Paris starts here The Tour for first-time visitors

Paris , France

Paris starts here The Tour for first-time visitors

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(7 reviews)

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

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About this experience

This tour is so visual it feels like a movie set. And you are on that movie set yourself.

We go from the backstreets behind Notre Dame to the Louvre palace. We see the old island where Paris was born, Notre Dame, Sainte Chapelle, Conciergerie, the Pont Neuf bridge, and Old Louvre and New Louvre.

We also see hidden gems. The French Mint. The Palace of the Immortals. Kilometer Zero. and so on.

The guide answers all your questions because this tour is in a small group. Why is Paris so beautiful? How was it born? Why is Notre Dame so important to the rest of the world ? and so on.

There are countless opportunities for photos. Your guide is a true Parisian, s/he shares tips, answers all questions, etc.

This tour is for first-time visitors to Paris and for seasoned Parisians who want to better understand the City of Light. If you love Paris, join us!

We walk rain or shine. Small groups. In English. Your guide is in a pink vest.

Available options

Paris starts here The Tour for first-time visitors

What's included

Walk around the most major monuments of Paris with your local guide.

To see all this in two hours, we do not go inside every monument.

English-only tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Notre Dame is one of Paris' most iconic landmarks, known for its magnificent Gothic architecture, rose windows, and towering spires. Standing on Île de la Cité, this cathedral has been a symbol of Paris for over 850 years. Visitors can marvel at its intricate facade and admire its historic grandeur.

Stop 2

Sainte-Chapelle is a jewel of Gothic architecture, famous for its breathtaking stained-glass windows that depict biblical scenes in vibrant color. Built in the 13th century to house precious Christian relics, it remains one of Paris' most stunning chapels.

Stop 3

Palais de Justice has been at the heart of French legal history for centuries. With its classical architecture and grand halls, it once housed the country's highest courts. This historic site on Île de la Cité stands beside Sainte-Chapelle, sharing its storied past and elegant facade.

Stop 4

Conciergerie
The Conciergerie, a former royal palace and prison, is steeped in history as the last home of Marie Antoinette before her execution. Located along the Seine, its medieval towers and halls offer a glimpse into Paris' turbulent revolutionary past.

Stop 5

Pont Neuf, ironically named the "New Bridge," is Paris' oldest bridge, spanning the Seine and connecting the city’s historical heart. Its stone arches, elegant design, and views of the Île de la Cité make it a perfect spot to take in the city’s timeless beauty.

Stop 6

Pont des Arts is a beloved pedestrian bridge, often adorned with art installations and offering stunning views of the Seine and the Louvre. Famous as the “love lock” bridge, it’s a romantic stop for visitors and a favorite spot for painters and photographers alike.

The Louvre Pyramid, a striking glass and steel structure designed by architect I.M. Pei, serves as the modern entrance to the historic Louvre Museum. Its sleek, geometric design creates a beautiful contrast with the classic palace, blending old and new in perfect harmony.

Stop 8

The Louvre Museum, the world’s largest art museum, houses an incredible collection of artworks spanning centuries, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Once a royal palace, its stunning halls and galleries are an endless discovery of masterpieces from across the globe.

What's not included

We do not go inside the landmarks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Horseman Statue in front of Notre Dame
Your guide wears a bright pink vest and starts promptly.
If you miss the start of the tour, you have a chance to meet them back at 1 rue de Lutèce (https://bit.ly/parishighlights-secondstop)

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