but money is required if you plan to buy art.
• Location:  Downtown Nashville
• Availability:  Usually on the first Saturday of every month.
• Specialty:  Local art exhibitions and music performances.

The Art Crawl in Nashville­ captures the esse­nce of the local community. It is a hidden ge­m, appealing to those who appreciate­ local talent. Held monthly Downtown, this eve­nt allows everyone to e­xplore and purchase artwork from local artists. The vibrant atmosphe­re is amplified by live music pe­rformances in the background. Mee­ting the artists behind the work adds a pe­rsonal and connected touch to the e­xperience. Ove­rall, it is an energetic e­vening that genuinely embodies our community spirit.

#25. Experience The Helicopter View Of Nashville

• Cost:  Ranges from $70 to $400 depending on the tour length.
• Location:  Nashville and the surrounding area.
• Availability:  Depends on the weather; generally open throughout the year.
• Specialty:  Panoramic view of the Nashville skyline.

To truly appreciate­ the beauty of a place, some­times you need to gain some­ elevation. A helicopte­r ride over Nashville provide­s an unmatched experie­nce. This non-touristy adventure offers a unique­ perspective on our be­loved city. And let's not forget the­ thrill of taking to the skies in a helicopte­r – now that's something extraordinary.

#26. Boat At The Cumberland River

• Cost:  Boat rental varies from $50 to $200 per hour.
• Location:  Cumberland River, Nashville.
• Availability:  Best enjoyed during the warmer months.
• Specialty:  Peaceful boating experiences with views of Nashville's riverfront.

Boating on the Cumberland River is a side of Nashville only some visitors get to see. It's a serene experience, gliding along the water with the cityscape in the backdrop and the sun setting overhead. Whether it's a quiet fishing trip or a vibrant boat party, the river offers a different pace of life that's both refreshing and charming. It's a sweet escape that, for us locals, defines a part of Nashville's charm.

#27. Baseball Match At First Tennessee Park

• Cost:  Tickets usually range from $10 to $35.
• Location:  Germantown neighborhood, Nashville.
• Availability:  During baseball season (April through early September).
• Specialty:  Live baseball matches.

We, locals, know that the real heart of Nashville isn't just in its music but also in its sports. A baseball match at First Tennessee Park, with the crowd's cheers echoing around you, is an experience hard to replicate. Even if you're not a die-hard baseball fan, the electric atmosphere makes this an unforgettable part of Nashville's culture.

#28. Take A Zipline Tour

• Cost:  Roughly $60-$100 per person.
• Location:  Various locations, mainly outside Nashville City.
• Availability:  Depends on the weather, best during spring and fall.
• Specialty:  Exhilarating views of the local landscape.
• Website : https://www.adventureworks.com/zipline-nashville/

Let me tell you, there's nothing like the thrill of zipping through the lush green canopies just outside of Nashville. With the wind on your face and an expanse of greenery below, it's an adventure only a few tourists typically seek out, but they really should. A zipline tour is the way to go if you crave a bit of adrenaline rush mixed with nature. And trust me, seeing Tennessee from a bird's-eye view is something you'll remember.

#29. East Side Bowl, East Nashville

• Cost:  Moderate ($30-$50 per hour for bowling, plus Food and beverages)
• Availability:  Open daily (8:00 AM-11:00 PM, timings slightly vary on each day)
• Specialty:  Bowling facility with a bar, live music, and assorted games
• Website : https://eastsidebowl.com/

East Side Bowl, East Nashville is not just your ordinary bowling facility; it's a dynamic epicenter in East Nashville's heart. This trendy venue showcases live music and a variety of games, making it an ideal choice for those yearning for a unique Nashville encounter. It's a perfect place to mix with locals and enjoy some amusement. This is a fun spot to explore, especially with a team of at least 4-5 members.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can you enjoy Nashville if you don't like country music?

Yes, you can enjoy Nashville even if you don't like country music. Although country music is one of the popular music genres in Nashville, the music city culture goes beyond that. You can enjoy jazz, blues, and classical performances in its musical venues, among other genres.

Apart from music, there's so much to explore in Nashville – from fun activities to great dining spots, there's a perfect place for everyone to spend their holidays. 

What part of Nashville is most fun?

Downtown Nashville is the most vibrant and fun part of Nashville because of its live music bars , bustling restaurants, concerts, and historical sites. However, it is worth checking out Nashville neighborhoods like The Gulch, Germantown, and East Nashville for a unique and enjoyable experience.

What are the non-touristy restaurants in Nashville?

For a non-touristy experience, you can try Back-Alley Diner, Vardalos, and Peg Leg Porker. However, suppose you're comfortable traveling farther from the downtown area. In that case, you can also find calm and less crowded restaurants in East and Midtown Nashville.

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98+ Exciting Hidden Gems: non-touristy things to do in Paris

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Are you looking for hidden gems and non-touristy things to do in Paris ? Then I wrote this article for you. I have been living in Paris for more than 16 years and today I am sharing with you my favorite local secrets in Paris. Come along and discover a Paris that you won’t find in the guidebook.

⪼ see this fun wishlist with plenty of unusual tours and activities that I created for GetYourGuide

Paris is a city of monumental architecture, important sights, and imposing buildings. But Paris is also a city with many hidden gems and secret attractions, that are hidden from the eye of most visitors. But also many locals aren’t aware of the treasures that are concealed off the beaten path in Paris.

If you are traveling to Paris for the first time, it’s easy to go for a “straightforward been-there-done-that city escape”. Please do take time to do so: visit the Eiffel Tower ( don’t miss our guide !) and climb up the stairs to Sacré Coeur in Montmartre . Even have a stroll on the Champs Elysées! It’s lovely and despite all the hype, you haven’t been to Paris if you didn’t see this part of the city.

You also might like these articles:

• 8 lovely English Bookstores in Paris you shouldn’t miss
• The 14 most charming Arcades in Paris (+ Covered Passages Map)
• The Human Zoo of Paris – a dark secret uncovered!
• 7 Best Speakeasy Bars in Paris for your Paris Agenda

When you’ve seen all the obvious attractions, go and look for the secret Paris attractions. To make it a bit easier for you, I assembled a wide list of unusual things to do in Paris.

CHECKLIST for your Paris Trip

✔ Hotel booked?

• Budget: Hotel France Albion (8.6)
• Midrange: Hôtel des Arts (9.6)
• Upscale: Millésime Hôtel (9.2)
• Luxury: La Demeure Montaigne (9.1)
• My Favorite: Hôtel Monte Cristo

✔ Tickets booked?

• Eiffel Tower ( book here )
• Paris City Pass ( book here )
• Louvre ( book here )
• Arc de Triomphe ( book here )
• Hop On Hop Off Bus ( book here )

🎁🎁 Exclusive 5% off on Seine Cruises – BOOK HERE with our code SALUT5 🎁🎁

Paris Survival Tips

• Buy your SIM card in advance
• Get a Travel Adapter
• Book your airport transfer
• Download the free survival guide

Fun Activities

• Explore the Covered Arcades
• Discover the quaint Bookstores
• Find Paris Hidden Cocktail Bars
• Take an easy Day Trip by train

Paris Hidden Gems – Discover the Secrets of Paris

Here we go, without further ado, I will introduce you to a real plethora of secrets in Paris off the beaten path. Enjoy.

#1 Parc de Bercy

Looking for a little oasis in the hustle and bustle of Paris? The Parc de Bercy may just be what you’re looking for. The Parc de Bercy is in the 12th arrondissement . It’s located on the grounds of a former wine depot and compared to other parks in Paris, it’s rather a young one.

It opened to the public only in 1997. However, the park has different areas and combines a variety of concepts. If you want to see a tourist-free part of Paris, Parc de Bercy is a good place to start your quest to discover the hidden Paris.

#2 Rue de Lévis

This little pedestrian street is just a few steps off the beautiful Parc Monceau. It’s one of the non-touristy secret things to do in Paris. The villagelike neighborhood comes with plenty of bakeries, butchers, little cafés, and of course a cheese shop!

#3 visit the Human Zoo of Paris

Yes, you’ve read this correctly, a human zoo. This secret of Paris is tucked away in the Bois de Vincennes and is one of the most unusual things you can do in Paris. Most Parisians have no idea that this place even exists.

The backstory of this zoo is linked to the area when France was a colonial empire. They frequently held colonial exhibitions, to show off their empire. On display were plants, spices, treasures, and unfortunately as well people.

The Human Zoo is certainly one of the most non-touristy things to do in Paris . If you want to know more, also read my article about it: The Human Zoo of Paris – a dark secret uncovered!

#4 Cour Saint-Émilion

Just a stone’s throw away from the Parc the Bercy, the Cour Saint-Émilion is a popular spot to have dinner and drinks, or for shopping. Like the Parc de Bercy, the cour is also part of the former wine and spirits depot and due to its industrial flair, it has a special charm. Especially by night. It’s a lovely spot if you are keen on discovering Paris for locals.

#5 Discover Street Art in Belleville

Read also my article about the best things to do in Belleville

Belleville is the Street Art hotspot of Paris and a very fascinating neighborhood that has almost nothing in common with the rest of Paris. I was lucky enough to join the Street Art Tour of Kasia in September 2021 and had a wonderful time. I can only recommend it. Read my review here or check it out directly here .

#6 See the Rodin Sculptures in the Tuileries

The Tuileries garden originally belonged to the Tuileries Palace but became a public park with the French Revolution. The former royal garden is conveniently located right between the Champs Elysées and the Louvre. Besides the truly pretty landscape, it’s also a good place to see some free art. Amongst the numerous sculptures, there are 4 statues made by the famous Auguste Rodin . You can find them close to the Musée de l’Orangerie.

→ 4 Statues are not enough? Visit the Rodin Museum! You can reserve your spot here.

#7 Rent a Vélib Bike to find Paris secret spots

That’s one of the nicest things you can do on a sunny day. Either rent a Vélib shared bike and cycle on your own or take a guided bike tour as a sightseeing trip. The latter is certainly the better option if you are a bit weary of the Parisian traffic. It can get messy at times.

This is Paris’ most popular Bike Tour and here’s the best value-for-money bike tour in Paris!

#8 See a movie at the Grand Rex Cinema

→ Book a Grand Rex Studio Tour here!

The Grand Rex Paris is a real movie-lovers paradise! Originally built in 1932, it still stands today as the biggest movie theatre in Europe and its Art-Deco architecture just adds to the romance of a night out at the movies. Frankly, the interior is mind-blowing.

You can catch all the newest releases on their big screen and if ever you wanted to feel tiny – then this is your place! With an incredible 2,800 seats, the Grand Rex will certainly let you feel like one of many today.

For a peak behind the scenes, → Book your Grand Rex Studio Tour here!

#9 The Statue of Liberty in the Jardins du Luxembourg

The garden in the very center of Paris is one of the biggest gardens in Paris. It’s a classical french park with water basins, statues, and plenty of free-to-use chairs to relax, have lunch or watch people. And of course, find the Statue of Liberty!

#10 Champ de Mars

Ok, the Champ de Mars is not one of the most secret places in Paris, but one that comes with a priceless view: the Champ de Mars is just in front of the Eiffel Tower. Hence, a perfect location for picnics, morning runs or just to marvel at the beautiful tower.

Non-touristy things to do in Paris: discover the real Paris

#11 parc des buttes-chaumont.

Buttes Chaumont, located in the 19th arrondissement of Paris, is a public park full of exciting activities that the savvy traveler can pay a visit to. One of the highlights is its extension bridge that spans over a little lake and gives a great feel of the area. Even though the lake is artificial, the rocky island in its center is made from a gypsum quarry that is so distinctive for this part of Paris.

But the absolute centerpiece of the Buttes-Chaumon is the Temple de la Sybille , which is throning on top of the island. It was inspired by the famed Temple of Vesta in Tivoli, Italy. To top it off, it’s the 5th largest public park in Paris and where you can get a spellbinding view of Sacre Cœur.

Visiting this park is one of the non-touristy things to do in Paris, not only if you are looking for an amazing viewpoint !

#12 Look for wild green parakeets in Parc Montsouris

The Parc Montsouris is just next to the Cité Universitaire, the big student residence in the south of Paris. The relaxed atmosphere, the many sportives and families make this park one of the non-touristy things to do in Paris.

As a special highlight: there’s a colony of green parakeets living in the Parc Montsouris and it’s fun to look out for them.

#13 See a screening at Cinema Arlequin

Address:  76 Rue de Rennes, 75006 Paris

This independent cinema on Rue de Rennes is the perfect location for a night at the movies if you are not up for big blockbusters. The Cinema Arlequin shows mainly classic movies but also foreign pieces in the original version, sometimes even with the film director present. Check here to see their recent schedule.

#14 Cours de Commerce Saint André

This little half-covered alley between Odéon and Rue de Buci is a wonderful place to stroll through and to have drinks – it’s not on the cheap though. A pint of beer costs easily 10€ and more. However, if you are looking for Paris secrets, you should at least take a peek.

#15 Enjoy Live Music at Fête de la Musique

Every year on the 21 of June, Paris becomes one big stage. You basically have concerts everywhere: in Parks, bars, venues, or simply on the streets. Most of them are free and it’s one of the very Parisian and local things to do in Paris.

#16 Secret Paris: Rue Nansouty

While Rue Nansouty is admittedly not very interesting, however, it’s a good starting point to discover some of the cutest streets in Paris. Every alley that branches off Rue Nansouty is worth a walk-through and is perfect for pretty Instagram pictures!

Also interesting: These are the 41 most Gorgeous & Famous Streets in Paris

#17 See the Rocky Horror Picture Show

Address: 42 Rue Galande, 75005 Paris

Just next to St.Michel, you can see Brad and Janet. Know that there is no advance sale at the Studio Galande Be there 45 minutes early and queue to get admission tickets. Don’t forget the rice.

Be in the know of unique things to do in Paris

#18 the gardens of albert kahn (secret of paris).

Address : 2 Rue du Port, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt (Metro Line 10)

The Jardin d’Albert Kahn is one of my favorite hidden spots in Paris. The 4 hectares garden is especially nice if you are visiting Paris in the Spring – it’s a patchwork of different gardens and architectural styles. Hence,  you find Japanese, French, and English gardens, but also rosaries, orchards, and forests.

The Albert Kahn Garden is truly a hidden spot in Paris and also a great alternative if you can’t make it to the Gardens of Monet in Giverny.

#19 Paris for Locals: Open-Air Cinema at Parc la Villette (free)

Grab a picnic cover and a bottle of wine and enjoy a warm summer night at Parc la Villette. The cinema sessions are usually taking place in July and August.

#20 La REcyclerie

La REcyclerie in the north of Paris is a bar, restaurant, shop, and sustainability workshop that uses parts of the old railway ring around Paris for its projects. It’s a pretty cool and inspiring place. It is one of the cool places in Paris, that rarely is visited by tourists.

During winter, you find here as well themed Christmas markets such as a Japanese Christmas Market, which is perfect to pick up some presents.

Add some hidden spots in Paris to your itinerary for the best experience

#21 vineyards & beehives at parc georges brassens.

When looking for non-touristy things to do in Paris, the Parc Georges Brassens can’t be missing from your bucket list. It’s a gorgeous park in the south of Paris, in the 15. Arrondissement and perfect to mingle with the locals.

On the weekends, it’s a hotspot for families thanks to the many playgrounds . But it’s also great for a stroll because in Georges Brassens you find one of the secrets of Paris: a hidden vineyard. But also a couple of beehives and lots of shady spots for an early evening Apéro . And an apéro, my friend, is one of the most non touristy thing to do in Paris.

#22 Open-Air Concerts in Parc Floral

Throughout summer plenty of concerts are happening in Parc Floral , mainly Jazz and Classic. Many of them are free, however, the park charges a small admission fee during high season. It’s one of the coolest unique things to do in Paris for music fans.

Tip: See our guide with more than 70 ideas on what to do in Paris for free

#23 Chinese New Year Parade at Place d’Italie

The Asian community in Paris is the biggest in Europe and with more than 50.000 members, the Parisian Chinatown in the 13th Arrondissement is absolutely worth the trip. But as not many tourists are coming by, you can consider it an activity in Paris off the beaten path.

Of course, the Chinese New Year celebrations are outstanding. The most significant is the parade that leads through China Town and starts around Place d’Italie. Get there a bit early to get to a good place.

