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Free Walking Tours Paris

We are a group of local Paris walking tour guides who lead daily walking tours throughout the City of Light.

These outings are essentially pay-what-you-wish services, which means you can feel free to tip however much you feel the tour was worth.

This is a very walkable city, and with its extensive Metro system, walking tours are a great way to explore it.

There are generally 4 subjects/neighborhoods where you can take free walking tours of Paris: an intro to Paris overview tour, tours of the Latin Quarter , Montmartre , and Le Marais .

We have also written several self-guided walks as well as audio tours of the city.

And, in the video below, Romain, one of our local guides, takes you on a virtual walk of central Paris.

This post provides information about your options, provide schedules, and explain what you will see on each tour.

If you have any additional questions, make sure to check our Facebook Group for more information.

We hope to see you on one of our tours.

TOUR CALENDAR

Below is a calendar of some of the great walking tours available in Paris, all from local guides.

This schedule is for tours in English. Click here for tours in other languages , such as Spanish, French, German, or Italian. .  READ OUR GROUP POLICY  (bookings more than 4 people)

Searching Availability...

More Tour Options?  More tours are available in the individual tour sections below.

• Overview and Schedule
• Alternative
• Self-Guided

ÎLE de la CITE, RIGHT BANK, AND LANDMARKS TOURS

The Île de la Cité and the Right Bank of the River Seine hold many of the most famous landmarks in Paris, as well as its most beautiful architecture.

Some of the top attractions include Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Champs-Élysées, with great views of the Eiffel Tower.

If you are new to Paris, this should be the first tour that you take.

It will help you get a sense of the city centre and the general history of Paris.

These tours also give you a great overview of the biggest Parisian photo ops.

Discover Walks

Treat yourself to an introduction to Champs Elysées, the Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower, all in 90 minutes.

The tour takes place Fridays through Mondays at 10:00 am.

The tour starts in front of the Orangerie Museum entrance.

Highlights:

• Photo ops: Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Champs Elysées and Montmartre
• 3 of the world’s greatest museums: Louvre, Orsay, and the Orangerie
• The haunts of Coco Chanel, Hemingway, and Princess Diana
• Place Vendôme and Napoleon’s great column
• Some of the world’s most exclusive hotels: Crillon, Meurice, Ritz, and now Mandarin Oriental
• Your guide: a born-and-raised Parisian who will bring Paris to life
• Book this tour from the calendar above .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Discover Walks (@discoverwalks)

This free walking tour of Paris offers a regular tour throughout the city of Paris, touching on several notable landmarks and sites along the way.

The tour lasts for approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, departing daily at 10:30 am, 13:00 am, 15:00 am, and 19:00 pm and sometimes at 11:00 am.

The meeting point of this tour is Hotel de Ville , outside the metro at exit 5, next to the Paris tourist office.

Book this tour or learn more .

Free Tours by Foot

If the above schedule doesn’t work for you, take a look at the tours we have listed for the banks of the Seine.

We have a 19-stop self-guided walking tour you can use to guide your exploration of the Right Bank and its many landmarks. 

LEFT BANK / LATIN QUARTER TOURS

The Latin Quarter is also known as the 5th Arrondissement and got its nickname due to Sorbonne University and the students who lived in the area studying Latin.

Here are the walking tours available in this bookshop and cafe-filled neighborhood. 

Discover Walks offers a 90-minute Latin Quarter tour to explore where students have lived and studied for the last 1,000 years.

Highlights include Sorbonne University, student cafes, Hemingway’s favorite places, and an interesting view of the Eiffel Tower. 

The tour lasts for around 90 minutes and the meeting point of the tour is 77 rue Galande, outside “ Odette ”.

Times: 

• Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays at 14:30 pm
• Also on some dates on Tuesday - Friday at 14:30 pm

Additional Tour Companies

There are a few additional companies that offer free walking tours going through the Latin Quarter and along the banks of the Seine, which you can find here . 

If you want to see the Latin Quarter on your own, we offer a great self-guided walking tour .

You can start whenever your schedule allows and you can take as much or as little time as you want at each stop!

Montmartre Tours

If you’re looking for a romantic atmosphere in Paris, you’ll find it in Montmartre, where artistic geniuses of decades past once lived and found their inspiration.

Get ready to follow in the footsteps of artistic legends such as Salvador Dali, Edgar Degas, and Ernest Hemingway, among several others.

And, in the video below, Romain, one of our local guides, takes you on a virtual walk of Montmartre.

Most tours will visit similar sights, including:

• Sacré Coeur
• Moulin Rouge
• Place Pigalle
• Café des Deux Moulins
• Vincent Van Gogh’s House
• Saint-Denis Statue
• Place du Tertre
• Murs de j’taime – The love wall

Be sure to read our post on  things to do in Montmartre  for tips on planning your visit.

We offer a GPS-led  audio tour of Montmarte , developed and narrated by a local tour guide, that you can take any time you wish (no tips expected). 

We list the most famous hangout spots of artistic geniuses, and neighborhood hidden gems, and take you past the Moulin Rouge. 

In addition to this option, we also have a self-guided Montmartre tour which you can take whenever you want!

This company offers an in-depth daily tour of Montmartre at 11:00 am, 14:30 pm, and 17:00 pm each day. The tour lasts for approximately 1 hour and 30 min.

The tour begins outside Metro Blanche , at street level and your tour guide will be waiting wearing a pink vest.

Eva Tours - Civitatis

In addition to their main free tour of Paris, this tour guide also offers a regular tour of Montmartre daily at 11:00 am, 17:00 (5 pm), and sometimes at 12:00 pm.

This tour lasts for approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes and the tour starts from Metro Blanche .

If you are looking for a  smaller group experience , we have several options listed through the link.

FREE TOUR OF LE MARAIS

Marais is currently one of the most trendy neighborhoods in the city.

This section lists the tours you can take to see how Paris has blended old, privileged townhomes with today’s trendy fashion. 

You’ll see the townhouses of the French aristocracy, fashionable gardens, the Jewish pletzl, and fashionable shops. 

