history tours in paris

... six self-guided walking tours of Paris organized around six eras of Paris history and architecture. The walks are free, fun, and easy to follow. They’ll help you explore the city of Paris, and its many layers of history, at your own pace.

Most Paris walking tours are organized geographically around particular sections of the city. They usually cover a lot of historical territory and can get a bit overwhelming at times — too many people, events, and building styles — from too many centuries — all jumbled together.

These Paris “history walks” are different . They’re organized historically around eras of Paris history. As a result, you can focus — on common historical themes — a limited cast of characters — and buildings with similar architectural styles.

The walking guides for these walks are easy to print out, fold up, and take with you.

• Each guide begins with some historical background for the walk you’re about to take. Short summaries focus on politics and economics, religion and philosophy, architecture, and urban growth and development.

• You’ll also find a walking tour route map, detailed descriptions of the buildings and monuments on the tour route, walking directions, information on opening times and admission fees, and lots of photos.

To get started , just click on one of the pictures or titles to the left. The link will take you to an overview of that walk, and a quick list of information you’ll need to plan your day. From there, all you have to do is click on and print the Guide and Map pdf and you’re on your way.

Contact: [email protected]

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The 11 best walking tours in Paris

Get to know the glorious French capital on foot via one of these themed walking tours in Paris

Landed in the City of Light for the first time? Don’t be intimidated. This place is big. Really big. And there’s so much going on it can be hard to know where to start. But luckily for you globe-trotters, we’re here to help out. If you’re an out-of-towner with next-to-no knowledge of Paris, we think booking a walking tour might be your best bet. Thanks to a guide who knows what they’re talking about – and, more importantly, where they’re going – you’ll have sussed out this city in no time. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your comfiest shoes and set out on a tour of one of the finest cities in the world. Here’s our pick of the best walking tours in Paris right now, from tip-top  chocolatier trips to erotica-themed excursions (yes, really). 

RECOMMENDED: 🇫🇷 Full guide to the best things to do in Paris 🏨 Take your pick of  the best hotels in Paris 🛏 Or make reservations at a chic Paris Airbnb 🚌 The best bus tours in Paris

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Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best walking tours in Paris

1.  hit all the main sights in one go.

One for the newbies: this two-hour tour will take you to all the big Parisian landmarks. Think Notre Dame, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, all in a smaller group setting. It’s even led by a clued-up guide who’ll keep you informed as you go. Or you can just Google stuff along the way instead. 

Time Out tip:  Be sure to wear something that covers your shoulders and knees, as certain pit stops are places of worship and can deny entry if you're too exposed. 

2.  Ramble around hilly Montmartre

Immerse yourself in la vie bohème – Bohemian Montmartre is one of Paris’s most charming (and historic) areas. This tour will take you around the hilly northern district, stopping at cool shops and some of the finest food spots in the area. Of course, you can expect the odd historical anecdote... or three.

Time Out tip: Make sure your camera's fully charged, as atop the highest hill in the city lies some of the best panoramic views Paris has to offer. 

3.  Stroll through streets rich with criminal history

True-crime fans will love this historical crime Paris walking tour. Embrace the Parisian streets from a different, slightly eerie, perspective. Join the darker side of Paris on a walking tour learning all about the dangerous past of the criminals who roamed the streets before you. Visit sites of executions, stroll the routes known for dodgy dealings, and discover the maze of side streets – the helping hand for criminals to outrun the law. Hold onto your purses.

Time Out tip:  Listen out for the surprising facts and shocking anecdotes your clued-up guide has up their sleeve. 

4.  Delve into the depths of the Catacombs

You know, like that film? One of the French capital’s eeriest attractions, these underground  ossuaries hold the remains of more than six million Parisians. Your guide will fill you in on the long and storied  past of this spooky subterranean cemetery. Definitely one for fans of spine-chilling adventures.  

Time Out tip: You can opt for a hosted tour, which comes with a 30-minute briefing outside the catacombs, or dive straight in with a self-guided audio tour. 

5.  Explore Paris by night

This late-night tuk tuk tour will introduce you to the city just as it starts to get dark – you’ll journey along the Seine, around the courtyard of the Louvre, and then pay a visit to some lesser-known (and largely tourist-free) attractions.

Time Out tip:  This is the perfect tour to do with your significant other if you happen to be on a couples holiday. 

6.  Walk in the footsteps of Coco Chanel

Fashionistas can see Paris through the eyes of one of the 20th century’s greatest designers. The tour will begin at Coco’s favourite café, Angelina – renowned for its hot chocolate. Then you’ll venture on to Rue Saint-Honoré, where Chanel lived, and see the site of her first shop (which remains today). Lastly, you can rummage through a vintage shop in the hope of scoring some old-school designer goods. 

Time Out tip:  The audio guide set-up of this tour means you can begin at any time and go completely at your own pace. All you need to do is download the VoiceMap app. 

7.  Spy some stunning street art

For something beautiful and slightly less touristy, take a moment to admire the in-your-face artwork lining walls all over the city. Learn about some of the capital’s most well-known street artists, and discover the techniques they use to scale those mighty Haussmannian façades. Make sure to bring a camera, you'll have heaps of good photo ops. 

Time Out tip: Make the most of your local, knowledgeable guide by asking as many questions as you like. 

8.  Satisfy your sweet tooth

Treat that sweet tooth with a delectable tour of the city’s most impressive chocolatiers. Learn all about the history of confectionery in Paris by visiting some swanky sweet shops along the Right Bank and, best of all, get your sticky mitts on some freebies. Our pro tip: wear elasticated trousers and thank us later. Bon Appétit.

Time Out: Be sure to get your fair share of hot drinks, with tea, coffee and even hot chocolate available. 

9.  Whizz round the coolest kid-friendly sights

It can be hard keeping the tots entertained when you’re in a new city. But we've got you covered. This fun tour caters to families with young children, with light commentary, frequent breaks, stops for food and a playground included in the route. 

Time Out tip:  You'll be able to secure some amazing family pictures on this tour worth hanging up at home. 

10.  Live it like Emily

Immerse yourself in the life of a bourgeois 'it girl' with this Emily in Paris walking tour. Inspired by the hit TV show, you'll visit key filming locations from the series while immersing yourself in the charm of Paris from La place de l'Estrapade to the Seine. Just a forewarning, you'll want to wear your comfiest shoes.

11.  Discover the great women of paris

The history books love an underdog, don't they? On this two-hour tour, you'll discover the stories of the women who helped shape French history all the while walking along the mesmerising left bank. You'll meet just outside Luxembourg Gardens where you'll uncover some hidden gems and learn about these lesser-known historical figures. Pray for good weather, and, voila, you'll have the perfect day out. 

Not done exploring the city yet?

More paris tours.

Take a look through our complete list of the best tours in Paris. 

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An Independent Paris Tour Guide

My paris history walks, revolution and napoleon walk.

The years 1789-1815 changed everything. Relive the dramatic story of France's fight for liberty, equality and glory!

Louvre Highlights Tour

The unmissable Paris experience. Renaissance paintings, Ancient Greek statues, the palace of the kings and more.

Historic Latin Quarter Walk

Paris' oldest neighbourhood. Explore more than 2000 years of history; Roman, Medieval, Revolutionary and Hemingway.

The Eiffel Tower Neighbourhood Walk

The amazing Eiffel Tower origin story few know. This walk explores the 1889 and 1937 World's Fairs, World War II and more.

Louvre Specialist Tours

Already seen the Mona Lisa? Join me for a specialist tour of the Ancient Near East or the era of the Revolution and Napoleon.

Secrets of Roman Paris Walk

For Paris history nerds like me.

Discover the forgotten traces, visible only to those who know where to look.

Paris Highlights Walk

Versailles gardens walk.

Take in the most famous monuments of central Paris: Pont Neuf, Louvre, Tuileries, Invalides, Grand Palais, Alexander III bridge, the Eiffel Tower. The perfect way to orientate yourself in a new city.

Walk in the footsteps of Louis XIV and Marie-Antoinette. Every fountain and statue has a story to tell. Experience the history, luxury and glory of the height of the French monarchy.

Welcome to Paris

Book a private walk with me for an expert and personal experience designed for people who love history.

My philosophy centres on the joy of historical time travel, in-depth knowledge and greeting new acquaintances like old friends.

Time Travel

Hospitality, guiding tarifs (excluding tickets), private paris walking tours.

- Eiffel Neighbourhood Walk

- Historic Latin Quarter Walk 

- Paris Highlights Walk

- Revolution and Napoleon Walk

- Secrets of Roman Paris Walk

Group Size and Duration

- 1-8 guests (large-group tarifs on request)

- None required. We do not enter any museums.

Private Louvre Tours

- Highlights Tour

- French Revolution and Napoleon History Tour

- Ancient Near East History Tour

- 1-6 guests for a 2-hour tour (large-group tarifs on request)

- Museum entry: 22 euros per person.

- Free entry for under 18s.

Versailles Chateau and Gardens

- Fountains and Gardens tour

- Chateau tour

- Domain of Marie-Antoinette (Hamlet, Trianons).

- Picnic or restaurant by the Grand Canal.

- Chateau and gardens entry: 21-32 euros per person.

- 10 euros for under 18s.

Payment Options

1) Cash payment on arrival.

2) Secure online booking via Paypal.

Once your reservation is confirmed, I will send a link for payment :)

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Queries and booking requests.

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Ben's paris walks.

3 Avenue de Champaubert, 75015, Paris, France

+33 (0) 6 95 86 42 35

Availability

I'm typically available for private tours:

- 7/7 from late June to the end of August

- Weekends, Wednesdays and Fridays throughout the year

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In Paris there's a palpable feeling of history, as befits a city over 2000 years old. In its earliest days it was the often-reluctant host to the Celts and the Romans . Paris as we know it today was largely formed in the Middle Ages , in the subsequent royal periods, and by the two Napoleonic emperors. To delve into this story, we recommend these history-themed walking tours. Let's strap on our history boots.

