... six self-guided walking tours of Paris organized around six eras of Paris history and architecture. The walks are free, fun, and easy to follow. They’ll help you explore the city of Paris, and its many layers of history, at your own pace.

Most Paris walking tours are organized geographically around particular sections of the city. They usually cover a lot of historical territory and can get a bit overwhelming at times — too many people, events, and building styles — from too many centuries — all jumbled together.

These Paris “history walks” are different . They’re organized historically around eras of Paris history. As a result, you can focus — on common historical themes — a limited cast of characters — and buildings with similar architectural styles.

The walking guides for these walks are easy to print out, fold up, and take with you.

• Each guide begins with some historical background for the walk you’re about to take. Short summaries focus on politics and economics, religion and philosophy, architecture, and urban growth and development.

• You’ll also find a walking tour route map, detailed descriptions of the buildings and monuments on the tour route, walking directions, information on opening times and admission fees, and lots of photos.

To get started , just click on one of the pictures or titles to the left. The link will take you to an overview of that walk, and a quick list of information you’ll need to plan your day. From there, all you have to do is click on and print the Guide and Map pdf and you’re on your way.

Contact: [email protected]

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Paris, Champs-Elysees at night

The 9 best walking tours in Paris

Get to know the glorious French capital on foot via one of these themed walking tours in Paris

Photograph: Shutterstock

Alex Floyd-Douglass

Landed in the City of Light for the first time? Don’t be intimidated. This place is big. Really big. And there’s so much going on it can be hard to know where to start. But luckily for you globe-trotters, we’re here to help out. If you’re an out-of-towner with next-to-no knowledge of Paris, we think booking a walking tour might be your best bet. Thanks to a guide who knows what they’re talking about – and, more importantly, where they’re going – you’ll have sussed out this city in no time. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your comfiest shoes and set out on a tour of one of the finest cities in the world. Here’s our pick of the best walking tours in Paris right now, from tip-top  chocolatier trips to erotica-themed excursions (yes, really). 

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Paris

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Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best walking tours in Paris

1.  hit all the main sights in one go.

Hit all the main sights in one go

One for the newbies: this two-hour tour will take you to all the big Parisian landmarks. Think Notre Dame, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, all in a smaller group setting. It’s even led by a clued-up guide who’ll keep you informed as you go. Or you can just Google stuff along the way instead. 

Time Out tip:  Be sure to wear something that covers your shoulders and knees, as certain pit stops are places of worship and can deny entry if you're too exposed. 

2.  Ramble around hilly Montmartre

Ramble around hilly Montmartre

Immerse yourself in la vie bohème – Bohemian Montmartre is one of Paris’s most charming (and historic) areas. This tour will take you around the hilly northern district, stopping at cool shops and some of the finest food spots in the area. Of course, you can expect the odd historical anecdote... or three.

Time Out tip: Make sure your camera's fully charged, as atop the highest hill in the city lies some of the best panoramic views Paris has to offer. 

3.  Stroll through streets rich with criminal history

Stroll through streets rich with criminal history

True-crime fans will love this historical crime Paris walking tour. Embrace the Parisian streets from a different, slightly eerie, perspective. Join the darker side of Paris on a walking tour learning all about the dangerous past of the criminals who roamed the streets before you. Visit sites of executions, stroll the routes known for dodgy dealings, and discover the maze of side streets – the helping hand for criminals to outrun the law. Hold onto your purses.

Time Out tip:  Listen out for the surprising facts and shocking anecdotes your clued-up guide has up their sleeve. 

4.  Delve into the depths of the Catacombs

Delve into the depths of the Catacombs

You know, like that film? One of the French capital’s eeriest attractions, these underground  ossuaries hold the remains of more than six million Parisians. Your guide will fill you in on the long and storied  past of this spooky subterranean cemetery. Definitely one for fans of spine-chilling adventures.  

Time Out tip: You can opt for a hosted tour, which comes with a 30-minute briefing outside the catacombs, or dive straight in with a self-guided audio tour. 

5.  Explore Paris by night

Explore Paris by night

This late-night tuk tuk tour will introduce you to the city just as it starts to get dark – you’ll journey along the Seine, around the courtyard of the Louvre, and then pay a visit to some lesser-known (and largely tourist-free) attractions.

Time Out tip:  This is the perfect tour to do with your significant other if you happen to be on a couples holiday. 

6.  Walk in the footsteps of Coco Chanel

Walk in the footsteps of Coco Chanel

Fashionistas can see Paris through the eyes of one of the 20th century’s greatest designers. The tour will begin at Coco’s favourite café, Angelina – renowned for its hot chocolate. Then you’ll venture on to Rue Saint-Honoré, where Chanel lived, and see the site of her first shop (which remains today). Lastly, you can rummage through a vintage shop in the hope of scoring some old-school designer goods. 

Time Out tip:  The audio guide set-up of this tour means you can begin at any time and go completely at your own pace. All you need to do is download the VoiceMap app. 

7.  Spy some stunning street art

Spy some stunning street art

For something beautiful and slightly less touristy, take a moment to admire the in-your-face artwork lining walls all over the city. Learn about some of the capital’s most well-known street artists, and discover the techniques they use to scale those mighty Haussmannian façades. Make sure to bring a camera, you'll have heaps of good photo ops. 

Time Out tip: Make the most of your local, knowledgeable guide by asking as many questions as you like. 

8.  Satisfy your sweet tooth

Satisfy your sweet tooth

Treat that sweet tooth with a delectable tour of the city’s most impressive chocolatiers. Learn all about the history of confectionery in Paris by visiting some swanky sweet shops along the Right Bank and, best of all, get your sticky mitts on some freebies. Our pro tip: wear elasticated trousers and thank us later. Bon Appétit.

Time Out: Be sure to get your fair share of hot drinks, with tea, coffee and even hot chocolate available. 

9.  Whizz round the coolest kid-friendly sights

Whizz round the coolest kid-friendly sights

It can be hard keeping the tots entertained when you’re in a new city. But we've got you covered. This fun tour caters to families with young children, with light commentary, frequent breaks, stops for food and a playground included in the route. 

Time Out tip:  You'll be able to secure some amazing family pictures on this tour worth hanging up at home. 

Not done exploring the city yet?

More paris tours.

More Paris tours

Take a look through our complete list of the best tours in Paris. 

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history tours in paris

Occupation and Liberation of Paris, from 1940 to 1944

Relive the period that marked French history 80 years ago, and immerse yourself in the historical and political context of the Occupation of Paris in the 20th century, on this unforgettable guided tour. N.B. : The visit with a scheduled date is only available for 2 people or more (from €140).

Sing'In Montmartre

Sing'In Montmartre

The guide and singer Anne-Sophie Guerrier brings you on a musical journey through Montmartre. This visit will retrace the life of famous singers who lived in the neightborhood : Édith Piaf, Charles Aznavour, Jacques Brel, Dalida...

Behind the scenes of the UNESCO headquarters

Behind the scenes of the UNESCO headquarters

Discover the headquarters of one of the most prestigious international organisations during an exclusive tour of the UNESCO house in Paris.

Guided tour of the Museum of Jewish Art and History

Guided tour of the Museum of Jewish Art and History

The Museum of Jewish Art and History (mahJ) replaced the Museum of Jewish Art, created in 1948 by survivors of the Shoah. It is housed, since 1998, in Hotel de Saint-Aignan, one of the most beautiful mansions of the Marais neighborhood in Paris. Its great collection features the evolution of the Jewish world.

Guided tour in English | Memorial des martyrs de la Déportation

Guided tour in English | Memorial des martyrs de la Déportation

Guided Tour of the Mémorial des Martyrs de la Déportation, on Ile de la Cité  

Drancy Deportation Camp and Holocaust memorial

Drancy Deportation Camp and Holocaust memorial

This Drancy Internment camp visit will lead you to the Shoah Memorial, opened in 2012 in Drancy, a place of history and education, located opposite the building - Cité de la Muette.

The rebel women of sport

The rebel women of sport

Feminists in the City invites you to the 14th arrondissement of Paris to retrace the hidden history of women's sport.

Walking Tour of the Jewish Marais

Walking Tour of the Jewish Marais

Join le Marais historic district guided walking tour to discover Paris Jewish culture past and present.

Saint-Denis Basilica guided tour

Saint-Denis Basilica guided tour

Less known than Notre-Dame de Paris or Sacré-Cœur, Saint-Denis Cathedral is nevertheless a major Parisian landmark. Our English speaking guide will take you on a trip through the History of French royalty, funeral art and Gothic architecture in a chronological order.

Classical music concerts in the Château de Grosbois

Classical music concerts in the Château de Grosbois

An exclusive program of classical music concerts taking place in a prestigious gallery: the Château de Grosbois, at Boissy-Saint-Léger, in the Val-de-Marne (94), 40 minutes away from Paris. Look out: contributors will speak in french only!

Classical concert at Château de Santeny

Classical concert at Château de Santeny

Enjoy our first concert of the season in the prestigious salons of the Château de Santeny on Tuesday 16 October at 8.30pm. A selection of romantic pieces by Rossini, Massenet, Saint-Saëns and Debussy will be performed by a trio of violin, flute and harp. Free tour of the castle before the concert.

The Parisian Chinatown

The Parisian Chinatown

Discover the Chinatown district of the south of Paris with this guided tour. You will learn many things about Asian community of Paris : temples, food, usages.

Historical Guided Tour within hôtels particuliers of the Île de la Cité and the Île Saint-Louis in Paris

Historical Guided Tour within hôtels particuliers of the Île de la Cité and the Île Saint-Louis in Paris

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the captivating aventure of Paris's historic treasures during an exclusive guided tour of the Ile de la Cité and the Ile Saint-Louis, with a passionate guide from L’Echappée Belle, who will reveal the secrets and fascinating history behind each iconic monument and hôtel particulier (private mansion).

The Paris Marais: the birthplace of parisian private mansions

The Paris Marais: the birthplace of parisian private mansions

Explore the elegant essence of Paris's Marais district on a captivating guided tour, by L'Echappée Belle, of its sumptuous hôtels particuliers. 

Parisian Père Lachaise cemetery: in the kingdom of celebrities

Parisian Père Lachaise cemetery: in the kingdom of celebrities

L'Echappée Belle will take you through the graves of renowned figures of this famous cemetery, a parisian relaxing place in the shade of the big trees.

Parisian Splendours: guided tour from the Place de la Concorde to the Louvre

Parisian Splendours: guided tour from the Place de la Concorde to the Louvre

Let's take a guided stroll by L'Echappée Belle through the most emblematic places in Paris, discovering the wealth of our heritage and the interactions between France and other countries through the ages. 

The French Revolution in the Paris Marais

The French Revolution in the Paris Marais

With your guide from Interkultur, dive into the tumult of the French Revolution in Paris, where every stone in the Marais harbours the secrets of an era seething with ideals and revolt.

Ciné-balade, guided walking tour in Montmartre in the footsteps of your favorite movies

Ciné-balade, guided walking tour in Montmartre in the footsteps of your favorite movies

During this ciné-balade (a movie-themed guided walk) in Montmartre, Juliette Dubois will tell you anecdotes and facts about the film industry in this famous Parisian district, the most filmed of the capital. 

