Fun Things To Do In Paris – An Adventurer’S Guide To Urban Trails &

ByEric James Updated on

You hear “Paris” and your mind probably goes to museums, crowded landmarks, and charming cafes. As someone who feels most at home on a trail or by a campfire, the thought of navigating a bustling metropolis can feel like a world away from true adventure.

I’m here to promise you that Paris is more than just pavement and paintings. The city is brimming with incredible green spaces, active challenges, and unique ways to explore that will satisfy your adventurer’s spirit. Think of it not as a city break, but as an urban expedition.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to find the fun things to do in paris that connect you with nature, even in the heart of the city. We’ll cover the best urban trails, a world-class hiking and bouldering day trip, the right gear for your expedition, and sustainable travel tips to explore responsibly.

Your Urban Expedition: Essential Gear for Navigating Paris

Before you set out, you need to pack smart. While you won’t need a full backpacking setup, treating your days in Paris like a series of day hikes will keep you comfortable, prepared, and ready for anything. This is one of the most important fun things to do in paris tips for any outdoor lover.

The Perfect Daypack

Forget the tote bag. A comfortable, lightweight daypack is your most crucial piece of gear. It allows you to carry water, snacks, a rain layer, and any souvenirs you pick up, all while keeping your hands free.

Look for a pack between 15-25 liters. Something like the Osprey Daylite Plus or the REI Co-op Flash 22 is perfect. They’re durable, have comfortable straps, and include a sleeve for a water bladder or bottle.

Footwear for the Urban Trail

You’re going to walk. A lot. While heavy hiking boots are overkill, your beat-up sneakers might not cut it. The best choice is a comfortable pair of trail runners or approach shoes.

Brands like Altra Lone Peak or Hoka Speedgoat offer incredible cushioning for long days on hard surfaces but have the grip and support for uneven park trails or cobblestone streets. Always break in your shoes before your trip.

Essential Layers and Hydration

Parisian weather can be unpredictable. A packable, waterproof shell jacket is non-negotiable. The Patagonia Houdini or Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody are excellent options that weigh next to nothing.

Finally, stay hydrated. Ditch single-use plastic and bring a reusable water bottle. A Hydro Flask or Nalgene bottle is perfect. You can refill it at public fountains (fontaines Wallace) scattered throughout the city.

Beyond the Pavement: Finding Paris’s Best Green Spaces & Urban Trails

The real secret to enjoying Paris as an outdoor enthusiast is knowing where to find its lungs—the sprawling parks and hidden greenways. These aren’t just patches of grass; they are destinations in their own right, offering a much-needed escape from the urban hustle.

The “Right Bank” Wilderness: Bois de Vincennes

To the east, Bois de Vincennes is a massive woodland park twice the size of New York’s Central Park. It’s a fantastic place to feel like you’ve left the city entirely. You can spend a full day here.

Inside, you’ll find four lakes, miles of walking and cycling paths, a botanical garden, and even a medieval fortress. Rent a rowboat on Lac Daumesnil or simply find a quiet trail and enjoy the forest canopy. It’s one of the best eco-friendly fun things to do in paris.

The “Left Bank” Escape: Bois de Boulogne

On the western edge of Paris, Bois de Boulogne offers a similar wild escape. It feels a bit more rugged and is crisscrossed by trails perfect for a long walk or run. It’s a great place to see how Parisians connect with nature on the weekends.

The Elevated Trail: Promenade Plantée (Coulée Verte)

This is a must-do. The Promenade Plantée is a 4.7 km (2.9 mi) elevated park built on an abandoned railway line. It inspired New York’s High Line and offers a unique perspective on the city as you walk among trees and gardens three stories above the streets.

Starting near the Opéra Bastille, this walk is a perfect example of how to fun things to do in paris in a way that combines nature with urban architecture. It’s a peaceful journey that feels like a secret known only to locals.

The Ultimate Adventure: A Day Trip to the Forest of Fontainebleau

If you need a dose of true wilderness, this is it. Just a 40-minute train ride from Gare de Lyon station, the Forêt de Fontainebleau is a world-renowned destination for bouldering and hiking. This is more than just a walk in the park; it’s a legitimate outdoor adventure.

Hiking for All Levels

The forest is massive, with over 300 km of marked trails. The “Sentiers Denecourt,” a series of well-marked loop trails, are a great place to start. They wind through stunning rock formations, sandy gorges, and ancient oak and beech forests.

Grab a map from the tourist office in the town of Fontainebleau. The trails are color-coded by difficulty, making it easy to choose your own adventure. This is a perfect example of the benefits of fun things to do in paris—you get world-class culture and world-class nature in one trip.

