Best New Things To Do In Paris – An Outdoor Adventurer’S Urban Field
Thinking about Paris probably brings images of crowded museums, long lines for the Eiffel Tower, and sipping espresso at a packed cafe. For those of us who feel most at home on a quiet trail or under a canopy of trees, that classic tourist circuit can feel a little… confining.
I promise you there’s a different way to experience the City of Light—one that speaks to your adventurous spirit. This isn’t your typical travel blog; this is a field guide for exploring Paris with the mindset of a hiker, a prepper, and a self-reliant explorer.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to find the best new things to do in paris by trading museum halls for green corridors, packed restaurants for vibrant outdoor markets, and tourist traps for authentic, active adventures. Get ready to see Paris through a new lens.
Why Explore Paris Like an Outdoor Enthusiast?
Approaching a world-class city with an outdoor mindset isn’t just a novelty; it’s a smarter, more rewarding way to travel. The benefits of best new things to do in paris this way are immediate and impactful, turning a standard city break into a genuine expedition.
First, you connect with the city on a deeper level. Walking the Coulée Verte (a raised park on an abandoned railway) or exploring the hilly paths of Parc des Buttes-Chaumont lets you see the city’s natural pulse, away from the main attractions.
You also sidestep the biggest travel headaches. By focusing on parks, outdoor markets, and walking routes, you naturally avoid the worst of the crowds and the overpriced tourist traps that come with them. This is one of the most practical best new things to do in paris tips we can offer.
Finally, it’s a more sustainable best new things to do in paris approach. You’ll rely on your own two feet, public transport, and bike shares. You’ll support local food vendors. This method is not only lighter on your wallet but also lighter on the planet.
Your Urban Expedition Gear List: Packing for Paris the OutwardLab Way
Just like any good expedition, success starts with the right gear. You don’t need a 70-liter pack, but a few key items will make your urban exploration safer, more comfortable, and more efficient. Think of this as your day-hike kit, adapted for cobblestone and concrete.
Footwear: The Foundation of Your Trip
You will walk. A lot. Forget flimsy fashion shoes; you need reliable, broken-in footwear that can handle 10+ miles of pavement, parks, and stairs a day. Your trail runners or light hikers are perfect.
- Recommended Gear: Look for something with excellent cushioning and support, like the HOKA Clifton for pure pavement-pounding or the Merrell Moab 3 for a sturdier, all-around option that can handle park trails and cobblestones with ease.
The Perfect Daypack
A small, comfortable daypack is non-negotiable for carrying your daily essentials. It keeps your hands free and your gear organized. Aim for a pack between 15 and 25 liters—big enough for the basics, but small enough to navigate a crowded Métro car.
- Recommended Gear: The Osprey Daylite Plus is a classic for a reason: it’s lightweight, durable, and has just enough organization. The Deuter Speed Lite series is another excellent, minimalist choice.
Hydration and Navigation Essentials
Stay hydrated without creating plastic waste. Paris has numerous public drinking fountains (called ‘Fontaines Wallace’) where you can refill. For navigation, don’t rely solely on your phone’s data plan. Download offline maps before you go.
- What to Pack:
- A 1-liter reusable water bottle like a Nalgene or an insulated Hydro Flask.
- A portable battery pack (power bank) to keep your phone charged.
- Offline maps downloaded on Google Maps or using an app like Maps.me.
The Best New Things to Do in Paris: An Adventurer’s Itinerary
Ready to hit the trail? This section is your field map. This is how to best new things to do in paris by applying your outdoor skills to an urban landscape. Forget the Louvre for a day and try these experiences instead.
Urban Hiking: Exploring Paris’s Green Corridors
Paris is threaded with incredible greenways that feel miles away from the city bustle. These are perfect for a long walk or run, offering a unique perspective on the city’s architecture and local life.
- La Coulée Verte René-Dumont: This is the original elevated park that inspired New York’s High Line. It’s a 4.7 km (2.9 mi) green path built on an abandoned viaduct, taking you from near the Bastille out to the Bois de Vincennes.
- The Banks of the Canal Saint-Martin: Stroll along the tree-lined canal, watching the barges navigate the locks and observing Parisians enjoying their local waterway. It’s a fantastic, flat walk with plenty of places to stop for a break.
Summiting the City: Beyond the Eiffel Tower
Get your elevation gain and rewarding views without the queues. Paris has several natural high points that offer stunning panoramas and a welcome dose of nature.
- Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: This is an adventurer’s dream in the middle of the city. It features a dramatic cliff, a grotto with a waterfall, a suspension bridge, and the Temple de la Sibylle perched atop a rocky island, offering one of the best views of Paris.
- The Steps of Montmartre: The walk up to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica is a classic for a reason. Weave through the charming backstreets and climb the many staircases for a great workout and an iconic view over the city.
Foraging at the Marché: A Homesteader’s Approach to Parisian Food
Skip the expensive restaurants and eat like a local. Parisian outdoor markets are a feast for the senses and the perfect place to assemble an incredible picnic. This is a core part of any good best new things to do in paris guide for the self-sufficient traveler.
