3 Things To Do In Paris: An Outdoor Enthusiast’S Guide To Urban

ByEric James Updated on

Planning a trip to Paris, but the thought of endless museum lines and crowded tourist traps feels a little… confining? It’s a common feeling for those of us who prefer the quiet of an open trail to the noise of a bustling avenue.

You might think a city known for art and architecture has little to offer a camper, hiker, or homesteader. But what if you could explore the City of Light with the same mindset and skills you use in the backcountry?

I promise to show you a different side of Paris—one where you can apply your outdoor skills, connect with nature, and travel with the spirit of self-reliance you bring to every adventure. This guide will show you exactly how to 3 things to do in paris that align with an adventurer’s heart, turning a city trip into a genuine exploration.

Why Visit Paris with an Adventurer’s Mindset?

Swapping your hiking boots for city shoes doesn’t mean leaving your outdoor spirit behind. Approaching a place like Paris as an explorer rather than a tourist unlocks a deeper, more rewarding experience. It’s about seeing the city as a unique environment with its own terrain, resources, and challenges.

The benefits of 3 things to do in paris this way are huge. You’ll build urban navigation skills, learn to be more self-sufficient on the road, and find restorative green spaces that most visitors completely miss. It’s a more sustainable and personal way to travel.

This approach transforms travel from a passive activity into an active one. Instead of just consuming sights, you’re engaging with the city, solving small problems, and relying on your own resourcefulness—just like on the trail. This is the core of our sustainable 3 things to do in paris philosophy.

Essential Gear for the Urban Wilderness

Just as you wouldn’t hit a trail without the right kit, a successful urban adventure requires a few key pieces of gear. This isn’t about packing a survival tin, but about choosing smart, versatile items that enhance your comfort, safety, and self-reliance.

Here’s what I recommend for your Parisian daypack:

  • A Solid Daypack: A 15-25 liter pack like the Osprey Daylite Plus or REI Co-op Flash 22 is perfect. It’s large enough for essentials but small enough that you won’t feel like you’re backpacking through the Louvre.
  • Comfortable, Broken-In Footwear: This is non-negotiable. Leave the brand-new hiking boots at home. Opt for trail runners or comfortable walking shoes you’ve already put miles on. Your feet will thank you after a 15-mile day on cobblestones.
  • Reusable Water Bottle: Paris has numerous public drinking fountains (called ‘Fontaines Wallace’). Carry a Nalgene or Hydro Flask to stay hydrated without buying single-use plastic bottles. This is a key part of any eco-friendly 3 things to do in paris plan.
  • Packable Rain Jacket: A lightweight, waterproof shell like the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L or Arc’teryx Beta Jacket is a lifesaver. Parisian weather can change in an instant, and a sudden downpour can ruin a day if you’re not prepared.
  • A Basic First-Aid Kit: Pack a small kit with essentials for blisters (moleskin!), minor cuts, and headaches. Being able to handle small issues yourself is a core tenet of self-reliance.
  • Portable Power Bank: While we encourage map skills, your phone is still a valuable tool for navigation and emergencies. A reliable power bank ensures you’re never caught without a charge.

Your Guide to the Top 3 Things to Do in Paris for Outdoor Lovers

Forget the standard itinerary. This 3 things to do in paris guide is built for those who want to actively explore. We’ve broken down three core activities that will challenge your skills, connect you to your surroundings, and give you an unforgettable Parisian experience.

Activity #1: Master Urban Navigation on a “Grand Randonnée” (Great Trek)

In France, the “Grandes Randonnées” (GR) are a network of long-distance footpaths. We’re going to apply that concept to the city itself. The goal is to navigate a significant distance on foot, relying on observation and map skills as much as your phone.

The Route: A fantastic urban trek is to follow the Coulée Verte René-Dumont. It’s a 4.7 km (about 3 miles) elevated park built on an obsolete railway line that takes you from near the Bastille out toward the Bois de Vincennes. It offers a unique, green perspective on the city.

The Challenge: Before you go, study a physical map of the area. Identify your start and end points and key landmarks. While walking, put your phone away for 15-minute intervals. Practice situational awareness: notice street names, the direction of the sun, and the flow of the city. This trains the navigational part of your brain that GPS has made lazy.

Pro Tip: Extend your trek by continuing into the Bois de Vincennes, one of Paris’s massive “green lungs.” You can easily spend a whole day exploring its trails, lakes, and botanical gardens, making for a 10+ mile day of rewarding exploration.

Activity #2: Forage the Markets for a Self-Sufficient Feast

One of the best ways to connect with a place is through its food, and in Paris, that means the incredible open-air markets (marchés). This activity is about more than just buying food; it’s about practicing self-sufficiency, reducing waste, and creating your own perfect meal.