See how Paris combines the past aristocratic neighborhood with current, trendy galleries and fashion spots on this Discover Walks free tour of Marais.

Tour last for around 90 minutes and it starts outside “square Albert Schweitzer” garden, near Métro station Pont-Marie (metro line 7) at street level (at 18 rue de l’hôtel de ville).

• Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays at 10:00 am and 2:30 pm

ALTERNATIVE PARIS TOURS

If you're looking for a free tour of Paris that will reveal a different side of the city, there are a few different options worth considering.

While some alternative tours focus on popular television shows set in this city, others are all about the darker, lesser-known aspects of its history.

Miryam & Luzy Tours

This group of tour guides offers a special free tour that covers some of the most notable sites seen in the hit television show Emily in Paris.

This tour is offered every Sunday, Wednesday & Friday at 10:30 am. It's approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes long.

It starts from 12 Pl. du Panthéon, 75005 .

Your guide will be on the Pantheon square, right at the entrance by the fence with a pink Emily in Paris t-shirt.

In addition to their other free tours of Paris, this tour guide also provides an outing that covers the mysteries and legends of the city.

You can take this tour on Wednesday at 18:30 (6:30 pm), and it is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes long.

The tour starts from Pl. Saint-Michel, 75006 , and the guide will be there in front of the fountain Saint Michel with a Pink Umbrella.

SELF-GUIDED TOURS

This section lists the free walking tours of Paris that you can take on your own, without worrying about meeting up with a guide at a specific time. 

And since there are no free night tours in the City of Lights, our narrated audio tours are a great option to tour Paris at night.

We offer multiple written self-guided tours that will help you get the most out of your time in Paris.

You can pick and choose what you’re interested in or combine them to get to know Paris as well as you can without becoming a resident.

• Montmartre Self-Guided Tour  (also available as a GPS-led audio tour)
• Latin Quarter Self-Guided Tour
• Right Bank Self-Guided Tour

Self-Guided Exploration Game

Although these services aren't free, you may want to consider them if you're interested in discovering Paris from an interesting perspective.

These games task you with solving a mystery, providing clues that you'll find at various locations throughout the city.

While the typical price is €10 per game, these outings sometimes go on sale for as little as €1, and if you were planning to offer a tip during any free walking tour in the city, chances are this fits into your budget.

Here are the self-guided exploration games currently available in Paris:

• The Mona Lisa Curse
• Lovers of Montmartre
• Edith Piaf's Musical Paris
• Save the Statues of Parc Montsouris

Tourist Attraction Passes and Special Offers

An easy way to get a small group tour for free is by purchasing a tourist attraction pass .

These passes work by bundling tickets together so you get a cheaper price overall for all your sightseeing and attraction visits in the city.

The all-inclusive Paris Pass and TurboPass both offer free walking tours with your purchase.

You can also choose various walking tours with the Explorer Pass . 

If you’re already interested in a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, you can find combo tickets that include other sightseeing tours in Paris. 

Tips From Locals and Travelers

We believe in the quality of both our tours and those offered by the companies listed above, but there's always a possibility that we may have a bias.

As such, it's a good idea to get a variety of perspectives. Thankfully, we have a Facebook Group called Paris Travel Tips where you can ask any question you might have related to traveling to this beautiful city.

Here are a few reviews from people who have taken one of the tours listed in this post:

Discover Walks is undoubtedly one of the most popular companies in Paris offering free walking tours of the city.

Moni here has actually taken three of their tours, because they enjoyed the experience so much!

Food tours are also quite popular, because they give you a chance to sample some of the best French cuisine that Paris has to offer while you're learning about the city.

We're always very happy to see reviews like this on our page, because it means we're doing our job well!

Our tour guides are some of the best in the industry, and it shows when you look at all the glowing comments about their outings.

Here's another example of positive comments about Discovery Walks, and for what it's worth, we agree!

It's not uncommon for travelers to describe these walking tours as one of the best parts of their trip.

If you're looking for even more reviews, or you want to ask a question about any of the Paris walking tours listed in this post, make sure to visit our Paris Travel Tips Facebook Group.

We also offer free tours in many cities around the globe . Here are just a few.

And much, much more

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

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All You Need to Visit France

The Best 11 Free Tours in Paris in English and for FREE!

Paris is one of the most expensive cities in the world and to visit almost all its attractions you have to pay an entrance fee that depends on the place can be over 15 euros, so finding some free activities is excellent.

That’s why we bring you the best free tours in Paris.

Top 12 Free Tours in Paris

Although there are many, many tours, we chose the ones we liked the most and the ones with the best ratings. So this is our list of free walking tours in Paris in English.

Free Walking tour of the Historic Center of Paris

This free tour is organized by Guruwalk and is led by Sebastian. He studied art and is passionate about the history of Paris, and he manages to transmit everything he knows and loves.

The tour lasts almost 3 hours, including the city’s historic center, so it serves as a good initial overview of what you can see in the city.

You will pass by the Palais de Justice, Pont Neuf, Pont des Arts, the Louvre, the Jardin des Tuileries and the Eiffel Tower.

As you get to know the places, the guide will tell you the history of each one, so you will end up learning many secrets of the past of Paris.

Book your free walking tour of the historical center of Paris here.

Free Walking Tour of the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe Surroundings

Here is a more focused option on the two must-see monuments of the City of Lights.

By touring the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe area, you will get to know the most elegant areas of the city, walk along the Avenue des Champs Elysées and visit some of the most luxurious areas of the 16th arrondissement of Paris.

Then, next to the pillars of the Eiffel Tower, the guide will tell you some of its lesser-known anecdotes. The tour departs to Trocadero Square and ends with an incredible panoramic view of the city and the Eiffel Tower.

Book your free walking tour around the Eiffel Tower here.

Free Walking Tour of Paris, Perfect for Your First Trip

This tour is similar to the first one we told you about, but it’s the Civitatis version .

