Paris is filled with famous attractions: the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Versailles, the catacombs, the Pantheon, the Arc de Triomphe, Sacre-Coeur. The list goes on. There are so many amazing sites here that you could spend days (heck, even weeks) just seeing the main, most well-known ones.

But there’s more to Paris than the sites that attract thousands upon thousands of visitors each day.

While I was living in Paris the past few months, I made it my mission to see some of the more unusual, lesser-known (but equally awesome) attractions (that didn’t come with the aggravating crowds that make so many of Paris’ attractions unbearable).

And, while some of the things on the list below might not be “super secret” attractions or activities, they do fall into the category of “overlooked attractions” so I included them.

Here are some of the best off-the-beaten-path things to see and do in Paris:

1. Musée Édith Piaf

Édith Piaf is perhaps the most famous French singer from the 1930s to the 1960s, and known around the world for her songs La vie en rose and Non, je ne regrette rien (which appeared in the movie Inception). She lived in a little apartment in the Ménilmontant district at the start of her career, which has been turned into a tiny museum dedicated to her. You get a glimpse at her life through her gold and platinum records, photographs, clothing, letters from fans, posters, recordings, and sheet music.

Admission is free, but you’ll need to make an appointment.

2. Musée Curie

Marie Curie was the first woman to win the Nobel Prize (and the only woman to win it twice) for her research into radioactivity (a word that she invented). She was the first female professor at the University of Paris as well as the first woman to be entombed in the Panthéon on her own merits. Located in the 5th arrondissement, this museum, in her old laboratory, highlights her radiological research. It’s insightful and eye-opening for anyone unfamiliar with her historic discoveries.
 

3. Archives Nationales

Opened in 1867, the National Archives houses thousands of historical documents dating back to 625 CE. One of six national archives in the country, the museum sheds light on France’s turbulent past, providing nuanced historical details and context through permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Built by the order of Napoleon I, the building itself (known as the Hôtel de Soubise) is absolutely stunning. It is in the late Baroque style, embracing long columns and lots of statues and sculptures. It features immaculate grounds and gardens as well. They always hold a lot of good exhibitions too.
 

4. Librairie Galignani

This bookshop claims to be the oldest English bookstore in continental Europe, having opened in Paris in 1801. Prior to that, they were located in Venice and the Galignani name has been associated with publishing books since the 16th century. Age aside, this is a great place to browse as it is absolutely packed with books. You could easily spend a couple hours here hunting through the stacks and shelves. It’s a quiet, quaint shop and the staff are super knowledgeable. If you’re an avid reader like me, don’t miss it!
 

5. Paris Point Zero

This is the official center of Paris, from which all distances in the city are measured. While it’s just a simple brass star set into the sidewalk near the Notre Dame Cathedral, there are a few popular rituals here that make this a short but fun stop (and since you’ll likely be nearby visiting the Cathedral, you might as well stop here). Some people treat the star as a wishing well, tossing a coin and making a wish (which is why there are usually a handful of coins on the star). Others, however, insist that if you stand on the star with your loved one and kiss, your love will last forever.
 

6. The Gallery of Paleontology and Comparative Anatomy

Opened in 1898, this gallery is a part of the French National Museum of Natural History. Taking up the ground floor of the building, it’s home to over 1,000 animal skeletons from around the world, including complete skeletons of elephants, large cats, and even dinosaurs. It’s as interesting as it is unsettling: all the animals are facing the same way, making it look like you’re in the midst of some undead stampede!

7. Petite Ceinture

In use from 1862 through 1964, the railway circling Paris was abandoned when the city expanded beyond its limits. It’s mostly hidden behind buildings and covered in wild plants and grass now, though some sections are now officially open to the public. You’ll find all sorts of flowers and street art along the tracks.

While some sections are illegal to visit, near Parc Georges Brassens you’ll find a section of the tracks known as the ‘Passage de la Petite Ceinture’ that is both free and legal to visit. It’s located in the 15e arrondissement.
 

8. The Salvador Dalí Sundial

This surrealist sundial was created by world-renowned artist Salvador Dalí. Located on Rue Saint-Jacques, it’s a mix of a human face and a scallop shell (the symbol of the Camino to Santiago, since the street is named after the saint). While the sundial doesn’t actually work, it’s nevertheless an easy way to see a piece of artwork by one of the most famous artists in the world.
 

