Vines once covered most of Paris and the wines were renowned throughout Europe. The modest vineyard of Saint-Germain-des-Prés has its roots in the same soil that gave life to wines in the Middle Ages, affording us the opportunity to sense the spirit of place in one of Paris' oldest and most renowned quarters.
This walk explores the wine history of Paris, the wealth generated through the sale of wine, and the role wine played in the city's growth. We evoke the spirit and daily life of the Middle Ages by walking around the area where the Abbey Saint-Germain-des-Prés once stood and learning about its wine history. We also learn about celebrities who have lived in the quarter and complete our experience with a blind wine tasting of three wines accompanied by seasonal vegetables, rustic fermented bread, and exquisite cheeses.
The Abbaye of Saint-Germain-des-Prés was once one of the most powerful and richest abbeys in Christendom, due largely to its vast vineyards.
Part of the fun of this walk is identifying the places that were inhabited by famous painters, writers, philosophers, composers, poets, and rock stars.
The entrance to the Abbaye Palace from the Seine side takes us through the charming Place Furstenburg, which also houses the atelier of the painter Eugene Delacroix, whose paintings hang in the Louvre.
After exploring the wine history of the Abbey St-Germain and the quarter's charming streets, we set up for a blind wine tasting in the Marché Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Here we blind taste 3 wines with a complete background to natural wines and the importance of living soil. Fine cheeses, rustic fermented bread, and seasonal vegetables accompany the tasting.
Our meeting point is in front of the Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Prés across from the quarter's famous Café de Flore
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.
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.
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.
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.
Montmartre is a historic and artistic district known for its bohemian past, charming streets, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
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.
A buttery, flaky pastry made from laminated dough. Best enjoyed fresh from a local bakery.
A long, thin loaf of French bread with a crispy crust and soft interior. Often served with cheese or ham.
A classic French dish consisting of steak and French fries, usually served with a side of salad and béarnaise sauce.
Thin pancakes that can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients, such as Nutella, cheese, or ham.
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.
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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.
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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 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.
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.
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