Paris for the Adventurous: Thrilling Activities You Need to Try

Paris, the City of Light, is often associated with romantic walks along the Seine, iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, and world-class art museums. However, beyond the well-trodden paths, there lies a side of Paris that caters to those with a thirst for adventure and adrenaline. Paris has always been a playground for thrill-seekers like myself. Whether you’re soaring through the skies, diving deep beneath the city streets, or taking a daring ride through one of the city’s iconic parks, Paris offers an abundance of thrilling activities that will make your heart race.

I’ll take you through my top thrilling activities in Paris, sharing my personal experiences, insights, and recommendations to help you make the most of your adventurous side in this stunning city. From breathtaking aerial views to heart-pumping experiences, these activities are perfect for anyone looking to add some excitement to their Parisian adventure.

1. Paragliding Over the Eiffel Tower: A Sky-High Adventure

Why It’s a Must-Try

When you think of adventure in Paris, paragliding might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, it’s one of the most exhilarating ways to experience the city from a completely different perspective. Imagine floating gracefully through the air, with the iconic Eiffel Tower beneath you and the sprawling cityscape of Paris stretching out in all directions. Paragliding in Paris is an activity that offers a thrilling and serene combination, giving you an adrenaline rush while taking in breathtaking views of the city.

My Experience

On my most recent trip to Paris, I wanted to do something I’d never done before, and paragliding seemed like the perfect fit. After researching a bit, I booked my session with an experienced instructor through a company that specializes in urban paragliding experiences. The launch site was situated just outside of Paris in a picturesque park called La Coulée Verte (about a 45-minute drive from the city center), where the natural surroundings offered the ideal setting for taking flight.

The adrenaline started to build as I suited up and met my instructor. After a brief safety briefing and an explanation of the equipment, we were ready to launch. The takeoff was smooth and surprisingly calm, and within moments, we were soaring above the trees with the Eiffel Tower in the distance. The quietness of the sky contrasted with the excitement of being so high up, and the view of Paris from above was nothing short of spectacular. From this vantage point, I could see the winding Seine River, the Louvre, and even Montmartre in the distance.

I had the chance to steer the paraglider, guided by my instructor, which was an incredible experience. We soared above the rooftops, feeling the wind rush past us as we floated effortlessly through the air. I loved the sense of freedom and awe as I looked down at the city below. The entire experience lasted around 30 minutes, but it felt timeless.

Best Time to Visit

• When: Paragliding can be done year-round, but the best weather for flying is from April to October when the skies are clear, and the wind conditions are ideal.
• Location: La Coulée Verte, just outside Paris, with views of the Eiffel Tower.
• Getting There: You can reach the launch site by car or public transport (taking the RER C to the nearby station and a short bus ride).

Tips for Visiting

• Book in Advance: Paragliding is a popular activity, so be sure to book your spot ahead of time, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Dress Comfortably: Wear athletic clothes and comfortable shoes. The weather can be cool at high altitudes, so bring a light jacket.
• Safety First: Choose a reputable company with certified instructors. Make sure to listen carefully to the safety briefing.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Breathtaking aerial views of Paris, thrilling yet peaceful, safe and well-regulated.
• Cons: Weather-dependent (bad weather may lead to cancellations), limited to certain times of year.

2. Catacombs of Paris: A Dark and Mysterious Underground Adventure

Why It’s a Must-Try

If you’re a fan of history and a little bit of the macabre, the Catacombs of Paris offer an unforgettable and thrilling experience. Beneath the streets of Paris lies an extensive network of tunnels, housing the remains of millions of Parisians. Exploring these eerie catacombs allows you to delve deep into the city’s dark past, providing a thrilling, mysterious atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere in the world.

My Experience

I’ve always been fascinated by history, especially the darker side, so a visit to the Catacombs was high on my Paris bucket list. The entrance to the Catacombs is located in the 14th arrondissement at 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, and as I descended into the depths of the earth, I could feel the temperature drop, and the air grew still. The narrow passageways led us through dimly lit tunnels, lined with walls made of bones and skulls, arranged in artistic patterns.

As we walked deeper into the tunnels, the sense of mystery heightened. The catacombs themselves were surprisingly expansive, with corridors stretching for miles underground. The sheer scale of the bone collections was staggering, and I found myself captivated by the historical significance of this ossuary, which holds the remains of individuals from Paris’s past who were moved here in the late 18th century to make room for new graves.

The guided tour I took was informative and well-paced, providing context for the history behind the Catacombs and their significance. While it’s a slightly eerie experience, it’s not overly terrifying, making it perfect for adventurous visitors looking for something unique. The combination of dark, atmospheric tunnels and fascinating history made this one of the most thrilling and memorable experiences of my trip.