9. Le Passe-Muraille

This iconic bronze sculpture is located near Montmartre, making it an easy stop on your itinerary. It’s based on a character from The Man Who Walked Through Walls (Le Passe-Muraille), a short story by Parisian Marcel Aymé published in 1941. In the story, a man gains the ability to pass through walls and he uses the skill to get up to no good. At the end of the book, though, his power fades just as he is passing through a wall…and he gets stuck. If you get up close to the sculpture, you’ll see that the hands of the statue are extra smooth, thanks to countless people taking photos of themselves trying to pull the man free.
 

10. Montmartre Cemetery

While the Père Lachaise Cemetery is the largest and most popular in Paris, for a more secluded stroll, check out the Montmartre Cemetery. Plenty of people visit the top of Montmartre for Sacré-Coeur and the view, but few take the time to wander this cemetery sitting at the foot of the district. It opened in 1825 and is home to many cobwebbed mausoleums, as well as a handful of stray cats. You won’t see many people here, so you can explore in peace.
 

11. The Museum of Counterfeiting

Opened in 1972, this museum is home to counterfeit items that have been collected by France’s customs agents and police (as well as donated items from brands and consumers alike). There are over 500 items in the museum, ranging from counterfeit art and luxury goods to more mundane items, like cleaning supplies. While some knockoffs are impressive in their duplicity, it’s also funny to see just how bad some counterfeiters were!
 

12. Promenade Planteé (Coulée verte René-Dumont)

This tree-lined walkway is a greenbelt that extends almost 5km along the old Vincennes railway line. The railway line ceased functioning in 1969, with the park being inaugurated a few decades afterward. Until New York built their High Line, it was the only elevated park in the entire world. (And, honestly, this is way nicer than the NYC High Line).

You’ll find lots of trees, flowers, ponds, and places to sit along this long path that stretches from Bastille to the edge of Paris. It’s a long, easy, and beautiful walk. You won’t find many people here. Even on a nice day, it’s rather empty. It quickly became one of my favorite things to do in Paris and I can’t recommend coming here enough!
 

13. Canal Saint-Martin

Stretching 4.5km, the Canal Saint-Martin is a man-made waterway commissioned by Napoleon. Construction finished in 1825, connecting the Canal de l’Ourcq to the Seine via both above-ground locks and underground tunnels. While not any secret spot (on a nice day, you’ll find the canal lined with people), it’s mostly a spot for locals who want to have a picnic and relax. So, say no to the Seine, and come have your outdoor picnic along the canal. It’s more relaxing and there will be fewer people!
 

14. Museé de Montmartre

Founded in 1960, this museum is located throughout two buildings that date back to the 17th century. Over the years, the buildings were home to many famous writers and painters. The gardens of the museum were actually renovated to look more like the gardens in Renoir’s paintings (there is also a vineyard nearby that dates back to the Middle Ages but it makes horrible wine). The museum’s permanent collection includes a wide variety of paintings, posters, and drawings.

While the main sights in Paris are always worth checking out, if you want to be more than a tourist and develop a greater appreciation for the City of Light’s unique and complex history, visit these unconventional and unusual attractions in Paris.
 

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Paris!

For more in-depth information, check out my guidebook to Paris written for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Paris. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on- and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, transportation and safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today!

Plan your trip to Europe like a pro

Get all my best Europe travel tips as well as free planning guides sent straight to you and see more of the country for less!

Ever wish your vacation days could last just a little longer? Then you may want to book your next getaway to a spot with 24-hour sunshine. 

In May, Monteriver, a river tour company, released its findings of a new study analyzing the European cities with the longest daylight hours in June. To find out which spots have the longest days, it analyzed data from Astropixels and Time&Date.

It found that three destinations experience 24-hour daylight in June: Murmansk in Russia, Bodø in Norway, and Rovaniemi in Finland.

This natural phenomenon is known as the “Midnight Sun” and occurs in regions north of the Arctic Circle each summer, where the sun never dips below the horizon line. As Space.com explains, it’s caused by the “Earth’s axial tilt as the planet orbits the sun.” This tilt, it says, “causes one hemisphere to be angled toward the sun and the other away from it, and it is why there are opposite seasons in the Northern and Southern hemispheres.” 