Art route at Paris Père Lachaise cemetery: in the footsteps of the great masters

Art route at Paris Père Lachaise cemetery: in the footsteps of the great masters

Join us on this two-hour tour to discover the poets, writers, musicians and painters in their final resting place, the Père-Lachaise cemetery.

An artistic stroll: discovering artists at Paris Montparnasse cemetery

An artistic stroll: discovering artists at Paris Montparnasse cemetery

Welcome to our guided tour of Montparnasse Cemetery, a place steeped in history and emotion where great artists rest in peace. Join us for a captivating exploration of this sanctuary of creativity and memory. 

Memorial of the former deportation station of Bobigny

Memorial of the former deportation station of Bobigny

Following a vast restoration and development project, the memorial of the former deportation station of Bobigny opened its doors on January 18, 2023. Visit this site with a guide, and discover the only example in France of a railway site used for the deportation of Jews that has remained almost in its original state.

Guided tour of the Shoah Memorial Drancy

Guided tour of the Shoah Memorial Drancy

This historical guided tour will take you to the Shoah Memorial, opened in 2012 in Drancy, a place of history and education, opposite the Cité de la Muette also known as the World War Two Drancy internment camp.

Women in the Paris Commune (1871) !

Women in the Paris Commune (1871) !

Join local guide Anouk Colombani on a tour of the streets of Paris in the footsteps of the women who took action during the Paris Commune.

Historical guided tour of Montmartre

Historical guided tour of Montmartre

Thanks to a guided tour that follows the Montmartre hill towards the rue de Clignancourt before starting its ascent and descent, discover the stories of the popular and working-class Montmartre with local guide Anouk Colombani.

Guided tours of the most important or most private heritage sites in Paris. Museums, archives, monuments ... discover France's architectural treasures.

Explore Paris also invites you to discover the skills and trades that help safeguard and restore France's national heritage in foundries, workshops of national monuments, museums, etc.

Learn more about the places and people who wish to pass on the history of the industrial, architectural, artistic and gastronomic heritage of Paris and its region . Don't miss our visits around craft and industrial know-how.  

DISCOVER PARIS'S RICH HISTORY

DISCOVER PARIS'S RICH HISTORY

Unforgettable history tours in memorable areas of paris.

Welcome to the heart of France's vibrant past! Paris, a city steeped in history, has witnessed pivotal moments in time. Join us on an extraordinary journey as we delve into the captivating stories of Napoleon, the French Revolution, and World War II through our immersive history tours.

Why Choose Our Paris History Tours?

Uncover Napoleon's Legacy: Step back in time and walk in the footsteps of one of history's greatest military geniuses. Our Napoleon-focused tours will transport you to the era of grandeur and conquest. Explore the iconic landmarks that defined the legacy of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte like the Arc de Triomphe, the Assemblée Nationale, and Napoleon's Tomb . Gain a deeper understanding of his remarkable life and the lasting impact of his rule on France and the world.

Relive the Drama of the French Revolution: The French Revolution was a turning point in history, marking the rise of democracy and the fall of the monarchy. Our expert guides will guide you through the tumultuous streets of Paris, sharing tales of rebellion, radical change, and the birth of modern France. Witness the significance of landmarks and the revolutionary fervor that reshaped the nation.

Step into the Trenches of World War II: Immerse yourself in the poignant history of Paris during the tumultuous years of World War II. Join our private guide as they lead you through the heart of the city, unveiling the captivating stories of Parisians and their heroic resistance against the German occupation from 1940 to 1944. Our walking tour transports you to the iconic locales of this era, from the historic Place de la Concorde and the prestigious Champs-Elysées to the elegant Opéra Garnier. Explore the rich and evocative past of the French capital, and gain insight into the enduring spirit of its inhabitants. Discover a different side of Paris during these challenging years.

Expert Guides: Our passionate historians and knowledgeable guides will bring history to life, offering fascinating insights into the past.

Small Group Tours: Experience an intimate and personalized journey through history in small groups, ensuring an engaging and interactive experience.

Unearth the secrets of Paris's storied past with our Napoleon, French Revolution, and World War 1I tours. Your adventure begins here! Join us for a memorable exploration of the captivating history that has shaped this enchanting city.

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19 Best Paris Walking Tours

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

Place Trocadero

From ancient Roman times to the medieval period to the French Revolution to the 20th century World Wars, history has stacked on top of itself in key locations all over Paris. Find out exactly where to retrace the steps of the famous—and infamous—throughout the City of Lights, from royal gardens to market streets and grand boulevards. On these walks, which range from short and scenic to long and layered, you'll do it all: go canal-side, where the guillotine fell, find out where famous painters lived and died, and much more. Our list of Paris' best historic walks has something for ever level of history-lover.

Jardins des Tuileries Overhead

Jardin des Tuileries Arrow

This sprawling, spectacular park is the beating heart of Paris' public spaces. Standing proudly between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, and along much of the Seine's Right Bank in the 1st Arrondissement, Tuileries Garden ("Jardin des Tuileries") has a history as long and distinguished as it is impressive, from its inception as an aristocratic playground in the 16th century, to becoming a public space in the 17th century, to serving as the site of numerous French Revolution skirmishes in the 18th century. With more than 55 acres, the park offers plenty of room to stroll and lots of photo ops. Keep an eye out for Auguste Rodin's iconic "Le Baiser" ("The Kiss") on the West Terrace. If you have anywhere to go in this part of Paris, skip the taxi or the metro and walk there on foot through the Tuileries. You'll see something different every time.

Place de la Concorde Paris

Place de la Concorde Arrow

Place de la Concorde is the largest public square in Paris, originally created in honor of Louis IV but probably best known for being the spot of the French Revolution's guillotine executions, including his successor Louis XVI. This majestic spot connects the end of the Tuileries Gardens and the beginning of the Champs-Élysées. The Luxor Obelisk, an ancient Egyptian obelisk mounted in the place in the 1830s, anchors the open space. It's a busy intersection of multiple streets, so expect traffic on your way to cross to see the obelisk and the gorgeous lateral views.

Avenue des Champs Élyses Street Overhead Paris

Place de la Bastille Arrow

The Place de Bastille is an open square where the infamous Bastille prison once stood—and fell, igniting the French Revolution. The Colonne de Juillet in the center commemorates the revolution of 1830, as well. This is a spot that is heavily trafficked by Parisians, whether heading out for dinner, shopping, or home. You'll see a broad cross-section of the city there, which is a nice counter-balance to the weighty historical events that have unfolded there.

Ile St. Louis Paris Walks

Île Saint-Louis Arrow

Île Saint-Louis is known for the elegance and grandeur of its hôtel particuliers, developed by builder Christophe Marie and designed by Louis Vau (the architect of Versailles). Built over a 30 year period in the 17th century, the houses on the island diverged from the typical wealthy homes of the time by focusing on the views outward over the Seine, rather than into an interior courtyard. The island, which was originally two natural islands that were combined in a feat of engineering, remain pristine examples of architecture from the 17th and 18th centuries. Architecture and design buffs will love the island for its historical importance, but also for the quality of the buildings like the famed Hotel Lambert. And of course, the views are unparalleled.

Jardin des Plants Paris Garden France Flowers

Jardin des Plantes Arrow

The Jardins des Plantes, or Botanical Gardens, is a popular park for families (members of all ages!) to visit. Not only are the trees and plants gorgeous to explore, but the garden is part of the National Museum of Natural History (Muséum Nationale d'Histoire Naturelle) so there are multiple exhibition spaces throughout, as well as a zoo. Built in 1898 for the World's Fair, the structure housing the Galerie de Paléontologie et d’Anatomie is also worth seeing for the historic architecture, and the kids will enjoy seeing the dinosaur skeletons inside!

Pont Alexandre III Paris Bridge

Pont Alexandre III Arrow

This ornate and elaborate bridge was inaugurated in 1900 to time with the Exposition Universelle in 1900, echoing the Beaux-Arts style of the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais it leads to. The name of the bridge commemorates the signing of the Franco-Russian Alliance of 1892, signed by Tsar Alexander III. During the day, the bridge is a major crossing between the Left and Right banks. On the Rive Droite, you alight at the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais, leading to the Champs-Élysees. On the Rive Gauche, you arrive at the grassy expanse of the Invalides. That means you'll pass a mix of tourists and locals day and night, many of whom stop and take photos.

Canal St. Martin Paris

Canal Saint-Martin Arrow

Canal Saint-Martin runs through one of the hippest neighborhoods in Paris. While the canal itself was commissioned in 1802 by Napoleon I to bring fresh water into the city, the vibe is distinctly contemporary with some of Paris's hottest restaurants, cafés and bars scattered alongside it. The contrast of the urban (think graffiti) with the placid (think canal tour boats) is one of the distinct charms of the walk.

Place de Furstenberg Paris walks

Place de Furstenberg Arrow

Built in the 6th century, Place de Furstenberg (technically a road, not a plaza) was originally attached to the Saint-Germain-des-Prés Abbey. It owes its current name and form to Cardinal Guillaume-Egon de Furstenberg, who initiated a renovation and extension to the Abbatial Palace in 1586. The main reason most tourists will find themselves in the Place de Furstenberg is if they are visiting the Musée National Eugène Delacroix. The famous French painter lived on the Rue de Furstenberg and his former home has been converted into a popular museum dedicated to his work.

Place des Vosges France Paris

Place des Vosges Arrow

Nestled in the side streets of the charming and hip Marais, the Place de Vosges is the oldest square in Paris (it was originally part of Henri II and Catherine de Medici's palace before being opened up to the public by Henri IV). Ringed on all sides by arched walkways and red brick buildings, the square has a symmetrical layout of trees leading into a central garden. You'll often find students picnicking or studying while small children run through the dusty paths. It's a perfect landmark to orient yourself around in the popular neighborhood.

Place de la Rpublique Paris

Place de la République Arrow

The Place de la République is now the largest public plaza in Paris, following a renovation that was finished in 2013. Originally known as the Place du Château d’Eau, the plaza took on its current rectangular shape under Haussmann. At 918 feet by 394 feet, the plaza is a large gathering place for Parisians thanks to family-friendly activities and a café with outdoor seating. While you walk to see the famous statue of Marianne (the female embodiment of the French Republic) in the center of the plaza, you'll see a mix of Parisians and tourists utilizing the space.

Quai Voltaire Paris France

Quai Voltaire Arrow

Walking along the Seine is always magical, but the Quai Voltaire on the Left Bank offers the extra-charming addition of les bouquinistes, the beloved booksellers that have wooden stands along the elevated sidewalk. Catch long views over the Seine towards the Louvre to the west and Notre Dame on the east, or turn away from the river to gaze at the buildings on the south side of the street, which include the art shop Sennelier, frequented by artists from Cézanne to Picasso.

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Marché Président Wilson Arrow

The Marché Président Wilson (a.k.a. Marché d'Alma) is the largest of the open air food markets in Paris, popping up in the 16th Arrondissement every Wednesday and Saturday. You'll find a mostly local crowd strolling through the stalls packed with every cheese, meat, fruit and vegetable to choose from, with many vendors having been at the market for years. Running alongside the market are several top museums if you want to combine art and food—spot cutting-edge art at the Palais de Tokyo and fashion at the Palais Galliera.