Our Top-Rated Paris History Tours

1. Walking Tour of Père Lachaise Cemetery… The graves of the rich & famous

2. The French Revolution Walking Tour… Historic sites of this tumultuous period

3. Walk in Napoleon's Footsteps… Visit the places Bonaparte trod

4. Art Nouveau Architecture Wonders… Marvel at the ageless splendor

1. Walking Tour of Père Lachaise Cemetery……

2. The French Revolution Walking Tour…

3. Walk in Napoleon's Footsteps…

4. Art Nouveau Architecture Wonders…

1. The Graves of the Rich & Famous

You may think that a history walk through a graveyard is a bit… unusual. We did, until we signed up for this tour of Père Lachaise Cemetery. It turned out to be one of the most enjoyable walking tours we have ever been on.

We learned so much about the history of Paris and the fascinating cast of character who are buried here. Just read this list — Oscar Wilde, Chopin, Edith Piaf, Jim Morrison, Gertrude Stein, Marcel Proust, Molière, Proust and Balzac, famous star-crossed lovers Heloise and Abelard. You know that guy who popularized the eating of potatoes (they used to be considered poisonous)? He's here, too! Highly recommended by us and hundreds of other visitors who've rated it 5-star.

2. The French Revolution Walking Tour

Tumultuous, revolutionary, horrifying and uplifting — the French Revolution was one of the most important events in modern European history.

As you visit the historic sites an expert in French history explains the French Revolution, the events leading up to, and its consequences. The tour visits the site of the former Tuileries Palace; the site of the infamous Bastille prison; the Conciergerie, where Marie Antoinette was held; and other sites of historic note.

3. Tour Napoleon's Paris

Following the French Revolution was another era of great importance to France — the Age of Napoleon . Bonaparte made it his job to aggrandize Paris, to turn it into a worthy capitol of his empire. Hence, there is a lot to see from the Napoleonic era.

With an expert historian as guide you'll visit sites important to that era, including L'École Militaire , Place Vendôme, and Les Invalides. This is a small-group tour to ensure individual attention.

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4. art nouveau architecture wonders.

This historical walking tour focuses on the second half of the 19th century when Art Nouveau was in vogue. Along the way an expert in the period makes it all come to life.

Of course, the centerpiece of Art Nouveau in Paris is the Palais Garnier (photo above), the sumptuous opera house built during Haussmann's reconstruction of the city, and that's also a centerpiece of the walking tour, although there's plenty more, including impressive Gare Saint-Lazare. You visit a traditional brasserie (and have a quick drink) and stroll along vibrant Boulevard Haussmann.

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Sing'In Montmartre

The guide and singer Anne-Sophie Guerrier brings you on a musical journey through Montmartre. This visit will retrace the life of famous singers who lived in the neightborhood : Édith Piaf, Charles Aznavour, Jacques Brel, Dalida...

Occupation and Liberation of Paris, from 1940 to 1944

Relive the period that marked French history 80 years ago, and immerse yourself in the historical and political context of the Occupation of Paris in the 20th century, on this unforgettable guided tour. N.B. : The visit with a scheduled date is only available for 2 people or more (from €140).

Classical music concerts in the Château de Grosbois

An exclusive program of classical music concerts taking place in a prestigious gallery: the Château de Grosbois, at Boissy-Saint-Léger, in the Val-de-Marne (94), 40 minutes away from Paris. Look out: contributors will speak in french only!

Classical concert at Château de Santeny

Enjoy our first concert of the season in the prestigious salons of the Château de Santeny on Tuesday 16 October at 8.30pm. A selection of romantic pieces by Rossini, Massenet, Saint-Saëns and Debussy will be performed by a trio of violin, flute and harp. Free tour of the castle before the concert.

Backstage tour of Roland-Garros stadium

Discover the backstage of the famous Grand Slam tournament field Roland-Garros

Behind the scenes of the UNESCO headquarters

Discover the headquarters of one of the most prestigious international organisations during an exclusive tour of the UNESCO house in Paris.

In the footsteps of Karl Marx in Paris

Enter the 19th-century Parisian life of Karl Marx, accompanied by the peerless guide Anouk Colombani, in collaboration with the Museum of Live History of Montreuil. 

The Parisian Chinatown

Discover the Chinatown district of the south of Paris with this guided tour. You will learn many things about Asian community of Paris : temples, food, usages.

Historical Guided Tour within hôtels particuliers of the Île de la Cité and the Île Saint-Louis in Paris

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the captivating aventure of Paris's historic treasures during an exclusive guided tour of the Ile de la Cité and the Ile Saint-Louis, with a passionate guide from L’Echappée Belle, who will reveal the secrets and fascinating history behind each iconic monument and hôtel particulier (private mansion).

The Paris Marais: the birthplace of parisian private mansions

Explore the elegant essence of Paris's Marais district on a captivating guided tour, by L'Echappée Belle, of its sumptuous hôtels particuliers. 

Parisian Père Lachaise cemetery: in the kingdom of celebrities

L'Echappée Belle will take you through the graves of renowned figures of this famous cemetery, a parisian relaxing place in the shade of the big trees.

Parisian Splendours: guided tour from the Place de la Concorde to the Louvre

Let's take a guided stroll by L'Echappée Belle through the most emblematic places in Paris, discovering the wealth of our heritage and the interactions between France and other countries through the ages. 

The French Revolution in the Paris Marais

With your guide from Interkultur, dive into the tumult of the French Revolution in Paris, where every stone in the Marais harbours the secrets of an era seething with ideals and revolt.

Ciné-balade, guided walking tour in Montmartre in the footsteps of your favorite movies

During this ciné-balade (a movie-themed guided walk) in Montmartre, Juliette Dubois will tell you anecdotes and facts about the film industry in this famous Parisian district, the most filmed of the capital. 

Art route at Paris Père Lachaise cemetery: in the footsteps of the great masters

Join us on this two-hour tour to discover the poets, writers, musicians and painters in their final resting place, the Père-Lachaise cemetery.

An artistic stroll: discovering artists at Paris Montparnasse cemetery

Welcome to our guided tour of Montparnasse Cemetery, a place steeped in history and emotion where great artists rest in peace. Join us for a captivating exploration of this sanctuary of creativity and memory. 

Memorial of the former deportation station of Bobigny

Following a vast restoration and development project, the memorial of the former deportation station of Bobigny opened its doors on January 18, 2023. Visit this site with a guide, and discover the only example in France of a railway site used for the deportation of Jews that has remained almost in its original state.

Guided tour of the Shoah Memorial Drancy

This historical guided tour will take you to the Shoah Memorial, opened in 2012 in Drancy, a place of history and education, opposite the Cité de la Muette also known as the World War Two Drancy internment camp.

Women in the Paris Commune (1871) !

Join local guide Anouk Colombani on a tour of the streets of Paris in the footsteps of the women who took action during the Paris Commune.

Historical guided tour of Montmartre

Thanks to a guided tour that follows the Montmartre hill towards the rue de Clignancourt before starting its ascent and descent, discover the stories of the popular and working-class Montmartre with local guide Anouk Colombani.

Guided tours of the most important or most private heritage sites in Paris. Museums, archives, monuments ... discover France's architectural treasures.

Explore Paris also invites you to discover the skills and trades that help safeguard and restore France's national heritage in foundries, workshops of national monuments, museums, etc.

Learn more about the places and people who wish to pass on the history of the industrial, architectural, artistic and gastronomic heritage of Paris and its region . Don't miss our visits around craft and industrial know-how.  

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Historic Heart of Paris Walk

Tour details.

10 Person Max

Availability

Our walking tours take place rain or shine, and are available every day of the week.

Tour Description

This walk is a delightful introduction to Paris. It is ideal for the first-time visitor, but can also be enjoyed by anyone looking for a meaningful look at the city’s architecture and epic history.

You and your private guide will explore the central neighborhoods—the Île de la Cité, the Latin Quarter, Odéon, and the Louvre district. This is the historic heart of Paris. Old and new mix in a visibly fascinating way here, telling the story of the periods and peoples,  from ancient Roman settlers to Résistance fighters, who helped shape how the city looks today.

Although the 2.5-hour walk includes major landmarks such as Notre-Dame cathedral, the Sorbonne, the medieval Hôtel de Cluny, and the Palais du Louvre, you will also see things not highlighted in the typical tourist trails. Quiet, tree-lined plazas and tucked-away courtyards, filled with meaningful details, capture the spirit and history of Paris just as well.

More than 10 in your party?   Contact us!

Traveling with teens?   We have a  teen-friendly version  of this program, designed for families with kids ages 12 and up.

Our cancellation and change policies are  here .

Accessibility

This tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Please tell us about your mobility needs when booking online.

We Didn’t Want the Tour to End

My husband and I took a private Historic Heart of Paris Walking Tour with Peter. His knowledge of the city and the history of its architecture and times was endless. He is a great story teller and kept us so interested. We didn’t want the tour to end. We highly recommend Paris Muse, and Peter.

Wonderful Historic Heart of Paris Tour!!

For our recent trip to Paris, we reached out to friends with Paris connections and travel experience for recommendations, and Paris Muse Private Tours was high on their list. We are so glad we took their advice to book a tour! We chose the "Historic Heart of Paris" tour and were so pleased with our incredibly knowledgeable and friendly tour guide, Jason. The information and insight he provided during our several hour tour was an absolute highlight of our trip and worth every penny! His knowledge of and interest in the city, its history, architecture, culture, etc. was truly limitless! He also provided great recommendations for museums and restaurants that we utilized for the remainder of our stay. Would highly recommend it for first time visitors and more seasoned travelers as well.

Megan P Chicago, IL

Enchanting Historic Heart of Paris walking tour

I thoroughly enjoyed my Historic Heart of Paris walk with Laure. She is knowledgeable and interesting, an excellent storyteller. In addition to the major landmarks, she pointed out hidden gems like small artworks with tiny working music boxes on buildings, and the magnificent interior of Saint-Etienne-du Mont. I would happily book another Paris Muse tour on my next visit to Paris.

