Aristocratic and Literary Tour in Marais

Paris , France

Aristocratic and Literary Tour in Marais

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About this experience

This tour immerses you in the literary and aristocratic past of the historic Marais district. Follow in the footsteps of the district’s illustrious
characters such as Madame de Sévigné and Romantics like Victor
Hugo and Théophile Gautier ...

For hundreds of years, the Marais was the preferred residence of the nobility. In the 17th century, the nobility built magnificent mansions around the Place Royale (now the Place des Vosges), some of which still exist.

This was also the birthplace of Madame de Sévigné, a leading figure of her time whose literary work opens a window on aristocratic and courtly life in the 17th century. She was a close friend of literary pioneer Madame de La Fayette. Victor Hugo later lived just a few steps away, as did Colette.

We’ll start with a coffee or tea at the Place des Vosges and then set off on foot to explore the surrounding area and its fascinating history. Readings by authors who lived in the district
will round off this extraordinary experience.

Available options

Aristocratic and Literary Tour in Marais

What's included

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Our tour begins on Place des Vosges, the onetime Place Royale. Most famously, Victor Hugo lived on this square, but so did other writers such as Théophile Gautier and Madame de Sévigné. You will learn about both over the course of our tour.

The Hôtel de Sully is one of the many architectural jewels of the Marais. Built in the first half of the 17th century, it nonetheless displays many features of the Renaissance. We will visit the charming gardens and admire its architectural details from the outside.

One of the few squares with Louis XVI-style architecture, the site reveals the evolution and development of the neighbourhood .

Another remarquable 17th-century townhouse, the Hôtel Lamoignon features in the letters of Madame de Sévigné as she was friends with the owners. We will pause here for a reading from those letters.

Stop 5

Just across the street from the Hôtel Lamoignon is the onetime home of Madame de Sévigné. We highly recommend you visit the museum inside before or after our tour. We will read from her letters as she describes acquiring her new home.

The Hôtel de Sens is one of the only two examples we have in Paris of private Gothic architecture—the others are churches. This is a rare example of a medieval townhouse and briefly the home of Marguerite de Valois. We'll learn an interesting anecdote about her stay here...

We will finish our tour at the church where Victor Hugo's daughter Léopoldine was married in 1843—and which appears as the location for the marriage of Cosette and Marius in Les Misérables.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

This walking tour lasts approximately 2 1/2 hours. An estimated time is given for stops along the way, but the 2 1/2 hours also includes walking time between sites as well as other sites not listed.

Meeting point

We will meet at Café Hugo for a coffee and a brief introduction before beginning our walk.

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