Parcs des Buttes Chaumont Paris

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont Arrow

Unlike most of the rest of the major parks in Paris, this is a natural space without any rigid formality. The 62-acre park, opened in 1867 as part of the Paris Universal Exposition, is built on a former quarry; there are rocky elevations to traipse up with amazing views of the city, including Sacre Couer in nearby Montmartre. And seeing as it's in the 19th arrondissement, you can expect an authentic Parisian experience, off the beaten tourist path—you'll likely need to take a quick metro or taxi ride to get there.

Place Trocadero

Place du Trocadéro Arrow

This is Paris on a grand scale. The Place du Trocadéro sits in the midst of the curving wings of the Palais de Chaillot, before giving way to the sloping Jardins du Trocadéro below. With perhaps the best view of the Eiffel Tower in the city (you are elevated directly across the Seine from it), you are constantly experiencing multiple historical eras at once. Stroll easily across the open place or take a meandering walk through the garden (more exercise if you reverse the order and work your way up.)

Rue SaintJacques Walks Paris

Rue Saint-Jacques Arrow

One of the oldest (if not the very oldest) street in Paris dates back to when it was a major artery of the Roman city Lutetia, well-traveled in medieval time by those making the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, which housed the remains of the apostle Saint James. Nowadays, Rue Saint-Jacques cuts through the Sorbonne, offering up plenty of student foot traffic throughout the day. You'll be excused for your own intellectual curiosity in looking at the buildings where many of France's first printing presses were located, a claim to fame for the street.

Galerie Vivienne Paris

Galerie Vivienne Arrow

Galerie Vivienne is a covered shopping arcade, originally built in 1823 and designed by architect François-Jean Delannoy. It remains open to the public for shopping in a mix of high-end boutiques (Jean-Paul Gaultier opened his first flagship in the arcade in 1986, for example). The glass and steel roof lets in sunlight down to the mosaic floors, making this a uniquely beautiful way to shop and stroll on your way to the nearby Palais-Royal .

Rue des Rosiers Paris Storefront

Rue des Rosiers Arrow

Rue des Rosiers was the main street of the Jewish portion of Paris (known in Yiddish as "Pletzl"). While the Marais is no longer a Jewish neighborhood, traces of the original inhabitants remain on this pedestrian street, now filled with chic boutiques sitting alongside traditional bakeries. Young Parisians flock to the stores for shopping outings, while tourists often come for strudel and bagels at longtime establishments like Sacha Finkelsztajn.

Square Rene Viviani Paris Exterior

Square René-Viviani Arrow

Square René-Viviani is a charming and intimate garden (named for a former Prime Minister of France), offering spectacular views of the nearby Notre Dame Cathedral. The star of the square is the oldest living tree in Paris, a black locust, said to have been planted in 1601 by Jean Robin, who was the herbalist and gardener to Henri III, Henri IV, and Louis XII. There is also a fountain, created by artist Georges Jeanclos, that tells the story of St. Julien but also stands to commemorate the Jewish children killed during the Vichy regime.

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Getting around paris, paris travel guide, paris essentials, train travel, paris arrondissements, promenade paris history – walk in the footsteps of celebrated parisians.

In Paris there's a palpable feeling of history, as befits a city over 2000 years old. In its earliest days it was the often-reluctant host to the Celts and the Romans . Paris as we know it today was largely formed in the Middle Ages , in the subsequent royal periods, and by the two Napoleonic emperors. To delve into this story, we recommend these history-themed walking tours. Let's strap on our history boots.

Our Top-Rated Paris History Tours

1. Walking Tour of Père Lachaise Cemetery… The graves of the rich & famous

2. The French Revolution Walking Tour… Historic sites of this tumultuous period

3. Walk in Napoleon's Footsteps… Visit the places Bonaparte trod

4. Art Nouveau Architecture Wonders… Marvel at the ageless splendor

1. Walking Tour of Père Lachaise Cemetery……

2. The French Revolution Walking Tour…

3. Walk in Napoleon's Footsteps…

4. Art Nouveau Architecture Wonders…

1. The Graves of the Rich & Famous

Pere Lachaise Cemetery

You may think that a history walk through a graveyard is a bit… unusual. We did, until we signed up for this tour of Père Lachaise Cemetery. It turned out to be one of the most enjoyable walking tours we have ever been on.

We learned so much about the history of Paris and the fascinating cast of character who are buried here. Just read this list — Oscar Wilde, Chopin, Edith Piaf, Jim Morrison, Gertrude Stein, Marcel Proust, Molière, Proust and Balzac, famous star-crossed lovers Heloise and Abelard. You know that guy who popularized the eating of potatoes (they used to be considered poisonous)? He's here, too! Highly recommended by us and hundreds of other visitors who've rated it 5-star.

2. The French Revolution Walking Tour

The French Revolution walking Tour in Paris

Tumultuous, revolutionary, horrifying and uplifting — the French Revolution was one of the most important events in modern European history.

As you visit the historic sites an expert in French history explains the French Revolution, the events leading up to, and its consequences. The tour visits the site of the former Tuileries Palace; the site of the infamous Bastille prison; the Conciergerie, where Marie Antoinette was held; and other sites of historic note.

3. Tour Napoleon's Paris

Napoleon Tour with an Historian

Following the French Revolution was another era of great importance to France — the Age of Napoleon . Bonaparte made it his job to aggrandize Paris, to turn it into a worthy capitol of his empire. Hence, there is a lot to see from the Napoleonic era.

With an expert historian as guide you'll visit sites important to that era, including L'École Militaire , Place Vendôme, and Les Invalides. This is a small-group tour to ensure individual attention.

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4. art nouveau architecture wonders.

Art Nouveau Walking Tour of Paris

This historical walking tour focuses on the second half of the 19th century when Art Nouveau was in vogue. Along the way an expert in the period makes it all come to life.

Of course, the centerpiece of Art Nouveau in Paris is the Palais Garnier (photo above), the sumptuous opera house built during Haussmann's reconstruction of the city, and that's also a centerpiece of the walking tour, although there's plenty more, including impressive Gare Saint-Lazare. You visit a traditional brasserie (and have a quick drink) and stroll along vibrant Boulevard Haussmann.

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An Independent Paris Tour Guide

My paris history walks, revolution and napoleon walk.

history tours in paris

The years 1789-1815 changed everything. Relive the dramatic story of France's fight for liberty, equality and glory!

Louvre Highlights Tour

history tours in paris

The unmissable Paris experience. Renaissance paintings, Ancient Greek statues, the palace of the kings and more.

Historic Latin Quarter Walk

history tours in paris

Paris' oldest neighbourhood. Explore more than 2000 years of history; Roman, Medieval, Revolutionary and Hemingway.

The Eiffel Tower Neighbourhood Walk

The amazing Eiffel Tower origin story few know. This walk explores the 1889 and 1937 World's Fairs, World War II and more.

Louvre Specialist Tours

Already seen the Mona Lisa? Join me for a specialist tour of the Ancient Near East or the era of the Revolution and Napoleon.

Secrets of Roman Paris Walk

For Paris history nerds like me.

Discover the forgotten traces, visible only to those who know where to look.

Paris Highlights Walk

Versailles gardens walk.

Take in the most famous monuments of central Paris: Pont Neuf, Louvre, Tuileries, Invalides, Grand Palais, Alexander III bridge, the Eiffel Tower. The perfect way to orientate yourself in a new city.

Walk in the footsteps of Louis XIV and Marie-Antoinette. Every fountain and statue has a story to tell. Experience the history, luxury and glory of the height of the French monarchy.

Welcome to Paris

Book a private walk with me for an expert and personal experience designed for people who love history.

My philosophy centres on the joy of historical time travel, in-depth knowledge and greeting new acquaintances like old friends.

Time Travel

Hospitality, guiding tarifs (excluding tickets), private paris walking tours.

- Eiffel Neighbourhood Walk

- Historic Latin Quarter Walk 

- Paris Highlights Walk

- Revolution and Napoleon Walk

- Secrets of Roman Paris Walk

Group Size and Duration

- 1-8 guests (large-group tarifs on request)

- None required. We do not enter any museums.

Private Louvre Tours

- Highlights Tour

- French Revolution and Napoleon History Tour

- Ancient Near East History Tour

- 1-6 guests for a 2-hour tour (large-group tarifs on request)

- Museum entry: 22 euros per person.

- Free entry for under 18s.

Versailles Chateau and Gardens

- Fountains and Gardens tour

- Chateau tour

- Domain of Marie-Antoinette (Hamlet, Trianons).

- Picnic or restaurant by the Grand Canal.

- Chateau and gardens entry: 21-32 euros per person.

- 10 euros for under 18s.

Payment Options

1) Cash payment on arrival.

2) Secure online booking via Paypal.

Once your reservation is confirmed, I will send a link for payment :)

Get in Touch

Queries and booking requests.

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Ben's paris walks.

3 Avenue de Champaubert, 75015, Paris, France

+33 (0) 6 95 86 42 35

Availability

I'm typically available for private tours:

- 7/7 from late June to the end of August

- Weekends, Wednesdays and Fridays throughout the year

You can follow me on Instagram

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Meet Our Guides

Marta-volga de minteguiaga-guezala, lora milutinovic, amanda herold-marme, cécile lecan, matthieu creson, asja nastasijevic, barbara montefalcone, caroline rossiter, beate von der seipen, madeline bobo, pamela warner, gabriele langosco, paméla petitot, belen roncoroni, charlotte king, caroline bokobza, julien savadoux, charlotte wilkins, claire cooper, jessica davies, jennifer hollington, madeline díaz, christina von koehler, giulia del fabbro, hannah hamill, jessica pinnock garrett, john macklam, karen ralph, karine friedberger, kotryna strelciunaite, laure nermel, lauren jimerson, margaux mandel, tetiana lebouille, marie illes, marijke michielin, victor branthome, nathalie layani, orane mazelier, randa akhras, stephanie nadalo, yonit aronowicz, katie hornstein.

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history tours in paris

Best things to see and do in Paris

Paris is the capital of France and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the entire world. It is one of the places highest on the list of cities you should visit at least once in your life because of everything it has to offer culturally, in terms of its monuments, architecture, and cuisine. In addition to the main attractions of the city like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, or the Montmartre and Le Marais neighborhoods, take a free walking tour to get to discover some of the lesser-known parts of the city where the River Seine flows. 

On any of the free guided tours we offer in Paris , you will be able to find a large selection of unmissable places to visit with your local guide who will show you the hidden charms and the way of life of this amazing city. You can’t leave Paris without having gone to visit the Saint Chapelle Church, the Louvre Museum, the gardens of Champs Elysées, Sacré Coeur Basilica, Pont Neuf (the New Bridge) over the Seine, Luxembourg Gardens, the Parisian Catacombs,  Vendome Square, Les Halles Market, the Pompidou Center, Orsay Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, the Latin Neighborhood, Tuileries Gardens, the Galleries Lafayette, Garnier Opera, or the Pere Lachaise Cemetery. 

