Science and Surprises: 10 Awesome Spots Near Paris Science Museum

The fun doesn’t end at the Science Museum—explore these top picks nearby!

Published: March 13, 2026
Hand Touching Plasma Ball

Step outside the Paris Science Museum and you’ll find yourself in La Villette—a lively Parisian neighborhood where every street, park, and gallery offers something new to discover. Whether you’re a science buff, a chocolate lover, or someone who just wants to soak up the local vibe, there’s something here to fill every moment of your Paris adventure. We’ve got exhilarating museums, unbeatable city views, waterfront strolls, and more—all within reach. Ready to see what’s next after your science fix? Let’s go! 

Our favorite things to do near the Paris Science Museum include: 

  • Paris Science Museum (Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie) 
  • Gourmet Chocolate Museum 
  • Centre Pompidou 
  • Parc de la Villette 
  • Canal de l’Ourcq Stroll 
  • Paradox Museum 
  • Gourmet Shopping at Galeries Lafayette 
  • Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise 
  • Les Caves du Louvre (Wine Experience) 
  • Tour Montparnasse 

Paris Science Museum: Hands-On Fun for Every Age 

You can easily lose hours at the Paris Science Museum, and it’s time well spent. This place takes interactive learning to new heights, with sprawling exhibit halls, real spacecraft, and mind-bending VR stations for adults and kids alike. The Cité des Enfants section is a standout for its playful, sensory-rich spaces designed specifically for kids aged 2-12—think water games, obstacle courses, and teamwork challenges. Meanwhile, science lovers can check out serious robotics, life-size planetarium shows, and everything from how cars are built to what life might look like in the future. Whether you’re exploring as a family or rediscovering your inner nerd, this museum packs in the wow factor—science made thrilling at every turn. 

Gourmet Chocolate Museum: Treats for Curious Tastebuds 

Chocolate cravings and curiosity absolutely belong together, which is why the Gourmet Chocolate Museum is such a hit. A short ride from La Villette, this delicious destination takes you on chocolate’s journey from South American jungles all the way to fancy Paris boutiques. You’ll see rare artifacts from the world of cocoa, meet expert chocolatiers decoding the science behind great ganache, and get hands-on during tasty demonstrations—there’s always something fresh being whipped up to sample! It’s a feast for the senses, with beautiful displays, warm smells, and plenty of guided tasting.

Kids love seeing ancient cocoa tools and the chocolate sculptures, while adults can master the art of pairing. Don’t miss the chance to stock up in the gift shop (truffles, bars, bonbons—they’ll wrap them all). For anyone who wants their Paris adventure with a generous dash of sweetness, this spot is a no-brainer. 

Centre Pompidou: Art That Pushes the Limits

Centre Pompidou's Coloured Tubes

Just a short Metro ride from the Science Museum, Centre Pompidou is where art breaks all the rules—inside a building that looks like it escaped from a sci-fi movie. Its colored tubes and exposed pipes are just the start; inside, you’re diving into modern and contemporary works from legends and up-and-comers alike. From thought-provoking paintings to wild installations and sound experiments, every room feels like a new adventure. 

The highly interactive exhibits keep everyone’s attention, and there are always temporary shows bringing something unexpected to the table. Don’t skip the escalator ride to the rooftop, where jaw-dropping panoramic views let you see Paris from a totally different angle. Outside, the bustling square hums with street performers and pop-up food trucks, adding to the festive feel. Whether you’re an art lover or just browsing, Centre Pompidou’s playful approach is a creative jolt to your Paris itinerary. 

Parc de la Villette: Green Escape on the Doorstep 

Parc de la Villette isn’t your average city park. Step outside the Science Museum and you’re in the heart of an urban wonderland filled with vast lawns, bold sculptures, and playgrounds (including that epic Dragon Slide). Kids can explore themed gardens, oversized climbing nets, and water play zones, while grownups can catch a live concert, stretch out with a book, or picnic by the canal. 

The park buzzes with festivals and outdoor movie nights in summer, and you’ll often catch locals playing frisbee or rehearsing dance routines by the fountain. Whether you’re winding down or ramping up your day, Villette’s creative energy and green space strike the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. 

Canal de l’Ourcq Stroll: Life by the Water 

For a relaxed Parisian moment, follow the path along the Canal de l’Ourcq, which winds right past the Science Museum. This scenic spot invites you to grab a pastry, rent a pedal boat, or just stroll while soaking up the sunshine and laid-back local flavor. The canal banks are lined with colorful murals and friendly bars on converted boats—stop off for a coffee, or settle in for a picnic by the water. 

You’ll catch locals cycling, skaters weaving past, and sometimes even pop-up street markets dotting the walkways. It’s an effortless way to shift gears after an action-packed morning—no rush, just good vibes and gentle conversation. The pace is easygoing by design, and the people-watching is as satisfying as any museum exhibit. 

