Title: The Delightful Quirks of France: 20 Best Kept Secrets Revealed!
Image: A picturesque shot of a quaint French village with charming cobblestone streets, a stone fountain, and locals going about their day.
France is not just a country of beautiful landscapes and renowned culinary mastery; it is a treasure chest of delightful quirks and untold stories waiting to be unveiled. Embrace the allure of this romantic destination by exploring its lesser-known wonders. Here are 20 of the best-kept secrets that will make you fall even harder for the enchanting country of France!
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Dining in the open air at La Capucinerie: In the heart of Paris lies a seemingly ordinary building that opens up to a hidden gem – the Les Capucines Garden, a delightful outdoor restaurant with a flora-filled courtyard.
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Walking on the ‘other’ side of the Champs-Élysées: Take a leisurely stroll away from the bustling center and you’ll find yourself in a quieter, almost secret, side of the iconic avenue.
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A hidden jazz hall in Paris: Deep within the Latin Quarter, the New Morning jazz venue hosts nightly performances in an intimate setting.
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The ‘forgotten’ Versailles: Beyond the opulent rooms are the eerie ruins of a fortification, offering a glimpse of Versailles’ less glamorous side.
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Discover the Sunken Wax Museum: On the coast of Normandy, the Land of Legend houses a sunken wax museum, a truly unique experience for any wanderer.
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Gateau Opéra – a sweet piece of history: Sampling the original flavor of the cake which inspired the famous opera is a must in Paris.
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Uncover the ‘Roosting Rocks’: Venture to Causses du Quercy for breathtaking views and learn about the region’s swallows that nest on the cliffs.
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Saint-Émilion’s wine-filled catacombs: Take a tour of the subterranean passageways lined with wine casks in the Saint-Émilion region.
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Flânerie in the Latin Quarter: Paris’ Latin Quarter offers a traditional flânerie experience, take your time to enjoy the ambient cafes and street art.
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Mystic Caves of Plougastel: In Brittany, the Plougastel cave holds parallels to the mythic Troglodyte dwellings and possesses an almost sacred aura.
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The village of Ifs’ seafood culture: A short train ride from Paris brings you to Ifs, a village where the seafood culture is vivid and palpable.
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Second-hand Beaume’ Naturelle secrets: This village is the epitome of recycling and craftsmanship, watch the locals transform vintage into vogue.
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Atelier of Time in Lyon: Delve into an artist’s sanctum on Bellecour Island, embracing the spiritual side of the city.
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The Sewers of Paris: Venture below ground on a guided tour of the Victorian-era sewers, vital to Parisian history.
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Édouard Branly’s electrifying legacy: In Saint-Mesmin, follow in the footsteps of the inventor of wireless telegraphy, a national hero of science.
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Mysterious church of Saint-Gervais in Paris: Uncover the history and gothic charm of Saint-Gervais.
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The Secret Belle Époque facades in Paris: Hidden behind modern posters are facades from the Belle Époque era waiting to be discovered.
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Cézanne’s Provencal garden: Montzemolo offers an uninterrupted view of Camille and Hortense’s favorite artist landscape.
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Gastronomic alchemy in Lyon’s bouchons: Savor the classic bouchons where passion and heritage come together in each dish.
- Petit Nice at ground level: Stop by for a beer in this beachfront bluff’s architectural marvel, a favorite among locals.
FAQs:
Q: What is the best time to visit the Sunken Wax Museum in Normandy?
A: The Sunken Wax Museum is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between late spring and early autumn when the weather is mild.
Q: Are there any secret markets in France not commonly visited by tourists?
A: Yes, the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen in Paris is a sprawling, slightly less touristy flea market, rich with ephemera and trinkets.
Q: What is the ‘forgotten’ Versailles like?
A: While the public areas of Versailles are majestic and well-known, lesser-known areas include the regal hunting room now used for events and the large fortifications that once protected the palace.
Q: How can one explore the Sunken Wax Museum?
A: Boats from the neighboring town of Varaville can navigate you to and from the sunken passages and rooms.
Q: Is there a specific area in Paris that encapsulates the ‘other’ side mentioned?
A: The Marais district offers a quieter yet equally fascinating side of Paris with its historical buildings, courtyards, and boutiques.