Many travelers leave their reviews and opinions after having done their free walking tour in Paris (in the morning or afternoon) and they evaluate the route and their experience with the local guide. After, there may be other cities you want to visit and do a guided tour with a local guru like Bordeaux, Toulouse, Marseille, or Nice. 

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18 best paris tours of 2024: food, versailles & more.

Enhance your visit to the City of Love with one of these specialized tours.

The Best Paris Tours

Looking up at The Eiffel Tower through Paris housing, Paris, France

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From the Eiffel Tower to the Moulin Rouge – plus day trips to Versailles, Normandy and beyond – there are so many things to do in Paris . To make the most of your trip, it can be helpful to rely on the expertise of a few locals via a guided tour. Read on to discover some of the top-rated Paris tours for a variety of interests.

Bike About Tours – Hidden Paris Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 45 euros (around $49); kids 3 and younger from 20 euros (about $22) Duration: 3.5 hours

On this roughly 3.5-hour cycling trip, a guide takes you on back streets to both notable and lesser-known attractions throughout Paris. Along the way, guides share historical and cultural anecdotes. Sights include the Place des Vosges, Jardin des Plantes and the Paris mosque, to name a few. Reviewers love seeing an array of attractions at a leisurely pace and applaud the expertise of the guides. Bike About Tours also offers cycling excursions through Versailles.

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Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Price: Adults from $45; kids 4-12 from $25 Duration: About 2 hours

Create your own Parisian adventure with the Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. Double-decker, open-top buses take you to 10 stops near top attractions, including the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Musée du Louvre and the Grand Palais. All buses are equipped with a prerecorded audio tour in 11 different languages. Reviewers love the convenience of the bus, but some express disappointment that buses are often overcrowded.

Buses run from around 10 a.m. to about 7:30 p.m. daily and typically frequent stops every seven to 15 minutes. If you choose to ride the whole route, you'll be on the bus for two hours and 15 minutes. Ticket discounts may be available if you book online in advance. Big Bus also offers two-day passes, a night tour and combo tours that include a river cruise.

Paris Charms and Secrets

Price: From 59 euros (about $64) Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours

If you're a sucker for a good story, a secret passageway or a long-forgotten historical tale, the Paris Charms and Secrets tour will be right up your alley. On this roughly 12-mile tour, a guide will lead you through the city on an electric bike, stopping at some of Paris' most famous attractions and storied monuments. Hear the legends of Élysée Palace, the controversies of the Eiffel Tower and the curious past of the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Reviewers love the knowledgeable guides and the unique stories.

Older children and teens are welcome to ride their own bikes if they meet the height and weight requirements; a child seat must be reserved ahead of time for younger kids (for 12 euros).

Paris By Mouth – North Marais Food Tour

Price: 130 euros (about $141) Duration: 3.5 hours

If you want an intimate look at one of Paris' most fashionable and beautiful areas, snag a spot on Paris By Mouth's North Marais Food tour. This 3.5-hour tour welcomes up to eight participants to create a more personal feel. For the first part of the tour, your guide will bring you to some of the neighborhood's most prestigious shops, which specialize in bread, cheese, pastry and charcuterie. The second part of the tour stops at a wine shop and includes a seated tasting with wine pairings. Paris By Mouth's guides are experienced food journalists, chefs and foodies – a highlight among reviewers.

The tour is recommended for adults, though children older than age 12 can join. The tour runs daily at multiple times. Paris By Mouth also hosts tours of Saint-Germain-des-Près, south Marais and the Left Bank.

Retro Tour Paris – Retro Classic

Price: From $75 Duration: 40 minutes

Hop into the vintage sidecar of an experienced motorcycle driver and cruise through the city with views of the Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars and more on the Retro Classic tour of Paris. Local guides will share unique stories and provide an experience worlds apart from a typical city tour. Reviewers rave about the thrill of riding in the sidecar and the local insight.

If you love your first sidecar experience, you can also opt for the company's 90-minute tours, as well as a ride through Paris after sunset (with a Champagne tasting, naturally).

Blue Fox Travel – Versailles Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 109 euros (around $119); kids from 95 euros (about $104) Duration: 9 hours

The Versailles estate encompasses 2,000 acres, and there's no better way to see it than on a bike with Blue Fox Travel. Spend roughly nine hours with an expert guide and a small group (up to 14 people) touring the royal grounds, including the Grand and Petit Trianon chateaus, Marie Antoinette's private domain and the grand palace with a skip-the-line pass included in your ticket. Guides tell stories of French royal history, including the conquests of the Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King, the controversies surrounding Louis XV, the French Revolution and Marie Antoinette. Reviewers love biking the grounds at a leisurely pace and rave about the expertise of the guides, as well as the picnic lunch with finds from one of the local farmers markets.

Tours include train tickets to and from Paris. Blue Fox Travel also guides visitors on cycling tours of Paris at night and the city's top attractions.

history tours in paris

Secret Food Tours Paris – Montmartre

Price: Adults from 109 euros (about $119); kids from 99 euros (about $108) Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours

Peruse and stroll through the Parisian dining scene like a local with Secret Food Tours. On this up to four-hour tour of one of Paris' most picturesque and lively arrondissements, dessert is first (c'est la vie!) . You'll gather chocolates and macarons from local specialty shops, followed by baguettes, cheeses, meats and crêpes – all while learning more about food and Parisian traditions from your local guide. When your bag is full, the guide will lead you to a prime picnic spot to enjoy your bounty with a few wine pairings. Reviewers love the historical tidbits and local insights, as well as the animated and entertaining tour guides.

An upgraded drinks package is available for an additional charge. Tours run daily at several different times, depending on the day. Secret Food Tours also hosts walks through other Paris neighborhoods, such as Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Le Marais.

Intrepid Urban Adventures – Paris Marais Bites and Sights Tour

Price: From $97 Duration: 2 hours

Wander through Paris' gorgeous Marais with a local guide and a lineup of French treats. Intrepid Urban Adventures' Bites and Sights Tour takes you through the well-preserved (and very fashionable) area of the Marais. Throughout the approximately two-hour tour, you'll hear local insights and historical tales as you admire Marais' treasured architecture. Stories are accompanied by stops in neighborhood shops for pastry and macaron samples, plus a French cheese platter and two glasses of wine. Reviewers appreciate the expertise and entertainment provided by the guides, as well as the intimate and conversational environment.

Children 5 and younger can tag along for free, as long as they sample items from their parents' plate. Paris Urban Adventures also offers tours of bohemian Paris and several private excursions.

Paris by Martin & Friends – Walking Tour

Price: 70 euros (about $76) Duration: 2.5 hours

For a truly bespoke experience with a passionate local, take a tour with Martin Muda and his friends, all residents of Paris. On the 2.5-hour walking tour, Muda or one of his tour guides will lead you to treasured spots throughout the city, with stories that give life to Paris' history and legends. Reviewers give high praise for the tour guides and their attention to detail, as well as the customization of each tour.

Tours are available at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily. Children younger than 3 can join the tour for free. Inquiries can be made through the website. The company also offers walking picnic tours at night and electric bike tours.

Fat Tire Tours – Versailles Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 109 euros (about $119); kids from 95 euros (about $103) Duration: 8.5 hours

To see Versailles in all of its glory, take a ride with Fat Tire Tours. On this daylong tour (approximately 8.5 hours), a guide will take you through the Versailles open market to grab a picnic lunch before visiting the Petit Trianon, the Grand Trianon and the estate gardens. The tour also includes skip-the-line access to the palace and an audio guide. Riders love the bicycles and tour guides, and appreciate the sweeping views of the iconic palace and grounds.

Tours are offered Tuesday through Sunday and all depart before 9 a.m. Kids younger than 4 are free to join the tour. Fat Tire Tours also offers a variety of biking excursions around Paris – including an "Emily in Paris"-inspired tour – and the surrounding region, as well as guided walks and Segway rides.

Best Paris Tours

SANDEMANs NEW Europe – Montmartre Free Walking Tour

Price: Free; tips appreciated Duration: 2.5 hours

Stroll through one of Paris' most famous and charming neighborhoods with the help of SANDEMANs NEW Europe. This 2.5-hour tour will take you by the area's most photographed sights, including the Moulin Rouge and up the steps to Sacré-Coeur. You'll recognize streets featured in paintings and in cinema as guides share tales of Montmartre's famous artists, musicians and other notables, including Van Gogh and Picasso. Tourgoers appreciate the guides' expertise and recommend the tour for art history lovers.

Tours depart daily at 4 p.m. (Spanish language) and 5 p.m. (English language). Tickets are free, though tips are appreciated. If you're looking to explore more of the city, the company offers an array of other tours covering Latin Quarter, the Seine River and more.

Boutique Bike Tours – Versailles Food & Palace Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 145 euros (about $158); kids 5 and older from 99 euros (about $108) Duration: 9 to 10 hours

If you're looking to escape the city, let Boutique Bike Tours take you on a ride and stroll through the gardens of Versailles. On this approximately nine- to 10-hour tour, guides lead the way through the sprawling estate before stopping for a picnic lunch with provisions purchased from the market in town. After lunch, you'll skip the line at the famous palace to explore the rooms and hallways of Versailles. Reviewers enjoy the leisurely pace, a day full of activities and informative guidance.

Tours generally depart Tuesday and Friday through Sunday; expect to leave at 8 or 9 a.m. and return around 6 p.m. The company also hosts an evening bike and boat tour of Paris.

2CVParisTour – Legendary Paris Tour

Price: From 160 euros (about $175) Duration: 2 hours

If you're looking for a memorable and personalized drive through Paris, allow 2CVParisTour to take you for a whirl in a Citroën 2CV, a classic French car. Take in sights like the Arc de Triomphe, Luxembourg Gardens, Palais de l'Élysée ,  Église   Saint-Sulpice and more as you cruise through the Paris streets for two hours. Reviewers praise the classic car experience and entertaining guides.

Champagne can be added to the tour for an extra charge. Tours depart at multiple times daily, starting at 11 a.m. and ending after 10 p.m. If you can't get enough of the vintage car experience, you can also sign up for a tour of Montmartre, one that features a picnic and others.

City Wonders – Paris Catacombs Underground Tour

Price: Adults from $119 Duration: 2 hours

City Wonders will take you on a two-hour tour of what's below Paris: a network of tunnels, crypts and tombs that are home to nearly 6 million skeletons. On this Paris Catacombs tour, you'll skip the line with a small group to explore the Port Mahon gallery, the Sacellum Crypt and Gilbert's Tomb. Throughout the tour, you'll hear historical anecdotes from insightful guides. Along with the entertaining guides, reviewers also appreciate the skip-the-line access and recommend this experience in lieu of a self-guided tour.

Ticket prices may increase during busier times of the year. Tours depart Tuesday through Sunday at several times each day. City Wonders also hosts traditional aboveground tours of the Louvre, Versailles and the Eiffel Tower.

Best Paris Tours

Paris City Vision – Half Day Guided Tour of Giverny Monet's Gardens from Paris

Price: From 89 euros (about $97) Duration: About 5 hours

On this roughly five-hour tour, a guide will take you through the life of celebrated painter Claude Monet as you explore his home and garden in Giverny. His garden is what inspired some of his most prized works, including "Irises" and "Water Lilies." Reviewers value the views and insight provided by tour guides, though others warn that the company can be disorganized.

