Paris, the City of Love, has long been a beacon for tourists, but the influx of visitors can often lead to overwhelming crowds and long lines. However, a new initiative by Intrepid Travel, called Uncommon Day Trips, offers a unique solution to this problem. This innovative concept aims to spread tourists around the city, away from the most popular areas, allowing visitors to experience the real Paris without the hassle of queues and crowds.
I recently had the opportunity to try out this new tour, and it was an eye-opening experience. Led by Intrepid tour leaders Cecilia Garcia Riglos and Benoit Collas, the day trip took us to the quieter 16th Arrondissement, specifically the area of Passy. This once-small village on the outskirts of the city has become a haven for wealthy Parisians and British visitors seeking respite from the bustling city.
One of the highlights of the tour was the Passy Cemetery, a serene and elegant necropolis that houses the final resting places of notable figures such as Claude Debussy, Bảo Đại (the last emperor of Vietnam), Hubert de Givenchy, and Jacques Guerlain. The cemetery's Art Deco architecture and peaceful atmosphere provided a stark contrast to the bustling city outside.
As we strolled through the picturesque streets of Passy, we admired the Thirties Art Deco architecture and enjoyed the tranquility of the area. The tour guides chose their route wisely, ensuring that we barely encountered any other tourists. We even had the opportunity to visit the historic Maison de Balzac, the former home of the famous French novelist Honoré de Balzac, which was surprisingly free to enter.
Food played a significant role in the tour, as we were treated to a delightful spread of local produce at a nearby market. From fresh fish and vegetables to superb pastries and crunchy crepes, the market offered a taste of authentic Parisian cuisine. The highlight of the food experience was Golosa patisserie and Chez Marie-Do creperie, where we indulged in delicious treats.
As the tour concluded, we felt as though we had discovered a hidden gem in Paris. The area of Passy, so close to the Eiffel Tower yet so different from the bustling city center, offered a unique perspective on the city. It was a refreshing change from the well-trodden paths and provided a glimpse into the Paris that only locals know about.
Uncommon Day Trips to Paris are available for £48 with Intrepid, and the tour can be combined with a Eurostar journey to Paris, which costs £39 each way. This innovative approach to tourism not only helps combat overtourism but also allows visitors to experience the real essence of Paris, away from the crowds and queues.