#24 Fnac Summer Festival (free)

The Festival “Fnac Live” happens every year in June on the esplanade of the Paris town hall. The 3-day Festival is free of charge.

#25 Wander the prettiest street in Paris

There are of course many pretty streets in Paris, but the rue de l’Abreuvoir  in Montmartre is supposed to be the prettiest one. It is not so much of a hidden Paris gem anymore since it was a filming location of Emily in Paris , but it still deserves a place on this list, I think.

But as you know, there are quite a few beautiful spots in Montmartre and you’ll be happy to know that walking tours in Montmartre are great for budget travel – they start at 15€!  Click here to see their schedules!

#26 Eat at L’as du Falafel

Address : 34 Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris

This restaurant in the heart of the Marais is supposedly the favorite Falafel place of Lenny Kravitz. You can either try to get a seat inside or you simply get a Falafel Sandwich as a takeaway. Don’t get put off by the queue though, they are pretty fast.

Interested in the best food in Paris ? Check our food guide and know which treat not to miss in Paris!

#27 Visit the Emily in Paris filming locations

With the confinement, the travel ban, and all this pandemic madness, the Netflix Series “Emily in Paris” hit the scene like a bomb. And it’s adding a nice itinerary to your next Paris trip! Check out all the original filming locations of Emily in Paris here .

#28 Melon Bread or Matcha Brioche from Aki

Address : 16 Rue Sainte-Anne, 75001 Paris

Aki is a Japanese bakery at Rue St.Anne and it’s here where you find some of the yummiest baked goods of Paris . On Rue St. Anne, you find the Japanese Quarter of Paris, and Aki Boulanger is a Japanese-French Bakery.

But this corner of Paris, close to Opèra Garnier, it’s also the place in Paris to have the best Ramen.

#29 Enjoy an Apéro on the Seine River Banks

A very popular – and low-budget – activity for basically everyone. As soon as the sun comes out and the weather gets milder, the banks are filling up. It’s a Paris activity, that everyone enjoys, locals and tourists alike.

It is maybe not a secret, but certainly one of the most authentic and unique things to do in Paris. Just grab a few nibbles from a nearby grocery store, some beers or wine, and enjoy that you are in Paris.

#30 Eat chocolates at Patrick Roger

If you are having sweet tooth, don’t miss this chocolatier. It is one of the best in Paris. You don’t need to buy a ton though, you can just buy two or three chocolates, it’s not weird.

• For the chocolate and pastry lovers : don’t miss the Chocolate and Pastry Tasting Tour through the beautiful 1st arrondissement and enjoy tastings in some of the most exclusive chocolate and pastry boutiques of Paris. Click here for more info !
• If you want more than just chocolate, check out A Taste of Paris: Le Marais Food Experience . During this 3-hour tour, you’ll sample yummy wines, cheeses, meats, bread, jam, chocolate, and macarons in a small group – a great way to have lunch! Click here for more info

#31 Treat yourself at Lafayette Gourmet

Address : 35 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris

If you want to try some of the best foods in Paris , plan to have lunch at the food court of the Galeries Lafayette. It is just across the street from the department store and I assure you, you’ll have a hard time choosing. It is all so yummy. My favorite store at the Lafayette Gourmet is Babka Zana, their sandwiches are just wonderful.

#32 Le Pont des Arts

Le Pont des Arts is one of the many bridges in Paris and it is really one of the nicest. It’s a pedestrian bridge that is a popular spot to have an apéro and some wine in the evening.

#33 Find a Speakeasy Bar

There are a few secret bars in Paris, hidden behind stores, launderettes, or restaurants. A cool thing to do in Paris that you shouldn’t miss when on a mission to discover secret places in Paris. read more about secret bars and speakeasies here

If you are generally. interested in Cocktails, also read our post about the best Cocktail Bars in Paris .

#34 Go Vintage Fashion Shopping in a Kilo Shop

The kilo shop is probably the most known vintage store, but there are plenty! Check out the Marais, where you find most of the thrift stores in Paris .  Or head over to the famous Galeries Lafayette : they have a decent vintage section as well!

#35 Find the graves of Jim Morrison & Oscar Wilde

.. who are – amongst many others – buried in the famous Père Lachaise Cemetery . This graveyard is a wonderful maze of old tombs, mausolea, trees, and cobblestones. To enjoy it to the fullest, and to make sure not to miss anything of its interesting history, save your spot on a walking tour! It’s pretty budget-friendly! Click here to know more

#36 Eat Currywurst at Café Titon

Address : 34 Rue Titon, 75011 Paris

This is probably one of the least Parisian things to do (and eat) in Paris but if you are fond of Germany (or soccer matches or Jägermeister or said Currywurst), you should check out this charming little Bar . I as a german girl, approve.

Paris off the beaten path: Make sure to add a few hidden gems to your itinerary

#37 visit the flower market at île-de-la-cité.

This every day and all-day  market is famous for flowers and it’s a wonderful place for a stroll. The real name of this hidden Paris gem is Marché aux Fleurs Reine Elizabeth II. Hence, named after the former Queen of England to honor the Queen herself, but also the 70th anniversary of the Allied Forces.

#38 Buy Cheese at Fromagerie Quatrehommes

You can’t travel to Paris without tasting some cheese. If visiting a market is not fitting your itinerary, check out the Fromagerie Quatrehommes. They have 5 shops all over Paris and they are a good address.

#39 Le Petit Bain (non touristy Paris for nightlife)

Address : 7 Port de la Gare, 75013 Paris

A rather unique place in Paris; the Petit Bain is a barge on the Seine that got converted to a bar and little concert venue. All over the week and the weekend, you have concerts of local and international artists. But the Petit Bain is also a club, where you can dance until 6 am.

#40 Chinatown in the 13th Arrondissement

I mentioned above already the Parades for the Chinese New year, but Paris Chinatown is of course as well an excellent place to eat Asian food in Paris. Well, the term Chinatown is a bit misleading. It’s rather Indochinatown, as it has a very high Vietnamese and Laotian population.

And also excellent Phò and other treats from the region. My recommendation here is: try the Vietnamese sandwiches from Tang Frère , they are the best you can get in Paris! If you are more up for a seated lunch or dinner,  try the Thai restaurant Lao Lane Xang – it’s my favorite I am not alone, it is even mentioned in the Guide Michelin.

#41 Attend a reading at Shakespeare & Company

Shakespeare and Company are one of the most iconic and famous anglophone bookstores in Paris and they are hosting free reading sessions on most Mondays. Be there early to get a seat inside and stay a bit late to share a glass of wine with the author. (2023 update: on hold for the time being)

#42 Find the House of Serge Gainsbourg

Serge Gainsbourg is the most iconic musician, singer, actor , author, painter, and filmmaker of the 20th century. Polarising and controversial, he provoked the French like no other. He was born in Paris and died there as well. Even though the house where he lived can’t be visited from the inside, the outside is already cult. You find it at Rue de Verneuil.

Add some of the unique things to do in Paris to your itinerary

#43 eat an authentic crêpes bretonne.

Montparnasse is the train station that serves trains arriving from the west of France. Hence, folks from Bretagne arrived here back in the day and settled down within the area. That’s why the Montparnasse area it’s the best place in Paris to eat authentic Breton Crêpe and Galette.

Just stroll down rue Odessa or Rue Montparnasse and find a spot in a Crêperie. There are plenty.

#44 Have a coffee at Hexagone Café

Address : 121 Rue du Château, 75014 Paris

This coffee house is a truly hidden Paris gem if you like coffee. I would even go so far as to say that you get there some of the best coffee in Paris.

#45 Eat Ramen at Rue Sainte-Anne

The Rue Sainte Anne is famous for being the Japanese Quarter of Paris and therefore as well the location, where you get by far the best Japanese food. You can easily find the best restaurant by just checking the lengths of the queue!

You find non-touristy things to do in Paris all over town, you just need to know where to look

#46 explore the covered book market.

Address : 104 Rue Brancion, 75015 Paris

This is one of the best hidden gems of Paris – the covered book market. If you are searching for old books, this Paris gem is your place! The little covered book market is next to Parc Georges Brassens, a nice place to have a walk or relax in the sun.

It’s located in old market halls that belonged to a slaughterhouse that was here back in the day. But not just any slaughterhouse, the only one in Paris that specialized in horse meat. It’s long gone, but if you watch out, you still see a few horse heads engraved on the nearby buildings. Visiting the nearby park is one of the non touristy things to do in Paris , as it’s a rather residential area.

Also, if you want to discover the 15th and 14th arrondissement more in-depth, check our post about the Vanves Flea Market and the Petite Ceinture.

#47 Eat Macarons at Pierre Hermé

Besides Ladurée you find the best Macarons in Paris at the shop of Pierre Hermé . They are insanely popular and you most likely have to queue a bit to get some … however, they are as delicious as expensive. But it’s completely acceptable just to buy a couple.

#48 Have drinks at Rue Mouffetard

A cobbled stone street with about a trillion bars and restaurants. It is a bit off the tourist center of Paris and is mainly frequented by locals and students and a good Paris gem to tick off your “Secret places to visit in Paris” list.

#49 Sample Rum at La Rhumerie

Address : 166 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris

Did you know that rum is a bit part of French culture? Thanks to the many oversea departments, the French love a good rum, and Paris is a good place to taste some of the finest sugar cane spirits. A perfect place for a rum tasting is at La Rhumerie , an institution in Paris amongst rum lovers . If you are there, also try Accras. They go perfectly with white rum and ti’punch.

Do you think it’s a coincidence that many non tourist things to do in Paris are about food?

#50 the museum of modern art.

With more than 11000 œuvres the MAM is one of the biggest museums in Paris and: it’s free! However, you are kindly asked to donate 5€. See my post about free museums in Paris to know where to see art on a budget.

#51 Attend the Salon des Vignerons Indépendants

Each year in November independent winegrowers from all over France are gathering at the Paris Exposition Centre at Porte de Versailles to present and sell their grape juice. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, you can taste A. LOT.

There are hundreds of wineries present though, and it can be difficult to get an overview and find the good spots. My favorite is the wine from Saint Amant. So if you want to explore one of the most non-touristy things to do in Paris related to wine, the Salon des Vignerons is a good idea.

#52 Get the creeps at the Vampire Museum of Paris

Address : 14 Rue Jules David, 93260 Les Lilas (Metro 11)

The Parisian Vampire Museum is a privately run museum, owned by a vampire enthusiast. Or a vampire, who knows? You need to book ahead to get access.

#53 Visit the flea market at Porte de Vanves

This flea market is an excellent location to explore unknown places and secret spots in Paris. The flea market is in the south of Paris, near Porte de Vanves. The market lies in the 14th arrondissement, in a very non-touristy and off-the-beaten-track neighborhood.

It’s a great spot to stroll through Paris that has very little to do with the impressive center. The flea market is known for all sorts of collectibles, little furniture pieces, and knick-knacks. Not too much for vintage clothing though.

Check our recommendations and get more info about the Puces de Vanves here

#54 See photography at Galerie de l’Instant

Address : 46 Rue de Poitou, 75003 Paris

If you like photography, then the Galerie de l’Instant is a good tip for you. It is a tiny gallery, in fact just a little store, but the exhibition is wonderful. Admission is free and you are probably in and out in 5 minutes, but if you are in the Marais, step in.

#55 Visit the Salon d’Agriculture

The Salon d’Agriculture is a big trade fair and exhibition, where producers from all over France are presenting their products. It’s mainly a big feast of cold cuts, wines, and sweets (to buy and sample for free), but also a massive exhibition of animals, machines, and merchandise.

It’s a yearly event that takes place by the end of February / early March

Hidden Paris: Be in the know of the secret places in Paris

#56 the grand mosque.

Address : 2bis Pl. du Puits de l’Ermite, 75005 Paris

Visit La Grande Mosquée and be amazed! A stunning sight to behold, this mosque is like nothing you’ve ever seen before. And it comes quite unexpectedly in the center of the Latin Quarter.

Stroll through an oasis of lush foliage, admire the beautiful wisterias blooming during spring, or take a break at the café. It’s a place of tranquility. You also could make it a spa day by visiting the hammam – it’s truly paradise found!

#57 Visit a farmer’s market in Paris

With food playing such a central role in French culture, you can be sure to find the freshest and most delicious treats at the daily farmer’s markets in Paris. There are plenty of markets all over town, some in covered halls, like the Marché des Enfants Rouges, but many are just street markets that get set up in the morning.

You see a complete list of markets in Paris and their opening times here . Visiting one of the markets is a lovely non-touristy thing to do in Paris. It’s also a great opportunity to stock up on yummy treats for your evening apéro.

#58 Explore the covered passages

Check my post about the most beautiful arcades in Paris to know where to find them

Probably one of the nicest walks you can have in  Paris. Especially if you want to see Paris through the eyes of a flâneur of the 19th century. Once, more than 180 glass-covered arcades were existing in Paris. Today, only 20 of them remained , and are more popular than ever!

They are wonderful to explore and are indeed some of the best hidden gems in Paris. Thanks to their glass ceiling, they are also perfect if you are finding yourself in Paris under the rain, or on a cold winter day.

My tip : If you are up for a really good drink, stop by Danico, a cocktail bar in the Galerie Vivienne and one of my favorite bars.

#59 visit the free museums

Budget tip and well-kept paris secret.

One of the best kept secrets in Paris is that on certain days, most museums are free. Ok, maybe labeling that as best kept secret is a bit brave, but in fact, not many visitors are aware. So if you are in Paris on the first Sunday of the month during winter you will have free entrance for example to the Arc de Triomphe or the Panthéon.

But then there are as well wonderful museums, that are always free. Wanna see art for free? Check out our post about free museums in Paris !

#60 See Street Art at la Butte-aux-Cailles

The Butte-aux-Cailles is an elevated area just next to Place d’Italie. The area is covered with street art, little alleys, and many affordable bars and restaurants. It’s one of the secret places to visit in Paris, if you are up for drinks with locals, far off the tourist areas.

#61 View from the Rooftop at Galerie LaFayette

If you are keen on fantastic views over the Palais Garnier with the Eiffel Tower in the backdrop, then the Rooftop at the Galeries LaFayette is your place to be. Just take the stairs or the lift up to the rooftop on the 7th floor and enjoy one of the best views over Paris – for free!

#62 See the oldest house in Paris

Did you ever hear of Nicolas Flamel? Maybe. Especially if you are familiar with the Harry Potter universe. Because it was Nicolas Flamel who supposedly created the philosophers stone in the first part of the series. However, Nicolas Flamel was once a real living person, who lived during the 14th century in Paris.

While it is not known if he really discovered the philosopher’s stone that granted him immortality, we know for sure where he lived, at 51 rue de Montmorency in the Marais. The house exists still today and is even the oldest house in Paris. And a Michelin Star restaurant.

#63 Visit the market & Stores at Rue Montorgueil

Yet another cobblestone street with a lot of delis, bars, and restaurants. A good place to either have lunch or to buy lunch to take away and have a picnic somewhere. For example at the Seine or in one of the many parks in Paris .

Hidden Gems in Paris – Many are a bit outside of the busy center

#64 find as many space invaders as you can.

If you are wondering what the heck I am talking about, I can explain. Since the mid ’90s, Paris is full of Space Invaders. No, I am not losing my mind. I am talking about a street artist, who calls himself Invader, and who attached more than 1400 little mosaics to walls, houses, and bridges. All over Paris.

Some are huge, some are tiny and you can collect them. It’s a fun activity for you to discover Paris, especially if you are visiting Paris with kids or teenagers . Download the App FlashInvaders and you’re ready to go!

#65 Village Flair at Rue de Commerce

If you want to do some shopping in Paris, but are keen on discovering a low-key area, head to Rue de Commerce. Many popular stores are having boutiques here but you find also some upscale stores.

#66 visit the Sewers of Paris

That might sound odd, but you can actually visit the Sewers of Paris. The museum is open to the public and shows you the underground and the hidden secrets of Paris.

Good news for holders of the Paris Museums Pass: Admission is free for Paris Museums Pass owners ! Click here for more info on the Paris Museums Pass and learn which are the more than 60 Museums around Paris that are included. (Spoiler: Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Sainte Chapelle and Versailles are in)

#67 Join La Nuit Blanche

La Nuit Blanche is a cultural event in Paris with installations and events all over town. Most of it is free – as is public transportation that evening!

#68 Walk on the Coulée Verte

If you want a see the 12th arrondissement from an unusual perspective, get up the Coulée Verte and walk from Bastille 4.7km east until you reach the Parisian city limits.