Tours generally run daily at 8:15 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The company hosts a number of other tours throughout Paris and greater France , including tours to Normandy .

Street Art Tour Paris – Murals XXL

Price: From 26 euros (about $28) Duration: About 2 hours

There's no museum pass needed to see some of the city's largest artwork with Street Art Tour's Murals XXL. An expert guide leads groups through the city to view contemporary works created by the world's most famous and talented muralists, such as Jorge Rodriguez-Gerada and Obey. Reviewers love the insider information and find the tour reveals details (and murals) often overlooked. Plus, the route is accessible for those with limited mobility.

Tours last just over two hours and run Tuesdays and Saturdays at 2 p.m. Discounts are available to groups of five or more. Street Art Tour Paris also offers tours in Montmartre and Belleville, among other options.

Babylon Tours – Louvre Museum + Orsay Museum Guided Combo Tour

Price: Adults from 199 euros (about $217); kids from 159 euros (about $173) Duration: 5.5 hours

View Greek sculpture and famous paintings by greats like Renoir, Monet, da Vinci and Van Gogh during this 5.5-hour tour. As you explore the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay, guides will regale you with stories of art history. Plus, you'll bypass the long lines at the attractions. Travelers praise the guide's knowledge and appreciate the small groups (no more than eight people can go at once).

Tours run at 10 a.m. from Wednesday to Saturday. Fees include access to the museums. Babylon Tours also operates outings to the Musée de l'Orangerie, the Rodin Museum and individual outings to the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay.

XL Tours – Segway Tour

Price: From 75 euros (about $82) Duration: 2 hours

During this two-hour tour, you'll glide by some of Paris' must-see sights like the Eiffel Tower, Trocadero Gardens and the Musée d'Orsay. You'll also ride in style on Bel & Bel Segways, which are designed to resemble the iconic Vespa scooters. Travelers say the Segways are a great way to see the city and the guides provide clear instructions.

Tours are available daily at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 6 or 7 p.m. You may be required to book at least two riders for your tour if you book directly through the company's website. Participants must be at least 12 years old. XL Tour also runs electric bike tours through the city.

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Paris History Tour: The French Revolution

history tours in paris

  • Hôtel de Ville
  • Place de la Concorde
  • Église Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis
  • Place des Vosges

history tours in paris

  • Clarifies the tangled timeline of the 1789 Revolution and those that followed while highlighting the vestiges of 18th century revolutionary Paris
  • Led by an expert historian

Marie

  • You are a self-confessed history nerd . This tour dives deep into the period of the French Revolution, and the important places and people of the time. This tour is for those clients who come to Paris hungry to learn! 
  • You have taken other focused subject matter tours with Context and are hoping to expand your knowledge to a new time period. 
  • You are planning on visiting Versailles during your time in Paris. What better pre-cursor to visit Marie Antoinette’s country home than by learning all about the circumstances around the revolution? 
  • Place de la Bastille 
  • Hôtel de Ville 
  • Place des Vosges 
  • Place de la Concorde 

Transportation

Additional trip-planning resources.

  • For more information on planning your travels to France, take a read through our Context Stories .
  • If you are looking to learn more about French history prior to a visit, check out our online lectures . 

history tours in paris

Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ .

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Paris WWII History Tour: Nazi Occupation and the Resistance

Paris WWII History Tour: Nazi Occupation and the Resistance

Paris Fashion History Tour

Paris Fashion History Tour

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A Black History Tour of Paris

Follow in the footsteps of prominent african american writers, artists, musicians, and activists who sought refuge in paris during the 19th and 20th centuries..

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A Black History Tour of Paris

Leading jazz musicians such as Lionel Hampton and Art Blakey were among the African American artists to grace the stage at Caveau de la Huchette after the Paris club opened in 1947.

Photo by Alamy

The first time I saw the Eiffel Tower in 2014 I was in awe. In the trips I’ve made to Paris since then, however, my travels have taken a new twist, finding ways to appreciate and understand black history in Paris—both the important role the city played in African American history, and how black Americans helped shape the identity of the French capital itself.

African Americans looked to Paris as early as the 19th century. Some were in search of a more peaceful environment as racism swelled in the United States. Others found themselves in Paris and other parts of France during World War I, when about 200,000 African American soldiers were brought over as part of the U.S. army. Following the war, many of these soldiers decided to remain in the country after receiving a generally welcoming reception from the French people. A second wave of African Americans flocked to Paris during the 1920s Harlem Renaissance, when black artists and activists like Langston Hughes, Richard Wright, Josephine Baker, Adelaide Hall, and Duke Ellington went looking for a place to freely create where they felt celebrated, which Paris provided.

“There, you can be whatever you want to be. Totally yourself,” Langston Hughes once wrote of the city, according to African American novelist Paule Marshall’s memoir, Triangular Road (Civitas Books, 2009) . Legendary jazz musician Miles Davis also declared his love for Paris in a 1989 autobiography, stating: “It was the freedom of being in France and being treated like a human being, like someone important. Even the band and the music we played sounded better over there.”

At these historic Paris locations, you can follow in the footsteps of prominent African Americans who once lived as expats in the city. Use them, like I did, as a starting point to discover the French capital in a lesser-known light.

Café de la Régence

The Palais-Royal is in the middle of Paris’s 1st arrondissement near major landmarks like the Louvre, Jardin des Tuileries, and Arc de Triomphe. This central location and proximity to popular attractions makes the nearby Café de la Régence a special spot to have a cup of coffee or a pain au chocolat . Since the café’s opening in 1670, it’s been a place for intellectuals in Paris to meet, converse, and play chess. This, perhaps, is why it was a favorite for Frederick Douglass, the abolitionist, writer, and scholar who was born enslaved in Maryland but escaped after 20 years. While he was visiting Paris during the winter of 1887, Douglass often met with his close friend Theodore Tilton, a white American abolitionist, at this popular café on Rue Saint-Honoré.

In 1927, Josephine Baker became the first African American to star in a major motion picture, which was a silent film made in France.

In 1927, Josephine Baker became the first African American to star in a major motion picture, which was a silent film made in France.

Glasshouse Images/Alamy; AGB Photo Library/Alamy

Place Josephine Baker

Celebrated entertainer and civil rights activist Josephine Baker spoke often about her deep reverence for Paris. The African American performer, who in 1937 renounced her U.S. citizenship to become a French national, once said: “I have two loves, my country and Paris.” The City of Lights is where Baker’s dancing career blossomed; in 1927, she became the first African American to star in a major motion picture (the French silent film Siren of the Tropics ), and that same year, her headlining performance at the still-standing Folies Bergère cabaret hall solidified Baker as a main symbol of the 1920s Jazz Age.

There are several nods to Baker’s legacy throughout Paris, one of which is Place Josephine Baker—a square in the Left Bank’s Montparnasse area dedicated to the naturalized French performer, who spent most of her life in the Paris neighborhood. Today, a metal placard affixed on a pole in a shaded area remains as a steady reminder of the life she lived and all she gave—whether it was acting as a spy for her adopted country or refusing to perform for segregated audiences in the United States.

Arc de Triomphe

Although the Arc de Triomphe is already regarded as a must-see landmark in Paris, there are tidbits of little-known histories related to the site—one of which has to do with the legacy of African American soldier Eugene Ballard. Born in Georgia during the late 19th century, Ballard left the United States for France to flee Jim Crow persecution in 1912. While in Paris, Ballard worked as a boxer and later enlisted in the French Foreign Legion. A few years later, he became the first-ever African American military pilot. In 1954, the French government invited Ballard to reignite the flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe due to his former service. After, he was made a Knight of the French Legion of Honor.

Novelists such as James Baldwin, Richard Wright, and Chester Himes were known to visit the Shakespeare and Company bookstore in Paris’s Latin Quarter.

Novelists such as James Baldwin, Richard Wright, and Chester Himes were known to visit the Shakespeare and Company bookstore in Paris’s Latin Quarter.

Photo by Shutterstock

Shakespeare and Company

On a secluded back street in the Latin Quarter, the English-language bookstore Shakespeare and Company has been a safe haven for book lovers in the French capital since it opened in 1919. In its earliest days, African American editors of the literary magazine Paris Review dubbed the shop as their hangout. Since then, many famed African American authors, including Richard Wright and Chester Himes, have hosted talks and discussions in the independent bookstore. James Baldwin, who wrote a number of his famed novels, among them Go Tell It on the Mountain (1953) and Giovanni’s Room (1956), during his time in Paris, was frequent customer at the store, which is still open today.

Café Tournon was a regular spot for African American writers and artists who lived as expats in Paris during the 1920s Harlem Renaissance, including jazz musician Duke Ellington (pictured above).

Café Tournon was a regular spot for African American writers and artists who lived as expats in Paris during the 1920s Harlem Renaissance, including jazz musician Duke Ellington (pictured above).

Alamy; AP/Shutterstock

Café Tournon

Walk into this 6th arrondissement establishment tucked under classic Parisian apartments on the Rue de Tournon and you’ll be surrounded by locals feasting on escargot or sipping glasses of beaujolais. Throughout the ’20s, this Parisian café was a regular haunt for African American writers, artists, and expats who sought out life in the French capital after the end of World War I. Its most famous frequent customers included jazz legend Duke Ellington, painter Beauford Delaney, and later writers James Baldwin, Richard Wright, and Chester Himes, who often gathered at Café Tournon to converse about the joys and pains of their artistic lives. Dizzy Gillespie’s jazz band even made its debut here, too, in the 1950s. Today, the establishment’s mahogany chairs and speckled floor are an ode to 20th-century Parisian flair, as are the block white letters outside the café that announce its name.

Caveau de la Huchette

Near the Latin Quarter in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, the Caveau de la Huchette —which is often compared to a cavern in appearance (hence its name)—has earned a reputation for being particularly welcoming to African American jazz musicians since its 1947 inception. Lionel Hampton and Art Blakey were some of the leading American jazz musicians who graced the stage at this club. Today, visitors can hear a live performance every evening of the week. (Admission costs $15 on Sunday through Thursday, $17 on Friday and Saturday, and $11 for students under 25 years old with valid identification.)

Take a guided black history tour in Paris

Ricki stevenson’s black paris tours.

For a more structured approach to exploring black history in Paris, consider taking an organized tour through Ricki Stevenson’s Black Paris Tours . Founded by Stevenson in 1998, the tour company offers walking and city bus tours (both group and private) to Parisian sites that were made famous by African American musicians, writers, and activists, including stops at many of the aforementioned locations.

Walking the Spirit Tours

Walking the Spirit Tours also operates similar “Black Paris and Beyond” walking and private bus itineraries. One such tour focuses on the La Goutte d’Or neighborhood in the 18th arrondissement, which is known for its North and West African populations and its open-air market, le Marché Dejean, where various stands sell special herbs and other ingredients for traditional African cuisines.

Entrée to Black Paris

In addition to guided tours, Entrée to Black Paris offers narrated walking tours (downloadable for $28) for those seeking a self-led experience. One audio tour route spotlights Richard Wright’s Parisian haunts; the other navigates Paris’s Montparnasse suburb, which Josephine Baker called home.