Not_time_enough

Guides Who Lead This Tour

Asja Nastasijevic

Honora Ryan

Christina Von Koehler

Madeline Díaz

Karen Ralph

Hannah Hamill

Jessica Pinnock Garrett

Laure Nermel

Tetiana Lebouille

Randa Akhras

Stephanie Nadalo

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Best things to see and do in Paris

Paris is the capital of France and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the entire world. It is one of the places highest on the list of cities you should visit at least once in your life because of everything it has to offer culturally, in terms of its monuments, architecture, and cuisine. In addition to the main attractions of the city like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, or the Montmartre and Le Marais neighborhoods, take a free walking tour to get to discover some of the lesser-known parts of the city where the River Seine flows. 

On any of the free guided tours we offer in Paris , you will be able to find a large selection of unmissable places to visit with your local guide who will show you the hidden charms and the way of life of this amazing city. You can’t leave Paris without having gone to visit the Saint Chapelle Church, the Louvre Museum, the gardens of Champs Elysées, Sacré Coeur Basilica, Pont Neuf (the New Bridge) over the Seine, Luxembourg Gardens, the Parisian Catacombs,  Vendome Square, Les Halles Market, the Pompidou Center, Orsay Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, the Latin Neighborhood, Tuileries Gardens, the Galleries Lafayette, Garnier Opera, or the Pere Lachaise Cemetery. 

Many travelers leave their reviews and opinions after having done their free walking tour in Paris (in the morning or afternoon) and they evaluate the route and their experience with the local guide. After, there may be other cities you want to visit and do a guided tour with a local guru like Bordeaux, Toulouse, Marseille, or Nice. 

What is included in the Essential Free Tour of Paris?

What will i discover on the free tours through montmartre, paris, what is the atmosphere like on the free tours through paris at night, what will we explore on the free tours through the latin quarter of paris, are there free tours at the eiffel tower in paris, what awaits me on the free tours through monumental paris, what are the free tours of parks and gardens in paris like, what do the free tours of street art and graffiti in paris involve, others cities to visit after paris, free walking tour near paris.

• Free walking tour in Berlin
• Free walking tour in Prague
• Free walking tour in Florence
• Free walking tour in Ljubljana
• Free walking tour in Copenhagen
• Free walking tour in Ghent
• Free walking tour in Bruges
• Free walking tour in Antwerp

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18 best paris tours of 2024: food, versailles & more.

Enhance your visit to the City of Love with one of these specialized tours.

The Best Paris Tours

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From the Eiffel Tower to the Moulin Rouge – plus day trips to Versailles, Normandy and beyond – there are so many things to do in Paris . To make the most of your trip, it can be helpful to rely on the expertise of a few locals via a guided tour. Read on to discover some of the top-rated Paris tours for a variety of interests.

Bike About Tours – Hidden Paris Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 45 euros (around $49); kids 3 and younger from 20 euros (about $22) Duration: 3.5 hours

On this roughly 3.5-hour cycling trip, a guide takes you on back streets to both notable and lesser-known attractions throughout Paris. Along the way, guides share historical and cultural anecdotes. Sights include the Place des Vosges, Jardin des Plantes and the Paris mosque, to name a few. Reviewers love seeing an array of attractions at a leisurely pace and applaud the expertise of the guides. Bike About Tours also offers cycling excursions through Versailles.

Check prices & availability on:

Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Price: Adults from $45; kids 4-12 from $25 Duration: About 2 hours

Create your own Parisian adventure with the Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. Double-decker, open-top buses take you to 10 stops near top attractions, including the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Musée du Louvre and the Grand Palais. All buses are equipped with a prerecorded audio tour in 11 different languages. Reviewers love the convenience of the bus, but some express disappointment that buses are often overcrowded.

Buses run from around 10 a.m. to about 7:30 p.m. daily and typically frequent stops every seven to 15 minutes. If you choose to ride the whole route, you'll be on the bus for two hours and 15 minutes. Ticket discounts may be available if you book online in advance. Big Bus also offers two-day passes, a night tour and combo tours that include a river cruise.

Paris Charms and Secrets

Price: From 59 euros (about $64) Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours

If you're a sucker for a good story, a secret passageway or a long-forgotten historical tale, the Paris Charms and Secrets tour will be right up your alley. On this roughly 12-mile tour, a guide will lead you through the city on an electric bike, stopping at some of Paris' most famous attractions and storied monuments. Hear the legends of Élysée Palace, the controversies of the Eiffel Tower and the curious past of the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Reviewers love the knowledgeable guides and the unique stories.

Older children and teens are welcome to ride their own bikes if they meet the height and weight requirements; a child seat must be reserved ahead of time for younger kids (for 12 euros).

Paris By Mouth – North Marais Food Tour

Price: 130 euros (about $141) Duration: 3.5 hours

If you want an intimate look at one of Paris' most fashionable and beautiful areas, snag a spot on Paris By Mouth's North Marais Food tour. This 3.5-hour tour welcomes up to eight participants to create a more personal feel. For the first part of the tour, your guide will bring you to some of the neighborhood's most prestigious shops, which specialize in bread, cheese, pastry and charcuterie. The second part of the tour stops at a wine shop and includes a seated tasting with wine pairings. Paris By Mouth's guides are experienced food journalists, chefs and foodies – a highlight among reviewers.

The tour is recommended for adults, though children older than age 12 can join. The tour runs daily at multiple times. Paris By Mouth also hosts tours of Saint-Germain-des-Près, south Marais and the Left Bank.

Retro Tour Paris – Retro Classic

Price: From $75 Duration: 40 minutes

Hop into the vintage sidecar of an experienced motorcycle driver and cruise through the city with views of the Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars and more on the Retro Classic tour of Paris. Local guides will share unique stories and provide an experience worlds apart from a typical city tour. Reviewers rave about the thrill of riding in the sidecar and the local insight.

If you love your first sidecar experience, you can also opt for the company's 90-minute tours, as well as a ride through Paris after sunset (with a Champagne tasting, naturally).

Blue Fox Travel – Versailles Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 109 euros (around $119); kids from 95 euros (about $104) Duration: 9 hours

The Versailles estate encompasses 2,000 acres, and there's no better way to see it than on a bike with Blue Fox Travel. Spend roughly nine hours with an expert guide and a small group (up to 14 people) touring the royal grounds, including the Grand and Petit Trianon chateaus, Marie Antoinette's private domain and the grand palace with a skip-the-line pass included in your ticket. Guides tell stories of French royal history, including the conquests of the Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King, the controversies surrounding Louis XV, the French Revolution and Marie Antoinette. Reviewers love biking the grounds at a leisurely pace and rave about the expertise of the guides, as well as the picnic lunch with finds from one of the local farmers markets.

Tours include train tickets to and from Paris. Blue Fox Travel also guides visitors on cycling tours of Paris at night and the city's top attractions.

Secret Food Tours Paris – Montmartre

Price: Adults from 109 euros (about $119); kids from 99 euros (about $108) Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours

Peruse and stroll through the Parisian dining scene like a local with Secret Food Tours. On this up to four-hour tour of one of Paris' most picturesque and lively arrondissements, dessert is first (c'est la vie!) . You'll gather chocolates and macarons from local specialty shops, followed by baguettes, cheeses, meats and crêpes – all while learning more about food and Parisian traditions from your local guide. When your bag is full, the guide will lead you to a prime picnic spot to enjoy your bounty with a few wine pairings. Reviewers love the historical tidbits and local insights, as well as the animated and entertaining tour guides.

An upgraded drinks package is available for an additional charge. Tours run daily at several different times, depending on the day. Secret Food Tours also hosts walks through other Paris neighborhoods, such as Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Le Marais.

Intrepid Urban Adventures – Paris Marais Bites and Sights Tour

Price: From $97 Duration: 2 hours

Wander through Paris' gorgeous Marais with a local guide and a lineup of French treats. Intrepid Urban Adventures' Bites and Sights Tour takes you through the well-preserved (and very fashionable) area of the Marais. Throughout the approximately two-hour tour, you'll hear local insights and historical tales as you admire Marais' treasured architecture. Stories are accompanied by stops in neighborhood shops for pastry and macaron samples, plus a French cheese platter and two glasses of wine. Reviewers appreciate the expertise and entertainment provided by the guides, as well as the intimate and conversational environment.

Children 5 and younger can tag along for free, as long as they sample items from their parents' plate. Paris Urban Adventures also offers tours of bohemian Paris and several private excursions.

Paris by Martin & Friends – Walking Tour

Price: 70 euros (about $76) Duration: 2.5 hours

For a truly bespoke experience with a passionate local, take a tour with Martin Muda and his friends, all residents of Paris. On the 2.5-hour walking tour, Muda or one of his tour guides will lead you to treasured spots throughout the city, with stories that give life to Paris' history and legends. Reviewers give high praise for the tour guides and their attention to detail, as well as the customization of each tour.

Tours are available at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily. Children younger than 3 can join the tour for free. Inquiries can be made through the website. The company also offers walking picnic tours at night and electric bike tours.

Fat Tire Tours – Versailles Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 109 euros (about $119); kids from 95 euros (about $103) Duration: 8.5 hours

To see Versailles in all of its glory, take a ride with Fat Tire Tours. On this daylong tour (approximately 8.5 hours), a guide will take you through the Versailles open market to grab a picnic lunch before visiting the Petit Trianon, the Grand Trianon and the estate gardens. The tour also includes skip-the-line access to the palace and an audio guide. Riders love the bicycles and tour guides, and appreciate the sweeping views of the iconic palace and grounds.

Tours are offered Tuesday through Sunday and all depart before 9 a.m. Kids younger than 4 are free to join the tour. Fat Tire Tours also offers a variety of biking excursions around Paris – including an "Emily in Paris"-inspired tour – and the surrounding region, as well as guided walks and Segway rides.