The walkways are wonderful and very diverse. You start at the elevated promenade on top of the Viaduct des Arts. Along your way you pass lush gardens, and interesting areas and you can even prolong your walk until the Bois de Vincennes.

Secret Places: Paris is full of them

#69 visit the circus museum: musée des arts forain.

Are you in for a ride to the good old times of fun fairs and circuses? Then add this hidden Paris gem to your itinerary. The museum is only open a few days a week and you need a reservation to get in. Best to check here if there is a free spot available during your time in Paris.

If this museum seems familiar, it’s possibly because you’ve seen it in Emily in Paris .

#70 Visit the Museums Atélier of Ossip Zadkine

Address : 100bis Rue d’Assas, 75006 Paris

Make your way to the Musée Zadkine, located in Paris near Jardin Luxembourg. This museum is a tribute to Russian sculptor Ossip Zadkine and his stunning works of art! Here you’ll find over 300 sculptures along with drawings, photographs, and tapestries – it’s worth more than just a casual glance!

#71 Île Saint Louis

Ile-Saint-Louis offers the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle. This Island on the Seine lies just next to the famous Ile-de-la-Cite, where you can find sights like Notre Dame and Sainte Chapelle. It’s mostly residential, so expect it to be quieter and less touristy.

#72 The Berges de Seine

The Berges de Seine is a riverside promenade that runs along both sides of the Seine, offering stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and much more. What used to be a typical city freeway is now a leisure paradise.

During the warmer months, bars and beer gardens pop up all over the place. Plus, if that’s not enough to keep you occupied there’s always Paris Plage, an urban beachside complete with sand (not every year), and deck chairs.

Watching the sunset while sipping a cold beer, or having a picnic on the embankment overlooking the Notre-Dame cathedral – sounds like the perfect evening escape from city crowds!

#73 Street Art at Belleville

If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key and non-touristy to do in Paris, then head over to Belleville’s neighborhood . Located in the east of Paris, this working-class area is the birthplace of Edith Piaf and also a true street art paradise.

You’ll come across graffiti, tags, and stencils all over the walls, with many bars and restaurants as well for when it comes time to refuel. Whether you’re looking for inspiration on your next piece of art or just want to explore local culture beyond tourist spots, Belleville has got something special that you can’t find anywhere else in the city!

#74 Read a Manga in Fnac

Fnac is a chain that is specialized in cultural products: books, DVD, games, TVs etc. Their book department has a great Manga section and even though it’s probably not intended,  you always have plenty of people just sitting around on the floor and reading their favorite books for free. Join them 🙂

#75 See the Statue of Liberty at Allée des Cygnes

Did you know about Allée des Cygne, the artificial island on the Seine? You may not have heard of it, but at 850 meters long and 11 meters large, it is an interesting hidden spot in the city of Paris! One major attraction of this tiny island is the Statue of Liberty which stands 16 meters tall- a gift from a french community in the United States. If you’re looking to do something other than typical touristy things while in Paris, Allée des Cygne is a great option.

#76 .. and the Flame of Liberty at Pont d’Alma

You probably know by now that the Statue of Liberty was built in France by no one less than Gustave Eiffel (the name rings a bell, right? :)) and then shipped over to New York City where the lady got assembled.. however, a replica of the Flame of Liberty can be visited in Paris until today – close the Métro Station Alma Marceau!

It’s just below the tunnel in which sadly Lady Di died and the flame became a memorial for the Princess of Wales.

#77 The Petite Ceinture

Being the city that never sleeps, Paris abounds in curiosity, offering hidden historical gems like Petit Ceinture; an old railway belt around the Grande Dame. Constructed back in 1851, it operated until 1934 before falling into disuse only to be recently revitalized with parts of it now open for people to explore. This makes Petit Ceinture one of those off-the-beaten-track activities that particularly thrill visitors who prefer exploring non touristy things to do while they’re in Paris!

#75 Walk up Belleville for a fabulous view

Read our complete review and guide to the wonderful Belleville area here and make sure not to miss the amazing street art that is covering the quartier. Are you rather have a local show you around and get valuable insider views? Click here to see all available Street Art Tours in Paris! 

#76 Take Metro Line 6 from Trocadero to Bir Hakeim

For a very special Paris-Metro-moment, take the Metro from Trocadero to Bir Hakeim, or the other way around. Because while crossing the Seine you are getting the most fantastic view of the Eiffel Tower .

It’s probably the nicest Metro track section of Paris, with a stunning view, especially at night. It’s the best way to approach the Eiffel Tower – read more about it here

#76 Stroll along the Canal St.Martin

Looking for a place in Paris that’s totally unique? Look no further than Canal St. Martin! This underrated channel is full of locks and bridges that connect it to the northern channels of the Seine. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot for a relaxing picnic or an opportunity to explore some of the best bars in the city, Canal St. Martin has something for everyone!

As a bonus, it’s nestled away in one of the most alternative parts of this vibrant city—so you won’t find yourself surrounded by too many tourists. Make sure to check out Canal St. Martin on your next visit to Paris!

#78 See Street Performers at Sacre Cœur

If you’re looking for an unique Paris experience, head to Sacre Coeur for stunning views and lively street entertainment. Perched on top of Montmartre , the hilltop cathedral provides breathtaking views and the artist-lined streets will keep you entertained.

Grab a beer to enjoy the early evening and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a whole new world! There’s something almost magical when visiting Sacre Coeur.

#79 Visit the vineyard in Montmartre

It’s hard to believe such a hidden gem of Paris exists, but just behind Sacre Coeur in Montmartre lies a particularly special vineyard truly worth exploring. You see it best from the Musée de Montmartre, but also from the street.

The wine that the vineyard produces is up for auction each year and all proceeds from the auction benefit local social projects, giving back to the community and making sure everyone can enjoy their share of this hidden little piece of Parisian history.

#80 Buy chocolates and other treats at the Bon Marché

Address : 24 Rue de Sèvres, 75007 Paris

What better way to experience the quintessential Parisian life than by indulging in the delicious treats this beautiful city has to offer? Be sure to visit the Bon Marché for all your gastronomic must-haves.

From freshly-baked pastries such as croissants and tarts, to artisanal cheeses or fine charcuterie, you can treat yourself (or someone special) to something they wouldn’t expect while exploring the City of Light. Whether you’re looking to give a taste of Paris to your friends and family back home or want something new for yourself – look no further than the Bon Marché! Bring a well-filled wallet though.

#81 Paris’ famous university La Sorbonne

well.. you can’t just walk in unless you are a student, but you can try to get into one of their tours that are held almost daily. However, even if you just walk around its walls, it’s a nice promenade through the Latin Quarter, a quirky area with typical student vibes. Fun Fact: La Sorbonne is one of the oldest universities in the world, founded in 1253!

#82 Find one of the Banksy Graffitis

Paris secret spot near la Sorbonne: find the Banksy Graffiti in Rue Victor Cousin! The artist left his mark on Paris in 2018 when suddenly 10 Banksy stencils popped up all over town.

#83 See the colorful Houses at Rue Crémieux

Rue Crémieux is a hidden gem tucked away between Bastille and Gare de Lyon in Paris that’s Instagram-worthy! The street is lined with sweet pastel-colored homes, which makes it one of the most unique places in Paris.

If you’re lucky enough to wander down Rue Crémieux, be sure to keep your admiration respectful – these homes are actually real people’s residences! So take as many pictures as your heart desires but just remember – being considerate to the local community should always be a top priority.

#84 Find Point Zero

Supposedly in the epicenter of Paris. The plate in the ground is close to Notre Dame and can be easily overseen as it’s .. well just a round plate in the ground. However, it’s traditionally the point that functions as a reference to anywhere else around France. It’s also one of those spots that are known to be granting wishes-

#85 Play board games at “Le Dernier Bar Avant la Fin du Monde”

One of the geekiest places in Paris . Apart from playing board games and enjoy yummy dishes and interesting cocktails, you can take a seat on the Iron Throne or take a selfie with R2D2. If you’re into E-Sports and gaming in general, pass by the Meltdown  Bar. Both are great spots if you are visiting Paris with kids or teens.

looking for street art in Paris is a great way to engage in non-touristy things to do in Paris.

#86 watch out for miss.tic.

Miss.Tic was a Parisian street artist and poet, who died in 2022. She left her beautiful stencils all over Paris and with a bit of luck, you can find a few of them. Look out for stencils of dark-haired women, it could be an artwork of Miss.Tic.

#87 Relax at Paris Plage

Summer in Paris means Paris Plage! During July and August, the Seine river transforms into a laid-back urban beach scene … with changing cultural and sportive offers, pop-up bars, music, and all sorts of animation. Click here to know more about it! 

#88 Find Simone de Beauvoir’s grave

The famous French philosopher and feminist Simone de Beauvoir died in 1986 and got buried in the Montparnasse cemetery. She shares a grave with her partner Jean-Paul Satre, who died in 1980.

#89 Take a picture of the Arc de Triomphe from La Défense

La Defense is the bustling business center of Paris and certainly an impressive sight in the cityscape. It’s a great photo opportunity with its unique architecture providing an excellent view of the famous Arc de Triomphe.

Shopping enthusiasts needn’t worry either, as La Defense houses a large shopping mall featuring all of your favorite stores! In short, it’s a great place to spend a few hours in Paris – don’t forget your camera!

#90 Sneak in Hotel Dieu – a truly secret place in Paris

Just next to the famous cathedral Notre Dame lays one of the truly hidden places in Paris. Most people just walk by, not knowing what they’re missing! Curious? Check here to know more !

#91 Bibliothèque François Mitterand and Avenue de France

The new 13th arrondissement is nothing like Paris as you know it. It’s rather a business and student district with modern glass facades, hip coffee, and Bagel stores. If you visit Paris and would like to get it as a total; you shouldn’t miss this area.

#92 Go for a swim on the Seine in the Piscine Josephine Baker

If you’re a swimming enthusiast looking, don’t forget your swim trunks! Taking a dip in Piscine Josephine Baker is a great way to get some exercise and experience the city like a local. It’s one of the less touristy places in Paris.

This pool is located on a boat at the banks of the River Seine, which makes it even more special to visit. Not only can you enjoy splashing around the outdoor pool, but you can also admire views of the Seine and the Parisian cityscape. Visiting Piscine Josephine Baker offers visitors something unique in Paris that they won’t find elsewhere!

The old palaces in the Marais are real hidden places in Paris

#93 visit the hôtel de sens.

Address : 7 Rue des Nonnains d’Hyères, 75004 Paris

If you’ve ever wanted to find out some of the secrets of Paris, the Hôtel de Sens is a great place to start. Located in the Marais – one of the oldest parts of the city – this old palace has quite a few stories to tell!

It was abandoned after the French Revolution, and if you keep your eyes peeled, you can even spot a cannonball that got stuck in one of its walls. A souvenir from the revolution. Pay a visit to Hôtel de Sens if you’re looking for a real peek into Parisian history!

#94 Find the Arène de Lutèce

Who knew that one of Paris’ best-kept secrets was hiding out in plain sight? It’s none other than the Arène, an ancient amphitheater constructed by the Romans when they called the city Lutèce.

Today, it resides in the city’s bustling Latin Quarter and serves as a popular past-time spot – of late, it has been seen filled with locals engaged in a game of boules. Check this guide to get mor e offbeat tips for the Quartier Latin

#95 Explore the underground vault below the Bastille

Did you know about the hidden Parisian gems that lie beneath the Bastille? It’s true, there’s an underground vault that connects the Seine and the Canal Saint Martin. And it’s still extremely accessible for those looking to explore – all you need to do is take a boat tour.

there are non touristy things to do in Paris for everyone and every taste

#96 find the rue des thermopyles.

If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Paris, then I’d highly recommend heading to the 14th arrondissement and checking out the fabulous Rue des Thermopyles. While not a typical tourist spot, there is an undeniable charm to this street that gives it real character and an old-school feel. Not only that but during spring in Paris you can also watch stunning wisterias blooming along its cobblestone pavements, adding splashes of color to its already enchanting ambiance.

All in all, if you’re looking for some of the more romantic places to check out in Paris then make sure you explore Rue des Thermophyles – you won’t be disappointed!

#97 Check on the oldest tree in Paris

It’s no secret that Paris is an incredible city with a long, rich history — but one of its few secrets is the 400-year-old tree that stands in Viviandi Square! Believe it or not, this majestic locust came all the way from North America centuries ago.

The garden itself is situated right by the Seine in the Latin Quarter— right next door to the iconic Shakespear and Company bookshop.

#98 Discover the beautiful Bookstores of Paris

If you’re looking for the best unique places to go while in Paris, sparkling and grand bookstores should be at the top of your list. The French city is home to a plethora of old-world stores, none more breathtaking than its bookstores.

Within them, you can find rare editions and hidden gems tucked between delicate pages and age-old covers – perfect for any book lover! Not to mention there are a handful of stunning anglophone bookstores in Paris too, making it easier to wander around without needing to brush up on your French translation skills.

Voilà, my favorite non touristy things in Paris and a bucket list of Secrets of Paris. I guess you have a few things to add to your itinerary now.

It’s well worth your time to leave the beaten path in Paris, and if it’s just for a couple of interesting points. The good thing here is that Paris is very small and you can add most of the hidden gems above buy just taking a little detour. If at all!

If you have any questions about Paris or need some advice and how to plan your trip, don’t hesitate to reach out!  I created a Facebook group for this matter and I am available to help you out! Click here to join the Salut from Paris Facebook group !

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PS: Check out these posts, they will help you plan your trip to Paris

• 20 Arrondissements in Paris (Quick Guide + Map)
• Paris hidden gems: 80+ well kept secrets you shouldn’t miss
• What NOT to do in Paris -23 (costly) Paris Mistakes you need to avoid!
• 14 Hotels with stunning Eiffel Tower views- for (almost) every budget!
• Your Perfect 2 Days in Paris! Itinerary & Insider Tips
• 5 ways to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris – THE complete guide!
• Scams in Paris! How to avoid the most common cons

Pin this awesome list with non-tourist things to do in Paris NOW – and find it back later!

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10 comments.

Are you booking a yvtours the next 3 days…..wildly excited from your site and info

Thank you. Quite helpful

I am happy that you like it! 🙂 Thank YOU for taking the time to leave this comment!

Where in Paris is that beautiful street with all the colorful homes?

Hi Daniel, it’s Rue Crémieux in the 12th arrondissement. Have fun visiting!

Be careful, as some of this info is outdated, even tho it was supposedly updated in July 2019. For example, the Sewer museum closed over a year ago for renovations and won’t reopen till mid-2020.

Hello Annette 🙂 Thanks a lot for the heads up! I added a disclaimer about the renovation of the Sewer Museum a while ago to other posts of mine (for example at my Paris mistake but completely missed this one. In case of doubt or just to double check, I am always adding the link to the relevant activity. Even though I am working on my blog daily and I am doing my very best to keep information up to date, it can always happen, that some info slipped my attention. Thank you for pointing this one out and helping! Have a nice day 🙂

Super helpful thanks!

I am happy to hear that! 🙂

Thank you Lena. I am collecting info for our trip to Paris in April 2024 & this was some good information.

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Home » Travel » Destinations » 19 Non Touristy Things to do in Paris

19 Non Touristy Things to do in Paris

There is so much more to the City of Light than the Eiffel Tower and éclairs. Whether you’re looking to escape the crowds, or simply want to see a different side of the city, this list of non touristy things to do in Paris will inspire you to get off the beaten path.

Don’t feel like you need to save these experiences for your second trip to Paris! While it’s tempting to spend all your days marveling at the Louvre collection and shopping on the Champs-Élysée, there’s an entire world beyond the tourist hotspots. If you add just a few of these unique things to do in Paris to your itinerary, you’ll have an unforgettable visit.

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Rent a Parisian flat in Montmartre

If you’re after unique Paris experiences, what could be better than staying in a Parisian flat in a historic neighborhood?

Montmartre may look out of the way on a map, but this charming area is the perfect home base for a Paris itinerary . It’s a wonderful, affordable place to stay that’s also managed to retain some old world charm.

You’ll find famous sites like Sacre Coeur and the Instagrammable Maison Rose set amongst beautiful winding streets and ivy-covered buildings. And there are plenty of local bakeries and shops like Le Claque-Fromage to buy mouthwatering, fresh food.

