It's undeniable that Paris is one of the world's most romantic cities with numerous renowned attractions to offer to every visitor. But did you know that there's more to discover about this French city other than its already famous tourist spots? Yes, there are still many beautiful places in the city from historical landmarks and ancient architecture to sculptures and fountains awaiting your visit.



To discover the little known historical places in Paris, one has to rely on his own skills and avoid joining a tour group. Do some walking if you can to enjoy a more personal experience in the city of lights.

Paris boasts of numerous churches with spectacular frescos. Some are huge while some are small and unassuming and open only for weekend services. Tourists who love to see some architecture on sacred grounds should visit one truly genuine Russian Orthodox Church in Paris, the St. Seraphin de Sarov on Rue Lecourbe. The church is in the far end of a quiet courtyard and can be identified by its green door. Visitors can attend the services there on weekends and enjoy coffee or tea afterwards.

The Gothic church Sainte Chapelle on the Boulevard du Palais in the Seine River should definitely be in your itinerary of unknown spots. This small church built in the 1200s was originally a chapel for the royal palace which was just within the vicinity at that time and headed by then King Louis IX. Saint Chapelle's attractions are its tall stained glass windows with vivid colors and provide a spectacular effect when sunlight comes through them.

Another must-see holy place is the St. Denis Basilica located on a working-class and lower-class suburb. The basilica replaced the original shrine built for St. Denis and became the place of burial for French kings including Clovis, Dagobert I and Louis XVIII.

A tranquil hidden place worth discovering is the Albert Khan's garden on Rue du Port, Boulogne Pont de Clignancourt. The garden with its streams, lovely flowers and trees symbolizes a mix of cultures. It has an English garden, French and Japanese gardens where one can enjoy nature at its best while in the midst of the city. A museum is also within the vicinity displaying photos and art works.

Check out the Zouave du Pont de l'Alma, a sculpture of an Algerian infantryman in the French army. The statue, for many Parisians, is the meter of how the River Seine is especially during floods. In 1910, the water reached the sculpture's chin forcing people to use small boats in the streets of Paris.

Movie fans should not miss the La Pagode theater on Bis Rue de Babylone. It is an original landmark situated on a real Japanese style pagoda used as a ballroom in the olden days. The place was transformed into a movie house in the 1930's. It has been refurbished and boasts of a tea room and Japanese garden.

Tourists who love to go shopping should also visit the old shopping passages of Paris. Passage Verdeau and Passage Jouffroy constructed in 1847 by the same architects feature interesting shops and small cafes. In these areas you will find great memorabilia including traditional and classic items that rarely can be found in modern shops and boutiques.

There are many other hidden gems in Paris worth your time and attention. They are best visited if you wish to learn about the real history and culture of the city in particular and France as a whole.