>>Next: How Women in Paris Are Changing the Stereotypes of Women in Paris

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  • Paris Walking Tours

Tours of Black Paris – Walking And Bus Tours

With our Walking The Spirit Black Paris & Beyond , you can discover and experience the rich Black heritage in Paris from the passionate people who created the genre,  in 1994.

Today, our signature walking and private bus Tours of Black Paris   continue to educate, engage and delight; our guides welcome you like favorite visiting relatives.

At the foot of Montmartre with Julia guide

WALKING THE SPIRIT TOURS OF BLACK PARIS  at a glance

Walking tours.

  • Writers, Artists & Intellectuals in the Latin Quarter  – Stroll through the arts district, open air markets and literary caf é s to discover the haunts and homes of creative genius. Listen to the challenges faced by African-American intellectuals, artists, military and musicians in early 20th century Paris and the stunning outcomes.
  • The Entertainers in 1920s Lower Montmartre   – Relive the exciting Roaring 20s in what was the Black Montmartre community of Baker, Bricktop and Bechet.
  • Africa In Paris  – Explore the vibrant La Goutte d’Or neighborhood and its everyday activities of open-air markets, cloth shops and dapper clothing shops, hair salons, cultural venues – all while learning its social and political past and present.
  • From Harlem-sur-Seine to Africa in Pari s   – Combine the rich jazz history of 1920′s Lower Montmartre with Paris’ diverse face of today in the 18th district.
  • Pioneers of the Left Bank  – Soak up the ground-breaking achievements of Diaspora intellectuals around the Sorbonne and the post-WWII jazz greats in neighboring St. Germain-des-Pres
  • Black Images in the Louvre – On this private tour, discover how people of color are depicted through centuries of masterpieces and why.
  • Colonialism, Slavery & AntiSlavery walk -Behind the walls of famous sites hide the stories of decisive events and people who enabled slavery and disabled colonialism, includes the Alexandre Dumas family of statues.

Want to see it all in half a day ?

PRIVATE BUS TOURS

  • Spirit of Black Paris  – Half-Day Bus Tour – On this private 3.5 hour half-day bus tour you journey past well-known sites and lesser-known corners, learning the rich Black history rarely told in guidebooks or traditional tours. Learn of Sally Hemings on the Champs-Elysées, aviator Eugene Bullard at the Arc de Triomphe, WEB Dubois at Opera, 369th Harlem Infantry Regiment in Lower Montmartre, Bricktop and Langston Hughes in the shadow of the Moulin Rouge and many more. End with a half hour walk through the Arts district. Hotel pick up and drop off .
  • Spirit of Black Paris 5-hour bus and combo bus/walking tours ( for groups of 6+ and educational institutions only ) – This 5-hr tour combines the Spirit of Black Paris bus tour + Writers, Artists and Intellectuals walking tours.  Begin with a comprehensive Bus Tour, stop for a snack break, and continue your fascinating day immersed in the haunts and stories of Wright, Baldwin, Henry O. Tanner, Miles Davis and more  in the Latin Quarter/St.Germain-des-Pres district.  Hotel pick up . Food costs not included .
  • Tour & Lunch – After your inspiring glimpse at Black and contemporary Paris, what’s more relaxing than lunch with your guide. Dine at a restaurant that complements the tour content. ( Your and your Guide’s Lunch at your charge) .

Download: Tour Options & Services (PDF)

CLICK Tour Options and Services 2022 to DOWNLOAD all our pdf tour options & services flyer with full descriptions.

TO RESERVE ONE OF OUR TOURS OF BLACK PARIS OR REQUEST A QUOTE FILL OUT THE FORM BELOW.

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Helpful Travel Tips

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What People Are Saying:

I have learned so much these two weeks from you and your marvelous network! The enthusiasm and deep knowledge of your impressive team was shared with our travelers making their experience rich and rewarding. Our travelers come to learn and all agreed that this trip was exceptional.

National Museum of African American History and Culture

This tour far exceeded our expectations. As a serious history devotee my appetite for local D.C. black history was more than satisfied in an amazing full-day experience with our guide. One tour highlight was the Frederick Douglass mansion in Anacostia. Our guide, along with being an expert in his field, is a warm, energetic individual who loves his work. This was one of the best tours we have ever taken and is highly recommended.

You’re the best!!! This is to reiterate our grateful thanks to you for such a wonderful trip/vacation in Paris. This was our first time in Paris and it was glorious . All of your well planned activities and meals were beyond our expectations. Plus, this was our first time traveling with members of our group.

I am submitting this on behalf of my client and myself, our experience working with Julia was amazing and very impressive. Her specialty tours are golden for Paris as in the words of my client "who would have thought"? She is very professional and provided a wonderful overview of the tours which actually have me excited and eager to book all clients who travel to Paris. Her services are definitely a great asset to Paris!!

When is the best time to go to Paris?

Alexis Averbuck

Mar 29, 2024 • 6 min read

history tours in paris

Paris offers a travel experience for every time of year © Leo Patrizi / Getty Images

Alexis is one of the author's of our  latest Paris guidebook . Here she shares her tips on the best time to visit Paris.

As one of the world's dreamiest destinations, Paris never disappoints. Summer sees the Seine lined with people soaking up the city at its sunniest, while the cooler winter temperatures make it the perfect time to explore museums, galleries and cozy cafes. 

When planning a visit, it's also worth checking out Paris' extensive festival and events calendar. It's one of the world's best cultural cities, so you can design a trip that includes anything from special operas and hip-hop dance premieres to French Open tennis.

Paris' plentiful accommodation spans all budgets, but it is often fully booked well in advance, particularly during peak times (April to October, as well as public and school holidays). Reservations are essential at these times, but are also recommended year-round.

Whenever you go, you can enjoy all the best things in Paris , from shopping for the latest fashions to seeing the world's most famous works of art. But if you want to find your own perfect time to see the City of Light, follow our tips on when to visit.

June to August is the best time for relaxing in parks and along the Seine

You'll find locals kicking back along the banks of the Seine year-round, but never more so than on warm summer evenings with a picnic and bottle of wine. While the weather will be great and there’s no better time to enjoy the city’s famed cafe culture, you will be sharing Paris with plenty of other tourists. During August many establishments close as locals flee the summer city heat.

December to January is the best time for budget travelers

Sights are quieter and prices lower during winter, making it a great time for budget travelers – but you won’t have to sacrifice everything that makes Paris wonderful. The weather is mostly rainy and chilly (snow is quite infrequent), but ice-skating rinks pop up across the city, including in some truly picturesque spots like  Galeries Lafayette 's panoramic rooftop. In December, the city will light up with Christmas trees and beautifully decorated shop windows, making it a very magical month.

March to May and September to October are the best times for a bit of everything

Spring (especially April and May) and autumn (particularly September and October) are ideal for visiting Paris – crowds are thinner, but the weather is temperate and lovely. 

In the spring, blossoms give way to leaves greening the city's tree-lined boulevards and flowering window boxes splash color across Paris' Haussmann-era facades. Local street markets are perfect for picking up picnic ingredients since temperatures are now warm enough to head to Paris' parks and gardens , including the city's most popular, the Jardin du Luxembourg , and along the UNESCO World Heritage-listed riverbanks, particularly the Parc Rives de Seine . 

Likewise, the weather is gorgeous and crowds are smaller in fall, making it a great time to go. Autumn colors begin to seep in and the city ups its already impressive cultural offerings.

Ice skaters use a rink in front of Hotel de Ville in Paris

January is for shopping and culture

The frosty first month of the year isn’t the most festive in Paris, but the winter soldes (sales) – brighten the mood. Also, the city’s vast offerings of theater and dance are in full swing.

Key events : Epiphany; Louis XVI Commemorative Mass; Chinese New Year 

February remains chilly, but warms your heart on Valentine’s Day

In February, couples descend on France's romantic capital for Valentine's Day, when virtually all restaurants offer special menus.

Key events: Rétromobile ; Salon International de l’Agriculture

Embrace marvelous March as the city starts warming up

Blooms appear in Paris’ parks and gardens, leaves start greening the city’s avenues and festivals and events begin. The weather remains variable (pack rain gear), but trends to warmer.

Key events : Banlieues Bleues ; Cinéma du Réel

April is "Springtime in Paris"

Sinatra sang about April in Paris, and the month sees the city’s "charm of spring" in full swing, with chestnut trees blossoming and cafe terraces coming into their own. It’s also often the month of Easter.

Key events: Paris Beer Festival ; Livre Paris ; Foire du Trône ; Marathon International de Paris ; Foire de Paris ;  Run Experience Salon du Running

Magnificent May is tops for warmth without the international crowds

The temperate month of May has more public holidays than any other in France and is a peak time for domestic travel . Watch out for widespread closures, particularly on May Day (1 May). But the main tourism season is just beginning, so May offers a chance to sneak in before the biggest crowds.

Key events: La Nuit Européenne des Musées ; Taste Paris ; French Open ; Paris Café Festival

A magnolia blooms in front of the Paris skyline.

June is for summer delight from music festivals to warm-evening strolls

Paris is positively jumping in June, thanks to warm temperatures, a host of outdoor events (many of them free ) and long daylight hours, with twilight lingering until late.

Key events: Nuit Blanche; Festival de St-Denis ; We Love Green ; Fête de la Musique; Marche des Fiertés (Pride); La Goutte d’Or en Fête ; Portes Ouvertes des Ateliers d’Artistes de Belleville

Jump into July for peak Parisian summer fun

During the Parisian summer, "beaches" – complete with sun beds, umbrellas, atomizers, lounge chairs and palm trees – line the banks of the Seine and pools hum with swimmers, while shoppers hit the summer soldes (sales). Heat becomes more intense, as do crowds.

Key events: Paris Jazz Festival ; Bals des Pompiers; Bastille Day; Paris Plages; Tour de France ; Cinéma En Plein Air de la Villette ; La Fête du Cinéma

August empties of Parisians but fills with international visitors

Parisians desert the city in droves during the summer swelter when, despite an influx of tourists, many restaurants and shops shut. It can be hard to get a good bistro meal (with many closed) but it’s a prime time to cycle, with far less traffic on the roads.

Key events: Classique au Vert ; Rock en Seine ; Silhouette

Gentler September brings cooler climes and a rebooted cultural calendar

Tourists leave and Parisians come home: la rentrée marks residents’ return to work and study after the summer break. Cultural life shifts into top gear and the weather is often at its blue-skied best.

Key events: Jazz à la Villette ; Festival d’Automne ; Techno Parade ; Journées Européennes du Patrimoine; Journée Sans Voiture ; Foire de Chatou

Autumn-hued October beckons for low-key days with food and art festivals

October heralds an autumnal kaleidoscope in the city’s parks and gardens, along with bright, crisp days, cool, clear nights and excellent cultural offerings.

Key events: Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre ; Foire Internationale d’Art Contemporain ; Salon du Chocolat

Chilly November calls for indoor activities

Dark, chilly days and long, cold nights see Parisians take refuge indoors: the opera and ballet seasons are going strong and there are plenty of cozy bistros and bars.