Don’t be afraid to wander the twisting alleys. One of the best non-touristy things to do in Paris is to take a laid back stroll, admire the architecture, and pop into places that catch your eye.

VRBO is your best bet for renting a flat in Montmartre, like this ultra-cozy apartment near Sacre Coeur.

Picnic with the locals at Canal Saint Martin

By Martina from Places of Juma | Follow on Instagram

The Canal Saint Martin, which extends over 4.5 km, is one of the best places to visit in Paris away from the typical tourist’s path. This picturesque working-class area amazes with locks, Venetian-style foot bridges, green parks, lovely squares, and wonderful places to sit and enjoy the waterfront.

Not surprisingly, Canal Saint Martin has become a meeting point for locals having picnics at the canal banks. Walking along the canal is the best relaxing thing you can do in downtown Paris. Just take your lunch and some drinks and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the city.

If you prefer eating out, there are many small shops and bars along the canal. The nicest part for having a picnic is definitively between Rue Dieu and Rue des Récollets. Here you will also find the Hotel du Nord, built in 1885, which was the location of the film Hôtel du Nord by Marcel Carné.

Search for street art in Belleville

By Coni from Experiencing the Globe | Follow on Instagram

Paris has a thriving street art scene. So much so that Paris’ City Hall allocated a big part of the 500 million euros budget of participatif to create murs d’expression –painted walls all around the city.

Tourists usually find street art in the trendy neighborhoods of Montmartre, Le Marais and the Latin Quarter, or just settle for the surroundings of the Centre Pompidou. But the best of it is in the east of the city, in Oberkampf, Belleville, and Ménilmontant.

Art pops up all over buildings, walls, windows, trash cans, and even on the floor. Look for Rue Oberkampf, Rue Laurence Savart and Rue des Cascades. If you’ve seen them, go again on your next trip, because it’s everchanging!

A particular favorite is Rue Dénoyez, in Belleville. If you’re there in the morning, stop for a coffee in the cool Café Le Barbouquin, or in the evening for an aperitif at Aux Folies. Continue walking up to Belvédère de Belleville for more art, plus the most amazing views of the city from above.

Book your Belleville Street Art Tour today!

Get the chills at the Vampire Museum

By Ivan from Mind the Travel | Follow on Facebook

When it comes to alternative things to do in Paris, it’s hard to beat a visit to the Vampire Museum!

Located in a private house on the outskirts of Paris, the Museum of Vampires is arguably the most fascinating museum to visit in the city. This busy, eclectic, creepy museum can be easily reached by the Paris Métro and is just a 15-minute Métro ride from the city center.

The Museum of Vampires was established by Jacques Sirgent, a specialist in dark folklore who has dedicated his life to collecting, translating, and gathering syncretic data on demonology and the dogmas related to it. He is also an outstanding storyteller who can extrapolate the stories of witchcraft and vampiric rituals.

The museum is not freely open to the public and appointments need to be made to visit . However, once you manage to nail down a trip, Jacques Sirgent himself will be your guide. He will guide you through the history of Paris, and tell about cemeteries where vampiric rituals were once practiced. You’ll hear endless tales about legendary creepiness as well as historical facts.

Additionally, the artifacts on display are incredible; a genuine 19th-century vampire killing kits, mummified cats, vampire slayer kits, ancient shrines, antique texts, a large gothic-style indoor garden, and all sorts of oddities and intriguing bits and bobs obtained online, at flea markets or in the cemeteries.

To make an appointment, contact the owner via the website. If you turn up unannounced, be aware that you will not be granted access to the museum.

To some, this might seem like a lot of effort, but this museum is one of the most unique and bone-chilling in Paris. It is a particular must-see for anyone interested in weird stuff, obscure tales, supernatural and myths, and legends as well as genuine folk history.

Lounge with the locals at the Jardin du Luxembourg

Relaxing in the Jardin du Luxembourg is like stepping back in time. Old Parisian men playing chess, children pushing vintage toy sailboats around the fountain… the atmosphere is wonderful, especially against the backdrop of the beautiful Luxembourg Palace.

There are plenty of benches scattered around the garden where you can lounge with a good book. If you enjoy photography, it’s one of the best places to take photos in Paris . And if the weather is warm, you can make like a local and have a little picnic.

To build you own picnic basket, check out the nearby Rue Mouffetard Market. It’s one of Paris’ oldest markets, and you’ll find plenty of produce, cheese, and bread to fill your belly.

Hunt for Roman ruins in the 5th arrondissement

By Danik from Danik the Explorer

In the heart of the Jardin des Plantes Quarter (5th arrondissement) lies the remains of a 2nd century Roman amphitheater. Yes, that’s right: there is a Roman arena located on the outskirts of Central Paris!

Back in the day, the arena used to seat 15,000 people when there was regular combat fighting taking place. Since the collapse of the Roman Empire, the arena was partly demolished, with the center remaining buried underground for a long time. Around 1860, the arena was discovered when workers were about to build a tram line in the area.

That project didn’t happen, and instead the arena was restored with a mini-park and apartments built around it. As well as stepping back into history, it is also a great place to relax in the park on a sunny day, and maybe play a game of chess. It is free to check out, with the the nearest metro station being Place Monge.

Spend a charming afternoon in Le Marais

By Christina from Travel2Next | Follow on Facebook

Tucked away in the 3rd and 4th arrondissement, Le Marais is a hip part of Paris that was once the Jewish quarter of the city.

Le Marais is a place that locals love to visit, and there’s plenty to explore in Le Marais, from charming architecture and Jewish monuments to patisseries, quirky bars, street art and eclectic boutiques. Wandering around Le Marais on foot is the best way to learn the secrets of the area.

Discover Le Marais with a local guide here!

Start by visiting the Le Marais Pletzi area (it means “little place” in Yiddish) and is the Jewish quarter. So don’t be surprised to find that Le Marais is one of the best places in Paris to taste Jewish food. Try the challah (Jewish bread) or mazurka pastries or cinnamon chocolate babka at Sacha Finkelstein’s Jewish bakery.

Izrael Epicerie du Monde (30 Rue François Miron) is fascinating to visit as it has local foods from around the world such as spices, different kinds of oils, and sweet treats like Turkish delight.

Then look for a place called l’As du Falafel (34 rue des Rosiers), which is a famous Middle Eastern eatery that makes the best falafel in Paris. It’s so popular you’ll probably have to wait in line to buy your falafel!

Le Marais also has some lovely mansions. Many of them are now museums, such as Musée Carnavalet, which used to be Victor Hugo’s house, and Hotel de Ville.

Eat French breakfast in a residential neighborhood

Eating a typical French breakfast among the locals is a great non touristy thing to do in Paris. Sipping orange juice and eating fresh bread and jam away from the maddening crowd is the perfect way to kick off the day. And you don’t need to wander far and wide to find a place!

Despite being only a few blocks from Les Invalides and the Champ de Mars, Le Petit Cler is a quiet place to eat with Parisian locals. Their formule offers plenty of options, including hot chocolate, a house brioche, and eggs.

If you’re planning to visit the Bastille or Rue Cremieux, stop by Le Square Trousseau in the quiet Quinze-Vingts neighborhood. And for a lighter option of coffee and pastries, head to Du Pain et des Idées in the 10th arrondissement for an amazing escargot pistache or chausson aux pommes .

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Learn about World War II history at the Vel d’Hiv Monument

By Julie from The Red Headed Traveler

For most people, the name “Vél d’Hiv” is as foreign to them as the pronunciation of it. But that’s not too surprising.

For decades, the French government wanted to forget that during World War II in 1942, thousands of Jews had been rounded-up and arrested. But the awful, shameful truth is these French Jews had been arrested by the French police, not the Nazis. The government had been entirely complicit in sending thousands of French citizens to their deaths at Auschwitz.

After their arrest, the majority of the rounded-up victims were held in deplorable conditions at the Vélodrome d’Hiver, an indoor bicycle racing track and stadium in the 15th arrondissement, before they were sent east in cattle cars to the camps.

The stadium was torn down in the years following the war, and today there is a plaque in remembrance of the victims on the corner of boulevard de Grenelle and Rue Nélaton marking where it was once stood.

But in 1994, a monument nearby was dedicated on the edge of the Quai de Grenelle, entitled the Monument to the Victims of the Deportation to the Vélodrome d’Hiver ( Monument de la Place des Martyrs Juifs du Vélodrome d’Hiver ).

The sculpted figures emphasize children and includes a pregnant woman and a sick man. The curved concrete shell on which the bronze artwork sits is meant to represent the curve of the racing track (the arrested were actually kept in the stands in the complex).

Come to Paris to see the sights and experience the culture and allure that it’s so famous for. But also visit a tiny piece of modern, more unknown history that’s only a 10 minute walk from the city’s most famous attraction, the Eiffel Tower, and remember the victims so long forgotten.

Explore the underbelly of Paris at the Sewer Museum

By Carol from Wayfairing Views | Follow on Facebook

Most of Paris’ most popular museums are above ground, but there is something very interesting happening in subterranean Paris. The Orangerie may have amazing Monet art. But the Sewers of Paris Museum offers a glimpse into Paris’ darker underbelly, and it’s definitely not something found in the typical  Paris guidebook .

This subterranean cesspool offers a self-guided tour of Paris’ water, sewer and electricity infrastructure. You’ll learn the history of Paris’ infrastructure development from the dark ages through today.

There is a certain amount of cheek to their displays, and they even have adorable rat and bacteria murals festooning the (somewhat moist) walls. It’s informative, fascinating and doesn’t smell as badly as you might image.

Mind your step though, because it’s a bit wet down there. So be sure to don proper footwear when you visit. You can find the museum on the south side of Pont de l’Alma. You can purchase your ticket to this secret Paris attraction at the tiny kiosk perched above the Seine, or visit with the Paris Museum pass.

Buy your Paris Museum Pass here!

Discover unusual things to do in Paris at Parc Villette

By Tan from Travel to Work

Parc De La Villette is a picturesque area in the 19th district of Paris. It is also a fascinating place to soak  up the “beau -beau” culture of Parisians. Thought it is not listed in many Paris City Tours , it has its own unique charm.

The very first thing you should do here is take a self-drive electric boat to navigate the Canal De L’ourq. It reveals not only the colors of the park, but also the metropolitan atmosphere along the canal.

For seekers of cultural experiences, Parc De La Villette is home to the famous Cite de la Musique, where you can attend some of the most famous performances in Europe like Orches of Charlie Chaplin.

Opposite this musical center sits the Museum of Science, which is a perfect treat for children in addition to the little amusement playground in the middle of the park.

For some of the best artsy finds, Parc de La Villette also has a wide range of graffiti awaiting your exploration. Even foodie travelers will have something to treat their palettes, as there are numerous restaurants serving distinctive regional cuisines, from the ordinary Parisian Brasserie to speciality seafood dishes.

If you visit the park during the summer time, you’ll find a number of young people playing a classic game of Petanque, as well as open cultural events and unique flea markets.

Pay your respects at Père Lachaise Cemetery

By Taylor from Travel Outlandish | Follow on Instagram

In Paris, visiting the cemetery is far less grim than you might expect. Cimetière du Père Lachaise has lush lawns decorated with ornate mausoleums and imaginative sculptures. The structures here span centuries of architectural styles with the Gothic coexisting beside Neo byzantine.

The cemetery sprawls 44 hectares with more than 70,000 burial plots. While tourists gravitate to notable figures like Jim Morrisson, Jean de La Fontaine, and Oscar Wilde, there are plenty of lesser-visited graves worth seeing.

The stained glass memorial to Family Albertin Deron and the golden statue atop Jean-Sebastien Gourlot’s grave are particularly beautiful, though they may be hard to find without a local expert.

Book your guided tour of Pere Lachaise now!

Père Lachaise is completely free to enter and open year-round, but be sure to visit respectfully. It’s a cemetery, after all.

Other notable cemeteries in Paris are Cimetière de Montmartre, Cimitiere des Chiens, or Cimetière de Passy. They’re fixtures of the city, located under bridges or alongside major roads. In some ways, the cemeteries of Paris are emblematic of the way that Paris has grown up: maintaining the old and building around it rather than starting anew. 

Check out the unique architecture in Paris

Everyone knows about the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Pyramid. But the city is home to some remarkable old and modern architecture that make for some unique places to visit in Paris.

Here are a few places you should see:

• Fondation Louis Vitton: Opened in 2017, this colorful glass and steel construction houses rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary art.
• Conciergerie: Best known as the prison that held Marie-Antoinette, the Conciergerie’s main Hall of the Guards is a striking series of vaulted arches.
• Institut du Monde Arabe: The Institute’s shifting wall of Arabic mashrabiyas change throughout the day based on the amount of sunlight hitting them.
• Philharmonie de Paris: This modern aluminum structure is filled with animal motifs, including more than 300,000 etched birds.

Marvel (quietly) at the Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève

Going to the local library may seem like an unusual thing to do in Paris. But when that library’s reading room looks like something out of a fantasy novel, you’d be crazy to skip it!

The Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève began as a simple Monastic library in the 12th century, but it quickly grew to be one of the most famous in all of Europe. However, the building you see today is completely separate from the original Abbey library, which was taken over by a nearby school in the 1800s.

Today’s Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève was built in the mid-1800s using a modern, open concept not previously seen in European architecture. The massive windows, lofty ceilings, and exposed steel beams create an airy atmosphere that is a must see.

Visitors can take a brief, 10-minute tour of the reading room from 2-6pm on Mondays-Saturdays. Be sure to bring ID with you and present it at the reception desk.

Go way off the beaten path in Paris on the Petite Ceinture

If exploring abandoned, overgrown places is your thing, then you’ll love the Petite Ceinture. This disused railway line has turned into a unique walking path spanning multiple arrondissements.

With wildflowers bursting through the rails and birds chirping in the bushes, you might forget you’re in a major city! For a complete list of locations and access points to the Petite Ceinture, click here .

Grab some fresh air at the Bois de Boulogne

Located just outside the busy motorway that rings Paris proper, the Bois de Boulogne is literally a breath of fresh air after being in the city.

Like my beloved Richmond Park in London, the Bois de Boulogne was a former royal hunting ground that was re-landscaped and turned over to the public by Napoleon. From lakes to waterfalls to forested bridle paths, there are plenty of secluded spots to get decidedly off the beaten path in Paris.

The sprawling park has something for everyone, including a green theatre where locals put on Shakespeare plays and a rowboat rental shop near the Pavillon Royal. If you’re visiting Paris in autumn, the park is a must see thanks to the stunning colors sported by the ancient oak trees.

Buy unique souvenirs at Saint-Ouen’s flea market

Shopping may not seem like a non touristy thing to do in Paris. But if you head to the northern suburb of Saint-Ouen, you’ll have a far more unique buying experience.

Every Saturday-Monday, Les Puces de Saint-Ouen–the world’s largest antique market–opens for business. Vendors sell everything from 18th century dressers to old, leather-bound novels. It’s a spectacular place for finding one-of-a-kind Paris souvenirs, though it does get crowded during the early afternoons on weekends.

Reserve your insider’s flea market guide here!

Uncover the history of Parisian artists at the Museé de Montmartre

Many Paris visitors don’t realize the history behind the city’s charming neighborhood of Montmartre. Located in the area’s oldest building, the Museé de Montmartre pays tribute to the vibrant Parisian art culture and the artists who helped it flourish.

Renoir, Émile Bernard, and other famous painters used to work and collaborate here in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The museum’s paintings, drawings, and other artwork all combine to tell their stories, as well as the story of Montmartre. There’s even a refurbished atelier apartment to give you a sense of the artists’ daily lives.

The museum is open every day, making it the perfect addition to an offbeat Paris itinerary.

Wander through the gorgeous covered galleries

Paris is great at elevating simple things into visual delights. And one of the best examples of this is the city’s covered galleries. There’s something special about strolling beneath a decorative glass ceiling as you window shop.

Here are a few of the best covered galleries in Paris:

• Galeries Lafayette: A jaw-dropping, multi-story shopping center that’s home to the best Christmas displays in Paris
• Galerie Vivienne: An upscale dining and shopping area decked in golden hues
• Passage des Panoramas: Considered to be the first covered walkway in Paris
• Passage Brady: Also known as Little India because of it’s plethora of Indian shops and restaurants

Are you inspired to see a different side of Paris? Sign up for my newsletter to receive even more authentic travel tips!