Paradox Museum: Reality with a Twist 

Nothing is quite as it seems at the Paradox Museum, and that’s exactly the point! Just a few stops from La Villette, this attraction is dedicated to tricking your senses and sparking curiosity. You’ll wander through rooms that mess with gravity, tackle mind-bending puzzles, and find yourself walking on walls or shrinking in a corner (at least in a picture). Every space is immersive, interactive, and engineered to leave you wondering: “Wait—how does that even work?”.

Staff are always on hand to help you snap the perfect trick shot or explain the science behind illusions. The atmosphere here is all about laughter and wonder, making it a huge hit for families, groups of friends, or anyone looking to add a little playful weirdness to their Parisian day. Get ready for a gallery you won’t soon forget—and some of the best selfies you’ll take all trip. 

Galeries Lafayette: Parisian Splendor Meets Shopping

Girl on Observation Balcony at Galeries Lafayette

A trip to Galeries Lafayette isn’t just about shopping—it’s an experience wrapped in Parisian style. Step inside and you’re immediately struck by the stunning, Belle Époque glass dome that sends light cascading over a maze of luxury brands and gourmet food stands. Browsing here is as thrilling for the décor as it is for the designer labels and French culinary treats. Even if you’re not a shopaholic, you can sample everything from delicate macarons to cheese plates and fine chocolates at the gourmet hall. 

Don’t miss the rooftop terrace! It’s free to access and offers one of Paris’s best panoramic views, perfect for a coffee break and a photo session. Energetic, glamorous, and friendly, Galeries Lafayette lives up to its reputation and gives you a grand taste of local “art de vivre.” 

Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise: Paris from a New Angle 

Sometimes, the best way to see Paris is by drifting along the Seine, and the Bateaux Parisiens Cruises make it easy. Board near Villette or in central Paris, sit back, and let the city’s world-famous sights unfold—the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, dazzling bridges, and lively riverbanks. Live commentary (often with a dose of Parisian humor) brings the scenery to life, sharing tidbits you won’t find in your guidebook.

Choose an open-top seat for sun and fresh air, or head indoors for comfort and wide windows. Evening cruises are especially magical as the city lights up—there’s a reason Parisians call it the City of Light! It’s a gentle, relaxing way to wrap up your day and get a real sense of the city’s rhythm from the water. 

Les Caves du Louvre: Sip, Swirl, Discover 

Oenophiles, take note: Les Caves du Louvre brings France’s wine heritage deliciously to life. Set in historic cellars near the Louvre, this interactive wine experience guides you through scent workshops, behind-the-scenes tours, and tastings led by expert sommeliers. The vibe is welcoming whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious to learn your Bordeaux from your Burgundy. You’ll get hands-on with wine aromas and textures (great for budding gourmets) and discover how terroir, tradition, and time shape every glass.

Sampling is encouraged! The journey finishes in a candlelit tasting room, where you’ll toast to your Paris adventure with newfound knowledge and maybe a souvenir bottle (or two). It’s elegant, genuinely fun, and a treat for the senses. 

Tour Montparnasse: Skyline Paris the Easy Way 

End your day on a high at Tour Montparnasse—literally! This sleek skyscraper is home to one of Paris’s fastest elevators, zooming you to the 56th floor for panoramic, heart-thumping city views. On a clear day, you can spot every big-name monument and trace the Seine as it winds through the city.  

The atmosphere above the city is noticeably peaceful and offers a fresh perspective on Paris, far from the usual crowds. For bonus points, time your visit for golden hour and watch the skyline shift into twinkling lights. From here, you’re reminded just how much there is to explore—and how easily you can hop between Parisian wonders, from science and chocolate to sweeping, unforgettable views. 

 

Now you know—just steps from the Paris Science Museum, a world of discovery unfolds. With interactive museums, sweet stops, shopping hot spots, tranquil parks, and river adventures all at your fingertips, planning the perfect day out in Paris is a breeze. Why pick just one vibe when you can enjoy them all, one delightful stop at a time? 

