13eme, Paris

Tourism has largely failed to make its way to Paris’ 13th arrondissement, but no one should assume the lack of sight-seeing – unless one counts the plethora of high-rise apartment buildings – precludes a visit, especially since a few very popular clubs call the district home.

The area is anchored by the Place d'Italie square, from which several main thoroughfares interconnect, making it a good starting point for exploring the 13th.

Those in the mood for some serious ethnic flavor head south on Avenue de Choisy to the heart of Paris’ Chinatown. Constantly busy, Choisy brims with budget-friendly authentic restaurants and Asian markets, and the annual Chinese New Year celebrations here are by far the largest (and loudest) in town.

To the west, meanwhile, lies the tiny enclave of La Butte aux Cailles, a hillside community known for its narrow streets, beautifully bright painted houses, and relaxing little cafés that attract a diverse crowd in need of a mellow bite, as well as youthful bars perfect for a long night of drinking and conversation.

Things amp up a plug further east toward the Seine, where stylish clubs continue to sprout along the Boulevard Vincent Auriol, as well as on the Seine itself, where the famed Batofar boat softly bobs in the water as it plays host to concerts and a late-night dance scene.