Ask 10 guys who they went to Paris with and I’ll put money on most of them saying that they went with a female. It makes sense as Paris is known as the city of love. So it’s often considered the ideal romantic city break. Guys are often walked off their feet around all of the major landmarks in Paris, but how often is Paris a guy-orientated trip?
To flip the script we’re going to suggest activities and things to do for men in Paris so that guys can get the most out of a trip to the impressive French capital, no matter who they’re with.
Paris is known for its rich history and romantic charm. While it is often associated with love and romance, Paris has much to offer beyond that. For men looking to experience the best of Paris, there are numerous activities to enjoy. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a sports aficionado, or a food lover, Paris has something to offer everyone.
Here are 11 things to do in Paris for men
1. Explore the underground catacombs of Paris
We’re starting with a morbid one in the underground labyrinth of Paris. There is a small section of this huge underground network that’s open to the public and it is around 1.5km/1 mile of limestone tunnels. Did I mention the walls are lined with the remains of around 6 million dead bodies? How cool is that? It’s very safe though and it is a piece of underground history that most guys will enjoy.
2. Take an electric scooter ride along the Seine river
You can very easily hire an electric scooter in Paris. This might seem risky but once you get down near the river and spaces start to open up it becomes a brilliant experience. Cruise on a scooter alongside the Seine River, soaking in the picturesque scenery, old architecture, and great landmarks. If this seems a bit too exposed for you then you could also rent a bike.
3. Explore the iconic Landmarks
Ok so this is probably already on the list of things to do in Paris no matter who you’re with but it’d be a shame to ignore it here. Visit the world-famous landmarks that define Paris. If I had to pick the main highlights then I’d say climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower for breathtaking views of the city, walk through the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral, and see the grandeur of the Louvre Museum. Here’s me eating a baguette at the Eiffel tower looking run off my feet from ‘shopping’.
4. Experience a local sports event
If you’re a sports enthusiast, then you can watch some world-class athletes in action. Catch a Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and see some of the best players in Europe on show at Parc des Princes. Alternatively, if rugby is more your thing then watch a thrilling rugby match at Stade de France, which is where the French national football team also plays. You might be lucky enough to catch a Six Nations rugby match if you’re there during Winter or perhaps be around to see the world-famous Tour de France bike event in Summer which climaxes dramatically in Paris.
5. Try the unique French cuisine
It might seem a bit scary but you simply have to try the local delicacies while you’re in Paris. Escargot (snails), and frog legs are two of the well-known ones. I was surprised at how good the snails were actually. Then there are other more readily available favourites such as baguettes, croissants, coq au vin, and other delectable dishes in the local charming cafes and restaurants. You could call it a food crawl to line your stomach before any drinks.
6. Beer tasting afternoon
What type of guy’s activities list would this be if it didn’t include the suggestion of beer? Several bars offer this service including La Fine Mousse. Most of these bars will offer around 15 or more beers on tap so you can try all of the darks and lights while having some snacks along the way so you can get merry without the empty stomach.
7. Try the best French wine
Paris offers an abundance of wine bars and bistros where you can savour some fantastic French wines. Participate in wine tastings and learn about the fascinating world of French viticulture, there will be a good range of red and whites to suit any taste. Then why not carry on afterward to other bars, remember not to switch to beer though.
8. Embrace the Paris nightlife
There are endless options here so experience the vibrant nightlife of Paris by visiting trendy bars, clubs, and live music venues. I found that Bastille, Le Marais, and Oberkampf are popular areas for a good night out with different themed bars alongside the usual classy Parisian establishments.
9. Take a CV Citroen car tour
Get out the boy’s toys. Men can tour around Paris in a vintage Citroen Deux Chevaux – a wonderful way to see the city. They have an open canvas convertible top where the passengers can stand up to take in the views. Not the driver though, they will tour through the secret side of Paris away from the buses and heavier traffic, and see around 20 top sights. There’s also a bonus if you like… A meal on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower. Beat that!
10. Explore the huge war museum: Musée de l’Armée des Invalides
Guys often have an interest in bloody histories and famous war memorabilia so they will be able to fill their boots in here as this museum has huge exhibits for World War 1 and 2. There’s plenty of medieval weaponry and armoured suits used by kings too. And possibly most interesting of all it has a dome church, which is home to the monumental tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte. Impressively its golden dome towers stand high in the Parisian sky at 110 metres high.
11. Quad biking in Paris city centre
Forget about the noise, it is actually possible to ride a quad bike inside the city of Paris.
You will get to drive around some of the main landmarks (Invalides, Pont Alexandre III, Place de la Concorde, Place Vendôme, Opéra Garnier, Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Grand Palais and Petit Palais, Champs Elysées, Arc de Triomphe and Trocadéro) and it’s not noisy because they’re electrical. Each quad seats 2 people and you can change drivers at the halfway point if you like.
In conclusion, Paris has tons of things to do for any guy. From world-class museums to exciting sports events or delicious food and drink, you can make some great memories in Paris that aren’t revolved around shopping and romantic pictures.