It starts in front of the Hôtel de Ville square, crosses to the île de la Cité, where the church of Notre-Dame is being rebuilt, and from where you will see Sainte-Chapelle, the buildings of La Conciergerie (a former palace where Marie-Antoinette was imprisoned) and the Palais de Justice.

Along the banks of the Seine, you will see the Neuf and Arts bridges. And after passing through the Tuileries Gardens and Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, the tour ends at the Louvre Museum, where you will hear some of the best stories of Napoleon and the Sun King.

Book your free walking tour of Paris here.

Free Tour of Montmartre, the best Free Walking Tour of Paris

It is one of our favorite neighborhoods in Paris. Walking through it, you will see the most famous lounges in the world and the most avant-garde cafes.

You can visit the cabarets Moulin Rouge and Lapin Agile with this tour . You will see the Cafe deux Moulins, where Amélie was filmed.

You will visit the building where Vincent Van Gogh lived and the workshop where Pablo Picasso worked and see the Moulin de la Galette, one of Renoir’s sources of inspiration.

And the last stop is in front of the Sacré-Coeur Basilica.

Book your free walking tour of Montmartre here.

Free Walking Tour of the Latin Quarter is one of our favorites

This free tour in Paris will take you to discover one of the must-see neighborhoods on a trip to Paris. The neighborhood has always been characterized by its bohemian and student air.

The first place you will see is the Rue du Chat Qui Pêche, the narrowest street in Paris. And its name has quite a particular history.

Then you will visit the fantastic Shakespeare and Company bookstore. From there, you will go to the church of St. Julien le Pauvre.

In front of the Cluny Museum, they tell a rather dark story about how those who stood up to the power of Notre Dame fared.

The tour continues through the Place de la Sorbonne and the Pantheon of Paris. It ends in the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens.

Book your free walking tour of the Latin Quarter here.

Free Walking tour of the Mysteries and Legends of Paris

Paris is wonderful at night. And even more, if you can walk through its streets listening to the darkest stories from its corners.

The places you will visit are similar to those of some of the tours we have already told you about, but you will see them very differently. Did you know that the Palace of Justice was where thousands of people were tortured and executed?

The guide will also tell you the stories of Paris’s plagues, murders, and legends. Do you know the legend of the baker of rue Chanoinesse?

They will also tell you about the catacombs’ origin and the Templars’ curse.

A great tour to do in the Parisian evening.

Book here your tour of the Mysteries and Legends of Paris

Free Walking Tour of Notre Dame Cathedral and surroundings

Guruwalk has an excellent option to get to know one of the most exciting areas of Paris in greater depth.

The free walking tour starts at the Pont Neuf and goes to the Latin Quarter.

In between, you will visit must-see places such as the Place Dauphine, the Conciergerie, the Place de la Cathédrale de Nôtre-Dame, the Shakespeare and Company bookstore, and the Saint-Michel church.

Free Tour of Montmartre, the passionate journey of the martyrdom of love

This free Walking tour in Paris is led by Ana, who is a Parisian. And has a degree in history, so she has a lot to tell.

In a very nice way it leads the tour with a gripping account of the neighborhood. You will pass by the Sacré-Coeur basilica, Place du Tertre, the Lapin Agile cabaret, the Maison Rose and many other places.

You will visit the Bateau Lavoir, the workshop where Picasso worked on his works, and you will finish the tour in front of the Je t’aime wall, where you can take some cool pictures.

Free Walking Tour of the Stages of Emily in Paris TV Serie

It is one of the tours in Paris in English that attracts more people thanks to the popularity of the series.

Did you like Emily in Paris? Then you will like this tour that explores the places where its protagonist ventured.

You will pass by the building where Emily’s apartment is located. You will see the Boulangerie Moderna and Gabriel’s restaurant.

Then you will visit Emily’s place of work and stroll through Paris’ must-see sites, such as the Pantheon, the Royal Palace Gardens and the Louvre.

Paris Highlights and the History of the Revolution (FREE)

If you are passionate about history, you will know how important the French Revolution was.

In this free walking tour of Paris, you will see some places that were both fundamental and transformed by the revolution.

Among other places, you will visit the Assemblée Nationale, the Obélisque, the Opéra Garnier, the Place de la Concorde, the Tuileries garden, and the Place Vendôme.

How Much to Tip on the Free Tours of Paris?

As you know, free walking tours do not have a fixed price, and it is recommended that you leave a tip at the end of the tour. This is how guides can continue to work at what they love.

The minimum recommended tip for a free tour in Paris is 5€, but the most common is to leave about 10€ per person; of course, the guide will be more than grateful if you go more.

Plan Your Trip to Paris

• What to Bring on Your trip to Paris
• Visit the Loire Valley from Paris
• The museums of District 16 that you have to know
• Romantic Plans in Paris in winter
• How to get to the Palace of Versailles from Paris
• Giverny Day-Trip from Paris

This post may include affiliate links. This means that we will receive a small fee if you make a purchase through our links. It has no additional cost to you. It’s a win-win!

Hi there! I’m Vero! I’ve always loved traveling! I have been living in France since 2018. And traveling around this awesome country. I love road trips and traveling by van, and also, some comfy getaways :) Check out: Touristear.com

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15 Best Free Walking Tours in Paris

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A little piece of heaven resides in the food and fashion capital of France that can be experienced on the free walking tours in Paris.

With a profound history full of the French Revolution memoirs, iconic pieces of architecture, and the ever enchanting Eiffel Tower – these walks unveil the heart and soul of the city that envelopes you with an air of love.

So, without any further ado, let’s explore our list of Paris’ best walking tours.

Please note that some free walking tours of Paris are exclusively in English, while others are in Spanish or other languages. Make sure to pick the right one before booking.

1 – Freetour Paris Essential

Unveil the many faces of Paris as you treat yourself to an introduction to the best tourist attractions , such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the iconic Louvre Museum, and the quintessential Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, all in 3 hours.

Even better, roam like a Parisian as you wander through its streets and discover all the intriguing facts that make this the “city of love and light.”