SANDEMANs NEW Europe – Montmartre Free Walking Tour

Price: Free; tips appreciated Duration: 2.5 hours

Stroll through one of Paris' most famous and charming neighborhoods with the help of SANDEMANs NEW Europe. This 2.5-hour tour will take you by the area's most photographed sights, including the Moulin Rouge and up the steps to Sacré-Coeur. You'll recognize streets featured in paintings and in cinema as guides share tales of Montmartre's famous artists, musicians and other notables, including Van Gogh and Picasso. Tourgoers appreciate the guides' expertise and recommend the tour for art history lovers.

Tours depart daily at 4 p.m. (Spanish language) and 5 p.m. (English language). Tickets are free, though tips are appreciated. If you're looking to explore more of the city, the company offers an array of other tours covering Latin Quarter, the Seine River and more.

Boutique Bike Tours – Versailles Food & Palace Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 145 euros (about $158); kids 5 and older from 99 euros (about $108) Duration: 9 to 10 hours

If you're looking to escape the city, let Boutique Bike Tours take you on a ride and stroll through the gardens of Versailles. On this approximately nine- to 10-hour tour, guides lead the way through the sprawling estate before stopping for a picnic lunch with provisions purchased from the market in town. After lunch, you'll skip the line at the famous palace to explore the rooms and hallways of Versailles. Reviewers enjoy the leisurely pace, a day full of activities and informative guidance.

Tours generally depart Tuesday and Friday through Sunday; expect to leave at 8 or 9 a.m. and return around 6 p.m. The company also hosts an evening bike and boat tour of Paris.

2CVParisTour – Legendary Paris Tour

Price: From 160 euros (about $175) Duration: 2 hours

If you're looking for a memorable and personalized drive through Paris, allow 2CVParisTour to take you for a whirl in a Citroën 2CV, a classic French car. Take in sights like the Arc de Triomphe, Luxembourg Gardens, Palais de l'Élysée ,  Église   Saint-Sulpice and more as you cruise through the Paris streets for two hours. Reviewers praise the classic car experience and entertaining guides.

Champagne can be added to the tour for an extra charge. Tours depart at multiple times daily, starting at 11 a.m. and ending after 10 p.m. If you can't get enough of the vintage car experience, you can also sign up for a tour of Montmartre, one that features a picnic and others.

City Wonders – Paris Catacombs Underground Tour

Price: Adults from $119 Duration: 2 hours

City Wonders will take you on a two-hour tour of what's below Paris: a network of tunnels, crypts and tombs that are home to nearly 6 million skeletons. On this Paris Catacombs tour, you'll skip the line with a small group to explore the Port Mahon gallery, the Sacellum Crypt and Gilbert's Tomb. Throughout the tour, you'll hear historical anecdotes from insightful guides. Along with the entertaining guides, reviewers also appreciate the skip-the-line access and recommend this experience in lieu of a self-guided tour.

Ticket prices may increase during busier times of the year. Tours depart Tuesday through Sunday at several times each day. City Wonders also hosts traditional aboveground tours of the Louvre, Versailles and the Eiffel Tower.

Paris City Vision – Half Day Guided Tour of Giverny Monet's Gardens from Paris

Price: From 89 euros (about $97) Duration: About 5 hours

On this roughly five-hour tour, a guide will take you through the life of celebrated painter Claude Monet as you explore his home and garden in Giverny. His garden is what inspired some of his most prized works, including "Irises" and "Water Lilies." Reviewers value the views and insight provided by tour guides, though others warn that the company can be disorganized.

Tours generally run daily at 8:15 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The company hosts a number of other tours throughout Paris and greater France , including tours to Normandy .

Street Art Tour Paris – Murals XXL

Price: From 26 euros (about $28) Duration: About 2 hours

There's no museum pass needed to see some of the city's largest artwork with Street Art Tour's Murals XXL. An expert guide leads groups through the city to view contemporary works created by the world's most famous and talented muralists, such as Jorge Rodriguez-Gerada and Obey. Reviewers love the insider information and find the tour reveals details (and murals) often overlooked. Plus, the route is accessible for those with limited mobility.

Tours last just over two hours and run Tuesdays and Saturdays at 2 p.m. Discounts are available to groups of five or more. Street Art Tour Paris also offers tours in Montmartre and Belleville, among other options.

Babylon Tours – Louvre Museum + Orsay Museum Guided Combo Tour

Price: Adults from 199 euros (about $217); kids from 159 euros (about $173) Duration: 5.5 hours

View Greek sculpture and famous paintings by greats like Renoir, Monet, da Vinci and Van Gogh during this 5.5-hour tour. As you explore the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay, guides will regale you with stories of art history. Plus, you'll bypass the long lines at the attractions. Travelers praise the guide's knowledge and appreciate the small groups (no more than eight people can go at once).

Tours run at 10 a.m. from Wednesday to Saturday. Fees include access to the museums. Babylon Tours also operates outings to the Musée de l'Orangerie, the Rodin Museum and individual outings to the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay.

XL Tours – Segway Tour

Price: From 75 euros (about $82) Duration: 2 hours

During this two-hour tour, you'll glide by some of Paris' must-see sights like the Eiffel Tower, Trocadero Gardens and the Musée d'Orsay. You'll also ride in style on Bel & Bel Segways, which are designed to resemble the iconic Vespa scooters. Travelers say the Segways are a great way to see the city and the guides provide clear instructions.

Tours are available daily at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 6 or 7 p.m. You may be required to book at least two riders for your tour if you book directly through the company's website. Participants must be at least 12 years old. XL Tour also runs electric bike tours through the city.

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• The Best Hotels in Paris
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9 Great Paris Tours To Take in 2024 and Why

Sean Finelli Last Updated: February 21, 2024

Paris is one of the world’s most visited destinations due to the combination of great food, interesting culture, and many attractions to visit. That said, which attractions in Paris require a tour? This article details the top tours in Paris that you should definitely consider on your next trip to the city of light .

Pro Tip: It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Create a browser folder and bookmark this post along with our dedicated guide to Paris to help you plan your trip. Also, see our best Paris tours and how to visit Paris in a weekend .

Should You Take a Tour in Paris?

The best palace of versailles tours, the best lourve tours, the best eiffel tower tours, the best tours of the paris catacombs, the best parisian cusine food tours, the best day tours from paris, where to stay in paris.

Without a doubt, Paris is one of the best cities to take a tour. Yes, Paris is already a more expensive trip than some cities, but is it really worth skipping out on the chance to really understand the rich history of this famed city?

That’s what a local guide is here for. They’ll make sure you get to know the little tidbits about Parisians’ original feelings about the Eiffel Tower and so much more. You’ll leave Paris with a new appreciation that is sure to make you want to come back again and again.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if Paris tours are worth it .

A top day trip from Paris is certainly the Palace of Versailles , which is so astonishing that it will be easy to forget what century you’re in. As you stroll between rooms and chambers that redefine the meaning of “home,” you will even find that the toilets are opulent. Kings and queens lived here, and your guide will tell you about all their amazing stories right where they took place. There’s a reason Versailles has captured the attention of millions of visitors. Don’t miss your chance to see the almost indescribable Hall of Mirrors that’s adorned with gold, paintings, and chandeliers.

1. Ultimate Palace of Versailles Tour from Paris

Looking for an easy way to see the best of Versailles? Versailles is a popular day trip from Paris, but planning ahead to get tickets and transportation organized makes things so much easier! That’s why you’ll love our half-day small group tour with a local guide who’ll make sure you hop on the right train to Versailles, exit at the ideal stop, and skip the long lines at the palace. You’ll see the palace, gardens, and Trianon Estate more quickly and maximize your trip to Versailles from Paris. See the tour itinerary, price, and description.

2 . Versailles Gardens Tour from Paris with Skip the Line Palace Access

Should opulent palaces not be your thing, why not explore the gardens of Versaille with your expert guide instead? With a small group, you’ll take a guided tour to learn the fascinating history of the gardens before skipping the long lines at the Palace of Versailles to enjoy its splendor at your leisure. An essential Paris experience! See the tour itinerary, price, and description.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a tour of Versailles is worth it .

The Louvre houses the greatest museum collection on Earth. It spans over 60,000 meters and boasts 380,000 works of art. You may find yourself overwhelmed with the sheer mass of visitors—15,000 people a day clamor to see the Mona Lisa alone. But there’s so much to see before you even reach her!

1. Secrets of the Louvre Museum Tour with Mona Lisa

In this 3-hour tour, you’ll skip the line to find out more about the mystery behind Mona Lisa’s smile, discover other great works of art, and get up close and personal with the French crown jewels. With expert insights and stories that’ll bring the art to life, there’s no better way to see this unmissable museum!

See the tour itinerary, price, and description.

2. Louvre at Closing Time Tour with Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo

Want to skip the line and see the Louvre with fewer crowds? In this 2-hour Louvre tour at closing time, see the Louvre’s most iconic artwork, including the Mona Lisa , Winged Victory of Samothrace , Coronation of Napoleon , Venus di Milo , and more, with an engaging guide. It’s a great way to experience the museum in a short amount of time with the added benefit of fewer people getting in the way.

3. Private Louvre Tour with Expert Guide

In our Private Louvre Tour , get skip-the-line tickets and 3 hours with a local art-loving tour guide who can tailor your visit to your preferences. Want more time with Greek statues? No problem. Our professional guides are true experts who bring the Louvre collections to life. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the Mona Lisa , Venus de Milo , and more. These Louvre tours allow you to see the world’s largest museum with an expert guide at your disposal.

4. Semi-Private Louvre Tour with the Mona Lisa

So, you want to tour the Louvre, but you don’t want a big group? No problem! This is the ideal tour for getting an almost-private experience at a great price since your group size maxes out at just six people! You’ll have a more exclusive experience following your art historian guide through the treasures of the Louvre as you ask questions, hear stories, and watch as the evolution of millennia of art unfolds before your eyes.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a tour of the Louvre is worth it .

“We protest against the erection of this useless and monstrous Eiffel Tower” was actually written in reaction to France’s most iconic monument in 1894. People were actually outraged by how ugly it was. Today, this 1,063-foot iron lattice tower still stands and attracts 7,000,000 visitors each year.

