Private Notre-Dame walking Tour w/ Optional Sainte-Chapelle Entry
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
Truly Private & Flexible: This tour is exclusively for you. We move at your pace, linger where you wish, and focus on what fascinates you. Forget rigid schedules and crowded groups; this experience is yours to shape.
The Power of Choice: Don't settle for a fixed itinerary. Choose your own grand finale: the dazzling stained-glass art of Sainte-Chapelle, or the ancient Roman foundations in the Archaeological Crypt. Art or archaeology? You decide.
A Story, Not a Lecture: As a passionate local guide, I share the living stories behind the stones. You get a real insight into the city's soul and the unique, contemporary story of Notre-Dame's survival and future.
Available options
ND Outdoor + Saint Chapelle
ND outdoor + Sainte Chapelle: Your guide provides outdoor tour of Notre Dame & escorts you to the quick entry of Sainte Chapelle
Notre Dame Outdoor Only
Notre Dame Outdoor Tour: Guide walks around Notre Dame and talks about its History, Architecture, Legends and its rise from Ashes after fire.<br/>Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
ND Outdoor + Crypt
ND Outdoor + Crypt: Explore Paris's Roman foundations under Notre-Dame. Your guide gives outside tour of ND & escorts you to the Crypt
ND outdoor & SC + Concerigerie
Sainte Chapelle + Concerigerie
What's included
A 2-hour walking tour covering Outside Notre Dame, the Bouquinistes, & Haussmannian architecture
Live storytelling and expert commentary in English.
Entry tickets to the Crypt or Sainte Chapelle(quick entry)/Concerigerie(Based on Option Selected)
Self guided tour in Sainte Chapelle or Crypt based on option selected.
The flexibility to ask all your questions and go at your own pace.
An exclusive and personalized private tour for just you and your party.
A dedicated, passionate local guide.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We will begin our private tour by exploring the stunning exterior of this architectural marvel. At your own pace, you will delve into the secrets of its famous gargoyles, intricate portals, and impressive flying buttresses as your guide brings the history of the cathedral to life.
2
Next, we'll stroll along the banks of the River Seine to discover the iconic green stalls of the Bouquinistes, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. We'll learn about the centuries-old tradition of these open-air booksellers and browse their unique collections.
3
Stop 3
As a special addition to your private tour, time permitting and based on your interests, we can make a final stop to see the legendary Shakespeare and Company bookshop. Your guide will share the story of this famous literary haven, a former home to writers like Hemingway and Joyce.
4
Stop 4
Our guided walking tour of the historic Île de la Cité concludes here, in the famous square between Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Hôtel-Dieu, one of the oldest hospitals in the world.
Your Monument Visit:
The guided portion of the tour ends at this point, but your experience continues. Based on the option you selected during booking, your guide will now personally escort you to the entrance of either Sainte-Chapelle or the Archaeological Crypt.
To ensure a smooth, hassle-free entry, your guide will accompany you through the security line and right up to the ticket scanning booth. After providing a final orientation for your self-guided visit, your guide will see you off as you begin your exploration. You are then free to enjoy the monument at your own pace.
What's not included
Entrance tickets to Notre Dame Cathedral (this is an exterior-only tour)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and Drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
11 reviews
5★
11
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meeting Point: At the Charlemagne statue. You’ll find your guide wearing a black cap with the Scenic Zest Logo. Check-in will start 15 minutes before the start time.
Important notes
Your guide will handle the entry to the Crypte/Sainte-Chapelle. Your tickets are with him.
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