My favorite Paris travel books

• Lonely Planet: Best of Paris
• Rick Steves Pocket Paris
• Fodor’s Paris 2020

7 thoughts on “19 Non Touristy Things to do in Paris”

Such a beautiful city! Thank you on a detailed impressive guide! Saved your post for the future 🙂

Thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed it!

This guide is perfect! I hate doing touristy things in cities, so I will definitely save this for my visit to Paris

Happy I could help, Amy! Enjoy your visit to Paris.

Going to Paris In 2 weeks, hope to see some of the off the beaten gems Thank you!

Thankyou, will definitely head to Montmartre for our one day visit! ( have done the touristy things years ago). Any other outdoor weekend markets worth a visit ?

I hope you enjoy your trip, Clare! The Bastille Market (Marché Bastille) is open on weekends and has a wide variety of prepared food, groceries, and flea market-type things for sale.

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LA Hidden Gems: 17 Crowd-Free Activities

Major metropolises such as Los Angeles attract tourists from all over the world. When you first arrive, you may think it’s impossible to escape the hoards of people taking pictures and carrying poorly folded maps. Au contraire.

With a little bit of research and advanced planning, you can scope out all the non-touristy things to do in Los Angeles. If you’re like us and prefer to steer clear of crowds while in LA, check out these 17 tourist-free destinations and activities.

1. The Secret Staircases of Los Angeles

Throughout Los Angeles, you’ll find hidden staircases connecting neighborhoods and households, many with intriguing murals or artwork. These staircases serve as an art gallery and are reminders of Los Angeles’ historic past before mass transit, cars, and swarms of tourists took over.

While you can stumble across a staircase or two, it’s best to do your research and plan out your staircase adventures around LA.

2. Echo Park Lake

After a recent renovation, Echo Park Lake has become a revitalized destination for non touristy things to do in LA, especially for those looking to kick back and relax. Grab a blanket, pack a picnic, and head to the park for an easygoing day in LA.

Related Post: Best Time to Visit LA – In-Depth Seasonal Guide

While there, go for a pedal boat ride, see the Lady of the Lake statue, and visit the restored Boathouse. Plus, drop by Time Travel Mart to shop and browse cool souvenirs.

3. Botanical Gardens at Huntington Library

To escape the crowds and head into nature, take a trip to the botanical gardens at the Huntington Library. Featuring a dozen gardens across 120 acres of land, this natural escape is one of the hidden gems in Los Angeles. Plus, the perfect off the beaten path Los Angeles alternative to packed tourist attractions.

The most mesmerizing part of the gardens is the diverse plant life and landscapes. Visitors can explore everything from a soothing rose garden to a wild desert garden. Do know that picnicking is not permitted in any of the gardens.

4. Cinespia at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Have you ever wanted to watch an iconic film in the middle of a cemetery filled with the ghosts of celebrities past? Of course, you have! Although an incredibly popular event with locals, Cinespia movie nights at Hollywood Forever Cemetery is one of the best non tourist things to do in LA.

Since Hollywood Forever Cemetery is a historic destination, the grounds crew goes to great lengths to preserve it. Although outside beer, wine, and food are allowed inside the venue, double check what items are and are not permitted before you go. And don’t forget to do a bit of ghost spotting while you’re there!

5. Leo Carrillo State Park

When you want to escape the crowds at Universal Studios, Warner Brothers, or other LA attractions, take a quick trip to Leo Carrillo State Park . Located 28 miles northwest of Santa Monica on the Pacific Coast Highway, this state park features 1.5 miles of beach. Visitors can spend their time swimming, surfing, sunbathing, tidepool exploring, hiking, and even windsurfing.

Related Post: Free Things to Do in Los Angeles – 101 Can’t-Miss Activities

After hitting the hiking trail or the water, reserve a camping spot in the main campgrounds or backcountry if you’re feeling adventurous.

Parking fees for the park are:

• All day – $12.00 per car per day
• 3 hours – $9.00 per car
• 2 hours – $6.00 per car
• 1 hour – $3.00 per car

6. Los Angeles Museums (That Aren’t the Getty)

Still looking for things to do in LA not touristy?

Los Angeles has a museum for almost every subject or topic you can think of. However, almost all tourists flock to the Getty Center . While the Getty Center is a fantastic museum, there are several other Los hidden gems to choose from—many with far fewer crowds.

When searching for non touristy things to do in Los Angeles, spend time at museums such as:

• Natural History Museum
• California Science Center
• Petersen Automotive Museum
• Hammer Museum
• GRAMMY Museum

And if you’re looking for museums and non touristy things to do in Santa Monica, the Museum of Flying must be in your travel itinerary. See vintage aircraft and aviation art exhibits without worrying about the big mob.

To truly avoid the crowds, get your tickets in advance and skip the lines.

7. The Bradbury Building

Type “less crowded places to visit near me” on your search browser, and you’ll most likely find The Bradburry Building as one of the top results.

Related Post: Secret Romantic Spots in Los Angeles – 25 Unforgettable Date Ideas

If you’re fascinated by history and architecture, a trip to the Bradbury Building is a must. As the oldest commercial building in LA, the Bradbury Building is packed with marble staircases, iron railings and fixtures, Victorian-inspired architecture, and more. It’s a photographer’s dream come true and undeniably one of the hidden gems LA.

This iconic building is also a stop on several downtown LA walking tours .

8. Amoeba Music

Music lovers looking for non tourist things to do in Los Angeles will find Amoeba Music to be right up their alley. The world’s largest independent record store is a musician’s dream come true, with rows upon rows of records featuring everything from the classics to new artists across a wide range of genres. It’s the perfect place for audiophiles looking for one of the underrated things to do in LA.

Get ready to spend time browsing through their massive inventory of records. You never know what gems you might find at this off the beaten path LA store!

9. Chandelier Tree in Silver Lake

One of the best non touristy places to visit is Chandelier Tree. However, we are dishearted that it has permanently closed.

Not to be confused with the Chandelier Tree in Northern California, Silver Lake’s Chandelier Tree is a marvel of its own.

Related Post: Day Trips from LA – 10 Best Places to Go

10. Wine Tasting on the Beach

Wine? Beach? Say no more, I’m sold.

Rosenthal Winery is the only wine bar and tasting room on the entire Pacific Coast Highway, making it one of the best hidden gems in Los Angeles. Sit back, grab a bottle of wine, and relax by the ocean. As one of the Los Angeles non touristy things do, this winery offers sweeping views of the area near Topanga Beach along with events, wine tours, and more.

11. Go to the Beach

While you can visit touristy beaches such as Venice Beach and Santa Monica Pier, there are plenty of non-crowded beaches aka LA hidden gems to explore in and around the City of Angels. When we go to the beach, the last thing we want to do is push my way through a crowd for a tiny plot of sand.

Related Post: Best Beaches Near Los Angeles: 10 Perfect Places to Go

The city stretches throughout a distinct coastal plain located between the Pacific Ocean and mountains, so you will never run out of beaches to visit.

Instead of tackling the crowds, take a trip to these lesser-visited ( but equally as beautiful ) Los Angeles beaches :

• El Matador Beach
• Cabrillo Beach
• Topanga State Beach
• Abalone Cove Beach
• Oxnard Beach Park
• Hermosa Beach

12. River Kayaking in Los Angeles

Did you know you can embark on a river kayaking excursion in Los Angeles? Who knew?

Skip the tourist traps and head out onto the Los Angeles River for an unbelievable kayaking adventure . As one of the best non touristy things to do in LA, you’ll experience the city’s wild side and witness wildlife in their natural habitat along the way. Be sure to pack the appropriate attire—you will get wet!

13. Grand Central Market

Hungry? Exploring Los Angeles’ less touristy side will make you work up an appetite. When this happens, head to Grand Central Market, one of the hidden food gems in Los Angeles.

Grand Central Market in downtown LA is a fusion of cuisines, cultures, and creativity, and has been a city staple since 1917. You’ll find everything from artisan cheeses to a gourmet peanut butter & jelly sandwich shop, a United States food classic. Whether you’re into quick bites or filling food, the options are endless.

If you can’t find something to satisfy your taste buds at Grand Central Market, you are by far the world’s pickiest eater!

Crowd warning : if you visit at peak eating hours, you will encounter a crowd or two. Be prepared!

14. Explore Little Tokyo and Koreatown

While other tourists flock to Hollywood, those looking for non touristy things to do in Southern California will love strolling through the Little Tokyo and Koreatown neighborhoods.

Little Tokyo houses the largest Japanese-American population in North America with approximately 30,000 residents. The area boasts attractions and destinations such as the Japanese American National Museum, the Geffen Contemporary, an abundance of authentic restaurants and shops, and the David Henry Hwang Theater.

Located near Eighth Street and Irolo Street, Koreatown is a booming neighborhood that welcomes a variety of ethnicities. With this diverse blend of cultures, Koreatown offers numerous things to do, from theaters and shopping centres to restaurants and museums. Explore and discover these shops that are LA off the beaten path. While there, make a pit stop at California Donuts , a Koreatown staple for over 30 years.

15. Catch a Free LA Philharmonic Show

Did you know the LA Philharmonic often rehearses at the Hollywood Bowl? Best of all, did you know you can watch for free?

Folks looking for low key things to do in Los Angeles can enjoy and save serious dough at the same time here. Instead of paying top dollar for concert tickets, catch one of their rehearsals at the famed concert venue without paying a dime.

Related Post: What to Wear in Los Angeles: Devise the Perfect Packing List

On Tuesdays and Thursdays from July through mid-September, the orchestra practices from about 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. The best way to ensure they’ll be there is to call the Hollywood Bowl or LA Phil and ask for the open rehearsal schedule.

16. Malibu Wine Safaris

[Updated 2024] Malibu Wine Safari has permanently closed.

About 30 minutes outside of Los Angeles, Malibu Wine Safaris is the booze-filled adventure you never knew you wanted. You’ll climb aboard an exclusive open-air Safari vehicle which makes stops through the 1,000-acre ranch for wine tastings and meet and greets with zebras, alpacas, giraffes, and more. It’s definitely one of the must-visit hidden gems in LA.

Sure, you can go to the LA Zoo at Griffith Park. But does the LA Zoo have wine safaris?

Hop on this California safari adventure before the tourists find out about it!

17. Go for a Hike—Besides Runyon Canyon

Although Runyon Canyon is filled with celebrities out for a quick hike, it is also jam-packed with tourists. Just like in San Pedro, there are far better trails and hidden gems Los Angeles to explore; all without iPad-wielding travelers.

Related Post: A Parent’s Guide on Things to Do in Los Angeles with Kids

When searching for non-touristy things to do in Los Angeles, get outside and trek up any one of these crowd-free trails:

• Mount Baldy
• The Bridge to Nowhere
• Malibu Creek State Park
• Cucamonga Peak
• San Gabriel Peak

Your LA vacation doesn’t have to include celebrity tours in the San Fernando Valley, bumping with paparazzi at The Grove, and other tourist trap adventures like the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Instead, take advantage of hidden gems Los Angeles off the beaten path destinations, and local haunts. What Los Angeles non-touristy things will you do on your trip?

Which Crowd-Free Places Are You Most Excited To Visit?

Let us know in the comments below!

Written by Anne Mercer

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9 Non-tourist Places to Visit in the United States

Kiersten is a freelance writer and coach. As a writer,…

The way new COVID variants are appearing in what seems to be every few months makes international travel more difficult. Yet you can still please your wanderlust by traveling to places within the United States. The most visited places in the United States such as New York City, Los Angeles, Miami, and Las Vegas, are losing some appeal to many Americans. Luckily if you reside in one of the 50 states, there are many non-tourist places to visit that will excite and amaze you. Here are the 9 most non-tourist US destinations.

Letchworth State Park, New York

If you like getting lost in nature, following hiking trails, and discovering waterfalls, then Letchworth State Park is a must-visit. Here there is a never-ending list of outdoor activities to do. There’s kayaking, rafting, biking, but if you’re looking to create lasting memories, the one thing you’ll have to experience is the hot air balloon ride. Floating over the park’s lush green landscape and powerful waterfalls will make you feel like you are floating in a dream.

The orange coast of Oregon

California has a beautiful coast, yet Oregon may come in as second best. Along the coastline, there are beautiful sea cliffs and vast sand dunes that bring charm to this overlooked place. In the “Sahara by the sea,” you can enjoy AVT riding and sand surfing. Once you build up an appetite, there are plenty of food options ranging from the best clam chowder to succulent steak houses.

Molokai, Hawaii

It’s not a secret that Hawaii is one of the most popular vacations spots. Often with an influx of tourism, many places can lose their authenticity. This is not the case with Molokai, also known as the “friendly island.” It’s a perfect place for anyone who wants a real getaway, far from tourist attractions, and escape to deserted beaches, a place where palm trees tower over buildings and locals greet you with an “ahola” and embody hospitality. Whether you are traveling solo, with a partner, or with the whole family, there is something for everyone to do. If you’re more active, you’ll enjoy, snorkeling, fishing, scuba diving, whale watching, and hiking. If you want to relax, you can read a book under a palm tree on one of the many white-sand beaches. Or take a mid-day nap falling asleep to the ocean waves. For more entertainment, Molokai offers hula celebrations, parades, and island exclusive festivals.

Jekyll Island, Georgia

Did you know that there are islands off the coast of the Southern states? You might be thinking of the Florida Keys; however, there are more. Jekyll Island is located between Jacksonville, Florida, and Savannah, Georgia. It’s accessible by car when you take the I-95. There’s an assortment of things to do on the island. Yet the two unique and most impactful places to visit are the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and the Wanderer Memory Trail . Visiting this trail, you can travel back in time, 160 years in the past, to visit the last known slave ship that came to the Americas, The Wanderer . Although the ship brought around 500 enslaved Africans to the South, the trail tells the story of one slave boy named, Umwalla. Through this interactive exhibit, you’ll learn about his journey from enslavement to freedom.

Block Island, Rhode Island

With a short ferry ride, you can have the best getaway on Block Island. This island offers white sand beaches and delicious dining experiences overlooking the ocean. For added fun, there are ghost tours and the glass project. If you happen to have a good eye during your visit, you can take part in an interactive art exhibit. Throughout the island, there are 550 glass floats or glass orbs hidden throughout the Greenway trails and the beaches. Once you find a float, you can keep it as a souvenir. Eben Horton, the glass artist who came up with this idea, asks that finders only keep one glass float per person, per year along with registering the float that you find with the Block Island Tourism Council .

Tennessee Valley, California

This is a great trip for hikers. As trails in the Tennessee Valley allow you to walk along the Pacific Ocean. The trails in the valley vary from easy to more strenuous. No matter the level of difficulty the refreshing ocean breeze will help ease the journey. There are even options for camping.

Orcas Island

Orcas Island is the largest of the San Juan Islands. Off the coast of Washington state, orcas swim all year long, although this isn’t where the name of the island originated. Other wildlife to see include humpback whales, stellar sea lions, and minkes. The fun of this island doesn’t stop with whale watching . Visitors can also enjoy farmer’s markets, wineries, and breweries.

Sedona, Arizona

Surrounded by beautiful red rock scenery, Sedona has a lot to offer. Sedona tourism lists over 100 things to do including helicopter tours, live entertainment, hiking trails, and so much more. Whether you try to check off all 100 things on your visit or pick your top 10, you will marvel at the beauty of the desert valley.

Burlington, Vermont

Burlington, Vermont, is a welcoming city. Here you can make your own teddy bear at the Teddy Bear Factory or experience one of the most important aspects of Burlington, which is agriculture. The local farmer’s markets are an opportunity to experience organic produce and artisanal baked goods. If you visit in autumn, you can warm yourself up with a warm cider donut. If you have a sweet tooth you won’t want to leave without a pint of real Vermont syrup.

A commonality amongst many travelers is not exploring their home country enough. Yet with the United States having 50 different states, it only makes sense for more of its citizens to go out and explore. These 9 destinations are ready for your arrival.

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Kiersten is a freelance writer and coach. As a writer, she has written for Travel Noire, Passion Passport, BAUCE mag, and various travel and lifestyle blogs. As a writer, her goal is to write content that inspires others to take action. As a coach, her goal is to empower women to be their most authentic selves. In her free time, you can find her dancing to any song any where.

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Venice Revealed

15 Non-Touristy Things to Do in Venice: A Local’s Guide

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Venice, the enchanting city of canals and masks, has long been a magnet for tourists from around the world. 

