Paris is full of famous landmarks, but during my recent trip I wanted to capture places that are quieter, less crowded, and perfect for sketching in peace. Here are five locations where I set up my sketchbook, each offering a unique mix of history and charm. Btw, I have post about the Best French restaurants in Paris, you can read it here.
Where to stay?
Staying at Drawing Hôtel felt like being inside an art sketchbook itself. Each floor is decorated by contemporary artists, and the rooftop balcony offers beautiful Paris views that are perfect for evening sketches. So inspiration starts the moment you step out of your room. I loved how close it was to the Louvre and Palais Royal—perfect spots to wander out with my sketchbook. If you’re a sketcher in Paris, this hotel feels less like accommodation and more like part of the creative journey. Plan your stay here.
Btw, if you want to visit Louvre, plan your visit in advance here.
Luxembourg Gardens – Medici Fountain
One of my favorite sketches from Paris was of the Medici Fountain, a romantic spot tucked away in the Luxembourg Gardens. I used watercolor and pen to capture the autumn shades, the long reflection pool, and the classical statue framed by trees. Built in the early 17th century by Marie de’ Medici, the fountain is an ode to her Italian roots and Baroque taste. Despite being in a popular park, this corner is surprisingly calm and ideal for drawing.
Place des Vosges
This elegant square is one of the oldest in Paris, dating back to 1612. I sat near the fountain and sketched the rooftops, the symmetry of the architecture, and people enjoying the benches under the trees. Place des Vosges was once home to Victor Hugo, who wrote part of Les Misérables here. It has a refined atmosphere, yet feels relaxed—perfect for observing details of classical Parisian design without the tourist crowds of the big boulevards.
Val-de-Grâce Church
A short walk from Luxembourg Gardens brought me to Val-de-Grâce, a Baroque church with a majestic dome. I loved sketching its details in watercolor and brush pen, especially how the blue dome stood against the sky. This church was commissioned by Queen Anne of Austria in the 17th century as a gesture of gratitude for the birth of her son, the future Louis XIV. The area around the church is calm and residential, making it a peaceful escape to draw without distraction.
Hôtel des Invalides
The golden dome of Hôtel des Invalides glimmers in the Paris skyline, and I couldn’t resist sketching it. This 17th-century complex was founded by Louis XIV as a hospital and home for wounded soldiers. Today it houses the Musée de l’Armée and, most famously, the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte. Sitting in front of the grand façade with my sketchbook gave me a sense of history and grandeur while still being a manageable and quiet place to work.
Le Moulin de la Galette
High up in Montmartre, I sketched Le Moulin de la Galette from Rue Lepic. The old windmill is surrounded by charming streets and cafés, including a traditional French restaurant nearby. Historically, it was a popular dance hall in the 19th century, immortalized by artists like Renoir, Van Gogh, and Toulouse-Lautrec. Today it retains that artistic spirit, and though the area is lively, it’s easy to find a good corner to sit and sketch the windmill and neighborhood atmosphere.
These five places may not always appear on the typical Paris postcard, but they offer tranquility and inspiration for any sketcher. From hidden fountains and leafy squares to golden domes and historic windmills, each location gave me space to slow down, observe, and translate the spirit of Paris onto paper. If you’re looking to sketch in Paris beyond the obvious icons, these hidden gems are perfect starting points.
