Napoleon III's Paris city tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The tour that deals with the drastic and radical reconstruction that completely changed the city of Paris, by destroying over 70% of it. The most impressive, ambitious, comprehensive yet also destructive and culturally catastrophic urban planning move, possibly of all time - the Haussmannian reconstruction - is the main topic of this tour. We present the pivotal change in the history of the city, where a medieval town, with aspects of renaissance and classical architecture scattered about, became a modern, industrialized capital of the world - in the time span of only 17 years. This is, without a doubt, one of the most interesting tours we offer, as it delves into the very birth of modernity: industrial life, consumerist culture, modern politics, urban living. This tour, like no other, shows us the birth of the world we today live in, and how it came to be in the most important (also, the most beautiful) city in the world, Paris.
Available options
Haussmannian Paris
What's included
Private tour
Professional art historian guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The architectural and aesthetic model that was used for the reconstruction of Paris done in the second half of the 19th century. The reconstruction in question is the main topic of the tour. This beautiful square from the very end of the 17th century is one of the five royal squares of Paris, and is a marvel to behold in its own right.
2
Stop 2
The world famous Opéra Garnier, also known as the Palace Garnier, is the focal point of the late 19th century reconstruction of Paris, the main topic of the tour. It is the new center of the new Paris, meant to substitute the old one, cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris. Please note - we are not entering the Opera house, as this is a separate tour altogether. We only address it from the outside.
3
The most beautiful bank in the entire world, bar none - and a true cathedral of wealth. Marvel at the transformation a mundane task (going to the bank) into a truly spiritual experience.
4
Stop 4
After the most beautiful bank in the world, the most beautiful department store. Shopping is elevated to a spiritual, religious experience in this cathedral of opulence and consumerism.
5
Stop 5
One of the two (only possible) competitors for the title of the world's most beautiful department store. A true marvel of decadence and luxury.
6
Stop 6
A detailed account of the boulevard Haussmann as the prime example of a boulevard, the most prominent type of street in the vision of new, industrialized, bourgeois Paris.
7
Stop 7
An account of the political division that still shook France in the second half of the 19th century, and the attempts to reconcile the differences between ever waring parties of the monarchic aristocrats and the republican bourgeois.
8
The building that symbolizes the Church and the industrial forces forging a pact; the first church in Paris to be made with extensive use of steel, and a conclusion of the tour.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
FR
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The guide will be standing in front of the entrance to the Ritz hotel, carrying a red canvas tote bag.
Important notes
Please let us know of the desired starting time and share an e-mail and and/or a phone number where you can be reached.
About Paris
Paris, the capital of France, is a city steeped in history, art, and romance. Known for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and charming neighborhoods, Paris offers a unique blend of timeless elegance and modern vibrancy. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, the city is a treasure trove of cultural and historical gems.
Top Attractions
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is Paris's most iconic landmark and a symbol of France. Built in 1889 for the World's Fair, it offers breathtaking views of the city.
Architecture
2-3 hours
€17.10-€26.80 (depending on the level)
Louvre Museum
The Louvre is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris. It houses thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
Museum
3-4 hours
€17 (full price), free for under 18s and EU residents under 26
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture and one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. It has been undergoing restoration since the 2019 fire.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free (towers and crypts may have reopening fees in the future)
Montmartre
Montmartre is a historic and artistic district known for its bohemian past, charming streets, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
Cultural
Half-day
Free to explore (Sacré-Cœur dome visit €6)
Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790.
Historical
Full day
€18-€28 (depending on the pass)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Croissant
A buttery, flaky pastry made from laminated dough. Best enjoyed fresh from a local bakery.
Breakfast
Contains gluten and dairy
Baguette
A long, thin loaf of French bread with a crispy crust and soft interior. Often served with cheese or ham.
Breakfast/Lunch
Contains gluten
Steak Frites
A classic French dish consisting of steak and French fries, usually served with a side of salad and béarnaise sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains gluten (if served with fries) and meat
Crêpes
Thin pancakes that can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients, such as Nutella, cheese, or ham.
Snack/Dessert
Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian/vegan options available
Popular Activities
Hot air balloon rides
Rock climbing in Fontainebleau forest
Kayaking on the Seine
Picnicking in the Luxembourg Garden
Boat tours on the Seine
Spa day at a luxury hotel
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending a cabaret show
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in Paris, with warm weather and long daylight hours. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: French
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Paris is generally safe for travelers, but pickpocketing and petty theft can be a problem in tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Charles de Gaulle Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center
- Orly Airport • 14 km (8.7 miles) from city center
By train
Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon
By bus
Bercy Seine, Porte Maillot
Getting around
Public transport
The Paris Metro is one of the most efficient and extensive subway systems in the world, covering all major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, G7
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Le Marais
Montmartre
Latin Quarter
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Champs-Élysées
Day trips
Versailles
17 km (10.5 miles) from Paris • Full day
The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790 and is famous for its opulent interiors and vast gardens.
Giverny
75 km (47 miles) from Paris • Half day to full day
Giverny is a charming village known as the home of the famous impressionist painter Claude Monet. The village is home to Monet's House and Gardens, which inspired many of his most famous works.
Château de Fontainebleau
55 km (34 miles) from Paris • Full day
The Château de Fontainebleau is a grand royal château and park located just outside of Paris. It was a residence of the French monarchs from Louis VII to Napoleon III and is known for its beautiful architecture and vast forests.
Festivals
Fête de la Musique • June 21st (annual)
Paris Fashion Week • February and September (annual)
Nuit Blanche • First Saturday in October (annual)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic French phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
- Use public transport, walk, or bike to get around the city and avoid traffic and parking issues
- Consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass or a multi-day public transport pass to save money on attractions and transport
- Explore the city's many neighborhoods and hidden gems, not just the major tourist attractions
- Try local specialties and enjoy the dining experience slowly and leisurely
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