Key events: Pitchfork Music Festival Paris ; Africolor ; Illuminations de Noël; Beaujolais Nouveau 

Paris sparkles in holiday-filled December

Twinkling fairy lights, brightly decorated Christmas trees and shop windows and outdoor ice-skating rinks make December a wondrous month to be in the City of Light.

Key events: Salon du Cheval de Paris ; Christmas Eve Mass; Le Festival du Merveilleux ; New Year’s Eve

This article was first published Mar 30, 2021 and updated Mar 29, 2024.

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Youth-led tours show North Lawndale culture, history

My block my hood my city kicked off its youth-led tour program on wednesday. tours run every saturday throughout the summer in north lawndale..

Mayor Brandon Johnson walks along with a neighborhood tour of North Lawndale conducted by My Block My Hood My City, a youth mentorship program, on Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

Mayor Brandon Johnson walks with a neighborhood tour of North Lawndale conducted by My Block My Hood My City.

Zubaer Khan/Sun-Times

Youth-led walking tours from My Block My Hood My City aim to give attendees a look at the culture and history North Lawndale has to offer.

Under the beating sun, the group was joined by Mayor Brandon Johnson on Juneteenth to show a different side of the neighborhood.

“Our Black youth constantly get targeted,” Johnson said. “From the mischaracterization of their existence and the lack of recognizing their humanity and their beauty to the very real one-sided coverage and perspective of Black young people. Today is a reminder of why it’s important for us to fully express our liberation.”

In its sixth year, the youth-led walking tour has added stops around North Lawndale and highlights community gardens, a local grocer, churches, restaurants and the history of the neighborhood.

“We generally take teenagers from their communities on educational field trips and expose them to different things. ... It’s called our Explorers program,” said Jahmal Cole, founder of My Block My Hood My City. “This is kind of that in reverse. So we bring the world into their community.”

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“They get to change the narrative, and they always hear negative things about their neighborhood, but you can walk with them and hear their pride,” Cole said. “It gives them presentation skills for college and allows them to do storytelling.”

The tours also are a way for students to earn money during the summer. Most are paid $15 an hour, Cole said.

The tour stops at sites like the MLK Legacy Apartments, a memorial to King’s time in North Lawndale in the 1960s.

Guides also stop the group at the Stone Temple Baptist Church, a Chicago landmark built by Jewish immigrants that was the site of many speeches by King.

Veronica Galindo, a Chicago Lawn resident, and her boyfriend attended the tour after learning about it via social media. She didn’t realize the tour would be led by students, she said.

“Rather than ‘Let’s take the kids downtown,’ it’s like ‘No, let’s go to the community.’ That was so cool,” Galindo said.

Xavier Ferguson, 15, takes part in his first tour as an employee of My Block My Hood My City, a youth mentorship program, in North Lawndale on Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

Xavier Ferguson

It was Xavier Ferguson’s first day as a tour guide. With about 10 other guides, the 15-year-old Austin resident spent the two hours talking individually to attendees about the stops.

“I’m actually learning a lot about this neighborhood,” he said. “While we are teaching people about it, I’m learning about it.”

“We have good vibes, we laugh, we make sure that our guests feel welcome,” said Jubrea James, a 22-year-old tour guide. “We make sure that everybody feels safe.”

“[People can expect] good energy, to see young kids share what they love about their community,” she added. “They should expect the long walk and expect some good sandwiches.”

For the hungry walker, the stop at Douglas Park Dollar and Food is a highlight.

Jubrea James, 22, stands for a portrait while conducting a tour with My Block My Hood My City, a youth mentorship program, in North Lawndale on Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

Jubrea James

Although it’s primarily a corner store, the owner sells hoagies that draw in crowds, Cole said.

After grabbing sandwiches, the group will stop to eat at Douglass Park before finishing the tour at the Farm on Ogden, a produce market and grocer.

Tours run every Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m. Tickets are $30.

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Paul announces Europe dates for the 2024 'Got Back' tour

history tours in paris

⁠PAUL ANNOUNCES  GOT BACK TOUR 2024 Paul and the band will visit Paris, Madrid, Manchester and London this December TICKET INFORMATION HERE!

Wednesday 4th December - La Defense Arena, Paris, FRANCE ⁠Thursday 5th December - La Defense Arena, Paris, FRANCE ⁠Monday 9th December - Wizink Centre, Madrid, SPAIN ⁠Tuesday 10th December - Wizink Centre, Madrid, SPAIN ⁠Saturday 14th December - Co-op Live, Manchester, UK ⁠Sunday 15th December - Co-op Live, Manchester, UK ⁠Wednesday 18th December - The O2 Arena, London, UK ⁠Thursday 19th December - The O2 Arena, London, UK

SIGN UP TO THE PAULMcCARTNEY.COM MAILING LIST FOR AN EXCLUSIVE PRE-SALE PASSWORD

Paul will bring his acclaimed Got Back tour to Europe this December!

Fulfilling his promise to 'get back', Paul will return to France, Spain and the UK with his Got Back  tour. Earlier this month, Paul announced his first live shows of 2024 with the next leg of the tour launching in South America this October.  

With songs like ‘Hey Jude’, ‘Live and Let Die’, ‘Band on the Run’,  ‘Let It Be’ and so many more, the Paul McCartney live experience is everything any music lover could ever want from a rock show: hours of the greatest moments from the last 60 years of music – dozens of songs from Paul’s solo, Wings and of course Beatles catalogues that have formed the soundtracks of our lives.

This will mark Paul’s first European show since his iconic Glastonbury headlining performance in 2022. Hailed as “one of the greatest gigs of all time” by The Times and “a masterclass from the greatest living cultural figure in this country’s history” by The i, it was also Paul and his band’s 500th show together! These dates will see McCartney return for his first live performance in Paris in six years - in 2018 he played at La Defense Arena, where he is making his return. The wait has been longer for Spaniards, where he last played eight years ago, in 2016 at Estadio Vincente Calderon.

Paul launched his Got Back tour in 2022, completing 16 huge shows across the US before performing his history-making set at Glastonbury in June 2022. In 2023 Paul performed 18 incredible shows as the Got Back tour rocked through Australia, Mexico and Brazil.

PRE-SALE AND GENERAL SALE TIMINGS ARE STAGGERED BY COUNTRY

Wednesday 4th December - La Défense Arena, Paris, FRANCE ⁠Thursday 5th December - La Défense Arena, Paris, FRANCE ⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Tuesday 18 June 10am CET ⁠General sale: Friday 21 June 10am CET ⁠ ⁠Monday 9th December - WiZink Center, Madrid, SPAIN ⁠Tuesday 10th December - WiZink Center, Madrid, SPAIN ⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Tuesday 18 June 10am CET ⁠General sale: Friday 21 June 10am CET ⁠ ⁠Saturday 14th December - Co-op Live, Manchester, UK ⁠Sunday 15th December - Co-op Live, Manchester, UK ⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Wednesday 19 June 10am BST ⁠General sale: Friday 21 June 10am BST ⁠ ⁠Wednesday 18th December - The O2 Arena, London, UK ⁠Thursday 19th December - The O2 Arena, London, UK ⁠⁠PaulMcCartney.com pre-sale: Wednesday 19 June 10am BST ⁠General sale: Friday 21 June 10am BST ⁠ ⁠ ⁠Visit the Got Back 2024 tour page for more information and ticket links , and keep an eye out for more news coming soon...

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Exploring Canandaigua's history: A walking tour of iconic bars and restaurants

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CANANDAIGUA — Flannigan’s Restaurant opened in 1866 in downtown Canandaigua, and the establishment owned by John ,soon became a popular and well-known place for oysters throughout the region. 

And to end their 19 th -century day, perhaps a drink and a toast to the good men and women of the village of Canandaigua. Yes, that’s right, the village, not the city – not yet anyway. 

Over time, Flannigan, a Democrat, would become an influential behind-the-scenes person in local and state politics and would play a part in Canandaigua becoming a city – and in the process, remaining a place where visitors could drink during a time when temperance was the buzzword of the day. 

Stroll downtown today, and it’s hard to believe in the same place where Peacemaker Brewing Co., Acquilano’s Wine Cellars, the Niagara Bar & Restaurant, Bubby’s Tavern and so many others operate successfully, the likes of Thos. E. Murphy Restaurant, James T. Barry Wines and Liquors and the Coyle Bros. Tavern of another time were threatened. 

And it wasn’t easy for Flannigan and his cohorts. 

The effort required some nifty political tiptoeing, as prior to 1913, two votes to make Canandaigua a dry village had failed. But, according to Benjamin Falter, director of education for the Ontario County Historical Society and leader of a summerlong series of walking tours of the city’s old watering holes, Flannigan and other like-minded businessmen of the day feared a third time could be a charm. 

But they saw a sign of hope in a loophole in state law. 

“If we become a city, then we don’t have to worry about whether or not we’re going to become dry anymore,” Falter said. 

But first, mix up a bee’s knees or grasshopper cocktails, and learn more about the tour. 

Walking into Canandaigua's past

Falter came to the Historical Society from the Rochester Museum and Science Center. His wife saw the job opening here and thought he would enjoy and thrive in the role. 

She was right, and it is a perfect fit, he said. 

Hired in late November 2021, Falter thought there was a real place for a regularly scheduled live walking tour. They first explored the historic churches of North Main Street in Canandaigua, and “that was successful enough that we decided to keep doing them,” Falter said. 

Next up were tours of local cemeteries, the Ontario County Courthouse, Canandaigua Pier and Kershaw Park and an insider tour of the Historical Socety’s museum on Main Street. 

“We’ve had growing success with each tour,” Falter said. “People seem to enjoy getting to walk around and learn about the history of these places. It’s a really exciting program that I really, really enjoy doing.” 

Falter had wanted to do a tour of the downtown area, but he needed a unifying theme. Why not a tour of the places in Canandaigua where you could get a drink before Prohibition?

Francine Bremer, who took the tour with husband Robert, has been on tours that Falter has led, and he does a tremendous job, she said, especially providing details and the history of the area. 

“I like the topic, number one,” Francine Bremer said. “He’s very good so I figured it would be a fun time.” 

And that’s the way Falter approached it, as a fun way to look at the history of Main Street and how it’s changed and evolved over the years.  

That and the alcohol business is nearly a universal human experience. 

“Humans have been making alcohol since civilization began. Beer was made in ancient Mesopotamia and ancient Egypt,” Falter said. “It’s something most people have an experience with even if they weren’t drinkers themselves. It’s all around us. I also think people find Prohibition fascinating.” 

Temperance and Canandaigua

Ten people are meeting up in the public square across from City Hall and near the courthouse, set to begin what is billed as a 90-minute tour, with some stops for history lessons. 

No booze, by the way. 

This is near where the former Canandaigua Hotel used to stand, before it burned down in the 1970s, Falter said. State Sen. John Raines lived nearby; he was responsible for a provision in an unpopular state law that tried to limit the sale of alcohol on Sundays, Falter explained. 

Americans were drinking on average seven gallons of alcohol a year in the 19 th century, compared to a third of that today. 

“There was a reason the temperance movement took off,” Falter said, as he led the tour down Main Street toward Niagara Street. 

Did efforts to limit drinking in Canandaigua take? Not really. 

