Off the Postcard Track
Have you basked to your heart's content in sights like The Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Champs-Élysées? Looking to see something unexpected in the City of Light? You're in luck. While Paris remains the world's single most-visited city-- 26 million tourists strong in 2005-- there are plenty of nooks awaiting those willing to venture off the postcard track. The semi-secret Paris neighborhoods below are so well-loved by Parisians, there may even be some reluctance to share!
1. The Canal Saint-Martin Neighborhood
With its footbridges arching gracefully over a canal that feeds into the Seine River, the Canal Saint Martin area offers equal parts greenery, lyricism, and urban grit. Don't miss the Canal Saint-Martin for activities like strolling, picnics, offbeat shopping, and scenic biking.
This unusually relaxed corner of Northeastern Paris is a hotspot for fashion-conscious bohos and parents in search of a little repose. It has also made famous appearances in movies like Amélie and Hôtel du Nord.
2. The Rue Montorgueil Neighborhood
3. La Butte aux Cailles
Nestled between Montparnasse and Chinatown on the left bank is a hilly, well-hidden quarter whose narrow, winding streets, tiny houses, and art nouveau architecture recall a Paris of another era. La Butte aux Cailles is one of Paris' best-kept secrets, and for good reason. It is one of the only Paris neighborhoods where chain stores have not set up shop and where you can stumble on ivy-covered art deco townhouses. Come explore the Butte aux Cailles for gorgeous ambling, convivial dining and drinking.




