How Paris Became Paris: Notre-Dame to the Louvre
Description
Discover the story of Paris with Ezrah — a passionate local storyteller who brings the city to life through unforgettable characters, dramatic events, and the stories hidden behind its most famous landmarks. This is more than a walking tour. It's a journey through the people, ambitions, triumphs, and tragedies that shaped one of the world's most iconic cities. From Notre-Dame to the Louvre, uncover the unexpected story of Napoleon and Joséphine, follow the final path of Marie Antoinette, see Notre-Dame through the eyes of Victor Hugo, and discover how centuries of revolution, resilience, and reinvention transformed Paris. With engaging storytelling, local insight, and a touch of humor, you'll leave seeing Paris not as a collection of monuments, but as a living story. **Please note: The €2.99 charged at booking is a platform reservation fee and not payment for the guided tour.**
Tour Options
Itinerary
At the historic heart of Paris, uncover the stories that shaped a nation. From royal processions and public executions to revolutions and celebrations, Hôtel de Ville reveals the triumphs, tragedies, and transformations that forged the City of Light.
Rising above the Seine like a stone fairytale, Notre Dame has watched over Paris for centuries. Discover the legends, history, and remarkable resilience of the city's most beloved landmark as it enters a new chapter of its extraordinary story.
Hidden behind palace walls stands one of Paris's most breathtaking secrets. As sunlight pours through thousands of stained-glass panels, you'll discover why medieval kings believed they had brought a piece of heaven to Earth.
From royal splendor to revolutionary terror, few places capture the dramatic twists of Parisian history like La Conciergerie. Discover the prison that held Marie Antoinette before her final journey to the guillotine and the stories that echo through its medieval halls.
Tucked away behind the bustle of Paris, Place Dauphine feels like a hidden village frozen in time. Created by King Henri IV in the early 17th century, this charming square offers a glimpse into a quieter, more intimate side of the city.
Built to unite a growing city, Pont Neuf became the beating heart of Paris. Here, amid sweeping river views and centuries-old stonework, you'll discover tales of kings, merchants, performers, and the vibrant life that once flowed across its arches.
Paris's most romantic bridge. Stretching gracefully across the Seine, the Pont des Arts became famous for the love locks left by couples from around the world—a modern tradition inspired by the timeless magic of the City of Love.
As the glass pyramids rise before us, our story of Paris comes full circle. Through revolutions, occupations, and moments when its treasures seemed destined to disappear, the Louvre endured—emerging as a symbol of the resilience, artistry, and magic that define the French capital.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
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
- The terrain of this tour is fairly flat, however we strongly advise comfortable shoes.
Reviews(7)
Loved his insight into the history of the various eras. Very personable and fun. We have been to Paris several times but took the grandkids this time. We still discovered new things!
Ezrah is very knowledgeable about Paris and its history. He made learning about the evolution of Paris very fun. Would highly recommend him for any English speaking tourist visiting Paris! Diane & Brian
We had a great tour, excellent host he was very knowledgeable, we saw many of Paris must sees as well as some little known sites that put the history of France in perspective.
It was described as a small tour, but exceeded all my expectations and left me thoroughly impressed. Throughout the tour, Ezra provided me with valuable information, making every minute count. He is very friendly and knowledgeable and makes you very welcome. It was an extremely cold day but he was still so enthusiastic talking about the history. I realised that I previously passed by some places without any knowledge and after my tour, I felt I learned a lot about the history of Paris. I highly recommend taking a tour with Ezra if you ever get a chance.
It was my first time in Paris and I was a bit nervous since I went alone. But Ezrah helped introduce me to the city with his warm personality and humor and valuable insight on the tour. One of my favorites was not even one of the major tourist spots that you would think! I had no idea there was a little garden in the middle of Paris called “Square Du Very Galants, it was so beautiful, I’m glad he included it. He also gave me some insight into things I could do in the city on my own! Will be returning with family next year and hoping to take them along on another tour with Ezrah!
First time to Paris and I could not have chosen a more genuine and exquisite tour of this city. Ezrah is an articulate and knowledgeable guide and an absolute pleasure to adventure with. I highly recommend this experience!
It was so much fun having you on my tour Ruben, come back soon!
I wasn’t sure what to do with my extra time in Paris, until I was recommended to take the Heart of Paris Tour. I’m not much of a history person, But some how Ezrah managed to draw my interest in the rich history of Paris. Even if you are not interested in the history the sights you see on this tour are truly stunning. Definitely recommend booking a Heart of Paris Tour.
It was a pleasure to have you on my tour, Come back to Paris soon!