Enjoyed this? Check out Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Paris Passes or Things to Do Near the Gourmet Chocolate Museum 

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Alexander III Bridge over the Seine lit up at nightfall
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Free things to do in Paris

If it’s the idea of Parisian prices that’s putting you off visiting one of the world’s favorite cities, we’ve got a secret to share with you. You don’t have to spend a fortune to be able to see its world-famous attractions and landmarks. There are enough free things to do in Paris to keep even the most hardcore travelers busy for several days. Not convinced? Just check out our pick of the crop below. Discover Montmartre Whilst its hidden sights are perhaps best uncovered as part of a Montmartre & Sacré-Coeur walking tour, or by making use of the Petit Train, it is possible to take in much of Montmartre on a self-guided exploration of the area. Paris’s bohemian artistic quarter, it has been the haunt of a fascinating cast of characters since before it even became part of the city in 1860. Its atmospheric cobbled side streets and public staircases are the perfect place for a stroll, with sights including Renoir’s Garden and the Lapin Agile cabaret club to look out for. For those with budgets that don’t stretch as far as a show, check out the quarter’s street artists instead. Popular spots include the steps leading to the doors of the Basilica of the Sacré-Coeur, which are free to enter (the crypt and dome require a ticket). Rather unusually for a Paris suburb, you can also take in the ripening grapes of the vineyard in Rue Saint-Vincent, producing just 750 bottles of wine in any one year. Look out for special events Even the popular kids don’t have as much in the diary as Paris. Pick a month and there’s probably a public spectacle that awaits, from Chinese New Year to Christmas markets. Many of the French capital’s top annual events are also pleasingly light on the wallet. June, for instance, sees Fête de la Musique (World Music Day) fill the streets of the capital with sound on the longest day of the year. A significant number of major parks and squares get in on the act with performances spanning the world of classical works and the latest urban music. More frequently, free concerts take place from January through to June and September to November at the American Church in Paris. It lies between the Eiffel Tower and Les Invalides – the burial place of Napoleon Bonaparte. Less than a month later on July 14 the Champs-Élysées is cleared of its usual traffic for the grand military parade which forms the centerpiece of the nation’s Bastille Day celebrations – perhaps the most important day in the cultural calendar. Museums open their doors long into the small hours during October’s Nuit Blanche (White Night), whilst those including the Louvre also offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month. Enjoy the art scene Art fans looking for other free things to do in Paris won’t be disappointed. In addition to the Louvre’s gratis entry days, there are several museums with important collections free to enter 365 days a year. The Paris Museum of Modern Art (Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris) is one. Ignore the ‘Paris’ in its name, the artworks it contains come from some of the world’s greatest 20th and 21st Century artists whatever their home city. Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse and Bridget Riley are all represented, alongside their many contemporaries. To discover artworks that are yet to make it into any museum head to the banks of the Canal Saint-Martin. It’s a hotspot for street art, which creates an intriguing contrast between the old locks and ironwork footbridges along its three-mile length. Take advantage of Paris’s green spaces Perfectly aligned with the south side of the Eiffel Tower, the Champ de Mars is an exquisite place to spend a couple of hours. The mix of trimmed lawns, mature trees and tower views makes it an ideal place for a picnic. The older sibling to New York’s High Line, the Promenade Plantée brings the idea of a public park into the 21st Century. Raised above much of the city on a disused railway viaduct and even passing narrowly between buildings, it has plenty of spots to take in the vistas. Elsewhere, Paris’s largest cemetery, Père Lachaise, attracts a steady stream of visitors. Covering 110 acres, its tombstones and mausoleums span more than 200 years and two million interments. Amongst the better known are singers Édith Piaf and Jim Morrison, and Irish playwright Oscar Wilde. Admire the architecture There’s nothing freer or more freeing than getting about a new city on foot, uncovering the hidden sights you might otherwise miss, smelling the aromas of bakeries, cafés and restaurants, and hearing the everyday sounds of an area. Paris has no shortage of free walking tours taking place with an English language guide, although you’ll have to be at the designated starting point for their launch times. Going solo, it’s difficult to get lost if you stick to the right or left banks of the Seine, which are dotted with many of Paris’s most important landmarks from Notre Dame Cathedral to the Jardin des Plantes botanic gardens. The river’s banks are even more magical after nightfall, when its landmarks are picked out in stunning clarity by illuminations. Continue into the east of the city and you’ll quickly catch sight of the four striking towers that make up the National Library’s François-Mitterrand campus. They mark the corners of a lovely hidden garden at the same time as preserving a collection containing an estimated 14 million individual documents. Cross the Seine on the undulating form of Passerelle Simone de Beauvoir Bridge and you’ll end up in Parc de Bercy, liberally sprinkled with monuments. Knowing where to splash the cash in Paris Taking advantage of free things to do in Paris is a great way of staying on budget and exploring much of the French capital. However, there are some attractions you won’t want to miss which require an entry ticket. There’s help at hand here too though, and it comes in the shape of Go City. Save on admission to attractions you were going to visit anyway with our Paris passes!
Ian Packham
Musée d'Orsay
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Free Parisian Delights Steps from Musée d'Orsay

From riverside strolls to hidden gardens, see Paris near Musée d'Orsay for free.
Two women enjoy a walk along the banks of the Seine
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Cheap things to do in Paris