World-Class Bouldering

Even if you’re not a climber, it’s incredible to see. Fontainebleau is considered the birthplace of bouldering. The sandstone boulders (blocs) are scattered throughout the forest, with circuits marked by colored arrows on the rocks.

If you want to try it, you can rent a crash pad and shoes in the town of Fontainebleau. It’s a great way to challenge yourself physically and connect with a global community of climbers.

Sustainable Exploration: An Eco-Friendly Fun Things to Do in Paris Guide

As outdoor lovers, we have a responsibility to travel sustainably. Luckily, Paris makes it easy. Embracing sustainable fun things to do in paris not only reduces your impact but often leads to more authentic and enjoyable experiences.

  • Walk Everywhere: The best way to see Paris is on foot. You’ll discover hidden courtyards, quiet streets, and local shops you’d miss on the metro.
  • Use the Vélib’ Bike System: Paris has a fantastic public bike-share program. For a small fee, you can grab a bike from hundreds of stations and explore the city’s growing network of bike lanes.
  • Master the Métro: For longer distances, the Paris Métro is efficient and extensive. Buy a carnet (a pack of 10 tickets) or a Navigo Découverte pass for unlimited travel.
  • Choose Local and Seasonal: When you eat, opt for restaurants that source their ingredients locally. Visiting an open-air market is the best way to do this.

Urban Foraging: How to Fuel Your Adventure at Parisian Markets

One of the greatest joys in Paris is the food, and for an adventurer, the best way to experience it is by assembling your own trail-ready meal from an open-air market. This is a core part of any good fun things to do in paris guide.

Your Market Mission

Skip the expensive restaurant and head to a neighborhood market like Marché Bastille or Marché d’Aligre. Your mission is to gather supplies for the ultimate picnic. Here’s your checklist:

  1. A Fresh Baguette: The foundation of any Parisian meal.
  2. Cheese (Fromage): Ask the fromager for a recommendation. A hard Comté or a creamy Saint-Nectaire are great, portable choices.
  3. Cured Meat (Charcuterie): Pick up some saucisson sec (dry-cured sausage) that you can slice as you go.
  4. Fresh Fruit: Whatever is in season—cherries, apricots, or figs.

Once you have your supplies, head to a park like the Jardin du Luxembourg or the banks of the Seine. This simple, self-sufficient meal is often more memorable than any fancy dinner.

Gaining Elevation: The Best Views in Paris (and How to Earn Them)

Forget the crowded elevators. You can get your heart rate up and earn your panoramic views by taking the stairs. This approach helps you avoid some of the common problems with fun things to do in paris, like long lines and dense crowds.

The Eiffel Tower Challenge

Did you know you can take the stairs to the second level of the Eiffel Tower? It’s cheaper, the line is almost always shorter, and climbing the 674 steps is a great workout. You feel a real sense of accomplishment when you reach the top, having seen the intricate ironwork up close.

The Montmartre Climb

The hill of Montmartre is the highest natural point in Paris. To reach the Sacré-Cœur Basilica at its summit, you can climb the nearly 300 steps through the gardens. The reward is one of the most iconic and breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fun Things to Do in Paris for Adventurers

Is Paris a good destination for someone who loves the outdoors?

Absolutely! While it’s a major city, its vast parks like Bois de Vincennes, proximity to the Forest of Fontainebleau, and commitment to green spaces like the Promenade Plantée make it surprisingly friendly for outdoor enthusiasts. You just have to know where to look.

What is the best time of year to visit Paris for outdoor activities?

Spring (April-June) and fall (September-October) are ideal. The weather is mild, perfect for walking, cycling, and hiking. The summer can be hot and crowded, while the winter is often cold and damp, though it has its own quiet charm.

Do I need to speak French to go hiking near Paris?

It’s not essential, but it is highly recommended to learn a few basic phrases (hello, goodbye, thank you, excuse me). For hiking in places like Fontainebleau, trail signage is excellent and often uses universal symbols. Having a trail map and a GPS app like AllTrails on your phone is a smart backup.

Are the parks in Paris safe?

Yes, during the day, the major parks are very safe and filled with locals and tourists alike. Like in any large city, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark. Stick to well-lit main paths if you are in a park in the evening.

Paris offers a different kind of adventure—one that challenges you to find the wild in the urban. By trading crowded museums for open parks and elevator lines for stair climbs, you can craft a trip that is both culturally rich and deeply satisfying for your explorer’s soul.

Pack your daypack, lace up your shoes, and get ready to discover a side of the City of Light you never knew existed. Stay curious and explore confidently!

Eric James
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