WWII Paris Under the Occupation Small Group Walking Tour

Paris , France

WWII Paris Under the Occupation Small Group Walking Tour

Active

(4 reviews)

2h - 3h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

In a group of 6 travellers maximum (the smallest in Paris), travel back in time to June 1940, when Paris fell under German occupation without a single shot being fired. Explore the history of the occupation in three of Paris' central districts: Saint Germain, the Latin Quarter, the Marais. Whilst your expert English speaking guide walks you through the meandering streets of Paris, you will explore topics ranging from daily life, food, education, entertainment, the resistance, deportations, and the liberation of Paris. Your guide will be happy to answer any of your questions.

Available options

WWII Paris Under the Occupation Small Group Walking Tour

What's included

Expert English guided tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

The emblematic city of lights. The entire tour will take place within the oldest parts of Paris

Stop 2

The infamous Notre Dame Cathedral, finished in 1363 and built in the Gothic style of architecture will be an important stop on your tour. You will not only get to see the important architectural parts of the church, but you will also learn about how religion was controlled during the occupation of Paris during the second world war.

Stop 3

One of the oldest and most interesting districts in Paris, you will spend a good amount of time here during your tour. The Marais, meaning marsh in English, was origianally the jewish ghetto outisde of the city walls of Paris. During the occupation, thousands of jewish families were arrested and sent to camps in France and beyond. Learn about the effects this had on the people living in Marais then and now.

Stop 4

The Latin Quarter is one of the oldest districts in Paris. It gets its name from the fact that this is where the university of Paris (la Sorbonne) was founded. On this tour, you will learn about how the occupiers controlled higher education in their regime. You will also see many of the small, narrow streets that, once, were vibrant and lively, but which became dark and deserted during the occupation.

One of the oldest and most picturesque neighbourhoods in Paris, this district was pillaged and the hotels and mansions of the district requisitioned by the Nazis upon their arrival in 1940. Many famous writers lived in and were inspired by this district. Learn about how the occupiers tried to snuff out all forms of dissent... and also how the french resistance used this district to fight back!

Stop 6

For over 1000 years, this building has been the centre of law and justice in Paris no matter who the rulers were. Originally built by King Robert II as a the Hall of the King where his council would meet, this building has seen many regime changes. It is no wonder that the Nazi occupiers decided to use this as one of their stronghold in the centre of town. Learn about why and how the Nazis ruled from this building and also how the Allies managed to rid them from it!

Stop 7

A moving memorial to the holocaust. This memorial is right in the marais. Tours are not allowed inside but we will show you the entrance so you can enter after the tour if you wish.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Your guide will be waiting for you in front of the Sèvres Raspail restaurant holding a Fat Cat Tours sign. The exact address is 18 rue de sèvres 75007, 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