During the June solstice, the North Pole is tilted toward the sun. “From the northern polar region, the sun never appears to set below the horizon. This is when the northern polar region experiences the midnight sun and the southern polar region experiences 24 hours of darkness, known as the polar night,” Space.com adds. 

And while, yes, it can be a bit disorienting for those not used to it, it’s also a major tourism draw for those looking to squeeze every last drop out of a summer adventure.

In Bodø, Norway, that extra light means more time exploring some of Scandinavia’s most dramatic natural spaces. Travelers here can also go on a short drive to Saltstraumen to view the world’s strongest tidal current. Travelers can also hike the Børvasstindan mountains for spectacular views or simply bask in the sun at 3 a.m. just because they can. 

In Rovaniemi, Finland, also known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, travelers can bike through its forest trails, go foraging for wild berries, or hang out by the serene Kemijoki River. Locals also love a good sauna followed by refreshing dips in cool water, and welcome guests to try it out for themselves, too. 

It’s worth noting that Murmansk, Russia, the largest city located entirely within the Arctic Circle, also experiences 24-hour sun; however, the U.S. Department of State has all of Russia under a level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory, making travel here impractical and potentially dangerous, for now. 

And while they don’t experience that same round-the-clock sun, hot spots like Reykjavik, Iceland, also made the list, with 21 hours and eight minutes of sun, along with Helsinki at 18 hours and 55 minutes, and Oslo closely behind at 18 hours and 49 minutes. 

On the flip side, sun-soaked southern favorites like Athens and Madrid, despite being well-known for their summer heat, ranked as the last two on the list, as Madrid receives just over 15 hours of daylight and Athens receives just 14 hours and 48 minutes of daylight. 

When you’re traveling with kids on a budget in Europe, Dubrovnik may not be the first name on your mind.

However, today, you’ll learn why it’s an excellent choice for you and your family.

With a pedestrianized Old Town, gorgeous Game of Thrones filming locations, and a beautiful, balmy climate from March to November, it’s one of Europe’s best locations for varied family activities.

But what about the cost? Yes, traveling with kids in Croatia can be pricey. That’s why we’ve compiled the best free things to do in Dubrovnik with kids to make your travel planning easier.

Related read: Your Guide for Visiting Dubrovnik, Croatia!

Here is an overview:

Top Free Attractions in Dubrovnik for Families

Here are the top free family-friendly attractions in Dubrovnik that all ages will love!

Stroll through the Old Town

The UNESCO-listed Old Town of Dubrovnik is the first place we’d recommend exploring with your little ones. Not only do the streets tell a story of Croatian history, but they are also completely car-free. That means your family is safe to wander without the stress of traffic.

Kids can pretend to be knights, princesses, and warriors among the stone walls. Plus, the web of narrow alleyways, hidden stairways, and stately fountains (like Onofrio’s Fountain) provides plenty of photo opportunities.

Tip: Book a free walking tour to get the local perspective of the city’s history.

Visit Lokrum Island

While parts of Lokrum Island have an entry fee of €27 per adult, the ferry is often free and an experience in itself. Sail over the crystal blue waters as you set out onto a wonderland of flora and fauna.

Imagine a place where peacocks and rabbits roam freely. Nature is manicured into lush botanical gardens and shaded oaths. You can also enjoy exploring the ruins of a Benedictine monastery as a unique adventure, as entry is not free.

If your kids love animals and exploring the outdoors, this should be a high priority on your list!

Explore the Game of Thrones filming locations

Is your teenager a Game of Thrones buff? Dubrovnik will feel like a unique Easter egg hunt of locations.

Skip the paid tour and use a mobile guide or free walking map to scout the familiar backgrounds.

Some have entry fees, but the following are family-friendly Game of Thrones locations you can visit for free:

• Dubrovnik West Harbour AKA Backwater Bay
• Fort Lovrijenac AKA The Red Keep
• Pile Gate
• The Jesuit Staircase (below Saint Ignatius Church)

Bask in the views on Srđ Hill

Want a free alternative to the cable car up to the famous Srđ Hill? You can drive or walk!

Walking is quite the hike, taking around 50 minutes at a moderate pace, but the views when you get there are spectacular.

Start your walk in the morning with low heat and wear plenty of sun protection during the summer months. We also caution against doing this walk with small children, but tweens and teens with a thirst for a good hike will love it!

