Legend has it that when St Denis was beheaded, he picked up his noggin and walked with it to Vicus Catulliacus (now St-Denis) to be buried. The first church, parts of which can...

This centre first opened in 2004, with the mission to bridge the divide between stage and spectator. It invites audiences to its quarterly 'Grandes leçons de danse',...

The largest of the six municipal walls in Paris.

The energetic programming at the Cité de la Musique features a vast non-classical repertoire that includes ethnic music and jazz. Concerts are frequently split up into series...

This Villette venue welcomes prestigious names from all over the globe, and also does a fine line in contemporary classical, avant-jazz and electronica.

Opened in 2008, this covered complex provides urban sports fans with a vast space. There are bowls and street furniture, and a funbox and beginners area are due to open in...

Steeplechasing and floodlit trotting at this course 18km (11 miles) north of Paris.

Flat racing 40km (25 miles) from Paris. The fashion parade turns out in force for the Prix de Diane Hermès in June; the full length of the course is used for the Prix du Jockey...

This smaller venue splits its programme between theatre and contemporary multimedia dance. The Avis de Turbulences festival (end May-mid June) features a decent selection of...

This ultra-modern science museum pulls in five million visitors a year. Explora, the permanent show, occupies the upper two floors, whisking visitors through 30,000sq m...

This quirky, minimal-futurist spot in the 19th has carved out a niche in all things alternative, from post-rock to drum 'n' bass, avant-garde hip hop to modern jazz.

A hub for fringe musical and performance activity just outside Paris, the Mains d'Oeuvres is a huge former leisure centre for car factory workers that specialises in left-field...

A rehearsal space and live venue for new bands. Occasionally the whole building is turned into a club venue, with rooms devoted to different music styles. Look for flyers or...

The biggest market in Europe; its sheer size may overwhelm the first-time visitor. Understanding how this Byzantine emporium is ordered is essential; there are 15 to 20...