Its grand palaces, historic churches, and iconic gondolas are the stuff of dreams and postcards. 

But as an American who has made the area around Venice my home, I’ve discovered that there’s so much more to this floating city than meets the tourist’s eye. 

From the bustling Rialto Market where you can encounter Venetian grandmothers bartering over the price of seafood, to the quiet corners of the Jewish Ghetto rich with history, Venice is a city of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. 

In this guide, I’ll help you avoid tourist traps and take you off the beaten path to share with you the non-touristy things to do in Venice that will let you experience the city as a local. 

So, if you’re ready to see Venice in a new light, read on and let’s start exploring.

Staying overnight in Venice? Here’s my ultimate 2 day itinerary!

1 – The Rialto Market: A Taste of Venice’s Cuisine

Nestled in the heart of Venice, the Rialto Market has been the city’s bustling epicenter of food and trade since the 11th century. This vibrant market, teeming with stalls selling a variety of fresh produce, is a testament to Venice’s rich culinary heritage and its intimate relationship with the Adriatic Sea .

One of the most captivating experiences at the Rialto Market is the chance to witness the lively exchange over fresh seafood. Here, you’ll encounter Venetian grandmothers bartering with vendors over the day’s catch. From soft-shell crabs to clams, the seafood here is as fresh as it gets, having been pulled from the lagoon at dawn.

But the Rialto Market isn’t just a place to buy ingredients; it’s also a place to learn about Venetian cuisine. Several local cooking schools offer a hands-on cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Venetian dishes using ingredients sourced from the Rialto market Venice’s cuisine itself. It’s an immersive experience that allows you to not only taste Venice’s cuisine but also to understand the culture and history that have shaped it.

You could even take your fresh food back to your hostel with a kitchen , or hotel room with a suite and cook up a typical Venetian meal yourself.

So, if you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in Venice, start your day at the Rialto Market. It’s a sensory feast that offers a taste of the real Venice, far removed from the well-trodden, tourist trap trail.

2 – The Jewish Ghetto: A Journey Through Venice’s Rich Jewish History

The term “ghetto” is one that has been adopted worldwide, but did you know it has its roots in Venice? The word originates from the Venetian term “geto,” which referred to a foundry. In 1516, the area of the city where a foundry once stood was designated as a living area for the city’s Jewish residents, thus becoming the world’s first “ghetto.”

The Jewish Ghetto of Venice is a significant part of the city’s rich tapestry of history. Despite its initial establishment as a place of segregation, the Ghetto became a vibrant center of Jewish life and culture. It was here that Venice’s Jewish residents lived, worked, and practiced their faith, often in the face of adversity.

Today, the Jewish Ghetto remains an active hub of Jewish community life. Five historic synagogues, some of the oldest in Europe, stand as testament to the resilience and faith of the community. Quiet kosher restaurants offer a taste of traditional Jewish cuisine, while the Jewish Museum (Museo Ebraico) provides a stunning museum and insight into the history of the Ghetto and its residents.

Visiting the Jewish Ghetto offers a unique perspective on Venice, one that goes beyond the usual tourist trail. It’s a journey into the city’s rich Jewish history , a chance to understand Venice’s multicultural past, and an opportunity to appreciate the diversity that makes Venice the fascinating city it is today.

3 – Cichetti Bars: The Venetian Tapas Experience

When it comes to experiencing Venice like a local, there’s nothing quite like the tradition of “cichetti.” Similar to Spanish tapas, cichetti are small, bite-sized snacks that are a staple of Venetian cuisine. But cichetti are more than just food; they represent a way of life, a cultural tradition that brings Venetians together in the spirit of camaraderie and good cheer.

To truly experience cichetti, you’ll want to visit a “bacaro.” These neighborhood bars, often tucked away in the city’s narrow streets, are where locals gather to enjoy cichetti and a glass of wine, often standing at the bar in true Venetian style. From traditional options like polpette (meatballs) and baccalà mantecato (creamed cod) to more adventurous offerings, the variety of cichetti available is a testament to Venice’s rich culinary heritage .

For a truly immersive experience, consider taking a cichetti tasting tour. These tours, led by local guides, take you to several bacari across different neighborhoods, allowing you to sample a wide range of cichetti while learning about their history and the role they play in Venetian culture. It’s a culinary adventure that lets you taste the real Venice, one bite at a time.

4 – Venetian Artisan Workshops: The Craftsmanship Behind the Masks and Gondolas

Venice is a city steeped in tradition, and nowhere is this more evident than in its artisan workshops. Two crafts, in particular, stand out for their cultural significance and the skill involved: the crafting of Carnival masks and Venetian gondolas.

Carnival masks have been a part of Venetian culture since the 13th century. These masks, often elaborately decorated, play a central role in the city’s annual Carnival celebration . Today, a number of workshops in Venice continue the tradition of mask-making, crafting each piece by hand in the same way their predecessors have done for centuries.

Equally significant is the craft of building gondolas. These iconic boats, synonymous with Venice, are the result of meticulous craftsmanship. Each gondola is made by hand, a process that can take several months to complete. The result is a vessel that is not only functional but also a work of art, a testament to the skill and dedication of the city’s master gondola builders.

For those interested in experiencing Venice’s artisan traditions firsthand, many workshops offer behind-the-scenes tours. These tours provide a unique opportunity to observe the crafting process up close, learn about the history and significance of these crafts, and even try your hand at making your own mask.

To learn about how gondolas are created and even repaired, check out the Squero San Trovaso by booking a visit here. 

5 – Exploring Venice’s Neighborhoods and Getting Lost in the City

Venice is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. From the grandeur of San Marco to the vibrant energy of Cannaregio , each neighborhood offers a different perspective of Venice, revealing a side of the city that many tourists never get to see.

San Marco, home to the iconic St. Mark’s Square and Doge’s Palace, is often bustling with tourists. But venture a little further into the neighborhood and you’ll find quiet alleys, charming boutiques, and local restaurants.

Cannaregio, the city’s most populous neighborhood, is a treasure trove of hidden gems. Here, you’ll find the Jewish Ghetto, a vibrant area rich in history and culture. The neighborhood is also home to a number of local shops and restaurants, offering a taste of authentic Venetian life.

Dorsoduro, known for its art galleries and bohemian vibe, is a haven for art lovers. The neighborhood is also home to the Squero di San Trovaso, one of the last remaining gondola workshops in the city.

But perhaps the best way to experience Venice’s neighborhoods is to simply get lost. The city’s narrow, winding streets can feel like a labyrinth, but they’re also part of its charm. Let yourself wander, turn down a street that looks interesting, and see where it leads. You might just stumble upon a quiet canal, a charming café, or a stunning view of the city that you wouldn’t find in any guidebook.

So, take the time to explore Venice’s neighborhoods. Walk their streets , visit their shops, try their food, and immerse yourself in their romantic atmosphere . It’s one of the best non-touristy things to do in Venice, and a wonderful way to experience the city like a local.

6 – Gondola Rides: Seeing Venice from the Canals

While it may be one of the most touristy things to do in Venice, a gondola ride is an experience that is undeniably worth trying when you visit Venice. There’s something magical about gliding through the city’s canals in a traditional Venetian gondola, seeing the city from a perspective that’s as unique as it is enchanting.

However, to make the most of your gondola ride, it’s worth straying from the beaten path. Instead of joining the queues at the busy gondola stations near major tourist sites, seek out the quieter “stazi” (gondola stations) in less crowded areas of the city. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Venice’s back canals, away from the throngs of tourists. These less-traveled waterways offer a glimpse into the quieter, more residential side of Venice, revealing a side of the city that many visitors never get to see.

Another tip is to consider taking your gondola ride in the evening. As the day-trippers depart and the city starts to wind down, you’ll find the canals become much quieter. The city takes on a different atmosphere as the sun sets, the buildings are softly lit, and the sounds of the day give way to the gentle lapping of water against the gondola. It’s a serene and romantic experience that truly captures the magic of Venice.

So, while a gondola ride might be seen as a touristy activity, with a bit of planning and insider knowledge, it can be a memorable and authentic Venetian experience. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best way to see a city is from its most iconic vantage point.

7 – Venice’s Churches and Museums: A Dive into Art and History

Venice is a city that wears its history on its sleeve. From its grand palaces to its humble backstreets, every corner of the city tells a story. But to truly delve into Venice’s rich past and vibrant culture, a visit to its churches and museums is a must.

Venice’s churches are not just places of worship; they are also treasure troves of art and history. Take the Basilica di San Marco, for example. This stunning cathedral, with its intricate mosaics and Byzantine architecture, is a testament to Venice’s former glory as a powerful maritime republic. Or the Church of San Sebastiano in Dorsoduro, adorned with the works of the Venetian painter Veronese, offering a deep dive into the city’s artistic heritage.

Venice’s museums, too, offer a wealth of insights into the city’s past and present. The Doge’s Palace, once the residence of the ruler of Venice, now serves as a museum showcasing the city’s political history and magnificent art. The Peggy Guggenheim Collection, on the other hand, offers a look at modern art, housing an impressive collection of works from the likes of Picasso, Pollock, and Calder.

But Venice’s art and history are not confined to the well-known spots. Smaller museums like the Museo Ebraico in the Jewish Ghetto or the Glass Museum on the island of Murano offer fascinating insights into the city’s diverse communities and traditional crafts.

So, take the time to explore Venice’s churches and museums. They offer a window into the city’s soul, revealing layers of history, culture, and art that make Venice the unique and captivating city it is. You could even attend a mass in English .

8- Taking a Rowing Class in Venice: Embrace the Venetian Voga Tradition

Venice’s waterways are its lifeblood, and there’s no better way to truly connect with the city than by learning to navigate them yourself. Taking a rowing class in Venice allows you to do just that, offering a unique and immersive experience that goes beyond the typical tourist activities.

Row Venice , a non-profit organization run by passionate women who are Venetian by birth and by choice, offers private lessons in traditional Venetian rowing, or “voga alla veneta.” This style of rowing, where you stand up and face forward, is native to Venice and has been made iconic by the city’s gondoliers.

During a 90-minute private lesson, you’ll learn to row in a traditional, hand-crafted Venetian “batellina.” Not only will you get a taste of this exhilarating and sustainable activity, but you’ll also be supporting Row Venice’s mission to preserve the traditional Venetian “cultura acquea” and the voga alla veneta at its heart.

For those looking for a unique culinary experience, Row Venice also offers the “Cichetto Row,” where you can follow your rowing lesson with a “giro d’ombra,” rowing to two bàcari (local bars in the Venetian language) to sample the food and wine of Venice.

By participating in a rowing class, you’re not just observing Venetian culture—you’re becoming a part of it. As Row Venice says, “There is nothing more Venetian than the Voga.”

9 – Visiting the Arsenale of Venice: A Glimpse into Venice’s Maritime Past

The Arsenale of Venice is a testament to the city’s rich maritime history. Once the heart of Venice’s naval industry, the Arsenale was one of the greatest shipyards in the world during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. It was here that Venice’s formidable naval fleet was built, helping the city establish itself as a dominant maritime power.

Located in the Castello district, the Arsenale spans over 45 hectares and is an impressive sight. Its grand entrance, the Porta Magna, is a striking example of Venetian Gothic architecture, adorned with four marble lions brought from Athens in the 17th century.

While much of the Arsenale is not open to the public due to its use by the Italian Navy, parts of it are accessible during the Venice Biennale, a major contemporary art exhibition held every two years. During this time, visitors can explore some of the Arsenale’s historic buildings and docks, which are transformed into exhibition spaces for artists from around the world.

Visiting the Arsenale offers a fascinating glimpse into Venice’s past, revealing a side of the city that goes beyond its canals and palaces. It’s a reminder of Venice’s historical significance and its enduring connection to the sea and is a truly non touristy things to do in Venice.

10 – Experiencing the Coffee Roasting Process at Girani Caffè

For coffee lovers, a visit to Venice would not be complete without experiencing the coffee roasting process at Girani Caffè. This local coffee shop , tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city, offers a unique opportunity to witness the art of coffee roasting firsthand.

Every Wednesday morning, between 8 and 10:30, visitors can drop by Girani Caffè to see the roasting process in action. The roaster, a master of his craft, will explain each step of the process as he transforms raw, green coffee beans into the aromatic, brown beans that we are familiar with. This demonstration is very informal, with no set itinerary, allowing visitors to come and go as they please.

While you won’t be able to participate hands-on in the roasting process, you’ll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the work that goes into making your morning cup of joe. Plus, the roaster speaks good English, so you’ll be able to ask any questions you might have.

Remember, this is a unique opportunity to see a side of coffee production that few get to experience. So, make sure to stop by Girani Caffè on your next visit to Venice and immerse yourself in the world of coffee roasting.

11 – Touring the Inside of the Torre dell’Orologio: A Journey Through Time

The Torre dell’Orologio, or Clock Tower, is one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks. Located in the bustling Piazza San Marco, this stunning piece of architecture is not just a timekeeper, but a symbol of the city’s rich history and technological prowess.

Built in the late 15th century, the Clock Tower is a marvel of engineering and artistry. Its clock face, adorned with gold and blue enamel, displays not only the time but also the phases of the moon and the signs of the zodiac. Above the clock face, a winged lion, the symbol of Venice, and a statue of the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus add to the tower’s grandeur.

A tour of the Clock Tower offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the inner workings of this complex timepiece. As you ascend the tower, you’ll get a close-up view of the clock mechanism, a masterpiece of medieval engineering. You’ll also learn about the tower’s history and the significance of its various elements.

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the panoramic view from the top of the tower. Overlooking the Piazza San Marco and the lagoon beyond, it offers a breathtaking perspective of Venice. If you come in January , you can see the Three Wise Men visiting the Madonna on the Epiphany for a special treat.

So, if you’re in Venice, don’t miss the chance to tour the inside of the Torre dell’Orologio. It’s a fascinating journey through time that offers a deeper understanding of the city’s history and culture.

12 – Renting a Bike on the Lido and Exploring: A Different Side of Venice

The Lido of Venice, a slim, sandy island that serves as a natural barrier between the Venetian Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea, offers a refreshing change of pace from the bustling city center. Known for its serene beaches, Art Nouveau villas, and the annual Venice Film Festival, the Lido is a charming place to explore, especially by bike.

Renting a bike on the Lido gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace and is one of the most non touristy things to do in Venice. You can ride along the waterfront, take in the views of the lagoon and the sea, explore the island’s quiet streets, or stop by a local café for a leisurely lunch. The island is flat and compact, making it perfect for biking.

If you are looking for a beach to beat the heat, then this is the ideal way to do it as you can find a quiet spot to soak up the rays and take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Adriatic.

One of the highlights of biking on the Lido is the opportunity to see a different side of Venice. Away from the crowds and the canals, you’ll get a glimpse of everyday life in Venice, from locals going about their day to the peaceful natural landscapes.

13 – Taking a Boat Tour of the Lagoon: Venice from the Water

A boat tour of the Venetian Lagoon offers a unique perspective of Venice and its surroundings. As you glide through the calm waters of the lagoon, you’ll get to see Venice from a different angle, away from the crowded streets and bustling piazzas.

The lagoon is dotted with islands, each with its own unique charm. There’s Murano, famous for its glassmaking tradition; Burano , known for its brightly colored houses and lacework; and Torcello, home to Venice’s oldest cathedral. A boat tour gives you the opportunity to visit these islands and learn about their history and culture.

In addition to the islands, a boat tour of the lagoon also offers stunning views of Venice itself. From the water, you can admire the city’s iconic skyline, with landmarks like the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica standing out against the horizon.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a boat tour of the Venetian Lagoon is a memorable experience that offers a fresh perspective of Venice and its surroundings.

14 – Visiting Venice’s Main Sites After Dark: A Different Perspective

Venice is a city that transforms as the sun sets. The crowds thin out, the day-trippers depart, and a sense of tranquility descends. This is the perfect time to explore Venice’s main sites, such as St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

St. Mark’s Basilica, with its stunning mosaics and Byzantine architecture, takes on a different aura after dark. The golden mosaics shimmer under the evening lights, and the square, less crowded, becomes a more intimate and peaceful place. Some evenings, you can even join a night tour of the Basilica , offering a unique opportunity to explore this magnificent cathedral without the usual crowds.

Similarly, the famed Rialto Bridge, one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks, is a sight to behold at night . The lights reflecting off the Grand Canal create a magical atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of reflection.