See boats and local fishermen at Dubrovnik Port

If your kid is mad about boats, they’ll love walking along Dubrovnik Port or any of the many marinas dotted around the coastline.

See real boats and local fishermen at work against the scenic landscape of aquamarine waters. Plenty of opportunities to take family photos and eat fresh fish at the local restaurants.

Fun Outdoor Activities in Dubrovnik That Won’t Cost a Dime

Want to explore the outdoors in Dubrovnik with your kids? Here are our recommendations for things to do in Dubrovnik with kids outdoors:

Hit the beach

Is there anything more glorious than chilling with your family at the beach in Dubrovnik? 

Our favorite spots (with free entry) are:

• Lapad Bay Beach: Family-friendly beach with calm waters and shade. However, the ground is pebbly, so wear appropriate footwear
• Banje Beach: Popular pebble beach a stone’s throw away from the Old Town. Fills up quickly, so get there early.
• Copacabana Beach (Babin Kuk): Located 7 minutes’ drive from Dubrovnik. Great for families as it has shallow waters and plenty of space for sand play.

Get a free off-season walking tour

The local tourism board offers free walking tours in the off-season (from November to March) on Saturday mornings. This is a great free activity to do in Dubrovnik with your kids as they’ll learn about Croatian history and culture while exploring the city through a new lens.

Better yet, occasionally there are folk singing and dance performances in Old Town to delight your family.

Find a hiking or walking trail

If you have older children who love a scenic walk, here are the hiking trails we’d recommend in Dubrovnik:

• Velika Petka Hill (Lapad Peninsula): This relatively easy two-hour trail is child—and pet-friendly and available year-round.
• Srđ Hill trail: Moderate uphill hike taking around 50 minutes with stunning panoramic views.

Tip: Be mindful of the weather. The temperatures can climb to 30C/86F in the summer.

Watch street performers in the Old Town

On a summer evening, Dubrovnik comes alive with musicians, dancers, and human statues. Your children will love the colorful costumes and joyful beat of Čilipi Folklore music and dance. Performances are out in the open and free to all.

Free Historical Sites in Dubrovnik Kids Will Love

These Dubrovnik historical attractions are a must-see if your kid is a history buff.

Pile Gate & Old Town Walls (Outer Viewpoints)

Pretend you’re in a medieval fortress saving the city from dragons beyond the wall! The Old Town walls have their own stories, but are also the perfect place to imagine new ones. You can engage your children for hours, imagining their enchanted castle and taking incredible photos.

Rector’s Palace & Luža Square

Not only is the architecture sublime, but there is often live music outside to add to the atmosphere.

It’s a great photo opportunity for you and your family. The palace now houses the Cultural History Museum, which has a small entry fee if you want to explore inside.

Churches in the Old Town

The Old Town of Dubrovnik has stunning churches with intricate architecture and free entry. We like:

• Dubrovnik Cathedral
• St. Blaise Church
• Saint Ignatius Church
• Franciscan Monastery*

*The museum section has an entry fee.

Clock Tower & Bell Chime (Stradun)

Located in Luža Square, the Clock Tower and Bell Chime is a unique place. It stands 31 meters high and was built in the 14th Century.

Kids love watching the mechanical figures and hourly bells!

Forts

Dubrovnik is home to several forts, that give the city a magical, historical quality. Your kids will adore peaking over the walls at the amazing views below and pretending they are fearsome knights

Here are some family-friendly forts to visit in Dubrovnik:

• Fort Lovrijenac: Stunning from afar, especially at sunset.
• Fort Revelin near Ploče Gate: Large open space outside to roam.
• Fort St. John: Entrance to the old port with cannons to pose with.

Best Free Parks and Playgrounds in Dubrovnik for Family Days Out

Discover the best free parks and playgrounds in Dubrovnik where your kids can explore during your vacation.

Pile Gate (Boninovo area)

This playground is popular with tourists and locals alike. It has swings, slides, and plenty of shade. It is a great rest stop as you explore the Old Town.

Park Gradac (above Dance Beach)

If you want a less touristy place, local families bring their children to Park Gradac. It’s pine-shaded and has peaceful ocean views.

Uvala Lapad Playground

This playground is near the cafés and beach at Lapad, so you can relax with a coffee as your kids play. There are plenty of playground facilities here, such as slides, swings, and bouncers.

