The Palais de la Porte Dorée is a spectacular building - and one that for much of the second half of the 20th century was spectacularly embarrassing! Starting life as the main installation of the 1931 colonial exhibition, it quickly became obsolete when France began losing its colonies and developing a more enlightened attitude to countries previously in its jurisdiction.
It was rebranded several times, focusing instead on primitive art or nature, always without pulling in the crowds. At the beginning of the 21st century though, a decision was made to perform a radical switch. Instead of hosting displays on previous French colonies, it would instead now celebrate immigration into France!
The museum itself is small, but very nicely put together, with some fascinating permanent items and temporary exhibitions. On top of this though you get the building itself which is an art deco gem. And that's not all - it is also home to a charming cafe with a lovely outdoor terrace in the summer.
And for children, the basement hosts an ever-popular aquarium.
Find your way with 168 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Le Bistrot de Longchamp" in Paris has an amazing positive atmosphere. I recommend visiting this small Portuguese restaurant on Tuesdays & Fridays...
by
"Venus sur Cour" in Paris is a special, hidden erotic shop that's unlike others. This one has actually a fascinating selection of antique sexual objects...
by
"Les mots a la bouche" is an LBGT-themed bookshop in Paris. It's nice and quiet. I strongly recommend you drop by -- you will discover interesting things.
by
"La Belle Iloise" in Paris, next to Les Halles, does top quality canned fish . I very much like tuna & sardines and how they even have fish sandwiches...
by
Cafe "Nomade" is based in an ex-tapissier. It's a perfect morning stop-off ofr a combo of filter coffee, pressed juice and a croissant or pain du chocolat.
by
Music Avenue Paris is my local soul/funk/hip-hop specialist. The place has been going since 1995 and every year they really celebrate record store day!
by
Entering "Le Silence de La Rue" in Paris you fall silent yourself, in awe of the copious racks of cataloged vinyl & merchandise from indie to rock...
by
Les Brutalists is where you'll find a leather maker's workshop that produces customized leather belts and unique, edgy accessories!
by
The records sitting in the racks at Vinyl Office make it seem like someone's prized personal collection, with a special focus on black music!
by
The "Gardens of the Quai Branly Museum" in Paris are next to the Eiffel Tower. What I love the most about them is that they're for free! Not to be missed.
by
The "Modern Art Museum of Paris" is free, which, as it so happens, means fewer tourists! Come here to enjoy some Modigliani, Picasso or Matisse in peace...
by
"The Zouave of the River Seine" is a statue on the Alma bridge that's become famous; Parisians come here to see how high the waters are compared to it...
by
168 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 168 Insider Tips