You can hang with the locals in Campo Santa Margherita as this is a lively spot once the tourists go back to the cruise ship or the Venice main train station to leave before night falls. There are many vibrant bars for a cocktail, great bacari for cicchetti and even benches to simply sit and soak up the lively atmosphere.

Visiting Venice’s main sites after dark offers a different perspective on the city. It’s a chance to experience the city’s timeless beauty in a more serene and intimate setting.

15 – Exploring Venice’s Famous Movie Locations: Walk in the Footsteps of Stars

Venice’s unique charm and beauty have made it a popular location for many famous movies. From James Bond’s “Casino Royale” to the romantic drama “The Tourist,” the city has served as a backdrop for a variety of cinematic stories.

Exploring Venice’s famous movie locations allows you to walk in the footsteps of stars and see the city from a different perspective. You can visit the stunning Palazzo Pisani, which served as the setting for the dramatic finale of “Casino Royale,” or stroll through the Piazza San Marco, where Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie were seen in “The Tourist.”

Other notable locations include the Bridge of Sighs, featured in “The Italian Job,” and the Grand Canal, which has made appearances in numerous films. Some companies even offer guided tours that take you to these famous movie locations, providing interesting insights and anecdotes along the way.

Indiana Jones fans won’t want to miss taking a picture of the church where Indy popped up through the manhole cover from the Last Crusade. Today it’s a museum dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci. The small Ponte dei Pugni was also featured and is nearby.

Wrapping It Up

On your next visit to Venice, venture off the beaten path. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and everyday life. You’ll discover a side of Venice that’s all the more enchanting for being less known. And you’ll leave with memories of a Venice that’s as unique and unforgettable as the city itself.

Remember, the real Venice is waiting for you to discover it. So step off the gondola, wander away from the crowds, and let the city reveal its true self to you. You won’t be disappointed.

Make sure to check out the links below for articles that will help you get the most out of your trip to Venice!

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17 of the Best Non-Touristy Greek Islands to Visit

• September 1, 2021
• Dodecanese , Halki , Nisyros , Tilos

The Greek islands are world-famous for their stunning natural beauty, making for quite the desirable holiday destination. But our islands are as diverse as our visitors who come from all around the world. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil escape from the norm or a nonstop party, you’ll find a Greek island to suit your travel style.

At Nissia Holidays, we love to help visitors uncover the true, authentic Greece beyond the typical tourist spots. Our Greek Island Getaways help you find the best non-touristy destinations to bask in natural beauty, traditional culture, fascinating history, and so much more. 

Whether you visit our favourite quiet Greek islands of Halki, Nisyros, and Tilos or you opt for any of these other non-touristy Greek islands, we hope you thoroughly enjoy your escape to our lovely paradise. 

Without further ado…

Our Favourite Non-Touristy Greek Islands to Visit

Ancient Chios claims to be the birthplace of Homer and boasts Neolithic remains that will enchant any lover of history. The beaches here reflect the geological history of the island, with some soft white whilst others are a beguiling black. 

Whilst everyone has heard of Santorini and its iconic white houses with blue roofs, Donousa boasts much of the same — but without the Instagram-focused crowds.

Called “the island of Peace and Friendship” by UNESCO, tranquil Halki in the Dodecanese is a delightful world apart. In Halki, life slows down on secluded beaches and to the pace of a silent clocktower. Within charming fishing villages, the sound of conversation with neighbours reigns supreme with a near-total lack of vehicles offering a quiet reprieve.

We are particularly fond of painting holidays on Halki . With such stunning vistas and a truly slow pace, creativity abounds. 

4. Ikaria (Nikaria)

If you want to live a long, healthy life, then take notes from the people of Ikaria! Known as one of the world’s Blue Zones where residents live the longest, Ikaria is where you slow down, bask in the beauty of nature, and enjoy an afternoon nap as all the locals do. 

The only contrast to this tranquillity? The panagiri summer season of festivals when everyone dances the night away!

5. Ios 

Dreaming of Santorini but hoping to avoid the crowds? Beautiful Ios offers those same whitewashed buildings and quaint cobblestone streets, with far fewer tourists to contend with. The summer months have been gaining popularity in Ios, but visiting outside of those should offer you empty hiking trails, pristine beaches, and true serenity.

Iconic Ithaca is surprisingly a non-touristy Greek island! The story of Odysseus trying to return home to Ithaca for nearly 20 years has lasted the test of literary time, forever reminding the world of the beauty of this island. 

Today, Ithaca retains its charm and beauty. It enjoys far fewer visitors than neighbouring Kefalonia and is an excellent choice for a quiet holiday, especially in the shoulder seasons of Spring and Autumn.

7. Karpathos

Another Dodecanese island, Karpathos boasts all the beauty of dramatic scenery alongside the charm of colourful villages. While this isn’t the smallest Greek island, it offers a lovely blend of ample amenities without the heaving crowds of partiers. 

Karpathos is an excellent non-touristy choice for divers and snorkellers especially, with wrecks and reefs to enjoy at the 18 dive sites around the island.

Near Karpathos, a stay on Kasos offers a true escape from it all. Visit for picturesque villages, rugged landscapes, and deserted beaches. It’s the southernmost Greek island in the Aegean and is certainly considered to be off the beaten path.

You may want to go island hopping in the Dodecanese whilst you’re here!

Kimolos is a tiny escape with just enough to keep you entertained whilst being mostly a draw for an utterly unwinding holiday. You’ll enjoy plenty of time to explore the island’s many natural caves and endlessly stunning beaches.

10. Koufonisia

Koufonisia is a small group of three islands, but only Ano Koufonisi is inhabited. A nature lover’s dream come true, you can completely avoid the crowds of popular islands nearby, like Mykonos or Santorini, to explore the hiking, beaches, and delicious local cuisine here on these totally non-touristy islands.

11. Kythira

Quiet Kythira offers an intrepid visitor stunning waterfalls, wild beauty, and mesmerising azure water. For those seeking an island in Greece to escape from the tourist track, Kythira checks all the boxes!

Lemnos is a more difficult island to reach by ferry, which immediately makes it less touristy than many other Greek islands. The island is popular for sports enthusiasts, with windsurfing and kitesurfing both being excellent here. Otherwise, it’s a quiet spot for visitors seeking a much more local experience.

13. Nisyros

Nisyros is another gem of the Dodecanese, with incredible mythological connections, an active volcano, and dramatic clifftop villages. Due to its active volcano, Nisyros is home to black-sand beaches that mesmerise beside the cerulean Aegean Sea. 

You can actually explore the volcanic crater ; Stefanos is one of the world’s largest and best-preserved hydrothermal craters and one of the only active craters in the world you can walk within. It’s a truly exceptional experience! 

Explore our Nisyros accommodation options to start planning your holiday!

14. Samothraki (Samothrace)

Samothraki, also known as Samothrace, is one of the least touristy Greek islands for foreigners. It’s quite popular for Greeks going on holiday, especially for those who live in the north of the country.

Samothraki can only be reached by ferry from the mainland, meaning it’s less likely to be on the radar for island-hopping holidaymakers from overseas. 

15. Serifos

Serifos attracts artists and creatives — and for good reason! The main town of Hora offers those iconic whitewashed homes built into the steep terrain leading to the sea and the quiet pace of life allows for time to paint, write, and more.

Part of the Cyclades, Syros is a former industrial centre that has since escaped the tourism trappings of its neighbour, Mykonos. Beautiful Venetian architecture and cobblestone streets await visitors to Syros, whilst quiet beaches and very few other tourists award the intrepid traveller seeking a local experience.

Another gem of the Dodecanese, Tilos boasts breath-taking beauty in abundance. Wildflowers and migrating birds attract nature lovers, and walking in Tilos is one of the most popular activities. 

Located midway between the popular tourist spots of Rhodes and Kos, Tilos has retained its quiet serenity and awe-inspiring beauty. It’s not just for nature-lovers, however. Tilos also offers incredible historical sites, including seven castles, a variety of churches, and even the abandoned village of Mikro Horio.

With thousands of islands to choose from, we wholeheartedly recommend visiting the non-touristy Greek islands. At Nissia Holidays, we especially encourage you to explore the quiet Greek islands of Halki, Nisyros, and Tilos for their unspoilt beauty and a true glimpse into local life. Come experience authentic Greece…we guarantee a welcome as warm as the Mediterranean sun!

Triantafyllos, or Daffy as most guests like to call him, comes from a strong hospitality background. Working alongside Meni from a young age and helping with operations for Laskarina Holidays, he is service minded and always happy to help the guests have an amazing and relaxing holiday in our unspoilt islands.

Just come back from 14days at sea with Fred Olsen on MV Bollette Dover to southen Spain and back Great time sun and calm seas BUT I would rather be on TILOS , ROLL ON JUNE

I’m even more confused as to where to go now!! I think I’ll start with Athens though…lol really like the idea of Ionian islands but seems like less touristy ones are in east? Ithaque? Kimolos? SAMOTHRAKI? (so intriguing) So close to Bulgaria..Turkey…I always to seem to like places that are far apart…Is it easy to hire boat? or get info. once I’m there to travel around islands?

Are there live on boats, catered, for 7 guests to enjoy the sailing between the islands. Snorkeling and diving from the boat.

I’ve been to many islands in the Cyclades I’ve been to Crete and also to roadhouse which I loved the island that I returned to them for more than 10 times was Hydra For its lack of transportation and charm. I’d like to go somewhere else next time where do you recommend I like dancing but I’m not in my 20s so I want something semi-quiet not total party people

Are there still islands where one can see dancing and hear bazouki music live in the tavernas and where the dancing is not for tourists, but just for love of life? Preferably smaller less touristic islands?

I’m not sure I would describe Ios as non touristy. Tourism is just about the only industry on the island and it attracts large numbers of lively young people looking to party. Sikinos, a 45 minute ferry ride to the west, is a much better option for peace and quiet away from the crowds.

Looking to stay on charming, non touristy island in air B&B with great views of the water, opportunity for walking and exploring local villages. Prefer not to spend a lot of time transferring from island to island or from Athens to islands. Is there a chance to fly direct to an island from Europe and then ferry to a 2nd island? Looking for 10 day adventure in April/May. What do you suggest. Local flavor, calm, and sunny is what we are looking for. Beaches and nightlife not so important.

I have been to many Greek Islands and dare I say some are very spoilt now by tourism. My first love was Corfu and always holds a special place. I think now is the time to look for quieter islands but that are still interesting. Any suggestions would be welcome

Hi there Jean, Thank you for your comment. 🙂 Our reservations team will contact you soon with more information on our beautiful islands. Best wishes for now!

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Students get a ‘Jumpstart’ on their careers in Dallas

Uc blue ash students experience transformative travel on their path to lindner.

Students from Carl H. Lindner College of Business’ Jumpstart program — a pipeline between UC Blue Ash and the business college that provides students with additional support toward transitioning into a bachelor’s degree program — experienced a whirlwind visit to Dallas during spring break 2024.

The group of 12 students balanced a packed schedule of professional development and networking with cultural and tourist experiences. Sponsored by Deloitte, students connected with Lindner alumni and employer partners throughout the four-day trip.

Arun Murthy, BBA '95, (center) offered students advice on actions they can take now that will create positive impact for their futures.

Day one: Diving right in

Day one brought a visit to the Charles Schwab corporate campus where students met with Lindner alumnus  Arun Murthy , BBA ’95.

After a tour of the campus, students engaged in a Q&A session with Murthy to gain his insights on what they should be doing right now to prepare them for the next phase of their educational and career journeys. 

Murthy encouraged the young professionals to “keep your eyes open” and pay attention to what piques their interest. But Murthy’s greatest advice to students was to get involved and be open to meeting and getting to know new people.

After finishing their day with a visit to the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum for reflection and remembrance, and an evening in the Discovery District of Dallas for dinner and exploration, students looked to a second day packed with adventure. 

Day two: A non-stop adventure

I think one of the reasons that I probably succeeded in this type of environment was my ability to connect and the relationships that I made with the people I interviewed with. It wasn't just transactional. It's very relational in nature.

Kasey Beiting Campus recruiting specialist, Deloitte

Day two’s itinerary featured visits to the American Airlines corporate campus, Deloitte University and AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, to learn about sales and sports marketing.

First on the list: American Airlines.

Led by Scott Mallory, a campus recruiter for the company, students toured the expansive headquarters asking questions along the way about everything from employee benefits to navigating career changes.

“One of the most significant lessons I learned was the unpredictability of your professional career,” said Manuel Chacon Molina, who is interested in studying international business upon transferring to Lindner. “Observing individuals like Scott Mallory at American Airlines, who began in human resources and progressed across various departments, has reinforced the notion that while academic foundations are crucial, practical experience is fundamental for professional growth.”

Jumpstart students enjoyed their tour of the American Airlines' corporate headquarters.

For Abybatou Diop, a first-year  Jumpstart  student interested in supply chains and international business, the experience was transformative.

“The American Airlines company tour profoundly changed my perspective on the business world, igniting a passion within me," Diop said. "This experience was life-altering, pushing me to think beyond my previous limits. I am forever grateful for the inspiration it has given.” 

Still in awe from their first tour of the day, students had even more in store as they headed to Deloitte University, the training grounds for all Deloitte employees.

Students were welcomed by a committee of Deloitte representatives, including several from Cincinnati who made the trip to Dallas to connect with the Jumpstart students. 

Jeff Suttle, director, client relations, led students on a facility tour and provided an overview of the purpose of Deloitte University and how it helps the organization to continuously grow and invest in its employees.

Students enjoyed lunch alongside company representatives Jim Sowar, managing partner, Kasey Beiting, campus recruiting specialist, and Zach Wall, audit senior manager. Afterward, Sowar, Beiting and Wall engaged with students in a more formalized Q&A session, providing advice for how to prepare for their future careers, identifying their ideal career path and challenges they may face along their journey.  

“In the first couple of years, I wasn't sure what my path to take, but it was really diving in and owning the fact that, if I'm going to be successful, I'm going to have to work hard, I'm going have to put my head down at times that I might not want to,” Wall told students. “But ultimately, that's the way to meeting that goal on that path.”

Deloitte representatives Kasey Beiting (left), campus recruiting specialist, Zach Wall (center), audit senior manager, and Jim Sower (right), managing partner, engaged in a Q&A session with students at Deloitte University.

As an active leader in the campus recruitment process for Deloitte, Beiting was able to offer the students an insider’s point of view on how to approach the interview process.

“I think one of the reasons that I probably succeeded in this type of environment was my ability to connect and the relationships that I made with the people I interviewed with,” said Beiting. “It wasn't just transactional. It's very relational in nature.”

With nearly 40 years of experience in the tax industry, and more than 20 years with Deloitte, Sowar hammered home this point for students.

“Is this candidate going to be able to not only maintain relationships but grow relationships and create new relationships that will lead to new business?” Sowar said of what Deloitte is looking for in its employees. “And that gets into what kind of personal skills do you have? Can you carry out a conversation? Are you asking interesting questions? How do you interact with people in a group setting and so forth? We do notice those things, and I think they really stand up.”  

The themes of leadership and relationships expressed by Wall, Beiting and Sowar resonated heavily with students as they thought about their own career trajectories.

“Deloitte's emphasis on nurturing leadership qualities and continuous improvement resonated deeply with me,” said Chacon Molina. “The immersive experience at Deloitte University, allied to a rigorous training program, helps individuals not just with job-specific skills but also with the mindset and capabilities to lead effectively.”

Students took in city views at the Reunion Tower Observation Deck.

Students’ attention then turned to a more light-hearted adventure: a tour of AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys. But, before the fun began, the group stopped to connect with Bohn Crain, account executive with the AT&T Stadium sales team.

Crain’s energy and passion for his career path radiated over the students as they took in his message and holy grail advice: network, network, network.

Crain discussed his mission to meet one new person per day and encouraged students to take on the same challenge, as you never know where that connection may lead. Students were able to put this advice into immediate use as they connected with members of the Lindner Career Services team over dinner at Kitchen & Kocktails, a Black-owned business in the heart of Dallas.

Day three: Making connections

The final day of the trip allowed students to continue bonding with one another as they explored all Dallas has to offer, including the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Reunion Tower Observation Deck. Through these experiences, students were able to form new bonds and identify new ways that they may support each other into the future, both personally and professionally.