Gruž Market

Want a nice family picnic in Dubrovnik? The public green spaces near Gruž Market are serene in the mornings and picnic-friendly in the afternoons.

And there you have it! The best free things to do in Dubrovnik with kids. To make your vacation the best it can possibly be, we have a few extra tips for you:

• Choose the right season: If you can, avoid the summer rush. Coming in late fall or early spring means fewer crowds and more local culture. Plus, the weather is still great!
• Bring snacks & water bottles: Food and drink can be pricey in Dubrovnik. Bringing your own snacks as you explore will ensure your vacation doesn’t break the bank.
• Use public fountains: Free drinking water is available at Onofrio’s Fountain.
• Ask your hotel about local events: Your Airbnb host or hotel reception can let you know about the any free concerts, puppet shows, or open museum days during your stay.

Related read: Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik: Hidden Gems Beyond the City Walls

Who isn’t interested in a portable office, right? Van life is not just fun. Creating a DIY mobile office is one of the smartest things you can do. A moving office space helps you stay productive no matter where you are. You can work in a café in Cebu, a small room in Dubai, or a beach spot in El Nido.

Online workers don’t just need any tools or resources. There are important things to consider when setting up a mobile office. That comes with the challenges we have to face in working online.

Want to go full-time? Grab a copy of my eBook, “The A-Z on Becoming a Digital Nomad.” It’s filled with helpful tips, stories, and guides. This book helps Filipinos work from anywhere in the world.

The right office equipment and some smart storage space organizing are all you need. Then you can work anywhere on wheels! Don’t worry. It’s an easy access and fun DIY project. We’ll help you choose the best gear for work and travel!

What is a DIY Mobile Office?

A DIY mobile office is a small, portable setup. It lets you work from anywhere. Some people only bring the most important stuff. It doesn’t need to be expensive or fancy. You don’t need to buy a camper van. The goal is to keep things simple and easy to carry.

Why Do Filipino Nomads and OFWs Need One?

• You can work from airports, hotels, cafés, small apartments, or easy dinners.
• It saves space and money. You don’t need to rent an office.
• A mobile setup helps you stay focused. It works even in noisy places.
• It also makes your work area clean and professional.

Must-Have Gear for Your Office

Make your setup powerful and easy to carry. Here are the basics:

How to Set Up Your Office

Step 1: Pick Your Main Gear

You don’t need a lot of items. Just choose tools that work well and are easy to pack.

I already noted the must-have gear above.

Top tip: Look for second-hand deals online. You can also check tech stores near you.

Step 2: Organize Your Office in a Bag

Your entire office setup should fit in one bag. A laptop bag or backpack works best.

• Use packing cubes to group chargers and cables.
• Keep a small zip pouch for USBs, SD cards, and adapters.
• Bring a notebook and pen for quick notes or lists.

Step 3: Find the Right Workspace

Pick a place that helps you work well. Look for comfort, internet, and power:

• Cafés with outlets and Wi-Fi – These are common in Southeast Asia.
• Coworking spaces – These offer fast internet. You can also meet other nomads.
• Public libraries or hotel lounges – They’re quiet and great for video calls.

Don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle and some snacks. A portable umbrella also comes in handy.

Step 4: Follow Smart Work Habits

• Stick to a daily schedule. Work in short blocks of time.
• Use free apps like Notion or Trello to plan your tasks.
• Turn off social media while working. It helps avoid distractions.
• Keep your space clean. A clear desk helps your mind stay clear, too.

Hint: Always test the internet speed before your meetings. Slow Wi-Fi can cause delays.

Step 5: Be Papers Ready

Finally, your new lifestyle will not be complete without travel health insurance. At the end of the workday, our health is still the most important.

Space-Saving Tips You’ll Love

When living out of a suitcase or backpack, these hacks help:

• Choose a backpack with lots of compartments. This keeps things neat.
• Use cable organizers for chargers and wires. No more tangled cords!
• Go digital. Use cloud storage instead of paper.
• Use a roll-up keyboard or Bluetooth mouse to save room.
• Get a clip-on ring light or webcam for online meetings. It’s tiny but powerful!

Final Thoughts

Setting up your DIY mobile office is simple. You just need to plan well and stay organized. Start with what you already have. Upgrade later as needed.

You don’t need a fancy space to work well. What you need is focus, good tools, and a plan.

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