The long lines can be intimidating, and a visit is considered an all-day event. However, with our wide range of privileged access tours, Seine cruises, and family tours, we are sure to have something that fits your needs. There are two types of tourists! Those who stand in line and those who don’t. Which do you want to be?

1. Privileged Access Eiffel Tour at Night Tour with River Seine Cruise

Our Privileged Access Eiffel Tower Night Tour is a romantic evening without the lines. The tour starts at dusk with a boat ride on the Seine.

As the sun descends, the Eiffel Tower lights up and sparkles. Enjoy this magnificent sight with a glass of champagne and then climb the tower and witness amazing views of the city lit up at night.

2. Eiffel Tower Climbing Tour with Summit Access

Looking for a budget-friendly tour of the Eiffel Tower summit that’s ideal for active people? This guided climb of France’s most famous landmark gives you the chance to live that dream. You’ll climb the 674 steps to the tower’s second floor as your local guide tells you the story of its remarkable construction and troubled early history before taking the elevator to the summit for a well-earned rest and a truly remarkable view of Paris. Enjoy!

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a tour of the Eiffel Tower is worth it .

The Catacombs are a labyrinth that can only be seen a few months of the year, which is why lines to get in can be up to 5 hours long. Although the Catacombs are hundreds of miles long, only one mile is open to the public. Tickets sell out months in advance, but our tours come with skip-the-line access and privileged access to a number of chambers usually closed to the public.

1. Paris Catacombs Tour with Secret Rooms & Privileged Access

Why are skeletons stacked up in intricate designs below Paris? Where did these skeletons come from? Why are there 6,000,000 of them? Discover one of the great mysteries of Paris without spending long hours waiting outside on a Paris Catacombs tour . 

With one of our passionate guides, explore underground Paris and learn the macabre details of these 200-year-old ossuaries. They will explain the incredible history, artwork, and unique architecture for a memorable experience of Paris’ Catacombs. See the tour itinerary, price, and description.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a tour of the Paris Catacombs is worth it .

If you’re looking for amazing food, Paris is one of the best places to visit. There are more Michelin restaurants in this city than in any other city on Earth, and a local food tour is a fantastic way to experience Paris’ local food scene.

1. Le Marais Local Food Tour (Incredible Deal!)

Le Marais is the nerve center of gastronomical delights, which is why our Le Marais food tour is one of our most popular experiences. It’s also one of the only food tours in Paris to include oysters and a sit-down dinner! Enjoy a walking tour of the melting pot that is Le Marais, Normandy oysters and champagne, and falafel street food in the Jewish Quarter.

2. Chef Led Food Tour of Paris’ Montmartre District

Craving a genuine French culinary experience but don’t have the connections to call in a favor? That’s why we’ve joined forces with Chef PJ and his team of gastronomic experts, so you can join them in tasting Montmartre’s finest delicacies, indulge in a three-course feast with a wine pairing, and learn about iconic sites like the Moulin Rouge and the “I Love You” wall along the way

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Paris Guide for more resources.

The Best Private Tours of Musée d’Orsay

When people think of Paris, they tend to think of the Louvre and Eiffel Tower, and for good reason. Both attractions are epic! That said, the Musée d’Orsay would be the number one museum in almost any other city on Earth if it wasn’t in Paris.

1. Private Musée d’Orsay Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets

While taking a private tour of any museum is a luxury, a private tour of Musée d’Orsay is even more amazing. Why? The museum doesn’t get the same crowds as the Louvre, and the paintings demand an explanation. They are all very beautiful and recognizable, but Impressionism is best explained through a lens into the artist’s life—something that a local tour guide does best in an intimate experience like a private tour. See the tour itinerary, price, and description.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out how to visit the Musée d’Orsay .

1. Castles and Wine Tastings in the Loire Valley Day Trip

One of my favorite things to do in Europe is explore the countryside. This is because the architecture is amazing, and the agriculture is heavily focused on wine, which together makes for a beautiful experience. I also love having countryside lunches. They tend to be hearty, warm, and full of wine!

The Loire Valley is famous for castles and amazing dry white wines.

Our day trip to the Loire Valley not only explores an amazing castle but also includes a stop at a vineyard for a wine tasting. It will make for an incredible memory you will hold dear for the rest of your days!

2. Pay Tribute To D-Day at Normandy Beach

From “Saving Private Ryan” to stories from our ancestors, Normandy is famous for the great sacrifices of brave men in the face of tyranny. Today, you can visit different beaches from Omaha to Pointe du Hoc to pay respects. The beaches of Normandy, where World War II was viciously fought, have been kept as it was, down to bullet holes, craters, and cannon shells.

Our Normandy day trip of D-Day landing beaches visits Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and even a Cider brewery—the region’s specialty. This day trip is most definitely long—14 hours in total—but if you have an extra day and are passionate about WWII, it’s well worth the time.

3. Explore the Champagne Region on a Day Trip

Should you be looking for a day trip to remember—and you’re a fan of champagne—then a trip to the Champagne region is a must. The French countryside is waiting to take you on a culinary journey from wine cellars to champagne houses and a tasty spot for lunch.

This tour includes stops in the cities of Reims and Épernay, where you can see the famous Reims cathedral and explore Dom Perignon’s final resting place in the Benedictine monastery in Épernay. Your day in the countryside will be unforgettable.

With a city as magnificent as Paris, it can be hard to find the perfect hotel at the perfect price. Explore the best hotels and places to stay in these incredible neighborhoods in Paris.

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About Sean Finelli

Sean is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He studied finance and statistics, but that is his "Dr. Jekyll" side! His "Mr. Hyde" is in love with travel, art, history, and culture. Sean has read libraries of historical text and believes that all internet content should come from books. A practice he follows!

Reader Interactions

Comments (6).

October 5, 2019

Paris is Paris is Paris, no other city can compare .

Paris is Paris is Paris, no other city can compare .I love Paris,love France but dislike the French…..And Iwas born and raise there………….

October 20, 2022

Is it worth it to get a tour guide, though?

November 8, 2022

We might be biased, but it really is. You can either wander these amazing locations or monuments and not really know what’s so significant (or that you just passed the first painting by a world-famous painter), or you can learn so many incredible details and stories about these places and art. Tour guides truly do elevate your experience and make it more memorable.

November 30, 2022

Hello Brie, yeah, that makes sense. I also hate getting lost 😀 I have been looking around on your tours, and it seems that they are not customizable? Something like this https://gowithguide.com/france/paris

December 28, 2022

Our private tours can be customized within the museum or locations it already includes. So for instance, if you want more time in the Greek sculptures than in a room of impressionism, just let your guide know.

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Historic Paris Tour

Elegant and monumental 19th century boulevards, medieval churches, the world’s best art museums, unbeatable spirit of its inhabitants and a delicate (or perhaps quite pronounced!) sense of superiority, that’s Paris! Welcome to the world capital of class, elegance, fashion, love, art and amazing cuisine! Occupying this spot continuously since the 17th century!

But Paris wouldn’t be all that without its history. Established on a marshy land surrounded by the river Seine by the brave Gallic tribe of Parisii, taken in a bloody battle by the mighty Roman Empire. It became a capital of the Franks in the 6th century and soon grew to be the political, economic, religious, and cultural (with the second-oldest university in Europe, la Sorbonne) centre of France. With a population of 200 thousand people, Paris was the most populous city in Europe in the medieval ages. Torn by wars with external enemies and internal religious massacres, with time it experienced a true explosion in the field of science and philosophy, becoming the very centre of the Enlightenment movement. Fed on new ideas, but most of all on extreme poverty and inequality, its people found in them the power to overthrow the royal regime, which ended up in the monarchs being finally guillotined. This in turn opened the way for Napoleon seizing power in the country and way, way beyond! People of Paris were (and are!) known for revolting so often that in the 19th century in order to prevent them from doing so a new city was built with wide boulevards, aqueducts, sewers and parks to both appease them and… make it harder to build street barricades. The symbol of its modernization became the Eiffel Tower constructed for the 1889 Universal Exposition, which Parisians hated and protested for decades, only to love it in the end.

On top of all the architectural, cultural and spiritual marvels of the city there is something you simply cannot miss – the wonderful food and wine which can be the sole reason for visiting Paris and France! So, before you go and have a picnic in one of the splendid city gardens, indulge in all the fromage, baguette and wine you can have, join our tour to get the perfect introduction to the incomparable Paris! See among others the Notre Dame Cathedral, Sainte-Chapelle, beautiful and elegant boulevards and bridges, the Louvre and the Tuileries Gardens with a view of the Eiffel Tower. Hear the stories of Quasimodo, Napoleon and Hitler and learn about their connections to the city of love and light. Hear stories about the most daring art theft in history (yes, we are talking about the Mona Lisa), love, desire, and revenge. Get to know Paris at its finest!

During this 2,5 hour tour, you will see and discover:

• ︎Hotel de Ville(Paris City Hall)
• Notre-Dame Cathedral 
• Sainte Chapelle 
• Conciergerie 
• Pont des Arts
• Louvre (history of the palace and museum)
• Carrousel Arch
• Tuileries gardens 
• And much, much more!

Great tour of the Latin Quarter

Tank was knowledgeable, personable and entertaining. Loved the tour highly recommended!

Excellent tour

Tank was amazing! Very passionate and informative! Highly recommended

Great introduction to Paris

Jason was quite knowledgable and he shared this patiently even if there were quite a number of us in the tour

We were happy with the informative tour and how much we saw 😊

Walking tours are great

Make sure you book as early as possible in your trip. Our guide, Thomas, was funny, knowledgeable, and very helpful. Lots of tips and insider info to make your visit go more smoothly.

This tour is also available as a Private Tour.

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Explore Paris | 21-day Small Group Tour Exploring Parisian Life

On this small group tour of Paris , travellers take the time to join local guides to learn about the destinations within this city. Authentic experiences with like minded people and an Odyssey tour leader. Staying in apartments this European tour immerses itself in Paris' history , art , and culture in the city of light.