• See reviews

2 – Latin Quarter and Luxembourg Gardens

Immerse yourself in the fine art of the Parisian-style student life as you tour the Latin Quarter— which is the intellectual neighborhood of the bohemian Paris.

Experience for yourself the spellbinding history of the ‘Sorbonne University’ and learn why it holds so much significance all over the world.

That’s not all; enjoy the stately Luxembourg Gardens and its Palace, in addition to visiting down many side streets and local hidden gems.

3 – Freetour Legends and Mysteries of Paris

Paris harbors a plethora of mysteries and secrets in its bosom, some of which will be unfolded on this walking tour.

Firstly, the guide will scrounge out the legends of demons and angels that lie hidden in the walls of the structurally mesmerizing Notre Dame Cathedral.

From holy stories, get ready to jump right into both the eerie ghost encounters Pablo Picasso had during his life which later became a muse for his black canvases and the grotesque stories attached to the Hotel De Ville.

4 – Montmartre Free Walking Tour: From Moulin Rouge to Sacré Coeur

Set afoot in the underrated yet ethereal town of Montmartre on this free walking tour in Paris where the guide will take you on a rollercoaster of alleys infused with vibrant culture.

You’ll encounter the unearthed gems of Montmartre from the brightly hued vineyard, the Man who walked through the wall, and some undiscovered views of Paris.

That’s not all, come up and close with Picasso’s workshop and the place where Impressionist Art was birthed.

5 – Fragonard Perfume Museum Free Tour

Uncover the delicate art of perfumery through a guided tour to the Fragonard Perfume Museum that dates back to the nineteenth century.

Learn the meticulous process of putting together perfumes right from picking the raw materials to pouring a world-class fragrance into a labeled bottle.

Emblazoned on the walls is an assortment of old perfume bottles from Ancient Egypt which will transport you back in time.

6 – Eiffel Tower and Champs Elysees

Plunge deep into the enormous yet enriching history of the city, from the nineteenth century to the present, on this free walking tour in Paris.

Gazing at the intricately constructed buildings, you’ll come across the spectacular sights of the Tomb of Napolean Bonaparte, the infamous Emperor.

Get spellbound by the legendary Théâtre National de Chaillot as you take in romantic puffs of fresh air near the Eiffel Tower.

7 – Free Walking Tour of Le Marais

Discover the fun district of Le Marais that makes everyone’s heartthrob with awe.

You’ll feel on cloud nine as you’re encircled by glorious art galleries that house the works of inspired hands and fashion stores that transport you into their glamorous world.

Enjoy the best falafel in town as you step foot into the Jewish district and lose yourself in the aura of the authentic Parisian lifestyle.

8 – Paris Uncovered – Free Walking Tour

Every breath you take in Paris will go into your box of memories as a cherished moment, such is the grandiose of this city.

Peel off the inherent layers of history on this guided tour as you walk from Palais De Justice to the Quartier Latin.

That’s not all; embrace the chilly wind hitting your face as you walk across the architectural beauty, Le Jardin de Luxembourg.

9 – Free walking tour Paris – How to be Parisian!

Melt into the mold of Parisians as you step into their world for a day on this free walking tour to Paris, unraveling their way of life.

Feel your spirits enliven as you catch glances of Arc De Triumph, Palais Royal, and Saint Chapelle.

Moving forward onto a plethora of radiantly built bridges, you’ll catch yourself mesmerized with the luscious beauty of the Luxembourg garden and many more breathtaking sights.

10 – Beauty of Paris – Free walking tour

Do you know why Paris attracts a multitude of tourists? If you don’t, this guided tour will be an eye-opener for you as it’ll present on a platter the most lauded neighborhoods of Paris.

From the happening Goute d’Or to the underrated Montmartre and Latin Quartier to the awe-inspiring and gorgeous epitome of art, the old Louvre Museum, this tour will take you everywhere with insightful commentary.

11 – Free Tour Paris Mon Amour – The essentials of the Rive Gauche

Lumbering around in the vast streets of Paris evokes the sensation of utmost felicity and courtesy to its lively aura.

A step into the Museum of Modern Art will call out the artist in you and another step into the Wine Museum will leave all your senses pleased.

On this tour, you’ll discover the most exhilarating spots like the Eiffel Tower, Princess Diana Square, and many patisseries, all of which celebrate the Parisian culture in its full glory.

12 – Charm Montmartre, a village in the heart of Paris – free tour

Delve into the charisma of the village of Montmartre, enriched with extraordinary spots like the Wall of Love with innumerable engravings pouring affection.

Further on this tour, soak in the gorgeous sight of the Sacre Coeur Basilica and not to miss the oldest standing church in Paris, the historic Saint Pierre De Montmartre.

13 – Free walking tour Paris – Awesome night in the love city

Watch the blinking lights on the Eiffel Tower as it sparkles at night to lighten up the whole city.

With an amiable guide, discover the city of love at the strike of dusk on a free walking tour in Paris, which takes you from Quai Saint-Bernard in all its glory to the beautiful Eiffel tower.

After capturing these enchanting views, sit down for a sip at the legendary Buddha Bar.

14 – Free walking tour Paris – Full history and culture

On this free walking tour in Paris, revel in the stories inscribed on every wall and corner of this city with an informative commentary.

As you listen to the many anecdotes of the Lock Bridge, move on to admiring the Arc De Triomphe and Jardin de Place Royal.

On top of that, drive up your spirits in the most luxurious way as you step into the largest square in Paris, Place de la Concorde.

15 – The Paris Free Photoshoot Tour

With a city painted with such enriched culture and gorgeous sightings as Paris, not capturing all its essence and glory would totally be a crime.

So, on this free tour, get yourself a professional photographer who will take you to the city’s most iconic hotspots- idyllic to forever transform your presence into memories through photos.

We hope you enjoyed our selection of the best free walking tours in Paris. Do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions.

Enjoy Paris 🙂

• Destinations

Free walking tours in Paris

Paris is a metropolis filled with magic and charm that has inspired poets, writers, and artists for centuries. Its tree-lined avenues, wrought-iron bridges over the Seine, and majestic historic buildings evoke the golden era of the Belle Époque. But the City of Love is not only an open-air museum; it's also a vibrant modern city with an unparalleled culinary scene and unmatched fashion.

