Notre-Dame Exterior & Sainte-Chapelle Medieval Paris Tour

Paris , France

Notre-Dame Exterior & Sainte-Chapelle Medieval Paris Tour

Active

(328 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

For such a tiny island, Île de la Cité has a fascinating history. On this guided walking tour, your expert local guide will introduce you to the landmarks and legends that shaped Paris. With skip-the-line access to the breathtaking Sainte-Chapelle and a visit to the historic Conciergerie—where Marie Antoinette was imprisoned—you'll step into the past. Admire the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral from the outside and learn about its incredible restoration efforts. Complete your experience with a scenic Seine River cruise, offering a new perspective on the City of Light.

Available options

Heart of Paris Walking Tour

What's included

Local English-speaking guide

Skip-the-line ticket for Sainte-Chapelle

Skip-the-line ticket for Conciergerie

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your medieval Paris walking tour starts along the Seine at the oldest bridge across the river.

Stop 2

Next, you'll visit the Conciergerie, the oldest remaining part of the Palais de la Cité. This former royal residence of the kings of France became a prison during the French Revolution, with its most famous inmate being Marie Antoinette. Enter with pre-reserved tickets for a guided tour of this incredible piece of French history.

Stop 3

Skip the long lines and Stained glass windows. You'll enjoy a more peaceful experience visiting in the afternoon after the crowds have left. Your guide will share fascinating insights into the chapel's history and the significance of the artwork.

Stroll down meandering cobblestone streets where you'll hear the stories and learn of the characters—poets, philosophers, artists—that made Paris the City of Light.

Stop 5 Pass by

One of the highlights on your walking tour is the Shakespeare and Company bookshop featured in many films.

Stop 6

As you approach the iconic Notre-Dame, your guide will take you back in time to when the majestic cathedral—France’s official point zero—was first built, and Paris looked very different than it does today. While this tour explores the exterior only, your guide will share how to visit the interior on your own. You’ll be among the first to see Notre-Dame since its reopening after the 2019 fire. Before parting ways, your guide will provide you with tickets to a one-hour Seine River cruise, offering live commentary and stunning views of Paris’s architectural treasures from the water.

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off

Notre-Dame ticket

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

191 reviews

5★

155

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

137 reviews

5★

122

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.

Some galleries of the Île de la Cité monuments may close without prior notice, or select pieces may be removed for restoration or loan. In this case, your guide will make an appropriate substitution.

This tour is in English.

This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.

Meeting point

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of your tour, your guide will be holding a green Walks sign. This tour meets in front of the equestrian statue of Henri IV, 15 Pl. du Pont Neuf, 75001 Paris, France.

Important notes

• Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour start time for check-in. Out of courtesy to other guests, we’re unable to wait for latecomers. No refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows.
• All guests (including children) must bring ID on the day of their tour.
• Security measures are enforced at Sainte-Chapelle. Only small handbags and backpacks are allowed inside. No item larger than 55 x 35 x 20 cm will be allowed.
• Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
• Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
• Walks and Devour comply with all local government regulations. Please refer to local government guidelines for the most up to date information.
• Areas visited during this tour are subject to closure. Your guide may need to modify areas visited on the day of the tour.

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