From $10,128 USD

Departing Mar, Sep

• 1. Days themed around Art, Literature, History, and fashion, in which we immerse ourselves in the city's rich culture
• 2. A visit to Alexandre Dumas's home, the Chateau du Monte-Cristo
• 3. The Palais Galliera, Paris's only dedicated museum of fashion
• 4. A half-day excursion to Rueil-Malmaison, including a visit to the beautiful Chateau Malmaison

• Departure Dates

Explore Paris Small Group Tour

The Eiffel Tower, the Palace of Versailles , the Louvre (or more accurately, the Mona Lisa seen from behind a crowd of selfie sticks), and the Champs Elysees … sadly, most visitors to Paris only get to see a few familiar tourist highlights. But get away from the crowds and you’ll discover the fascinating, gritty, and beautiful city that earns fierce loyalty from its locals and has entranced writers, artists, and visitors from around the world.

On our small group tour of Paris , we get to know the city beyond the tourist centres. Staying in self-catered apartments in one of Paris’s central arrondissements , we live like locals, shopping for fresh produce and flowers at one of Paris’s many local markets. Our program delves into the city’s history, art, and culture, with a mix of guided tours and day trips, and plenty of time for you to explore the city on your own . We have several themed days, focusing on literature, fashion, art, and history, including:

• Our first day is themed around the life and achievements of Napoleon , visiting the Arc De Triomphe and the Vendome Column; while the following day we visit the luxurious residence of his wife, Joséphine de Beauharnais, the Chateau de Malmaison. Our tour also includes days devoted to the turbulence of the French Revolution, the Industrial Revolution in France, and the French Enlightenment.
• We explore France’s literary history , with visits to sites associated with Denis Diderot, Victor Hugo, and Alexandre Dumas, while investigating the allure of Paris for American bohemians and writers such as Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Jim Morrison. We soak up the famous literary vibe of the 'left bank' of the Seine River, in the Latin Quarter and Saint Germain des Pres neighbourhoods.
• We see key works of art in some of Paris’s little-known galleries, and explore what makes Paris the world capital of fashion. We make a trip to Montmartre, where artists took inspiration from the demimonde at the Moulin Rouge.
• We see key churches, including Notre Dame Cathedral and Sainte Chapelle on the natural Seine island, Île de la Cité, and Sacre Coeur in Montmartre
• We also get out of the city on a day trip to Amiens, where we take a walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage listed cathedral, and make a day tour of the Chateau de Vaux le Vicomte, a Baroque palace to rival the Palace of Versailles and the chateaux of the Loire Valley.

While other tours in Paris jump from tourist spot to tourist spot, this extended city tour is for travellers who wish to really get to know the 'city of light', spending time as a tourist and time as a local.

On our tour you will live like a Parisian, living in self-catered apartments, getting around the city by Métro and suburban rail, and shopping like a local in one of Paris's many markets. The markets of Paris go back a long way - the first market can be traced back to the 5th century AD, when the city was called Lutetia. Today, the city’s more than 90 active markets (69 of which are open-air) remain at the heart of daily life in the city. Food tour lovers will enjoy the Marché International de Rungis, the world’s largest wholesale food market (and the go-to of many a Parisian chef) and the upmarket Marché des Enfants Rouges, on a market site dating back to the 16th century. Markets also sell specialty goods, including flowers at the Marché aux Fleurs and books at the weekend Le Marché du Livre, while the city’s famous flea markets are the perfect place to search for antiques or second-hand designer goods.

While our tour includes several group dinners, we also give you several nights to yourself. Since you’re staying in a self-catered apartment, why not pick up some fresh produce and cook like a Parisian? Virtually all of the city’s village-like arrondissements has its own market, selling fresh produce, cheese, cured meats, and bread. Bear in mind that most open-air markets are open only on certain mornings: luckily, the offical website of the Visitors Bureau of Paris has a list of markets along with opening times.

Another highlight of our tour is the chance to soak up some of the subtler details of Parisian architecture, including the city’s many elegant arcades . Paris’s arcades - covered passages built within larger buildings or between two buildings, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes - were built in the late 18th and early 19th century as a way for the city’s wealthy inhabitants to shop unencumbered by the dark, overcrowded city beyond. The first indoor gallery was constructed at the Palais Royal in 1786, and soon inspired similar walkways. The Passage des Panoramas, built in 1799, is a showcase of elegant 18th century architecture, while the Galerie Vivienne (built 1823) is decorated in intricate neo-classical decor. While in their heyday the arcades played host to a variety of shops, today, most are home to eateries, upscale boutiques, and antique sellers.

Explore Paris Small Group Tour Itinerary: a collection of in-depth experiences

While you're probably familiar with the Louvre Museum, the Musee d'Orsay and Marie Antoinette's hamlet, this tour takes you to twenty-two museums, galleries, and key places of interest in Paris, on a journey designed to go beyond traditional Paris sightseeing. Some of the museums and galleries we will visit include:

• Musee de L’Arme
• Musee Rodin
• Musee les Arts Decortifs
• Musee Yves Saint Laurent Paris
• Musee du Vieux Montmartre
• Fondations Louis Vuitton
• Picasso Museum
• Marmottan Monet Museum
• Musee Maillol
• Musee des artes et Metiers
• Palais Decouverte
• Chateau de Vaux le Vicomte
• Jewish Museum
• Sainte Chapelle

In order to provide a authentic experience, every tour guide is a long-term resident of Paris, with an in-depth knowledge of the city's history, literature, and art, so that our clients can benefit from their expertise.

For more details, click the ‘Top 5’ or ‘Itinerary’ buttons above! If you’re keen to experience this tour, please call or send an email. Or, to book, simply fill in the form on the right-hand side of this page.

Articles about France published by Odyssey Traveller

You may want to browse our country profile about France . Odyssey Traveller also publishes articles, designed for mature aged and senior travellers, to maximise your knowledge and enjoyment on your tour of Paris:

• Exploring France by rail some tips
• Ten of the best travel books on France
• Ten things to do in France when you visit
• Designing Paris
• Paris; leaders and landmarks
• Guillamot prevents the collapse of Paris
• The elegant arcades of Paris.
• Questions about France
• Studying Gargoyles and grotesques
• Around the world in six coffees
• Ten of the best French cookery books.
• Ten of the Best art galleries in Europe to visit
• A guide on France for mature travellers
• Loire Valley History

External articles to assist you plan your visit to France

• A guide to Alsace
• History of Alsace: Britannica.com
• Burgundy's climate: a UNSECO world heritage listing
• Avignon, the Palace of Popes
• History of Avignon, 15-18th century
• Exploring Chatres cathedral
• Wars of Religion: France
• Published articles on French history

Enjoy Odyssey's long stay city tours

This trip to Paris is one of Odyssey's specialty long-stay city tours, which allow our clients to live like locals in some of the great cities of the world. Our in-depth focus was inspired by Ina Caro's book, Paris to the Past: Traveling Through French History by Train, which inspired our first French History by Rail tour in 2012.

Since that first long-stay tour, we have added the following cities to our list:

• Berlin walking tour
• Discovering Berlin
• Contemporary Japan
• Lisbon & Barcelona

There will be more long stay tours to follow, centred on the cities that our clients have indicated that they most want to return to explore further. If you've ever imagined living in Paris, Berlin, or Tokyo in a period of historical or cultural ferment, our tours are for you. Spend three weeks living as a local, and delve into all that a city has to offer.

Day 1: Paris

On arrival in Paris, you will make your own way to your apartment. In the evening, we meet for a welcome dinner.

Day 2: Paris

Today we enjoy a full guided tour of Paris, constructed around the life and achievements of Napoleon.

Napoleon did a lot for Paris and many of the monuments he built can still be seen today. A local guide take us to see some of the main sights related to the grand historical figure, such as the Vendome Column, the Arc du Triomphe and the Boulevard des Marechaux.

Day 3: Paris and Rueil-Malmaison

Today, we continue with the theme of Napoleon. In the morning, we take an excursion to Rueil-Malmaison where we visit the Chateau de Malmaison. This chateau was oncethe residence of Empress Joséphine de Beauharnais and the final residence of Napoleon in France. In the afternoon we return to Paris and the rest of the day is free to enjoy at your leisure.

Day 4: Paris

Today, we embark on a full-day guided tour that guides us through the drama of The French Revolution, one of the most influential historical events not only in France, but also globally.

We visit the Place de la Bastille, the Tuileries Gardens, the Place de la Concorde, and finish the day with a visit to the stunning Musee de l’Armee. In the evening, we enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Paris

Paris is among the richest cities in the world when it comes to art, and this tour takes advantage of that. Today, we enjoy a full day guided tour which includes the Outdoor Sculpture Museum, the Musee Rodin and the Musee les Arts Decoratifs. Pending availability, we will attend an opera performance in the evening, possibly at the Palais Garnier.

Day 6: Paris

Today is all about fashion. We have a local guide for the day to take us through a number of fashion museums and areas with high fashion shops

We’ll visit the Palais Galliera, the only dedicated fashion museum in Paris, the Musee Yves Saint Laurent and walk through the famed Triangle d’Or.

Day 7: Paris

You have the full day to explore Paris at your leisure.

Day 8: Paris and Le Port-Marly

In the morning, we take a trip to Le Port-Marly, where we visit the beautiful Chateau du Monte-Cristo, once the home of Alexandre Dumas and named for his famous novel. Today, the chateau is a museum dedicated to the writer’s life. In the afternoon, we return to Paris and the rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 9: Paris

Today we take a guided tour of Paris that is themed around the Enlightenment period, following in the footsteps of some of the great eighteenth century thinkers. We visit the Pantheon, a neoclassical church, and view le Procope and le Palais Royal, and a statue of the magnificent philosopher Denis Diderot.

We end the day with dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 10: Paris

Today, we turn once again to the history of the city, with a guided tour of central Paris. We enter the Musee du Vieux Monmartre, visit Sacre Coeur, Place du Tertre, Moulin de la Galette, Moulin Rouge, and more!