The Mission: Head to a market like Marché Bastille (Thursdays and Sundays) or the historic Marché des Enfants Rouges. Your task is to assemble a picnic entirely from market vendors. This is one of the best 3 things to do in paris tips for an authentic experience.

The Skills: This is where your homesteader instincts kick in.

  1. Plan your meal: Decide on a simple menu. A classic choice is a fresh baguette, a couple of cheeses (fromage), some cured sausage (saucisson), and seasonal fruit.
  2. Pack for success: Bring your own reusable bags, a small cloth for wrapping cheese (to avoid plastic), and your own cutlery. This is a core tenet of sustainable 3 things to do in paris.
  3. Engage and observe: Don’t be afraid to use a little French (“Bonjour,” “Merci”). Watch where the locals are lining up—it’s usually for a reason. Choose produce that is in season and looks vibrant.

Once you have your provisions, head to a park like the Place des Vosges or the banks of the Seine for a well-earned, self-sourced feast. This is a far more memorable (and affordable) meal than you’ll find in most restaurants.

Activity #3: Escape to Paris’s Green Lungs & Practice Leave No Trace

Even the most seasoned adventurer can get overwhelmed by the concrete and crowds of a major city. It’s crucial to know where to find your patch of green. Paris is bookended by two enormous woodland parks: the Bois de Boulogne to the west and the Bois de Vincennes to the east.

The Escape: Choose one of the “Bois” (woods) for a half-day or full-day escape. The Bois de Vincennes, for example, is home to four lakes, an arboretum, and miles of trails that feel surprisingly wild. It’s the perfect place to decompress and reconnect with a more natural rhythm.

The Best Practices: These parks are heavily used, making it the perfect place to practice urban Leave No Trace principles.

  • Plan Ahead and Prepare: Check the park map online. Know which metro stop is closest and have a general route in mind. Pack enough water and snacks.
  • Travel on Durable Surfaces: Stick to the established trails to prevent erosion and protect the park’s vegetation.
  • Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack it in, pack it out. Even if you see trash cans, challenge yourself to leave the park with everything you brought in, including fruit peels.
  • Be Considerate of Other Visitors: These are shared spaces. Keep noise levels down and be mindful of others seeking their own quiet escape.

This practice is more than just a walk in the park; it’s a mindful act of stewardship and a vital part of any eco-friendly 3 things to do in paris experience.

Common Problems and How to Solve Them

Even with a solid plan, an urban environment presents unique challenges. Here are some common problems with 3 things to do in paris and how an outdoor mindset can help you solve them.

  • The Problem: Overwhelm from Crowds.

    The Solution: Think like a hiker seeking solitude. Start your days early to beat the crowds at popular spots. When you feel overwhelmed, pull out your map and divert to a side street or find the nearest small park (a “square”) to take a break and recalibrate.

  • The Problem: Navigating Public Transport.

    The Solution: Treat the Métro map like a topographical map. Study it before your trip to understand the main lines and transfer points. Buy a multi-day pass (Navigo Découverte) for simplicity and cost-savings, just as you’d get a park pass for a national park.

  • The Problem: Personal Safety and Security.

    The Solution: Practice the same situational awareness you use on the trail. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on the Métro. Keep valuables in a secure front pocket or a cross-body bag, not in the back pocket of your pack. Trust your gut—if a situation feels off, leave.

Frequently Asked Questions About Exploring Paris Outdoors

Is it safe to walk around Paris’s large parks alone?

During daylight hours, the main areas and trails of the Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes are generally safe, and you will see many locals jogging, walking, and relaxing. As with any large urban park, it’s wise to stick to more populated areas, stay aware of your surroundings, and avoid isolated sections, especially after dark. Trust your instincts just as you would on a remote trail.

Can I camp near Paris?

Yes, you can! There is a large campground in the Bois de Boulogne called “Camping de Paris.” It offers spots for tents, RVs, and campervans, as well as pre-set cabins. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who want to blend a city trip with a more rustic, outdoor accommodation style. A shuttle bus connects the campground to a nearby Métro station for easy access to the city center.

What is the best way to carry water and stay hydrated?

The best practice is to carry a reusable water bottle of at least 1 liter. Paris has over 1,200 public drinking fountains, including the iconic green Wallace Fountains, which provide safe, clean drinking water. Use an app like “Eau de Paris” to locate them. This is the most sustainable and cost-effective way to stay hydrated while you’re out exploring.

Paris may be a world-famous metropolis, but it doesn’t have to be a departure from the adventurous lifestyle you love. By applying your outdoor skills and mindset, you can uncover a side of the city that is active, self-reliant, and deeply connected to the world around you.

So pack your daypack, lace up your most comfortable shoes, and get ready to explore. Bring the spirit of the wild with you, wherever you go.

Eric James
Latest posts by Eric James (see all)

Similar Posts