The Webster House, Boswell & Egan Liquors and the Imperial Hotel are just a few of the old watering holes folks on the tour can learn more about, along with some stories about the people behind them and who frequented them. 

A lot of those buildings are no longer standing, Falter said, but some are, if almost none of them are the businesses that they used to be. 

The Green Front restaurant is an exception. 

The original eatery opened in 1928 and once was a speakeasy, which required a password to enter. 

This was not a well-kept secret, Falter said. 

“People were going to drink,” Falter said, during a stop outside the restaurant under a shade tree. “Americans really liked to drink and really didn’t like Prohibition.” 

Jessica VandeMar, who is working on a history project of her own where she works as marketing manager at the Finger Lakes Visitors Connection, said she didn’t know half of what Falter had been saying on this tour, but said it’s so interesting to hear about the history of the area. 

“We were at the Green Front for lunch the other day,” VandeMar said. “Who knew it was a speakeasy once upon a time?” 

This and all sorts of other historical tidbits await tourgoers. 

Falter tells the tale of the biggest rum-running arrest of the time where historians believe was at the Webster House, which sat where Commons Park is today. 

Revenuers seized 150 gallons of illegal alcohol on an early morning August day in 1926. The rum runner in question, who was charged with unlawful possession and transporting of alcohol, was believed to have stopped for the night as Canandaigua because he was between larger cities. 

Or maybe not. 

“People needed to drink here, too,” Falter said, even if some thought differently, which brings the story back to Flannigan and his restaurant. 

Could one vote in Canandaigua lead to another?

The state Legislature was considering an amendment to the state constitution that would grant women the right to vote at about the time business owners feared losing their ability to sell alcohol. 

Women made up a lot of the temperance movement, Falter said, so if the voting amendment went through (which it did in 1917), women voters could push for another vote that would make Canandaigua a dry village.  

Villages and towns were allowed to exercise a local option when it comes to allowing alcohol in their boundaries, Falter said, but cities were not allowed to exercise that local option and had to abide by whatever the state law was on access to alcohol.  

Meaning, bottoms up in cities. 

Falter said over two weeks, Flannigan and other Canandaigua business leaders persuaded local government to set a public vote on the matter and held it, just over a week after setting the vote. 

“It was very, very quick, this attempt to get it across the finish line before women potentially would gain the right to vote,” Falter said. 

Prohibition in Canandaigua

Canandaigua, of course, became a city, almost overnight, Falter said, and the seats at the bars were filled. 

Until Prohibition came along, that is. 

The walking tour winds up at City Hall, where Falter explains how “absolutely swamped” judges and their courts with alcohol-related cases during Prohibition and how many of the overwhelmed judges had to be lenient, as it seemed every “Tom, Dick and Harry” was before them, Falter said. 

Glenna Renaud of Canandaigua knew some about Prohibition, but joined the tour to learn more about where the old buildings were and what was inside them. 

Renaud walked away with a more extensive understanding of what went on in her hometown. 

“You can read a book and all but it’s better to have someone tell you and show you on a walking tour,” Renaud said. 

To take the Canandaigua Watering Holes tour

Tours will meet in Ontario County Park, at the intersection of Main and Ontario streets, across from Canandaigua City Hall. The tours are free but donations will be accepted.

Be prepared to walk and stand for about 90 minutes.

Tours are scheduled for noon Saturday, June 22; 2 p.m. Friday, June 28; 2 p.m. Friday, July 19; 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 2; noon Saturday, Aug. 10; and 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 16.

For details on this and other prgrams and exhibits, visit www.ochs.org .

StarTribune

Get out and smell the flowers: your guide to minnesota garden tours.

From urban to rural gardens, small to large lots, and vegetable to rainwater gardens, avid gardeners are getting ready to roll out the welcome mat to their yards as a way to educate and inspire other green thumb enthusiasts. Here are some upcoming tours in the metro area and beyond that range in themes, offering something for everyone.

WEST END NEIGHBORS' GARDEN TOUR

June 15: Explore the lush greenery of traditional gardens, the charm of native landscapes, the creativity of alley gardens and the productivity of vegetable gardens. The tour is a celebration of St. Paul's W. 7th area and its diverse gardening styles. A plant sale is also part of the event. (10 a.m. to 3 p.m., free; fortroadfed.org/west-end-garden-tour )

SEWARD GARDEN TOUR

June 20 : This tour invites you to witness the beauty and care of 10 urban gardens in the heart of Minneapolis' historic Seward neighborhood. Take a tour through the beautiful gardens, followed by an afterparty with drinks and flower raffle. Spots are limited. (6 to 8 p.m.; $15 advance, $20 day of tour; sng.org )

Garden to be featured on Hennepin County Master Gardeners Learning Tour

HENNEPIN COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS LEARNING GARDEN TOUR

July 13: Hennepin County Master Gardener volunteers host this self-guided tour spotlighting 10 gardens in Minneapolis and Edina. (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; $15 advance; $20 day of tour. Children under 12 free with paid adult; hennepinmastergardeners.org )

NEW PRAGUE AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY TOUR

July 13: A self-guided tour of private and public gardens plus presentations on the history of gardening and agriculture in the area. 400 E. Main St., New Prague. (9 a.m. to 1 p.m., $10; tinyurl.com/3cxudnbe )

NORTHFIELD GARDEN CLUB TOUR

July 13-14: Homeowners in the Northfield area open their gardens to the public in this self-guided tour that features six residential gardens. Gardens aim to show a variety such as vegetables, fruit and flowers. Garden art is also part of the lineup. (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; $10; thenorthfieldgardenclub.org )

AUXILIARY PRIVATE GARDEN TOURS

AUXILIARY PRIVATE GARDEN TOURS

July 14-16: Guests of the Arboretum Auxiliary will tour four local private gardens via air-conditioned motor coaches. Look for creative color combinations, showcase pollinator-friendly plantings, interesting water features and beautiful art pieces. (9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, 9 a.m. to noon Monday, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday; $93 for Sunday tours and $85 for Monday and Tuesday tours. Children 15 and under free with paid ticketed adult; arb.umn.edu/GardenTours )

Master Gardeners of Washington County garden tour.

WASHINGTON COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS GARDEN TOUR

July 20: The Learning and Growing tour will feature seven gardens in White Bear Lake, Oakdale and Stillwater. The gardens range from small city lots to those on acreage; from flowers and shrubs to native plants and a variety of vegetables. Master Gardeners will answer questions at each garden and educational materials will be available. (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; $15 in advance, $20 day of event; washingtoncountymg.org )

Minnesota Water Garden Society Pond and Garden Tour. Provided by MWGS

MWGS WATER GARDEN TOUR

July 27-28: The 27th Annual Minnesota Water Garden Society tour includes picturesque gardens, wonderful waterfalls and stunning streams. (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; $15 in advance, $20 day of event, $5 for a single tour site; mwgs.org )

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS GARDEN TOUR

Aug. 9: Enjoy a delightful evening of nature's beauty. Grab a map at Blooming Sunshine Garden in Lomianki Park (80 39th Av. NE., Columbia Heights) to guide you through the stunning gardens of participating community members. (5 to 8 p.m.; facebook.com/events/734358168759224 )

BEYOND THE METRO

ROCHESTER GARDEN AND FLOWER CLUB

July 13: This tour spotlights six private gardens, and includes educational booths, local artisans and musicians. (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; $15, under 18 free; rgfc.org )

DULUTH WOMEN'S CLUB TOUR OF HOMES AND GARDENS

July 17: The 56th annual tour features homes and gardens from different times and eras in the community, from stately old homes to modern homes of today. (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; $42; duluthwomansclub.com )

LINDEN HILL HISTORIC ESTATE GARDEN TOUR

July 17: Walk at your own pace to see formal gardens on the grounds, then make your way to see more gardens against the backdrop of historic mansions. Then grab a map and drive to featured private gardens in the community. 608 Highland Av., Little Falls, Minn. (3 to 8 p.m.; $10; littlefallsmn.com/events/garden-tour/ )

Star Tribune staff writer Coles contributed to this story.

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Golf News Net

Tag - 2024 Paris Olympics men’s golf tournament players

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  1. THE TOP 10 Paris Historical Tours (UPDATED 2024)

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    4. Art Nouveau Architecture Wonders. This historical walking tour focuses on the second half of the 19th century when Art Nouveau was in vogue. Along the way an expert in the period makes it all come to life. Of course, the centerpiece of Art Nouveau in Paris is the Palais Garnier (photo above), the sumptuous opera house built during Haussmann's reconstruction of the city, and that's also a ...

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    The Paris Catacombs hold over six million skeletons, intricately arranged underground. Visitors explore winding tunnels adorned with bone sculptures and learn about the city's fascinating macabre history. - Paris Catacombs Audio Guided Tour offers immersive exploration. - Detailed commentary unveils the history behind the catacombs' creation.

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  23. Tours of Black Paris

    Spirit of Black Paris - Half-Day Bus Tour - On this private 3.5 hour half-day bus tour you journey past well-known sites and lesser-known corners, learning the rich Black history rarely told in guidebooks or traditional tours. Learn of Sally Hemings on the Champs-Elysées, aviator Eugene Bullard at the Arc de Triomphe, WEB Dubois at Opera ...

  24. Paris, France: All You Must Know Before You Go (2024)

    Paris Tourism: Tripadvisor has 5,146,111 reviews of Paris Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best Paris resource. ... a new spa, and a range of experiences, from cooking classes to guided history tours. My daughter and I opted for the macaron making class, led by an esteemed French pastry chef. It was so much fun making the ...

  25. Best time to visit Paris

    Key events: Paris Jazz Festival; Bals des Pompiers; Bastille Day; Paris Plages; Tour de France; Cinéma En Plein Air de la Villette; La Fête du Cinéma. August empties of Parisians but fills with international visitors. Parisians desert the city in droves during the summer swelter when, despite an influx of tourists, many restaurants and shops ...

  26. Youth-led tours show North Lawndale culture, history

    The tour stops at sites like the MLK Legacy Apartments, a memorial to King's time in North Lawndale in the 1960s.. Guides also stop the group at the Stone Temple Baptist Church, a Chicago ...

  27. Paul announces Europe dates for the 2024 'Got Back' tour

    ⁠PAUL ANNOUNCES GOT BACK TOUR 2024 Paul and the band will visit Paris, Madrid, Manchester and London this December TICKET INFORMATION HERE! ... Paul launched his Got Back tour in 2022, completing 16 huge shows across the US before performing his history-making set at Glastonbury in June 2022. In 2023 Paul performed 18 incredible shows as the ...

  28. Canandaigua NY history: A walking tour of iconic bars and restaurants

    Hired in late November 2021, Falter thought there was a real place for a regularly scheduled live walking tour. They first explored the historic churches of North Main Street in Canandaigua, and ...

  29. Your guide to Minnesota summer garden tours

    NEW PRAGUE AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY TOUR. July 13: A self-guided tour of private and public gardens plus presentations on the history of gardening and agriculture in the area. 400 E. Main St., New ...

  30. Tag

    KPMG Women's PGA Championship history, results and past winners One of the most controversial rules of golf is changing on the PGA Tour Here are the 60 players who qualified for the 2024 Paris ...