Best Time to Visit

• When: The Catacombs are open daily except Mondays, and it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
• Location: 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 14th Arrondissement, Paris.
• Getting There: The closest Metro station is Denfert-Rochereau (Lines 4 and 6).

Tips for Visiting

• Buy Tickets in Advance: The Catacombs are very popular, and the lines can get long, especially during peak tourist season. It’s a good idea to purchase tickets in advance to skip the queues.
• Prepare for the Cold: The underground tunnels can be chilly, so make sure to bring a jacket.
• Mind Your Step: The pathways can be narrow and uneven, so wear comfortable shoes.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Fascinating historical experience, unique and eerie adventure, great for history enthusiasts.
• Cons: The atmosphere may be unsettling for those who are easily spooked, and the tour can be physically demanding with lots of stairs.

3. Seine River Night Kayaking: A Thrilling Paddle Through Paris at Night

Why It’s a Must-Try

If you’re looking for a unique and exhilarating way to see Paris, kayaking along the Seine at night is a thrilling experience you won’t soon forget. As the sun sets and the city lights begin to sparkle, paddling through the calm waters of the river provides a completely different perspective of Paris’s iconic landmarks. The combination of the thrill of kayaking and the magical atmosphere of Paris at night makes this activity a must-try for adventurous souls.

My Experience

On my last evening in Paris, I decided to take a night kayaking tour along the Seine. I booked my tour through a reputable company that specializes in water activities. The meeting point was near the Pont Neuf, one of Paris’s oldest bridges, where we were provided with safety gear and briefed on the basics of kayaking. After a quick intro, we launched into the water, and I immediately felt a sense of excitement.

As we paddled down the Seine, the view of Paris by night was absolutely stunning. The lights from the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre reflected beautifully on the water, creating a magical ambiance. The peacefulness of the river at night was in stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city, and I felt an incredible sense of serenity as we glided past Paris’s landmarks.

The kayaking itself was fairly easy, even for a beginner like myself, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of paddling through the calm waters while admiring the city’s beauty. The tour also included stops along the way to learn more about the history of Paris and the landmarks we were passing by. It was a perfect mix of adventure and culture.

Best Time to Visit

• When: Night kayaking is available year-round, and it’s best to book a tour in the summer months when the weather is warm and the evenings are longer.
• Location: Tours usually meet at Pont Neuf, but check the company’s website for exact details.
• Getting There: The closest Metro station is Cité (Line 4).

Tips for Visiting

• Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting a bit wet, and bring a jacket since the evenings can get chilly.
• Book in Advance: Night kayaking is a popular activity, especially during the warmer months, so it’s best to reserve your spot ahead of time.
• Bring a Camera: The views of Paris by night are spectacular, so don’t forget to bring a waterproof camera or a GoPro to capture the magic.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Unique perspective of Paris, peaceful and serene experience, excellent for photography.
• Cons: Some tours can be physically demanding, not recommended for those who are afraid of water.

4. Recommended Thrilling Activities to Try in Paris

4.1 Bungee Jumping at the Pont de l’Arcade

Located just outside Paris, the Pont de l’Arcade offers a heart-stopping bungee jumping experience for those looking for the ultimate thrill. You’ll leap from the bridge, with stunning views of the Seine below, and experience an adrenaline rush like no other.

4.2 Virtual Reality Roller Coaster at La Villette

For an indoor adventure, head to La Villette, where you can try out the world’s first virtual reality roller coaster. This immersive ride combines cutting-edge technology with the excitement of a traditional roller coaster, offering a thrilling experience without leaving the city.

4.3 Indoor Skydiving at iFly Paris

For those who dream of skydiving but aren’t quite ready to jump out of a plane, indoor skydiving at iFly Paris offers the perfect solution. Experience the thrill of free-fall in a safe, controlled environment—perfect for both beginners and seasoned thrill-seekers.

4.4 Rock Climbing at MurMur Climbing Gym

If you’re looking to stay active while having fun, head to MurMur Climbing Gym, one of the largest rock climbing gyms in Paris. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, the gym offers a range of challenges and a great way to push your limits.

Paris may be known for its romance, art, and history, but it also has plenty to offer for the adventurous traveler. Whether you’re soaring through the sky, exploring the depths of the catacombs, or paddling along the Seine at night, there’s no shortage of thrilling activities in this incredible city. My personal experiences with paragliding, exploring the Catacombs, and kayaking along the Seine have been some of the most unforgettable moments of my travels. I encourage any adventurous traveler to step out of their comfort zone and try something exciting in Paris—it’s a city that truly offers something for everyone.