From the Eiffel Tower to the Champs-Élysées, from Notre-Dame Cathedral to the Louvre, every corner of Paris is infused with the city's characteristic elegance and charm. Stroll its streets, uncover its secrets, savor its food, and immerse yourself in its culture – Paris awaits you with open arms!

Discover the City of Light with our Free Walking Tour in Paris

Free walking tours in Paris are an excellent option for discovering the city in an economical and authentic way. These tours allow you to explore the city's most iconic places, such as the Latin Quarter with its medieval architecture, the lively Saint-Michel Square, and the majestic Saint-Étienne-du-Mont Church. You can also take a stroll through Montmartre and visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, the famous windmills, and the charming Place du Tertre. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy these tours during your visit to the City of Light.

What Are Free Walking Tours in Paris?

Free tours in Paris are an ideal option for those who want to explore the City of Light without spending too much money. These guided tours offer the opportunity to visit the most iconic places in Paris accompanied by expert guides.

These walking tours allow you to delve into Parisian history and culture while discovering its most fascinating corners. Unlike traditional tours, free tours do not have a fixed price; instead, they operate based on voluntary tips that participants can give at the end of the tour.

One of the main advantages of free tours in Paris is that they allow you to save money during your visit. By not having to pay a fixed price for the tour, you can allocate that money to other activities or souvenirs to take home as mementos of your trip.

Authentic Knowledge of Parisian History and Culture

One of the main benefits is that they provide you with authentic knowledge of Parisian history and culture. Expert guides will share fascinating stories and anecdotes about the places you visit, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city's rich history. You'll learn about historical events, local traditions, and the daily life of Parisians, gaining a deeper and more authentic perspective of the city.

Visit the Most Iconic Places in Paris

Free tours in Paris offer you the opportunity to visit some of the city's most iconic places. You can explore the charming Latin Quarter with its medieval and Renaissance architecture, visit the famous Sorbonne University, and marvel at the beautiful Saint-Étienne-du-Mont Church. Additionally, you can stroll through Montmartre, visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, and enjoy the bohemian atmosphere of Place du Tertre. These tours allow you to discover the city's highlights in a convenient and accessible way.

Don't miss the chance to take advantage of the benefits of free tours in Paris during your visit. You'll save money, learn about the history and culture of Paris, and visit the city's most iconic places.

Walking Tours in Paris

Latin Quarter: A Journey Through Medieval and Renaissance History

Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Paris's Latin Quarter. Walk its charming streets filled with history and admire the medieval and Renaissance architecture that will transport you back in time. During this tour, you'll visit the famous Sorbonne University, a cradle of knowledge and a meeting place for great thinkers throughout the centuries. You'll also enjoy the lively Saint-Michel Square and be captivated by the beauty of Saint-Étienne-du-Mont Church and its impressive stained glass windows. Let yourself be seduced by the rich historical and cultural heritage of this iconic area of Paris.

Montmartre: Art, History, and Bohemian Charm

Embark on a journey through the bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre and discover its artistic essence. Walk its historic cobblestone streets and visit the majestic Basilica of the Sacred Heart, from which you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Learn about the stories of Montmartre's famous windmills, witnesses of the area's artistic past, and don't miss the charming atmosphere of Place du Tertre, where artists paint live and showcase their talent through their works. Let yourself be carried away by the magic of this iconic neighborhood and discover the perfect fusion of history, art, and bohemian charm in every corner.

Central Paris: A Route Through the City's Treasures

Explore the heart of Paris and be amazed by its cultural and heritage richness. During this tour, you'll visit the city's most iconic places, such as the world-renowned Louvre Museum, home to countless masterpieces of art history. Let yourself be enchanted by the elegant streets of the city while learning about the history and stories hidden behind each corner. Additionally, the guide will be happy to provide restaurant and shopping recommendations so you can make the most of your experience in Paris.

Interesting Museums to Visit

• Musée Carnavalet: Dive into the history of Paris through the exhibitions of this museum, which houses a vast collection of art and historical artifacts.
• Musée Picasso: Immerse yourself in the world of the famous Spanish painter in this museum dedicated to his life and work. Contemplate his masterpieces and discover the various stages of his career.
• Musée Cognacq-Jay: If you're interested in 18th-century art and history, this museum is a must-visit. Explore the private collection of the Cognacq-Jay couple and marvel at their art, furniture, and decorative objects from the period.

In addition to these museums, the Marais district is home to numerous contemporary art galleries and design shops that will delight art and fashion enthusiasts.

Recommendations to Maximize Your Enjoyment

Plan Your Route and Book in Advance

Before embarking on a free tour in Paris, it's important to plan your route and book in advance to secure your spot. These tours are often very popular, especially during peak seasons, so it's recommended to make an online reservation. Ensuring you have a reserved spot will guarantee you can enjoy the experience without any hitches.

Follow the Guide's Instructions and Advice

During the tour, pay attention to the guide's instructions and advice. They are experts in the field and know each of the places you'll visit. Follow the guide's instructions and stay close to the group to not miss any details. Additionally, take the opportunity to ask questions and deepen your knowledge of Paris's history and culture.

ARE YOU GOING TO VISIT A CITY NEAR Paris?

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Free Tour of Paris

Book the original Paris free walking tour and visit many of the city's highlights with a local guide

ABOUT THE Free Tour of Paris

This 2.5-hour Paris free walking tour will show you many of the top attractions in the city. Local experts will take you to must-see spots such as the iconic Notre Dame de Paris, the world-famous Louvre, and the impressive Parc des Tuileries. Explore Paris' beautiful streets with the help of an expert local guide!

Your Paris Free Tour meets at the Saint Michel Fountain and finishes by the Louvre Museum. Join us on this introduction to Paris, a great way to orientate yourself in the city and at a price to suit everybody’s budget.  We never cancel; tours run rain, hail or shine.

