Top Paris Airbnb Experiences You Can’t Miss

Paris is teeming with walking tour companies, and after countless excursions, I’ve compiled my favorites in this post. Yet, beyond the typical guides with brightly colored umbrellas, I’ve discovered another gem: Airbnb Experiences.

These experiences are truly the holy grail of tours—unique, off the beaten path, and led by locals passionate about sharing their culture. Unlike standard walking tours, they offer a refreshing perspective that many travelers overlook. In fact, whenever I conduct polls about them, I find that about half of the respondents aren’t even familiar with the concept!

I encourage you to include them in your itinerary on your next visit to Paris. The city boasts an extensive array of Airbnb experiences; I’ve participated in around 20-25 myself. Below, I’m excited to share my top picks:

Rediscover Jacqueline Marval

Jacqueline Marval, a remarkable Impressionist painter, mingled with Matisse, influenced Picasso, and ultimately faded into obscurity. This exclusive gallery tour, led by Parisian curator Camille, unveils her family’s 40-year dedication to collecting Marval’s art. As Camille guides you through the gallery, she shares Marval’s life story and the fascinating history encapsulated in each piece. I was captivated—having known little about Marval beforehand—by her undeniable talent and the beauty of her work. The experience culminates with champagne on a serene terrace, making it a perfect encounter with a forgotten artist. Plus, Camille’s connections in the Paris art scene can steer you towards must-see galleries and exhibits.

Savor French Wine and Cheese in a Hidden Shop

This intimate wine and cheese tasting hosted by certified expert Erwan is nothing short of extraordinary. In a cozy, relaxed atmosphere, you’ll savor six distinct French wines, each paired with mouth-watering cheeses and fresh bread. Erwan weaves captivating stories about each selection, transforming the experience into an educational delight. I’ve sampled numerous wine and cheese tastings in Paris, but this one stands out. With unique flavors and Erwan’s engaging personality, it’s undoubtedly among the best in the city.

A Frenchie Food & Wine Experience

If you’re seeking something a bit more upscale, consider this tasting at Altro Frenchie by the acclaimed chef Greg Marchand, known from Chef’s Table. The journey begins on a sunny terrace at Frenchie Caviste with a sparkling aperitif, followed by a curated tasting of three unique wines. Next, you’ll indulge in a lavish six-course tasting menu next door. This experience offers incredible value, featuring four generous glasses of wine alongside delectable cheeses and flatbreads, making it a memorable haute cuisine journey.

Secrets of the Tower with Eiffel’s Descendant

Immerse yourself in the history of the Eiffel Tower with Savin Yeatman-Eiffel, a filmmaker and direct descendant of Gustave Eiffel. At the tower’s base, Savin reveals the scandalous debates that surrounded its construction, showcasing seldom-seen family photos, sketches, and heirlooms. This experience enriches the standard historical narrative by offering an insider perspective you won’t find elsewhere. (Note: This tour does not include an ascent of the tower.)

Black Presence in Paris: A Historical Tour

Embark on this enlightening tour that explores the invaluable contributions of Black individuals in France—a topic often overlooked in conventional history tours. Kicking off at the Panthéon, your guide Binkady shares stories of trailblazers like Josephine Baker and others, culminating in reflections on pioneering Black leaders at the Luxembourg Palace. I found this tour to be both educational and engaging, with Binkady’s insights drawing on his experience from working in the Opera, enriching the experience even further.

Inside Paris’s First Microbrewery

This experience ticks all the boxes for a unique outing. The first microbrewery in Paris, located in a largely unvisited area of the city, is headed by the passionate Antoine. He shares his story and the background of microbreweries in Paris, revealing the brewing process and the intricacies behind their offerings. With a good sampling of their beers and engaging storytelling, this 5-star experience embodies the essence of what makes Airbnb Experiences remarkable.

While Paris offers a plethora of walking tours and experiences, skipping an Airbnb Experience would be a missed opportunity. These curated selections stand out as the best of the bunch!