Paris, the City of Love, has long been a beacon for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in its rich history and culture. However, the surge in tourism numbers, particularly in areas like Montmartre and the Marais, has led to overtourism issues, leaving residents complaining of packed streets and a loss of local charm. To combat this, Intrepid Travel has launched Uncommon Day Trips, an innovative concept designed to spread tourists out around the city and away from the most crowded areas.
I recently had the opportunity to try out this new concept, joining a tour led by Cecilia Garcia Riglos and Benoit Collas in the 16th Arrondissement of Paris. The tour began at the Musée de l’Homme on the Trocadéro esplanade, a spot favored by tourists for its picturesque views of the Eiffel Tower. Despite the grey, grizzly day, the area was still bustling with visitors.
Instead of heading to the well-known Marais or Montmartre, we ventured to the quieter 16th Arrondissement, exploring the area of Passy. Once a small village on the outskirts of the city, Passy has become increasingly popular among wealthy Parisians and British visitors seeking a respite from the city's hustle and bustle. The tour guides highlighted the area's reputation for wealth and nimbyism, with residents constantly seeking to stop social housing from being built.
One of the highlights of the tour was the Passy Cemetery, a peaceful and serene spot with elaborate tombs belonging to the aristocratic legacy of Paris. From there, we strolled along the Rue de Passy, admiring the Art Deco architecture of the 1930s, before exploring picturesque parks and beautiful streets. The Eiffel Tower was a constant backdrop, and we barely encountered any other tourists as we wandered.
The tour also included a visit to the historic grounds of Maison de Balzac, the former home of the famous French novelist Honoré de Balzac. The peaceful garden offered a glimpse into what this small village once offered: a retreat from the noise of the city. We then indulged in the local cuisine, sampling pastries and crepes from Golosa patisserie and Chez Marie-Do creperie.
As the tour drew to a close, we were treated to a view of the Bir-Hakeim Bridge, a sci-fi action-thriller Inception filming location. The tour guides pointed out the contrast between the bustling streets of the city's most popular areas and the peaceful, hidden gems we had just explored. The feeling of having seen behind the veil was a unique and memorable experience.
For those seeking an insight into Paris outside the well-trodden path, Uncommon Day Trips is a great option. The tours are priced from £48 with Intrepid, and you can reach Paris via the Eurostar from £39 each way. By spreading tourists out around the city, Intrepid aims to combat overtourism and help preserve the local charm of Paris, ensuring that visitors can truly immerse themselves in the city's unique culture and history.