One of the most beautiful cities in the world

You'll want to keep your camera at the ready as your expert local guide takes you on a walking tour through major Paris landmarks. The iconic sites keep coming as you make your way from Place Saint Michel over the river to see the Notre Dame de Paris. As you stroll along the famous River Seine, you'll feel like a real Parisian as you see the Paris of famous films and books. Walk across Pont Neuf, and over to the Louvre and past the Tuileries Gardens. On this breathtaking tour, you will also find yourself face-to-face with more major Paris sites like the Palace of Justice and Sainte Chapelle, and see a glimpse of the Musée d'Orsay and Place de la Concorde.

With some of the most incredible stories

However, you'll want to make sure you're not too busy taking photographs to hear the stories behind these major Paris landmarks, because the City of Love is not just beautiful - it's fascinating. The informative and always entertaining local guides will bring stories from the capital of Napoleon's empire, the beheadings of the French Revolution, and the dark times of the Nazi occupation to life.

Free Tour concept

The tips-based model of the Free Tour allows guests to support and reward only the highest quality tours, and to ensure that the tour fits within their expectations, and within their budget.

The Paris Free Tour starts by the fountain on Place Saint-Michel (metro line 4 - exit 3)

• Stroll along the banks of the River Seine
• Photograph the stunning Notre Dame de Paris
• Visit the grounds of the Louvre
• Walk through the Tuileries Gardens
• Hear the incredible stories of Paris' fascinating past
• See the Palais de Justice

TOUR SCHEDULES

Click on 'See more dates' to check availability

• Local English-speaking guide
• Gratuities for the guide (optional)
• Our business is connecting great guides and smart travelers, and we're proud that so many local guides employ us to welcome travelers like you on their journey through some of the world's best cities. No two tours are alike, and the sites, stories, and length of the tour will vary depending on what your freelance guide decides is best. That's why the tours we promote never get stale or feel scripted, and why both independent guides and savvy travelers prefer SANDEMANs
• Wheelchair accessible

Customer reviews

Well worth doing if you want to see most of the sites without having to plan where to go and finding out something about each landmark. We had Oliver as our guide and we found him very good! We saw everything we wanted to see on the tour except the Eiffel Tower which is understandable because its out of the way from the centre. We ended up going there after wards. We would highly recommend this free tour. So easy and enjoyable.

Free tour with Oliver

We did the English afternoon free tour and had a great time. Oliver was an excellent tourguide. Definitely the best free tour that we had during our Eurotrip. Highly recommend. Thank you Oliver for the excellent tour!

Free Tour of Paris

We did the free tour and were happy to pay our guide who was very knowledgeable and fun! We learned some interesting facts about the famous landmarks in Paris, enjoyed some urban tales and tips from our local guide. Highly recommended.

Free tour at 10am was a blast

We did the morning free tour with Zach and really enjoyed it. We are a couple on our early 50s and appreciated Zach's history knowledge even if we didn't care for the drinking tips or the funny voices he did. He was cool and did a great job keeping the crowd amused. Would do a tour with him again.

Amazing free tour

We had Harry as our tour guide on a cold December afternoon and had the best time! Harry is friendly, entertaining and engaging. He gave us a great back history of Paris and was full of knowledge. We've done a free tour is most European cities we've visited and this one was up there as one of our favourites!

Our tour guide was Nancy & she was amazing. We had a great time & the tour was very informative. We arrived on a Saturday & took the tour the next day. Was great timing for us & it gave us a good sense of what we wanted to see during the remainder of the stay. She was quite funny & very engaging. I would highly recommend this tour. Next time we go to Europe we will look up Sandemans

What is a Free Tour?

The Free Tour is the best introduction to Paris! A general overview tour including many of the highlights of the city, the Free Tour usually lasts around 3 hours and is provided by a local freelance guide in partnership with SANDEMANs NEW Europe, so tour content can vary depending on your guide’s particular area of interest and expertise.

The Free Tour is a walking tour with no need for public transport and is designed for independent travellers, not groups. You can book your spot in advance online or simply show up at the start point on the day. There is no payment necessary at the start of the tour but you are welcome to tip your guide at the end!

We believe in supporting local communities and are committed to giving a voice to some of Paris' best local freelance tour guides, who passionately share the city's history and culture with their own unique and always-entertaining style. They'll never pressure you to tip; we believe that, if money is given, it should be voluntary and in direct proportion to the quality of the tour and the budget of the traveller.

Why join the SANDEMANs FREE Tour?

• The route covers many of Paris' major landmarks
• The meeting point is centrally located in Place Saint-Michel
• The Free Tour is guaranteed to fit within your budget
• The guides performing tips-based Free Tours are incentivized to perform every time

WALKING TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN PARIS

• Private Tour

Montmartre Free Walking Tour

Join a walking tour of the perfectly Parisian Montmartre neighborhood

Paris Latin Quarter Free Walking Tour

Visit the beautiful major landmarks that exist in Paris' Latin Quarter

2-hour Paris Highlights Private Tour

Make the most out of your visit and discover Paris' top attractions with your private tour guide

3-hour Paris Private City Tour

Enjoy a comprehensive overview of Paris' fascinating history and must-see sites with your private to ...

Tell us the landmarks, stories or parts of the city you want to see, how long you have to see them and when you want to go, and we’ll build an itinerary that suits you.

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Participation in tours promoted by SANDEMANs NEW Europe is strictly on a voluntary basis. Neither SANDEMANs NEW Europe, nor the self-employed freelance guides who are the providers of the tours promoted by SANDEMANs NEW Europe, will be held responsible in any way for injuries to body or property incurred during tours. The tour guides reserve the right to deny participation in any tour, to any person, for any reason. Thank you for your understanding.