- Marché d’Aligre: A bustling, authentic market where you can find everything from fresh produce and cheese to bread and roasted chicken. Grab your supplies and head to a nearby park.
- Marché des Enfants Rouges: The oldest covered market in Paris, it’s a fantastic spot to grab high-quality street food from around the world. It’s less about raw ingredients and more about a fantastic, affordable prepared meal.
Escaping the City: Day Trips for the Trail-Hungry Traveler
When you truly need to trade the city skyline for a tree canopy, Paris is surprisingly well-connected to incredible natural spaces. A short train ride can transport you to a world of forests, trails, and royal gardens.
The Forests of Fontainebleau
Just a 40-minute train ride from Gare de Lyon, the Forêt de Fontainebleau is a world-renowned destination for bouldering and hiking. Its sandy terrain, dramatic rock formations, and well-marked trails make it the perfect antidote to city life. You can spend a full day exploring its vast network of paths.
The Gardens of Versailles
While the Palace gets all the attention, the real treasure for an outdoor lover is the massive Gardens of Versailles. You can easily spend an entire day walking or biking its 800 hectares of manicured lawns, forests, and canals. Rent a boat on the Grand Canal or simply find a quiet corner to enjoy your packed lunch.
Parc Naturel Régional de la Haute Vallée de Chevreuse
A bit further afield but accessible via the RER B train line, this regional park offers a more rustic, pastoral French countryside experience. Explore charming villages, ancient castle ruins, and rolling hills on a network of public footpaths. It’s a true escape into rural France.
A Guide to Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Travel in Paris
Part of the outdoor ethos is minimizing our impact. This is especially important in a dense urban environment. Practicing eco-friendly best new things to do in paris is easy and makes for a better trip.
Navigating the Métro and RER System
The Paris public transport system is one of the best in the world. It’s the most efficient, affordable, and sustainable way to cover longer distances. Buy a Navigo pass or a carnet of tickets and learn the system—it’s your key to unlocking the entire city and its surroundings.
Embracing the “Vélib'” Bike-Share System
For shorter distances, the Vélib’ bike-share is fantastic. With docking stations all over the city, you can grab a bike to explore a neighborhood or ride along the Seine. It’s a great way to stay active and see the city at a human pace.
An Urban “Leave No Trace” Care Guide
The “Leave No Trace” principles we follow on the trail apply to the city, too. Think of this as your best new things to do in paris care guide for the city itself.
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: Always use public bins for your trash. If a bin is full, carry your waste until you find an empty one.
- Respect the “Wildlife”: In this case, the locals. Be mindful of noise levels, respect private property, and be a courteous guest in their home.
- Stay on the “Trail”: Stick to sidewalks and designated paths in parks to protect green spaces.
Common Problems to Avoid on Your Parisian Adventure
Even with the best plan, urban environments present unique challenges. Here are some common problems with best new things to do in paris and how to handle them with a survivor’s mindset.
Sidestepping Tourist Traps
The biggest problem is getting sucked into overpriced, low-quality experiences. The rule of thumb is simple: if a restaurant has a menu in five languages prominently displayed outside, walk away. Use your market-foraging skills to eat better for less.
Staying Safe and Aware in a Big City
Situational awareness is as crucial here as it is on a remote trail. Keep your valuables secure, especially in crowded areas like the Métro. A daypack worn on your front in dense crowds is a smart move. Be wary of common scams, like the “gold ring” trick or aggressive petition-signers.
Managing Crowds and Finding Solitude
Crowds can be draining. The key is timing. Visit popular areas early in the morning or later in the evening. And when you need a break, use your knowledge of the city’s parks and greenways to find a quiet bench and recharge.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exploring Paris Outdoors
Is Paris a walkable city for someone used to hiking?
Absolutely. Paris is one of the most walkable major cities in the world. Its core is relatively compact, and the “arrondissements” (districts) flow into one another. A fit person can easily cover 15-20 km (9-12 miles) in a day just by exploring different neighborhoods on foot.
What’s the best time of year for an outdoor-focused Paris trip?
Spring (April-June) and fall (September-October) are ideal. The weather is mild, the parks are beautiful, and the summer crowds have either not yet arrived or have started to thin. These seasons offer the best conditions for walking, biking, and enjoying the city’s green spaces.
Can I find good camping spots near Paris?
Yes, but you’ll need to head outside the city center. There is a large campground in the Bois de Boulogne called “Camping de Paris.” For more rustic options, you can find campsites near the forests of Fontainebleau or in the Chevreuse Valley, accessible by train. It’s a great way to combine a city visit with a more traditional outdoor experience.
Seeing Paris through the eyes of an adventurer unlocks a completely different city—one that’s greener, more active, and more authentic. By swapping the crowded queues for open trails and urban hikes, you build a connection to the place that goes far beyond the typical postcard pictures.
So pack your most comfortable shoes, grab your daypack, and get ready to explore. The greatest adventures are often found by taking the path less traveled, even when that path is a cobblestone street in the heart of Paris.
Explore confidently, and stay curious!
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