Day 11: Paris and Lille

In the morning we board a train to Lille. On arrival, we take a walking tour of the city, before having free time to explore Lille on your own. We return to Paris by train in the late afternoon.

Today is another day dedicated to art in Paris. We have entrance to the newly opened Fondation Louis Vuitton, le Jeu de Paume, and the Picasso Museum, each magnificent in its own way.

Day 13: Paris

Throughout the years, Paris has been the home to many authors , natives and those who have moved there. Today, we enjoy a tour that focuses on the city’s literary side. With a local guide, we visit the Cimetière du Père Lachaise where many famous authors and artists such as Jim Morrison are buried. Then we visit the Maison Victor Hugo and the Notre-Dame Cathedral which inspired Hugo’s “Hunchback of the Notre Dame”.

We also visit the old and well known bookshop Shakespeare & Company, the first outlet to publish James Joyce’s Ulysses . Other stops on the tour include the British Embassy where Somerset Maugham was born and La Closerie des Lilas. Ernest Hemingway lived nearby this café and it was here that he read the first finished manuscript of The Great Gatsby by Scott Fitzgerald. Pending availability, we end the day with an evening ballet performance.

Day 14: Paris

Today is themed around science, and the industrial revolution. We visit the Musee des artes et Metiers and the Palais Decouverte with a local guide. During the tour the group will also view the Institute de France, the building itself is only open to visitors one weekend per year (the 3 rd weekend of September). During the tour the guide will discuss the importance of the Industrial revolution and why it was not as spectacular in France as it was in its neighbouring countries.

Day 15: Paris and Maincy

Today the group will visit the Chateau de Vaux le Vicomte in the morning. This is a baroque french chateau with glorious gardens. In the afternoon we return to Paris and the rest of the day will be at leisure.

Day 16: Paris

Today we focus on the various cultures that come together to make Paris what it is. A guide will walk us through the Marais area where many Jews live, here the will visit the Jewish Museum and the Shoah Memorial which commemorates the Jews that were deported during WWII. Afterward we visit Sainte Chapelle, a church well known for its spectacular glass stained windows. To end the day we visit the Arab World Institute.

Day 17: Paris

Today is free to explore Paris at your leisure.

Day 18: Paris

Today is another when we focus on Paris’s rich literary history. A local guide takes on a journey through the famous Latin Quarter, including the Bibliotheque Mazarine, La Sorbonne, and the Ceramic Mosaics at Cluny-La Sorbonne metro station. We also visit Jardin de Luxembourg, among other local literary sites.

Day 19: Paris

Today, we focus on the history of film in Paris, visiting locations that have been used in films and television.

We visit the open-air market Carré Marigny which was used in the film Charade (1963), the Pont Alexandre III Bridge which was used in the movie a Midnight in Paris, the Place Dauphine which was used in the series Sex and the City, The Louvre Pyramid, Le Nemours, and many more sights.

Day 20: Paris and Amiens

In the morning we board a train to head to Amiens. On arrival, we’ll be met by a local guide to show us around the city. We will also visit the late-19th-century home of Jules Verne, with preserved interiors, his effects & a winter garden. In the afternoon we will return to Paris, with the rest of our final full day free to wander the city. In the evening we will enjoy a farewell dinner.

Day 21: Paris

Today, we make our own way to the airport for departing flights.

Includes / Excludes

What’s included in our Tour

• 20 nights of serviced apartment accommodation.
• Applicable entry fees and services of local guides.
• Service charges and gratuities.
• Touring by local public transport and local inter city trains.
• Transport and field trips as indicated.
• Services of a Tour Leader.
• Detailed tour information booklet.

What’s not included in our Tour

• Return international airfares and departure taxes.
• Comprehensive international travel insurance.
• Items of personal nature like laundry, phone calls and meals not included in the itinerary.

Participants must be able to carry their own luggage, climb and descend stairs, be in good health, mobile and able to participate in 3-5 hours of physical activity per day, the equivalent of walking / hiking up to 8 kilometers per day on uneven ground.

10 March 2025

Ends 30 March 2025 • 21 days

Change departure date

By booking two travellers sharing a room you save $5100 per person.

Payment Type

You can reserve your spot by paying a $1,000 pp deposit, for full details please see our Terms & Conditions .

Prices are per person and valid until 30th December 2024.

Make it a private tour

Easing your journey.

Crossing international borders with restrictions

The list of requirements to travel internationally has changed and will continue to change for several years. Odyssey is here to assist you in managing your way through these requirements:

For more information see our Crossing international borders with restrictions page.

Book With Confidence

If less than 30 days before your tour starts you are unable to travel as a result of Government travel restrictions, Odyssey Traveller will assist you with a date change, provide you with a credit or process a refund for your booking less any non-recoverable costs.

See Terms and conditions for details.

Peace of Mind Travel

The safety of our travellers, tour leader, local guide and support staff has always been our top priority and with the new guidelines for public health and safety for keeping safe for destinations around the world, we’ve developed our plan to give you peace of mind when travelling with us.

See Peace of Mind Travel for details.

Reading List Download PDF

France: a history: from gaul to de gaulle.

John Julius Norwich

I can still feel, as if it were yesterday, the excitement of my first Channel crossing (as a child of nearly 7) in September 1936; the regiment of porters, smelling asphyxiatingly of garlic in their blue-green blousons; the raucous sound all around me of spoken French; the immense fields of Normandy strangely devoid of hedges; then the Gare du Nord at twilight, the policemen with their képis and their little snow-white batons; and my first sight of the Eiffel Tower...This book is written in the belief that the average English-speaking man or woman has remarkably little knowledge of French history. We may know a bit about Napoleon or Joan of Arc or Louis XIV, but for most of us that's about it. In my own three schools we were taught only about the battles we won: Crécy and Poitiers, Agincourt and Waterloo. The rest was silence. So here is my attempt to fill in the blanks...

John Julius Norwich (at 88) has finally written the book he always wanted to write, the extremely colourful story of the country he loves best.

From frowning Roman generals and belligerent Gallic chieftains, to Charlemagne (hated by generations of French children taught that he invented schools) through Marie Antoinette and the storming of the Bastille to Vichy, the Resistance and beyond, FRANCE is packed with heroes and villains, adventures and battles, romance and revolution. Full of memorable stories and racy anecdotes, this is the perfect introduction to the country that has inspired the rest of the world to live, dress, eat -- and love better.

Parisians: An Adventure History of Paris

Graham Robb

No one knows a city like the people who live there - so who better to relate the history of Paris than its inhabitants through the ages? Taking us from 1750 to the new millennium, Graham Robb's Parisians is at once a book to read from cover to cover, to lose yourself in, to dip in and out of at leisure, and a book to return to again and again - rather like the city itself, in fact.

'Quirky, amused and très British' Julian Barnes

'A collection of true stories, culled from Robb's insatiable historical reading and lit by his imagination . . . So richly pleasurable that you feel it might emit a warm glow if you left it in a dark room' John Carey, Book of the Week, Sunday Times

'This book is the sort of triumph that we have no right to expect to come from anyone in the steady way that Robb's masterly books come from him' Philip Hensher, Daily Telegraph

'As Parisian and as bracing as a freshly mixed Pernod and water' New York Times

Paris: Biography of a city

Colin Jones

'Paris is the World, the rest of the Earth is nothing but its suburbs' - Marivaux In this intelligently-written and supremely entertaining new history, Colin Jones seeks to give a sense of the city of Paris as it was lived in and experienced over time. The focal point of generation upon generation of admirers and detractors, a source of attraction or repulsion even for those who have never been there, Paris has witnessed more extraordinary events than any other major city. No spot on earth has been more walked around, written about, discussed, painted and photographed. With an eye for the revealing, startling and (sometimes) horrible detail, Colin Jones takes the reader from Roman Paris to the present, recreating the ups and downs in the history of the city and its inhabitants. Attentive to both the urban environment and to the experience of those who lived within it, PARIS: BIOGRAPHY OF A CITY will be hugely enjoyed by habitual Paris obsessives, by first-time visitors, and by those who know the city only by repute.

The Invention of Paris: A History in Footsteps

A radical guide to Paris through art, literature and revolution.

The Invention of Paris is a tour through the streets and history of the French capital under the guidance of radical Parisian author and publisher Eric Hazan.

Hazan reveals a city whose squares echo with the riots, rebellions and revolutions of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Combining the raconteur’s ear for a story with a historian’s command of the facts, he introduces an incomparable cast of characters: the literati, the philosophers and the artists—Balzac, Baudelaire, Blanqui, Flaubert, Hugo, Maney, and Proust, of course; but also Doisneau, Nerval and Rousseau.

It is a Paris dyed a deep red in its convictions. It is haunted and vitalized by the history of the barricades, which Hazan retells in rich detail. The Invention of Paris opens a window on the forgotten byways of the capital’s vibrant and bloody past, revealing the city in striking new colors.

We'll Always Have Paris: Trying and Failing to Be French

Emma Beddington

As a bored, moody teenager, Emma Beddington came across a copy of French ELLE in the library of her austere Yorkshire school. As she turned the pages, full of philosophy, sex and lipstick, she realized that her life had one purpose and one purpose only: she needed to be French.

Instead of skulking in her bedroom listening to The Smiths or trudging to Betty's Tea Room to buy fondant fancies, she would be free and solitary, sitting outside the Café de Flore with a Scottie dog at her feet, a Moleskine on the table and a Gauloise trembling on her lower lip.

And so she set about becoming French: she did a French exchange, albeit in Casablanca; she studied French history at university, and spent the holidays in France with her French boyfriend. Eventually, after a family tragedy, she found herself living in Paris, with the same French boyfriend and two half-French children. Her dream had come true, but how would reality match up? Gradually Emma realized that she might have found Paris, but what she really needed to find was home.

Written with enormous wit and warmth, We'll Always Have Paris is a memoir for anyone who has ever worn a Breton T-shirt and wondered, however fleetingly, if they could pass for une vraie Parisienne.