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Free walking tour near Paris

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Montmartre - Moulin Rouge to Sacre Coeur. Small-Group, Free Tour

FREETOUR.com says

Our Secret Traveller praises this free walking tour of Montmartre as "an excellent way to gain an authentic local insight to this famous district". "As well as the highlights like Moulin Rouge, Lapin Agile, and Sacré-Cæur Basilica, the guides bring the cultural history of the area to life, reveal fascinating anecdotes about the bohemian artists that resided here such as Van Gogh, Edith Piaf, Picasso, and Renoir, and show you the alternative side of Montmartre too. And they give great local tips on vibrant nightlife and recommended restaurants too. A must-do!"

Overview of the tour in Paris

On our award-winning free walking tour of Montmartre, we show you the nooks and crannies of the most Bohemian and artistic district of Paris, the center of good-living and once the home of Renoir, Picasso, Edith Piaf and so many others. At Discover Walks, we take pride in giving you an authentic, intimate tour. This means your group will be small (we aim for 10-15 guests, with a cap at 22/guide), and your guide will be a Parisian (not an expat!), so you can discover both the tourist landmarks and the real Paris. Moulin Rouge, cabaret of the Assassins, the home of Van Gogh, the breasts of Dalida, and of course Sacré Coeur. Do not miss our most popular tour, the Montmartre Free Walking Tour by Discover Walks! Average tip on this tour: €12. To see more on this free tour, we do not spend time going inside each building. **HOT DAY SPECIAL: on hot days, our guides have fans for every guest. We walk in the shade. And every tour makes frequent stops for water. EXCLUSIVELY WITH DISCOVER WALKS.

This activity includes:

• Haunts of Renoir
• Sacre coeur church
• French pop culture
• Moulin Rouge
• and so much more!

Meeting point

Metro Blanche

Your guide wil wear a pink vest, and start from the Blanche Metro station only exit. The tour starts on the clock, rain or shine. Please don't be late, the guide will not wait for you. A little late? Look for the pink vest while walking towards Moulin Rouge.

Things to note

See more than just Sacre Coeur – the charm of our Montmartre tour is in its back alleys, and our Paris city guides take you there to the secret side of Montmartre. Your native guide also has insider insights and tips for making the most of Montmartre, whether to stroll, eat, or take pictures. The average tip on this tour €12. Look for the guide wearing a Pink Vest! We walk rain or shine.

Free Cancellation

You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

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5 Free Paris Walking Tours You Won’t Want to Miss

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 1st March 2023

Categories Paris , walking tour

Last Updated on 1st March 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Here’s your guide to the best of free Paris walking tours you won’t want to miss! Each focuses on a different arrondissement, aspect of the city, and all are worth taking in order to get to know the city on a more local level!

Do you want to truly get to know Paris? Discover the city’s secret spots, where to find the trendiest museums, and where to go to hang out in all the coolest cafés? Well, these free and self-guided walks are the perfect place to start.

Is Paris a good walking city?

#1 montmartre walking tour, #2 le marais walking tour, #3 ile de la cité walking tour, #4 latin quarter walking tour, #5 highlights of paris of the past walking tour, paris: french fashion history walking tour, read some books about paris, set aside enough time, paris museum pass, wear comfortable shoes, book your paris accommodation well in advance, enjoyed finding out about these 5 free paris walking tours you won’t want to miss pin it now, read it again later:.

First things first: is it easy to walk around Paris? I would personally say that Paris is fairly easily to navigate on foot thanks to the fact that most of the historic districts (or arrondissements as they’re so-called in French) are centred within the Paris Peripherique.

With this being said, some areas of the city are much more walkable than others! For example, while the Latin Quarter has some of the widest boulevards in Paris, Le Marais is home to much tinier alleyways and plenty of little cobblestone lanes.

Furthermore, Montmartre is pretty hilly, and some streets are steep in places, not to mention that there are a number of roads scattered across the city which remain cobbled, so leave the high heels at home!

Wherever you choose to walk, I recommend wearing comfy walking shoes! I personally love my keds like these ones as they go well with dresses and skirts and can easily pack into the smallest of suitcases. If you’re looking for something even comfier, I love the shoes from this company .

Best Paris walking tours

If you make it your mission to enjoy just one Parisian arrondissement on a local level, make it Montmartre. After all, head to the 18th arrondissement of Paris and you won’t find the 19th-century Haussmannian architecture that is so synonymous with the city.

Instead, you’ll find a village vibe complete with several wooden windmills, and even a secret vineyard! Highlights of the Montmartre walking tour of Paris include several historical spots, as well as must-see photography sites (think Instagrammable streets and postcard perfect walkways).

Read the full Montmartre walking tour guide details here.

Once a marshy swampland on the fringes of the city, today Le Marais is one of the chicest districts Paris has to offer. Home to designer stores, boutique hotels, and plenty of incredible eateries, head to this area of the city if you want to discover Paris’ Medieval past.

While in Le Marais, be sure not to miss out on a visit to Place des Vosges (the first public square in the city), as well as the chance to dip into Paris’ ever-so-new vegan scene.

Other highlights of this walking tour include a visit to the oldest house in Paris and a visit to some of the coolest museums the French capital has to offer.

Read the full Le Marais walking tour guide details here.

If you’re headed to Paris for the first or thousandth time, then no doubt you’ll find yourself on Ile de la Cite at one point or another. One of two natural islands in the centre of the River Seine, it’s in this district where you’ll find Notre Dame, Sainte Chapelle , and plenty of history from the Middle Ages.

Allegedly, it’s also on Ile de la Cité where the fated lovers, Heloise and Abelard met. Similarly, it’s there where the love story of the doves took place during the 13th-century.

Other highlights of this area of Paris include one of the cutest coffee shops in the city, as well as one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in the late spring.

Read the full Ile de la Cite walking tour guide details here.

So-called because during the Middle Ages students from the nearby Sorbonne university would converse with one another solely in Latin, today the Latin Quarter is still filled with students, happy-hour bars, and eateries. Centrally located and full of museums, this walking tour is predominantly about books, coffee, and cake!

Other highlights of the Latin Quarter include plenty of Roman ruins (the baths are a sight to behold in of themselves), the Paris Pantheon (the dome offers one of the best panoramic views of the city), and the church of Saint-Etienne-du-Mont, the final resting place of the patron saint of Paris, Saint Genevieve.

