Unusual visits in Paris: 10 things to do in November

This November in Paris invites you to get off the beaten track. From now on, unusual tours will enable you to see the capital from a new angle. So everyone can take a cultural break between two events.

Ideas for unusual visits to Paris in November

Based on a local selection, 10 ideas stand out for their originality. These include weekend and evening slots, with qualified guides. What’s more, most limit groups to 15 or 20 people. These unusual tours often require prior registration.

These include the Musée des Égouts, the covered passages, a stroll through Père-Lachaise, and street art in the 13th arrondissement. However, content varies according to the dates announced this month. Also, some activities are suitable for accompanied children. These unusual tours feature sourced stories and contextualization.

Behind the scenes, workshops and hidden treasures

Behind the scenes atworkshops and factories attract the curious. We also think of textile know-how, art studios and museum storerooms. And yet, access to these places is only possible in slots supervised by mediators. These unusual tours last between 1 h 30 and 2 h, depending on the site.

“A good visit starts with a sideways step, then an attentive glance.”

As far as logistics are concerned, check the minimum age and photo rules before setting off. What’s more, some routes require closed-toe shoes and identification. Organizers also specify physical fitness levels, to avoid unpleasant surprises. These unusual tours remain open as long as reservations have been confirmed.

For families, sensory trails are available on a number of routes. The underground passages, however, require caution and warm clothing. Then think about the return journey: metro or bus, depending on the schedule. These unusual tours gain in comfort with an early start.

• Book as soon as sales open
• Arrive 10 minutes early
• Closed-toe shoes and light jacket
• Approximate budget: €12-25 per person
• Check PRM and sanitary accessibility

Neighborhoods, nightlife and urban art

Night-time brings a different tempo to the alleyways and canals. As a result, Père-Lachaise and the covered passages take on a peaceful hue. What’s more, it’s less crowded after work. These unusual visits go well with a short evening.

Julien Cohen’s initiative also includes a giant flash mob with 300 musicians. The event, linked to the Christmas 2025 illuminations, will bring Paris to life before nightfall.

When it comes to street art, the 13th district combines monumental frescoes with discreet signatures. Guides explain the techniques, public commissions and conservation issues involved. The Butte-aux-Cailles and Paris Rive Gauche offer complementary viewpoints. These unusual tours help you read the city differently.

How to choose and book

Read the sheet step by step, then locate the meeting point. This will help you avoid last-minute changes. Then check the language, format and cancellation policy. For targeted, unusual tours, choose a specific theme.

Before paying, check that the site is accessible for people with reduced mobility and that there are toilet facilities. Next, note whether the visit takes place in light rain. Some structures offer an alternative date or a credit note. Last but not least, these unusual tours are made even more serene by these guidelines.

Practical advice and accessibility

Wear wind- and moisture-resistant clothing. Also, carry water and a light snack. This way, a fully loaded travel pass limits stress between two neighborhoods. For unusual visits, anticipation saves time.

When it comes to your budget, compare full-price, reduced-price and free tickets. What’s more, some organizers offer a combined ticket and audioguide. You can also combine two themes on the same day. Unusual tours are more fluid off-peak.

Finally, check for updates the day before departure. That way, you’ll be kept up to date if a slot is added. The month of November can move quickly, depending on demand and the weather. These unusual tours find their audience at the right time.

• unusual visits