Things to do in Paris: experiences and activities near Hôtel R de Paris

Neoness Saint-Lazare is a fitness club spanning over 1,500 m² in the heart of the 9th, open seven days a week from 6 am to 11 pm. The concept is accessible, well-equipped fitness: a 280 m² cardio area with 53 machines, an immersive 165 m² strength zone, cross-training (kettlebells, TRX, battle ropes) and group classes led by proper coaches. What makes it great is the proximity (steps from the hotel) and the option to do a full workout without a long-term membership, thanks to a day pass.

Why go: Ideal if you want an efficient session (getting back in shape, strength work, recovery after a long trip) or a "sport & well-being" moment.

Good to know: Check access conditions (day pass / trial session), bring suitable gear, and ask on site about classes/timetables if you'd like a coached workout.

Japanese floral art in its purest form: the Ikenobo school, the oldest ikebana tradition, is taught in Paris by certified instructors trained in Japan. The Saturday classes, in small groups, guide you through composing minimalist arrangements where every branch, every empty space matters. All materials are provided: you leave with your arrangement and a completely fresh perspective on flowers.

Why go: A calm, creative experience, very different from typical Paris activities.

Good to know: Great for beginners; you'll learn the basics step by step.

Housed in a former theatre steps from the Opéra Garnier, the Musée du Parfum Fragonard traces the history of French perfumery from ancient Egypt to today. Nearly 300 objects (precious bottles, kohl pots, pomanders, travel cases) are displayed along an immersive chronological journey. You also discover what goes on behind the scenes: raw materials, distillation, the art of the nose. Entry is free.

Why go: A quick Paris experience that's both cultural and sensory.

Good to know: Great as a rainy-day activity in the city.

The Temple Noble Art has been the boxing reference in Paris for over 10 years, with a club in the 9th near Saint-Lazare. The concept is American-style "white collar boxing": small-group classes of 8 maximum, champion coaches, upscale changing rooms with sauna, towels and organic cosmetics. What makes it fun is that it's accessible even if you've never put on gloves (English, Thai or French boxing, your pick) and the session is as intense as a solid cardio workout.

Why go: Great to move, sweat and reset your energy in Paris.

Good to know: Bring sportswear; gloves may be provided or rentable.

Spread across nearly 100 m² on Rue d'Amsterdam, steps from Place de Clichy, this studio offers introductions to hand-building and wheel-throwing led by a collective of passionate ceramicists. Over two three-hour sessions (160€), you discover the techniques (coiling, pinching, slab work, throwing) and shape your own piece. The studio provides all materials and handles the firing: you leave with a handmade object.

Why go: A creative activity and a unique souvenir.

Good to know: Allow time for firing; pick-up or shipping depends on the studio.

In Thai, "Saud Saï" means well-being, and that's exactly what you feel when you walk through the door of this spa on Rue de Clichy. The experience begins with a traditional drink, then you surrender to the care: Thai massages, body scrubs, hammam, all in private treatment rooms bathed in soft light. Rated 4.9/5 with nearly 900 Google reviews, it's one of the highest-rated wellness addresses in the neighbourhood.

Why go: Ideal after long walking days in Paris.

Good to know: Book a slot; bring swimwear if required by the venue.

Wolf Gang is an experience that blends immersive theatre, live-action role-playing and escape game, set in a secret crypt near Place de Clichy. The concept is the classic Werewolf game reinvented: costumes, candles, smoke, polished staging: each player becomes a druid, medium or hidden werewolf in a two-hour intrigue for 8 to 12 players. What makes it fun is the game master who guides you through the story and its twists, far more immersive than a standard escape game.

Why go: A unique indoor activity in Paris for friends or team outings.

Good to know: Book ahead and come on time; sessions run on a schedule.

Founded in 2019 by Annabelle Fonté, Pottery Hive & Co is a 110 m² studio-gallery in the Saint-Lazare neighbourhood, Paris's first hybrid ceramics space. You can take wheel-throwing, hand-building or decorating classes led by resident ceramic artists, and browse the adjoining shop to buy pieces created on site. The atmosphere is warm, communal and open to all levels.

Why go: A creative activity in Paris and a memorable hands-on experience.

Good to know: Some pieces require glazing and later pickup.

Pathé Wepler is the grand historic cinema on Place de Clichy, inaugurated in 1956 and open 365 days a year. The concept is a neighbourhood multiplex with cutting-edge technology: 4DX screens (sensory effects: motion, wind, water), Dolby Atmos spatial sound, 4K projection and Duo seats where the central armrest lifts up. What makes it great is booking a numbered seat online and arriving stress-free, even on a Saturday night, to catch the latest blockbuster in premium comfort.

Why go: Easy, stress-free evening plan in the neighbourhood.

Good to know: Check showtimes online; popular screenings sell out.

The Cinéma des Cinéastes is an art-house cinema founded by Claude Berri in 1996, steps from Place de Clichy, in a building that was once the Père Lathuille cabaret. Three screens, an auteur-driven programme (retrospectives, previews, Q&As with directors) and a lobby exhibition with vintage cameras. What makes it fun is the hidden speakeasy on the first floor, Le Bistrot des Cinéastes: you can combine a drink or a light dinner with a screening for a proper movie night.

Why go: Perfect if you prefer movies beyond blockbusters, and you want a quiet night near Place de Clichy.

Good to know: There's a bistro on site, handy for a drink or light dinner before the screening.

Climbing District Saint-Lazare is a climbing gym housed in a converted chapel on Rue de Saint-Petersbourg. The concept is total autonomy: 26 routes up to 13 metres high, all equipped with auto-belay, no partner needed, a world first. What makes it special is the setting: the chapel vaults soar above the climbing walls, and between climbs you can catch your breath at the coffee shop, in the coworking space or at the library.

Why go: A fun way to stay active in Paris, even on rainy days.

Good to know: Check if you need to book a slot; bring sportswear and socks.

Quiz Room is an immersive quiz game styled like a TV game show, with buzzers, podiums, live scores, lighting effects and a voice-over commentating on your performance. The concept is six podiums arranged in a circle with all the trappings of television: music blind tests, general knowledge, customisable themes (sport, 2000s, food...). What makes it fun is that absolutely everyone can play, from age 8 to 90, with family, friends or colleagues, and the 75-minute experience guarantees plenty of laughs.

Why go: Ideal for families, friends or team outings in Paris.

Good to know: Book a slot; popular times fill up fast.