Paris History Walk: Medieval Marais, Notre Dame Islands & Stories
Description
Begin your Paris adventure in the medieval heart of the Marais before crossing to the historic islands of the Seine, where the city was born. This 2-hour walking tour offers first-time visitors the perfect orientation, as you walk the ancient streets and discuss the rich history that has shaped this magnificent city. Your experience includes: • Small groups (maximum 8 people) • Expert storytelling spanning Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance Paris • Historical visual aids and local insights • Essential orientation and travel tips • Walking by the Notre Dame area, historic islands, and the Louvre • Perfect photo locations and photography guidance (if you choose) Meet James, an American who married a Parisian and made the city his home. Combining local knowledge with an outsider's perspective, he shares insights to help you navigate Paris like a local. As a photographer, he'll gladly point out the best photo spots and take pictures of your group with your mobile device or camera.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Step into medieval Paris in the Marais. Marvel at Hôtel de Sens, a 15th-century Gothic mansion with royal tales. Visit Maison Faust, a Renaissance gem with ornate courtyards. Trace the Philippe Auguste Wall, built in 1190 for the Crusades, a rare relic of Paris’s third fortification. These historic stones set the stage for a journey through time.
Stroll Île Saint-Louis, a 17th-century island haven with elegant mansions and quiet charm. Wander tree-lined quays and cozy streets, far from tourist crowds. Pause at Berthillon if you wish (not included with the tour), Paris’s iconic ice cream shop since 1954, for a sweet taste of local life.
Nestled in the heart of the Seine, Île de la Cité is where Paris was born! This historic island boasts iconic landmarks and charming streets, offering a glimpse into the very origins of the City of Lights.
Stand in awe at Notre Dame as we walk by, a majestic Gothic cathedral that has witnessed centuries of Parisian history. We'll discover its fascinating past, from its construction to its enduring role in French culture.
Breathe in the fragrant charm of Marché aux Fleurs, a historic flower market brimming with colorful blooms and Parisian flair!
As you proceed, stop by the Palais de Justice, a historic complex that has been at the heart of Parisian legal affairs for centuries. Marvel at its impressive architecture and learn about its significant role in the judicial history of France.
Learn the secrets of Sainte-Chapelle! Explore the history of this royal chapel, famed for its stained glass windows and captivating past.
Continue your tour with a visit to the Conciergerie, a former royal palace and prison located on Île de la Cité. Discover its fascinating history, including its role during the French Revolution, and explore the impressive Gothic architecture that stands as a testament to its storied past.
Explore the hidden gem, Place Dauphine! This charming triangular square, once a royal haunt, offers a tranquil escape amidst the Parisian buzz.
Next, visit Square du Vert-Galant, my favorite spot in Paris. This charming little park at the tip of Île de la Cité offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the Seine. It's the perfect place to relax and soak in the beauty of the city.
Built in 1607, Paris's 'New Bridge' ironically stands as its oldest. Revolutionary for its time, it was the first to prioritize views and pedestrians over housing.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The hours specified in the tour are the hours taken on the journey and these are approximate.
Reviews(15)
Paris Love Affair was absolutely outstanding and truly elevated our entire Paris experience. As a travel advisor who books Paris frequently, I know how challenging it can be to find guides who are not only deeply knowledgeable but who also understand the expectations of North American travelers—James does this flawlessly. He is brilliantly informed, incredibly flexible, and genuinely invested in creating a meaningful, seamless experience for every guest. Our group felt engaged, cared for, and inspired throughout. Every detail was handled with professionalism and warmth, making the trip unforgettable. Personally, I wouldn’t choose anyone else for my own travels, nor for my clients or groups. Paris Love Affair has earned my complete trust, and I can’t wait to return to Paris and collaborate with James on our next group trip and private client trips!
Phenomenal tour. James is a font of knowledge of Parisian history, architecture and people as well as a gifter of practical advice and tips for the best time in Paris. We loved that he listened to our interests so tailored his talks and tour for our pleasure. James also engaged us during the tour so we felt as if we were conversing with a trusted friend while gaining our insight into the incredible city of Paris. A+ tour and guide.
Thanks for this wonderful review! You both were a pleasure to have on tour. I'm wishing you a fantastic stay in Paris and around France! Come back soon!
We represent 3 generations and all agree James’s introduction to Paris was helpful, fact-filled, and enjoyable. He knows Paris!
Bonjour Lynne! It was wonderful to have all three generations of your family on tour! Thanks for the lovely review, and I hope to see you again in Paris!
Starting our trip off in Paris with a tour by James was the best thing we could have done. He helped us get our bearings around the city and taught us fun things about the city we wouldn't have found out on our own. Aside from being a good tour guide, James is also fun to spend time with and was very eager to help us maximize our trip. We would enjoy our time with James anywhere in the world. Our trip to Paris was better because of him. Thank you!
Loved the tour! James was not only very knowledgeable, he knew how to pace the tour, asking us what we preferred, and had great stories to tell which made it fun while learning about the city. Highly recommendable! Thx James!!!
Merci, Grace! It was a pleasure having you on tour. Thanks for your participation and kind words in this review!
Our Paris walking tour with James was outstanding! He kept us at the perfect pace and gave us just the right amount of info. He was very engaging. I would recommend this tour to all.
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I'm thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the Paris Historic Islands Walk and found the pace and information just right. It means a lot to me that you found the experience engaging—it's always my goal to make each tour memorable and enjoyable. I truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back to Paris for another adventure in the future! Merci beaucoup! 😊
James was knowledgeable, flexible and a great photographer. I would highly recommend his tours and I will definitely call him again when I return to Paris.
JAMES is a fabulous host. I enjoyed his upbeat personality, his kindness and all the wonderful places he showed me. I'm going back to Paris soon and booked another tour for my sister.
This was not solely a photo tour but had many places where the view was too stunning to miss, and James was always happy to pause for us shutterbugs. I learned a lot and enjoyed the company and the enthusiasm of the guide and the guests.
This tour was excellent! Whether it is your first time in Paris or your 10th, I recommend it to everyone. James was a great tour guide. His knowledge, friendliness, and love for Paris were evident throughout the tour. The added touch was getting photos taken of myself during the tour by James, who is a professional photographer. 12 out of 10 stars!
