Paris Île de la Cité and Notre-Dame Walking Tour With Crypt
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the heart of Paris on this walking tour of Île de la Cité, starting at the iconic equestrian statue of Henri IV. You will explore the scenic Place Dauphine and marvel at the medieval grandeur of the Tour de l’Horloge and the Conciergerie, once home to royalty and revolutionaries alike.
Your guide will share local culture, from the rich legal history of the Palais de Justice to the bustling Marché aux Fleurs (flower market). Admire the stunning exterior of Sainte-Chapelle and the world-famous Notre Dame Cathedral as your guide points out the interesting details to notice in their Gothic architecture.
Following your tour, you will enjoy a self-guided visit to the Archeological Crypt below Notre Dame, where you’ll discover the foundations of the Île de la Cité, the original Paris.
Note: This tour does not include entrance to the cathedral. Group visits aren’t yet allowed, but you are welcome to enter on your own after the tour.
Available options
Tour + Crypt and Chapel Combo
Saint-Chapelle & Conciergerie: Add on entry to Saint-Chapelle and the Conciergerie so you can visit inside these incredible monuments after your tour.
Guided Tour + Crypt in English
Walking Tour + Crypt Entry: Explore the heart of Paris with a local, from Notre Dame to the Conciergerie to a charming flower market and scenic parks.
Tour in Spanish + Crypt/Chapel
Tour in Spanish + Crypt/Chapel: Enhance your guided tour in Spanish and crypt ticket with entry to stunning Saint-Chapelle and the historic Conciergerie.
Guided tour in Spanish + Crypt
Walking Tour + Crypt Entry: Explore the heart of Paris with a local, from Notre Dame to the Conciergerie to a charming flower market and scenic parks.
What's included
Expert local guide
Ticket to the archaeological crypt underneath Notre Dame
Entry to Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie if upgrade selected
90-minute walking tour of Île de la Cité
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
You’ll start your tour at the iconic equestrian statue of Henri IV, known as the “Good King.” It symbolizes the king’s achievements in bringing stability to France after the Wars of Religion.
2
This peaceful green oasis sits at the tip of Île de la Cité and offers you scenic views of the Seine River. It’s named after King Henri IV who was known as the “Vert Galant” for his romantic escapades.
3
Stop 3
Next, you’ll visit this triangular square hidden in the heart of Île de la Cité, one of Paris’s most charming and quiet spots. Built by Henri IV, it was designed to create a peaceful residential area.
4
Stop 4
You will then pass by the Court of Appeal, an essential part of the French judicial system, where key legal appeals are heard. Here, you’ll be able to admire its impressive façade from the outside.
5
Stop 5
Your guide will show you this clock tower, one of the oldest in Paris, installed in 1370 to symbolize royal power and justice. It’s a reminder of the medieval importance of timekeeping in city life.
6
Stop 6
You’ll be able to admire the grand exterior of the Conciergerie, once a royal palace and later a notorious prison during the French Revolution. Its Gothic architecture hints at its dark history. Upgrade your ticket to include a post-tour visit inside this unusual medieval building.
7
Stop 7
You will also discover the classical exterior of the Palace of Justice, which has been the center of judicial power for centuries, housing the country’s highest courts.
8
Your guide will take you by the exterior of the Sainte-Chapelle church, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture famous for its stunning stained glass windows. Upgrade your ticket to include a post-tour visit inside this stunning 13th-century chapel..
9
Stop 9
Before you reach the end of the guided tour, you’ll discover this historic flower market located on Île de la Cité. Named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II, it’s a picturesque spot to explore nature in the heart of the city.
10
Stop 10
Pass by
Here you can admire the Gothic architecture that has captivated visitors for centuries. You will see its iconic façade, intricate sculptures, and towering spires. (Entry not included.)
11
Stop 11
Your walking tour ends outside the entrance to the Archeological Crypt. You will then enjoy a self-guided visit (ticket included) to see the foundations of Paris below Notre Dame.
What's not included
Gratuities
Notre-Dame Cathedral access and reserved time slot
Guide in Crypt
Guide in Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
116 reviews
5★
82
4★
12
3★
10
2★
2
1★
10
Tripadvisor
4.9
2,149 reviews
5★
2005
4★
94
3★
18
2★
13
1★
19
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
It is possible that the crypt can be closed at times for construction or maintenance. In this case you will receive an hour-long guided walking tour around Notre Dame but you will not be able to enter the Crypt.
This is a guided walking tour of the area around and outside of the Notre Dame Cathedral followed by a self-guided visit of the Archeological Crypt. There will not be a guided tour inside Notre Dame, as group visits are not yet permitted. You are welcome to enter the cathedral on your own before or after the tour.
If you upgrade for entry to Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie, you will need to reserve your entry time via the official Monuments Nationaux website. Alternatively, you can ask our guides for help when you arrive early for your tour.
Meeting point
Meet your guide in front of the statue of Henri IV on the Pont Neuf bridge.
Your guide will be holding an orange sign that says “ExperienceFirst.”
For easier navigation, you can paste this address into Google Maps: 15 Pl. du Pont Neuf, 75001 Paris
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