Paris has a reputation for being très cher – very expensive. But, au contraire, it doesn’t have to be. There are a huge number of fun things to do which don’t cost the earth. If you’re heading to the City of Light on a budget – and even if you’re not – check out these cheap things to do in Paris. You won’t regret it! Feel like a local Budget travelers are likely to find themselves in the further reaches of the Paris suburbs, meaning potentially expensive taxi fares to the world-famous landmarks dotted on and around the River Seine. However, as you might expect, there are a variety of cheaper alternatives. Not only that, but some can become attractions in themselves. A great addition to trips aboard a Hop-on Hop-off sightseeing bus are the city’s public buses. Route 89 takes in the sights of the Latin Quarter, including the Panthéon and Jardin du Luxembourg. The north-south route 69 incorporates the Bastille, Louvre, Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. When the sometimes-fickle Paris weather holds, one of the most charming ways to explore Paris is by bike. The bike-sharing stations of Vélib’ are located across greater Paris. A mix of pedal and hybrid electric cycles, they have rates starting at just €1 for 30 minutes use. Whilst covering 41 square miles, the majority of Paris’s major landmarks are centrally located, making an afternoon stroll an excellent way to absorb the city’s atmosphere. So why not wander along a portion of the Seine, or follow the Champs-Élysées from the Arc de Triomphe towards the masterpieces of the Louvre? Check out the markets You’re unlikely to discover a lost artwork by Monet or Degas among the stalls of Saint-Ouen flea market, located in the same neighborhood as the Sacre Coeur and Moulin Rouge. But even if you don’t, a bit of friendly-haggling with the stallholders can still get you a bargain. One of the largest flea markets in the world, stalls hold everything from vintage fashion to diamond bracelets. There’s no better place to discover Parisians’ love of food and fine ingredients than the oldest covered market in Paris. Founded in 1628, the Marché des Enfants Rouges – or Market of Red Children, after the orphanage of the same name – is a great place to pick up some freshly-baked bread or a bunch of flowers. Should it get your stomach growling, there are also a good selection of cafés and restaurants, many of whom use produce direct from the market’s stalls. Thursdays and Sundays sees another market appearing in the park to the north of Place de la Bastille. In addition to groceries, there’s also a good number of tempting objet d’art and other trinkets you’ll wonder how you ever lived without. Discover the city’s green spaces No list of cheap things to do in Paris should be considered complete without mentioning the city’s array of parks and gardens. Among one of the best is the Jardin des Plantes botanic garden. Largely formal in style, there are few better places for a romantic walk, whilst the small zoo’s collection of animals is sure to enthrall the kids. It’s easy to forget about the city beyond once inside Parc Monceau too. Created by the Duke of Chartres in 1778 as one of the world’s first public parks, it contrasts with the Jardin des Plantes because of its informal English landscaping style. But for a park like few others, head to the Promenade Plantée, also known as the Coulée verte René-Dumont. Similar to New York’s High Line, but opened a full 15 years beforehand, this elevated park gave a long-abandoned railway viaduct a new lease of life as an urban oasis. Take in the views In a city without the skyscrapers of New York or London, the Eiffel Tower has been the main vantage-point for citywide views since it was first erected in 1889. But for views of the Iron Lady herself you’ll need to turn your attention to the opposite end of the Champ de Mars and the Tour Montparnasse (Montparnasse Tower). Although its observation tower is not the cheapest thing to do in Paris, the bar on the 56th story has equally beguiling vistas plus lively conversation for the cost of a drink. Paris is also an excellent place to grab a street-side cup of coffee or plat du jour as you watch the world go by. If you’re keen to break through the frosty exterior some Parisians exude, many bars host a happy hour. Usually sometime between 5PM and 8 PM, just look for the advertising boards outside. Grab a bargain It’s unlikely you’ll have such luck with the stores of Rue Faubourg du Saint-Honoré outside of January or July, but there are several ways to feel a million dollars without having to splash that sort of cash. For instance, top department store Galeries Lafayette hosts regular 30 minute fashion shows curated by some of the biggest names in the industry and complete with catwalk models. Elsewhere, Shakespeare and Company has been supplying the English-speakers of Paris with reading material since 1951. As well as the new books you would expect, you’ll also find a treasure trove of secondhand tomes and also a free reading library. Would-be authors can even stay the night in exchange for helping out – it’s been estimated that more than 30,000 people have stayed since the store first opened its doors. Seeing Paris on a budget Just because you have a budget to stick to doesn’t mean you have to miss out on Paris’s big-ticket attractions. It’s possible to fully explore with Go City – allowing you to save on attraction admission and expensive overseas credit card charges without having to say goodbye to flexibility. Together with our recommendations for cheap things to do in Paris, Go City can help create an unforgettable vacation. You can stay up to date with all the latest tips by connecting with @GoCity on Instagram and Facebook.
Ian Packham

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