Hidden Paris: Explore Medieval Marais on a Walking Tour

Paris , France

Hidden Paris: Explore Medieval Marais on a Walking Tour

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(183 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Walk Marais and learn how tradition and the open LGBT community live in tandem. Wander the Jewish Quartier and historic landmarks, try a sweet treat from a local bakery and find hidden spots away from tourist areas.

Available options

Small Group

Private Group

What's included

Taste sweet local pastry

Spot the hidden squares, street art, and marvellous churches of Marais

Join Local English-speaking guide

Get tips on what else to see, do and eat during your stay

Discover best-preserved medieval area in Paris

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Join a local guide to discover the enigmatic charms of France’s capital on this enlightening Paris city tour. You’ll start your Paris tour in front of the Centre Pompidou, Europe's largest modern art museum, nestled in an impressive contemporary building.

Stop 2

Located in the heart of Paris and best-preserved medieval area in the Marais, le Marais is one of the most visited ones in Paris.

Stop 3

The Stravinsky Fountain is without any doubt the most one of the most photographed fountains. Do not miss to learn more about it and take some photos as well.

Stop 4

The townhall of Paris (Hôtel de Ville) is a quite remarkable building but also historically rich. This is on the esplanade in front of it that medieval executions were carried out and that the first beheading with the guillotine took place.

Stop 5

Pass by the Saint Gervais church just behind the square, getting a glimpse of the beautiful inside interiors. Then it’s time to fuel up with a sweet treat. You’ll be treated to something a little different – a delicious meringue known as a ‘merveilleux.’

Just a street away is Rue des Rosiers, the heart of the Jewish community. It’s a vibrant pedestrian street full of falafel stands and delicious Jewish-influenced delis.

Stop 7

From there we’ll move on to Paris’ oldest and certainly most beautiful square, la Place des Vosges, home of France’s national writer, Victor Hugo.

Stop 8

From there, it’s only a short walk to our final destination, La Place de la Bastille, the. This is former prison that was captured on July 14, 1789, triggering the French Revolution. The area nearby is full of bars and restaurants, leaving you with plenty of options for carrying on with your evening in the City of Lights!

What's not included

Gratuities

Additional Food and Drink

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

95 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.8

88 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This is a child-friendly tour. Children under the age of 6 are permitted to join this tour free of charge.

For this tour, we can cater for the following dietary requirements: vegetarians.

Please note that this tour covers 2 km (1.2 mile) of walking.

Meeting point

123 Rue Saint-Martin, 75004 Paris (opposite the Pompidou centre by the "Centre Culturel de Serbie"). Your guide will be holding a Paris Urban Adventures' sign.

Important notes

Check-in Time
You must arrive at least 5 minutes prior to tour meeting time. The tour will begin on time and your check-in time is important. Out of respect for the other passengers we won't be able to accommodate late arrivals. Due to heavy traffic in Paris, and ongoing strike action of public transport companies, please plan your journey in advance, ensuring you arrive at least 5 minutes before the start time of your tour.

Dress Code
Please wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring an umbrella for rainy days..

Additional Information
We reserve the right to change both the route and places visited within the tour. Food inclusions are subject to change, dependent on availability on the day.

Dietary Notes:
For this tour, we can cater for the following dietary requirements: vegetarians. Please provide this information at least 24-hours prior to your travel date. You can do so by emailing us at paris@urbanadventures.com. Unfortunately, we are not able to cater for any other dietary requirements that are not listed above.

Child Policy
Children under the age of 6 are permitted to join this tour free of charge so long as they eat from their parents' meals. Please note that a special, separate meal will not be prepared for them. Please inform us at the time of booking if you’ll be bringing a child under the age of 6.

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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