Original Paris by Walking
Immerse yourself in the history of Ile de la Cite, believed to
be the first settlement in Paris when a small tribe called the
Parissis lived there in 52 BC. Explore the oldest bridge in
Paris, stroll along the Seine, and discover iconic landmarks
like Notre Dame and Sainte-Chapelle.
Tour Highlights
Discover Original Paris
Gain a deeper understanding of Paris long before she
became known as the City of Light on this original
Island of the City, the Ile de la Cite.
Pont Neuf Stories
Laugh and enjoy stories about the Pont Neuf and the
story of the stone masks, or mascarons, which were a
sort of mic drop gesture from King Henry.
Seine River Stroll
Stroll along the famous River Seine where the left
and right banks are separated, marked by the iconic
bouquinistes, or booksellers, that ply their trade
in a tradition that dates back hundreds of years.
Notre Dame Cathedral
Hear inspirational and moving tales of Notre Dame
Cathedral-her past, her present and her future.
Sainte-Chapelle Experience
Receive tickets to Sainte-Chapelle, home to one of
the most extensive collections of stained glass
windows that tell over a thousand stories from the
Bible.
Itinerary
-
1. Pont Neuf Bridge
Your journey begins on the Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Paris. Inaugurated by Henry IV in 1607, this "New Bridge" connects the left and right banks crossing the River Seine. -
2. River Seine & Bouquinistes
Walk along the beautiful River Seine, the epicenter of the vibrant French capital, and pass the area of the bouquinistes, or booksellers, who have been engaging in the activity of book selling here since the 15th century. -
3. Clock Tower & Conciergerie
Stop to check the time on the famous and beautiful Clock Tower, the oldest in Paris since 1371. Continue to the Conciergerie, a 14th century former prison that once housed Marie Antoinette before her execution. -
4. Palais de Justice & Flower Market
Marvel at the gorgeous golden gates of the Palais de Justice. Take in the view from Place Louis Lepine, home to a beautiful flower market renamed Marché aux Fleurs Reine Elizabeth II in honor of her majesty after a state visit in 2014. -
5. Notre Dame & Sainte-Chapelle
Visit Point Zero, the geographic center of Paris, located just outside Notre Dame Cathedral. Learn how this gothic masterpiece survived wars, pillaging and the fire of 2019. Finish at Sainte-Chapelle where you'll receive tickets for your self-guided visit.
Plan your trip
Included Tickets
Your tour includes timed entry tickets to
Sainte-Chapelle. You can also purchase a combined
ticket with Conciergerie at a discounted rate.
Seasonal Opening Hours
From April 1st to September 30th: 9am - 7pm. October
1st to March 31st: 9am - 5pm.
Tour Guide Expertise
Our expert guides will bring the history of Paris to
life and share insider tips about the best ways to
visit famous sites passed on your journey.
Small Group Experience
With a maximum group size of 20, you'll enjoy a
personalized experience with plenty of opportunities
to ask questions.
Reviews
Perfect Introduction to Paris
This walking tour was the ideal way to start our Paris
visit. The historical insights about the city's origins
were fascinating, and seeing Sainte-Chapelle at the end
was breathtaking. Our guide brought Paris's 2,000-year
history to life in just a few hours!
- James P.
Rich History and Hidden Gems
Wonderful tour through the heart of historic Paris. Our
small group size made it easy to ask questions and hear
all the fascinating stories. We discovered charming
streets and historical details we would have completely
missed on our own. The included Sainte-Chapelle tickets
were a great bonus!
- Elizabeth C.
Journey meeting point
48.85719° N, 2.34116° E
Pont Neuf Bridge, in front of the Henry IV statue
Finding Your Guide:
Your expert guide will meet you in the middle of the Pont
Neuf Bridge, right in front of the equestrian statue of
Henry IV. This iconic bridge is the oldest in Paris
despite its name meaning "New Bridge."
From here, you'll begin a fascinating journey exploring
the original settlement of Paris, with stories dating back
to 52 BC when a small tribe called the Parissis first
inhabited the area.
The tour ends at Sainte-Chapelle where you'll receive your
tickets for your self-guided visit, with the option to
also explore the nearby Conciergerie.