“I thought Dallas was a great experience for the students. They were able to see what their futures could look like, the places that their degree could take them,” said Abbey Wulf, academic adviser to the Jumpstart program. “It was rewarding to see them engaging with different companies and asking them questions. I think they also bonded with one another over this experience and their time together. I personally hope that the bonds created during this trip remain. That they now have people they can lean on at UC Blue Ash and in Lindner once they transition and after graduation.”

Lasting impact and looking forward 

The idea behind the Jumpstart program is to plant seeds and watch them grow. By encouraging our students to constantly show up and just do it, no matter how hard it is — a course, a test, a project — we help to push them further so they can thrive.

Arielle Betts Program coordinator, Office of Inclusive Excellence

Top of mind for both students and employers throughout the company visits: diversity, a topic near and dear to many Jumpstart participants’ experiences.

“The most important thing that I learned from our experience in Dallas was how much businesses are in search of diversity and how important it is for them to have as much diversity as possible. Diversity can help them reach their highest peak of success,” said marketing major Cris Mejia-Sanchez.

According to Arielle Betts , the program coordinator behind Jumpstart from Lindner’s Office of Inclusive Excellence , this experience represents another cornerstone of the foundation of the program and what she hopes to achieve with it.

“The idea behind the Jumpstart program is to plant seeds and watch them grow," Betts said. "By encouraging our students to constantly show up and just do it, no matter how hard it is — a course, a test, a project — we help to push them further so they can thrive.”

Featured image at top: Jumpstart students pose with company representatives from Deloitte at the Deloitte University campus. Photos/Haley Fite.

Building a pipeline from UC Blue Ash to Lindner

The University of Cincinnati Jumpstart program helps students enrolled in the UC Blue Ash Pre-Business Administration program transition into the Bachelor in Business Administration program at the Carl H. Lindner College of Business . This program builds students’confidence as they transition to UC’s Clifton Campus through a variety of resources, including academic support, staff guidance, informative and impactful workshops, and opportunities to connect with other students and build community.

• Lindner Diversity & Inclusion
• Blue Ash College
• Lindner College of Business
• Career-Services
• Undergraduate-Programs
• Experience-based Learning
• Student Experience

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The Carl H. Lindner College of Business touted its award-winning faculty and staff from the 2022-23 academic year in a reception April 12 at Lindner Hall.

Airlines must cough up cancellation cash and can no longer hide fees under new federal rule

A federal rule announced Wednesday will require airlines to quickly give cash refunds — without lengthy arguments — to passengers whose flights have been canceled or seriously delayed, the Biden administration said.

“Passengers deserve to get their money back when an airline owes them — without headaches or haggling,” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a statement.

The rule from the Transportation Department says passengers who decline other reimbursement like travel credits are to get cash refunds.

It applies when a flight is canceled or has a “significant change,” the administration said.A “significant change” includes when departure or arrival times are three or more hours different from the scheduled times for domestic flights or six hours for international flights, and when the airport is changed or connections are added, it said.

Passengers are also to get refunds when their baggage is 12 hours late in delivery for domestic flights.

The new rule comes after promises to hold airlines accountable after major disruptions that made travel hell for passengers, including the 2022 Southwest Airlines meltdown , which resulted in almost 17,000 significantly delayed or canceled flights and a missing baggage nightmare.

The Transportation Department said that the new rule means refunds are automatic and that "airlines must automatically issue refunds without passengers having to explicitly request them or jump through hoops."

Also announced Wednesday was a rule requiring airlines to more clearly disclose so-called junk fees upfront, such as surprise baggage or other fees, the department said.

It said that rule is expected to save fliers around $500 million a year.

The surprise fees are used so tickets look cheaper than they really are, and then fliers get the unwelcome surprise of fees on checked bags, carry-on bags or reservation changes — or even discounts that are advertised but apply to only part of the ticket price, officials said.

Airlines will also have to tell fliers clearly that their seats are guaranteed and that they don't have to pay extra to ensure they have seats for flights, according to the Transportation Department.

Airlines for America, an industry trade group, said that its member airlines “offer transparency and vast choice to consumers from first search to touchdown” and that they do offer cash refunds.

The 11 largest U.S. airlines returned $10.9 billion in cash refunds last year, an increase over $7.5 billion in 2019 but slightly down from $11.2 billion in 2022, the group said.

“U.S. airlines are providing more options and better services while ticket prices, including ancillary revenues, are at historic lows,” Airlines for America said.

Left out of the federal changes announced Wednesday are those involving "family seating fees," but the Transportation Department said in a statement that "DOT is planning to propose a separate rule that bans airlines from charging these junk fees."

Travelers have complained to the Transportation Department that children weren’t seated next to accompanying adults, including in some cases young children, department officials said last year.

Fees on bags specifically have made up an increasing amount of airline revenues, the Transportation Department said Wednesday in announcing the new rules.

A Transportation Department analysis found that airline revenue from baggage fees increased 30% from 2018 to 2022, while operating revenue — which is from the flights themselves — increased by only half that amount, the department said.

Jay Blackman is an NBC News producer covering such areas as transportation, space, medical and consumer issues.

Phil Helsel is a reporter for NBC News.

More From Forbes

Air canada’s longest flight: new direct vancouver to singapore route.

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Air Canada has just launched a direct flight from Vancouver to Singapore.

Air Canada has just launched a direct flight from Vancouver to Singapore. This new direct flight not only marks Air Canada's newest international route but also represents the only non-stop service that links the country of Canada directly with Singapore. The route spans an impressive distance of 7,965 miles (12,818 kilometers) and is the longest in Air Canada's portfolio. The total flight duration can reach up to 16 hours and five minutes.

"Air Canada is thrilled to welcome customers onboard our newest route linking Canada and Singapore from our Pacific hub in Vancouver. These new Singapore flights are part of our strategic expansion at YVR, which together with an efficient and seamless in-transit connection process, further position the airport as the preferred North American gateway to Asia," said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President, Revenue and Network Planning at Air Canada. "Singapore is also an important gateway to beyond destinations. Customers have a multitude of connection options travelling to Southeast Asia, Southern India and Western Australia with our longstanding codeshare and Star Alliance partner, Singapore Airlines."

"The reality of directly connecting Singapore, Southeast Asia's most active economic gateway and financial hub with British Columbia, Canada's gateway to the Pacific can mean limitless opportunities. This new direct flight opens fresh opportunities for travel and tourism, business collaboration, and access to global markets that will directly benefit people in Singapore, Southeast Asia, and throughout our province," said the Honourable Jagrup Brar, Minister of State for Trade, Government of British Columbia.

The Vancouver-Singapore route will use Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and passengers will be able to ... [+] choose from three cabins

"I am pleased Air Canada has chosen YVR to host the only non-stop flight between Canada and Singapore," said YVR President and CEO, Tamara Vrooman. "This new route will generate $18 million in economic output and support jobs across the sector. We welcome this new service which will grow tourism, support increased trade, and importantly, connect families and friends across the Pacific region. The launch of service to Singapore speaks to the continued investment Air Canada is making in Vancouver, which in turn benefits our community and the regional economy."

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Rachel Loh, Senior Vice President, Singapore Tourism Board Americas shared, "We couldn't be more excited for the official launch of Air Canada's new direct route from Vancouver, increasing connectivity to Singapore for both Canadian and American visitors. We are delighted to welcome travellers to Singapore to explore new attractions such as the Bird Paradise or dine at our famous hawker centers and Michelin-starred restaurants. From cultural immersion to rejuvenating wellness offerings, Singapore offers a multitude of experiences to suit every passion. Be it world-class concerts or the adrenaline rush of the F1 Grand Prix in September, the city promises endless excitement. We eagerly await your arrival!"

The Vancouver-Singapore route will use Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and passengers will be able to choose from three cabins: Air Canada Signature Class which comes with lie-flat comfortable pods, Premium Economy with extra legroom and additional services, and Economy. All cabins will offer inflight entertainment with more than 1,400 hours of movies, nearly 2000 hours of TV shows and more. Passengers will have the option to buy wi-fi. Air Canada Aeroplan members can enjoy free texting.

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BARK Air, the first airline catering specifically to dogs, is booking flights now

(Gray News) – Welcome to BARK Air, the world’s first air travel experience designed specifically for dogs.

In a news release from April, BARK Air said it is focused on putting dogs’ travel needs first and their human companions’ needs second, “enabling them to travel together comfortably and conveniently.”

BARK Air comes from the company BARK, known for its monthly subscription BARK Boxes that send toys and treats.

BARK is partnering with a jet charter company to make BARK Air a reality.

“Too often, dogs are denied travel, confined to a duffle bag, or endure the stress of flying in cargo,” the news release said. “Recognizing these challenges, and the increasing demand for an accessible solution, BARK Air presents a more fun – and humane – option for dogs traveling with their two-legged human companions.”

The goal of BARK Air is to treat dogs like first-class passengers.

Following booking, flyers will be contacted by a concierge to collect information about their dog to create a custom travel plan to ensure the best possible flight experience.

When checking in at the airport, flyers will only have to arrive 45 to 60 minutes before their flight for a simple check-in process – no crates, TSA checkpoints, or screening. The dogs will meet other furry friends on the flight.

Prior to boarding, dogs will receive flight prep with calming pheromones, music, and colors that pups prefer. All pet passengers will have access to various aids such as calming treats, noise-canceling earmuffs, and calming jackets to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable flight.

During the flight, dogs will be served treats, beverages, and other surprises “with the intent of pampering furry passengers and their humans.”

Flights are available to book now, with the first flight taking off from New York on May 23.

Initial flight routes will serve the New York City metro area via Westchester County Airport with flights to the Los Angeles area via Van Nuys and London, England via Stansted Airport.

The company hopes to expand further.

For more information about BARK Air and booking, visit DogsFlyFirst.com and follow their Instagram @barkair .

Copyright 2024 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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7 of the biggest mistakes tourists make visiting national parks, according to empty-nesters who have been to all 63 of them

• Matt and Karen Smith have been to 63 US national parks — some multiple times. 
• They set out with a goal to visit every park in 2010 after their youngest child went to college.
• Here are the biggest mistakes the Smiths have seen tourists make at national parks over the years.

Matt and Karen Smith know a thing or two about getting the most out of a national park visit.

After their youngest child went to college, the couple, who met at a university in Kansas and are now based in Seattle, quit their jobs in 2010 when they realized they could finally travel freely.

"When we moved to Seattle, we met another couple named Bob and Sue," Karen, 63, said. "They would take their family to the national parks. That was all new to us. We weren't national park people, so they inspired us to start."

Matt, 63, said they were "fortunate" to have enough savings to spend over a year visiting every major US national park . Throughout their travels, they wrote emails to Bob and Sue that they eventually compiled into a book titled "Dear Bob and Sue."

Nowadays, Matt and Karen regularly post about their national park experiences on Instagram, where they have over 246,000 followers, and discuss them in their podcast.

The Smiths recently spoke with Business Insider to share the biggest mistakes they've made themselves or seen people make when visiting national parks — and how to avoid them.

Just because it is summer, it doesn't mean conditions in mountainous national parks are ideal.

According to Matt, one of the biggest mistakes he sees people make when planning their national parks visits is not putting enough thought into how the weather at their destination may differ from where they are.

"It's not the season where you are. It's the season where you're going," he said. In the Midwest, for example, he said it gets decently warm by early June, so many people assume that means conditions are perfect up in mountainous national parks like Glacier National Park .

"Some of the mountains are still under snow," he said, adding that visitors have to be "precise" in their planning about which mountain they want to visit and find out whether it is safe to do so.

Many people make the mistake of not getting permits early.

Matt and Karen say they've noticed an increase in the popularity of tourism in the national parks since they set out on their journey to visit all of them in 2010.

They attribute it to the "rise of social media" and how easy it is to share eye-catching photographs nowadays. "People see how incredible these places are and it makes them say, 'I want to go there,'" Karen said.

With the surge in popularity, the couple says people underestimate how far in advance they should start obtaining necessary documents for their visit.

"You have to plan way ahead because some of the permits that you have to get, you almost have to get a year ahead of time," Matt said.

Not checking the national park's website can lead to disappointment or unnecessary risks.

Karen and Matt always advise keeping an eye on the national park's website when planning a visit.

"We literally say check it three months before you go, check it a week before you go, check it the day before," Matt said.

While it wasn't at a national park, the couple said they had a "situation" a few years back when hiking in the wilderness and had a close call with a "life-endangering flash flood" because they hadn't checked the park's website.

"We weren't looking at the website, and we almost hiked into it," Matt said. While that is an extreme scenario, the couple says it's also important to get ahead of any situations.

Thinking the national parks are like Disneyland is common — and dangerous.

Theme parks and national parks may share a word but they couldn't be more different, according to the Smiths.

"People think the national parks are Disneyland and I think people also have a false sense of security, of safety, because nothing bad happens at Disneyland," Karen said.

Wildlife encounters and hiking accidents can happen. The Smiths say that it's important to realize the real hazards.

"This is not Disney, and a lot of bad things happen to people in the parks because they are unaware of the dangers," Karen added.

Hiking essentials can be lifesavers and can help keep the national parks clean.

One of the many reasons that the Smiths love visiting the national parks is because they are avid hikers. Being hikers, they are well-versed in the "10 essentials" that the NPS advises any visitor to take with them when exploring a national park, including navigation tools, sun protection, and first-aid supplies.

Still, they've seen many tourists make the mistake of venturing into parks without the essentials in tow. In Death Valley , for example, Karen said they can't count "how many times" they've encountered other visitors without water or sun protection.

"I don't think people understand how dangerous that is," Matt added.

On top of the "10 essentials," Matt and Karen also say people often make the mistake of not taking WAG bags (a bag used to transport human waste of of a wilderness area) and instead resort to going outdoors.

"A lot of people feel like, 'Well it's the wilderness, I'm just going to go out of sight,'" Matt said. "But here's the problem: in some places that are so popular, the amount of human waste really builds up. That's a bad thing."

Just because there are bears, it doesn't necessarily mean you need bear spray.

The NPS recommends that tourists carry bear spray , but only in certain parks, which Karen and Matt say not everyone realizes.

"There's actually a really easy way to remember it. If the park has grizzly bears, you need bear spray," Karen said. "The parks that have the black bears, you don't need bear spray."

If bear spray is recommended, ensuring it is easily accessible is crucial. "If you come upon a bear and it's zipped inside your backpack, you're never gonna have time to take your backpack off and unzip it," Karen said.

"A lot of times, we literally carry it in our hands," Matt added.

Doing too much in a national park can lead to "activity fatigue" and a bad experience.

The US is home to expansive national parks like Wrangell–St. Elias in Alaska, which is 13.2 million acres, and Yellowstone, which is over 2 million acres.

It is impossible to see everything worth seeing in one visit. But that doesn't stop people from trying, which the Smiths say isn't worth it.

"People get excited to go to the national parks, and they overplan," Matt said. "They feel like, 'OK, it's the only time I'm ever gonna go to Yellowstone, we got to get it all in. But, you know, you have the activity fatigue and it can turn into a bad experience."

Ultimately, Karen said people feel a lot of "pressure" to do the most because of all the money and vacation days it often requires to visit national parks. But the best thing to do is to take a step back, she said.

"It's probably better to do a few things really well than try to get everything done on your list," Matt added.

• Main content

Delta recovers emergency slide that separated from Boeing plane

An emergency slide that fell from a Delta flight just a few minutes after takeoff has been recovered from the Atlantic Ocean in New York City.

The New York City Department of Parks and Recreation said that the airline recovered the slide on Sunday in a jetty near Beach 131st Street in Queens, about 10 miles from where the flight took off Friday at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

"As nothing is more important than the safety of our customers and people, Delta flight crews enacted their extensive training and followed procedures to return to JFK," Delta said in a statement about the diverted plane issued Friday.

The company said that the plane landed safely and "it was observed that the emergency slide had separated from the aircraft," after returning to a gate.

The company confirmed the recovery of the slide Monday and referred to its earlier statement.

Flight returned due to alert crew

Flight 520 to Los Angeles returned to JFK after the flight crew saw an indicator light related to the right overwing exit and heard a "non-routine" sound near the right wing.

The crew also reported a vibration , according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

The flight was operated by a 33-year-old Boeing 767 , according to data from  Airfleets.net , and passengers were accommodated on a different flight later in the morning. There were 183 people aboard the flight.

The FAA said it is investigating the incident and Delta said it would cooperate with that investigation.

Contributing: Sara Al-Arshani, Eve Chen, Kathleen Wong