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• Tour Details
• Reading List

Articles about Paris

Arrondissements of Paris, France

Know about Paris with this article giving the solo traveller or couple confidence when exploring the city on foot or on the metro . A small group tour of Paris mature and senior travellers explore off the beaten track, great galleries such as Marmottan , Musee Maillol .

Designing Paris: The Definitive Guide for Travellers

Redesigning Paris The Paris that many of us know and love did not always look as it does now. When Napoleon III instructed Hausmann to tear down the urban centre to make way for the…

Getting around Paris by Métro and Rail: A guide for seniors

Ride the metro and RER of Paris when on a small group tour for mature and senior travellers in Europe and visiting Paris , wth your partner or as a solo traveller , visit Marmottan , Musee Maillol or wander through the arcades .

Exploring Paris and France by rail, tips for learning about history

French history by rail for mature and senior travellers , couples or solo travellers is a long stay apartment based small group tour based in Paris. We use the rail network to learn about the history of Medieval to Contemporary France . One of 20+ Vacation packages offered in France.

Paris Leaders & Landmarks

Paris Leaders & Landmarks   The inhabitants of a place surely influence how it is perceived. Parisian politicians have certainly left their marks on some of France’s most famous landmarks, creating some amazing stories for…

The Elegant Arcades of Paris

The Elegant Arcades of Paris Part of the pleasure of getting to know the real Paris lies in getting off the main tourist trail and discovering its many hidden pockets and secrets. Its gorgeous arcades…

Conserving Versailles: The Definitive Guide for Travellers

Conserving Versailles Versailles was the official royal residence for over a century from 1682 – 1789. The splendor of the palace and the hundreds of people living there is awe-inspiring to reflect on. However, at…

Constructing Versailles: The Definitive Guide For Travellers

Constructing Versailles, the making of a Palace The Château du Versailles is an iconic destination for all of those interested in French history. A stone’s throw away from Paris, Versailles was the official residence of…

Guillaumot prevents Paris collapse

Guillaumot prevents Paris collapse. Modern-day Paris On April 24, 1777, architect Charles-Axel Guillaumot, newly minted Inspector of Quarries, experienced the worst first day at work. More than two years prior, in the afternoon of December…

Marmottan Monet Museum, France

Marmottan Monet Museum - home to the world's largest collection of Monets, along with works by the other great impressionists - remains a hidden gem, often left out of the standard tour of Paris.

Monet's Giverny Garden

Monet’s Giverny Garden Claude Monet French Impressionist Claude Monet (1840-1926) was a pioneer of a major art movement, but he created a thing of beauty that he believed eclipsed even his own celebrated works of art.…

Monet's Water Lillies: The Definitive Guide for Travellers

Claude Monet’s Water Lilies are among the most beloved and amazing artworks of the 20th century. Displayed in Paris’s Orangerie in a set of rooms devoted entirely to the paintings, they are Monet’s gift to…

Musée Maillol, Paris

Musee Maillol, a small museum devoted to the work of Aristide Maillol, a pioneering turn-of-the-century sculptor.

Musée Rodin, France

World’s most extensive collection of Auguste Rodin’s work, displayed in the beautiful house and gardens of the Hotel Biron, the Musee Rodin is a highlight of any trip to Paris.

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Paris History Tour: The French Revolution

• Hôtel de Ville
• Place de la Concorde
• Église Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis
• Place des Vosges

• Clarifies the tangled timeline of the 1789 Revolution and those that followed while highlighting the vestiges of 18th century revolutionary Paris
• Led by an expert historian

• You are a self-confessed history nerd . This tour dives deep into the period of the French Revolution, and the important places and people of the time. This tour is for those clients who come to Paris hungry to learn! 
• You have taken other focused subject matter tours with Context and are hoping to expand your knowledge to a new time period. 
• You are planning on visiting Versailles during your time in Paris. What better pre-cursor to visit Marie Antoinette’s country home than by learning all about the circumstances around the revolution? 
• Place de la Bastille 
• Hôtel de Ville 
• Place des Vosges 
• Place de la Concorde 

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10 must-see locations on the Black history tour in Paris

• By Mr. Digital Fingers
• Sep 17, 2024

Paris has long been celebrated for its iconic landmarks, world-class cuisine, and rich artistic history. But beyond the traditional sites of the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, the city holds a deep connection to Black history. Paris has been a beacon for Black culture, from the Harlem Renaissance writers who found inspiration in its cafes to the jazz musicians who filled the nightclubs with their vibrant music.  Exploring these hidden gems offers a fresh perspective on the city while honoring the profound contributions of Black individuals to its cultural tapestry.

Embarking on this journey is more than just sightseeing; it’s about reconnecting with the stories that shaped the African diaspora, paying tribute to Black excellence and feeling the emotional weight of the struggles and triumphs of Black icons. Here are ten must-see locations that will make your Black history tour in Paris unforgettable.

1. Sorbonne University

At the heart of the Latin Quarter stands Sorbonne University, where many African-American intellectuals and artists — such as James Baldwin and Richard Wright — spent time. The university became a place of refuge and intellectual exploration for Black scholars and writers who sought freedom from the racial constraints they experienced back home. Walking the grounds where these figures once stood evokes a sense of pride and a deeper appreciation for their contribution to literature and thought.

2. Place Josephine Baker

Few figures are as iconic in Paris’s Black history as Josephine Baker. An entertainer, civil rights activist and member of the French Resistance during World War II, Baker broke barriers on stage and in life. Place Josephine Baker — located in the 14th arrondissement — is a tribute to her remarkable life. Visiting this square and learning about her legacy provides an emotional connection to a woman who used her fame to fight for equality and justice.

3. Institut du Monde Arabe

While Le Musée Dapper closed its physical doors in 2017, the Institut du Monde Arabe continues to celebrate the connections between Arab and African cultures. Located in the 5th arrondissement, this institution offers exhibitions, concerts, and cultural events that showcase the richness of Arab-African heritage. Visiting the Institut du Monde Arabe provides insight into the diverse influences that have shaped Paris, acknowledging the interconnectedness of African and Arab histories.

4. Rue Blomet

Paris became the unofficial capital of jazz in the 1920s, largely due to the influence of Black American musicians like Sidney Bechet. Rue Blomet — home to the famous Bal Nègre — was a hotspot for jazz lovers. This nightclub brought together Parisians and African-American expatriates who found a sense of freedom and joy through music. Walking down Rue Blomet allows visitors to imagine the vibrant nights of music and dance that once filled the air, reminding us of the power of art to bridge cultures.

5. Espace Reine de Saba

Located in the 10th arrondissement of Paris, Espace Reine de Saba is a cultural center dedicated to the history and cultures of the Horn of Africa, particularly Ethiopia. The center hosts exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events that highlight the rich heritage of African civilizations. Visiting Espace Reine de Saba provides a deeper understanding of African history, art, and traditions, offering an opportunity to engage with the diverse cultures that have influenced and enriched Paris over the centuries. This place serves as a bridge between African and French cultures, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for African contributions to the global narrative.

6. Les Deux Magots

This legendary café in Saint-Germain-des-Prés was frequented by Black writers and intellectuals during the mid-20th century. Writers like James Baldwin, Chester Himes and others used Les Deux Magots as a space to gather, write and discuss the social and racial issues of their time. Sitting at the same tables they did offers an emotional reflection on the power of words and activism. The café remains a symbol of resistance, creativity and community for Black intellectuals.

7. The Pantheon

The Pantheon — one of Paris’s most revered monuments — is the final resting place of Alexandre Dumas, the celebrated author of The Three Musketeers and The Count of Monte Cristo . Dumas — of mixed African heritage — rose to fame through his literary talents despite the racial prejudices of his time. The honor of being buried in the Pantheon speaks to the cultural impact Dumas made on France. Visiting his grave is a humbling experience, as it highlights the triumph of creativity over adversity.

8. Château de Monte-Cristo

Located just outside Paris, Château de Monte-Cristo is the former home of Alexandre Dumas. The estate — named after one of his most famous novels — is now a museum dedicated to his life and work. Touring the grounds and learning about his accomplishments adds another layer of appreciation for his role in shaping French literature. The emotional resonance of seeing where Dumas lived and created provides a more personal connection to the man behind the iconic stories.

9. Rue de l’Abbé-Grégoire

Rue de l’Abbé-Grégoire is named after Henri Grégoire, an 18th-century French abolitionist and advocate for the rights of Black people. Abbé Grégoire fought tirelessly for the emancipation of enslaved people in France’s colonies and the equal treatment of people of color. Walking down this street is a powerful reminder of the fight for justice that transcended national boundaries. It’s a place where history comes alive, and visitors are reminded of the resilience and determination of those who fought for equality.

10. La Maison des Cultures d’Afrique

La Maison des Cultures d’Afrique (MACA) in Paris promotes African art and culture. MACA regularly hosts exhibitions, performances, and workshops that showcase the diverse artistic expressions of the African continent. Visiting MACA offers an enriching experience, allowing visitors to engage with contemporary African culture in various forms, from visual arts to music and dance.

Reflecting on the journey through Black history in Paris

The Black history tour of Paris offers a window into a rich and diverse heritage often overlooked in traditional narratives of the city. From the intellectual gatherings at La Sorbonne to the jazz-filled nights on Rue Blomet, these locations stand as a testament to the profound influence Black individuals have had on Parisian culture. Each site on this tour tells a story of resilience, creativity and the quest for justice that still resonates today.

As you walk through the streets and visit these locations, you’re not just observing history — you’re feeling it. The emotional weight of the past, the struggles and victories, the art and activism all come together to create an experience that leaves a lasting impact. This tour isn’t just about visiting landmarks; it’s about understanding the contributions of Black culture and history to one of the world’s most famous cities.

This story was created using AI technology.

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• African influence in France , African-American intellectuals in Paris , Alexandre Dumas Pantheon , Black artists in Paris , Black history in Paris , contemporary African photography Paris , Espace Reine de Saba , jazz culture in Paris , Josephine Baker tribute , Rue Blomet jazz legacy

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