Read the full Latin Quarter walking tour guide details here.

If you’re looking for a meander of the historical highlights that have shaped Paris over the ages, then my vintage Paris tour is free to undertake and will guide you from the Latin Quarter, through Ile de la Cite, and all the way to the other side of the Seine, and into Le Marais.

For those who are unable to embark on the other free Paris walking tours due to time constraints, this is the perfect self-guided walking tour for you.

Other attractions you may well want to stop off at en-route include admiring the ever-so-stunning stained glass windows of Sainte Chapelle and seeing the very spot from which all points in Paris are measured.

Read the full Paris highlights walking tour guide details here.

Paid walking tours of Paris

If you prefer to go on a Parisian walking tour together with a local and experienced guide, then you can find lots of walking tours for a fairly reasonable free on almost any topic of your choosing. Here are some of our top picks for the best of Paris walking tours with a guide:

If you’re looking to discover that the best of fashion history, then you might consider a three-hour guided visit around the luxury area of rue Saint-Honoré. On the visit, you’ll soon discover about the history of French fashion houses and their influence on the world of fashion today.

Discover more tour details here

Practical advice, tricks, and tips for going on free walking tours of Paris

Before you visit the City of Light, then you may well want to read some fiction and historical works and memoirs about the city. Here are my very top creme de la creme picks for the best  books about Paris !

One of the top tips I could give you before embarking on a self-guided Paris walking tour would be to ensure that you give yourself enough time to truly enjoy the walk. As well as strolling around the city, you’ll want to set aside time to enjoy all of the attractions listed within each guide and snap photos en route.

If you want to see a number of museums and cultural sites while in the City of Light, you may well want to consider purchasing an all-in-one pass.

This 2,4, or 6-day pass gives you access to over 60 museums, and in many cases, offers skip-the-line options at many of these institutions. Check prices and more information here.

When visiting any European capital city, comfortable shoes are a must. And Le Marais arrondissement of Paris is no exception. Be sure to leave your high heels at home as there are plenty of cobbled streets, especially on these free walking tours of Paris.

I personally love  these shoes  as they go well with both jeans and dresses. I would also add that any kind of tennis shoes, i.e.  ones like these , are really practical for wandering around the city.

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, then you should bear in mind that it’s an extremely popular destination all year round. This means that you should probably book your hotel/ hostel/ guest house well in advance.  You can find the best deals for Paris accommodation here.

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Sunday 16th of April 2023

i would like to read the texts in French….

Gideon Yuval

Wednesday 9th of October 2019

Thanks very much Sophie for this valuable information - written and presented in a very attractive and entertaining way :-). May I suggest you build a Google map with it and share? I built maps based on what you wrote here, but it would save others time if it was public

Monday 4th of February 2019

The latin quater is called tgat because this is tge area the romans set up camp , not because students spoke in latin

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City Free Tour - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Free Walking Tour of Paris

• 9.30 / 10 1,075 reviews | 9,675 travellers The tour with Francesca was amazing! 10 Taras

Immerse yourself in "The City of Lights" with  a guided tour around the French Capital , discovering the Louvre, the Seine and Notre Dame. You'll have a blast!

What will you see?

• Notre Dame Cathedral
• Palais Justice
• Arc de Triomphe
• Musée d'Orsay

Paris sits on the banks of the River Seine and was built over 2 thousand years of fascinating history. From Gallic origins to Roman conquerers, through opulence, bloody revolution, raging war and much more. Paris has experienced so much throughout its many centuries, and thanks to our expert English-speaking tour guide you'll be able to learn all about the story of this enchanting city.

At the scheduled time, we'll meet at the Hotel de Ville , just next to the Paris tourist office. During this free walking tour, we'll visit some of the most important landmarks around the city, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral  (made famous via movies and popular culture), Palais Justice , Pont Neuf , The Louvre , (home to the Mona Lisa and many other famous works), the Arc de Triomphe , and the Musée d'Orsay to name but a few.

Our expert tour guide will reveal to us the history of each monument we visit, as well as many interesting facts about the city in general. From its original as a small medieval village to becoming the capital of Napoleon's empire , from the infamous French Revolution to La Belle Époque and the Naz i Occupation during World War II in 1940 . This tour will bring to life the fervent history of Paris, and will undoubtedly leave you lusting for more. Another visit perhaps? Surely!

Finally, this free walking tour of Paris will come to an end at the renowned Tuileries Gardens .

Important Information

This tour doesn't take place on 1st January.

More Information

2 hours 45 minutes.

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English speaking expert guide.

Not included

When to book.

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible. This must be indicated in the reservation.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.

Walkative Tour Show more

Corporate name: Legendary Tours

Frequently asked questions

Q - Will we go inside the monuments during this tour?

A - No, we will admire them from outside.

Q - Will the tour still take place in the event of rain or snow?

A - Yes, the tour takes place regardless of weather conditions.

Q - Will there be a break?

A - Yes, there will be a ten-minute break.

Q - Are children allowed?

A - Yes, children are allowed to take part on the tour.

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

A - This activity requires a minimum of 4 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point, where does the activity end.

Hotel de Ville, outside the metro at exit 5, next to the Paris tourist office

The Tuileries Garden

You may also be interested in

Seine River Cruise

Moulin Rouge Official Tickets

Ticket to the Musée d'Orsay

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Mysteries and Legends of Paris

They say that Paris is the city of light. That may be very true today, but the light was introduced to Paris quite late and in order to prevent its rebellious spirit from taking action. Before it all happened, the streets of Paris were shady and certainly not a place you would want to be alone after dark. Until today, in the bright and wide Parisian boulevards lurk old mysteries and dark secrets that are reluctant to come to the surface. Their world, a world of musty streets and crumbling hovels, has disappeared from the face of the earth, but it lives on in stories and tales. And those are the ones we want to evoke during this walk. Ghosts of the past will once again walk with us along the seemingly peaceful streets of the city. 

Are you ready to discover the dark, medieval face of Paris? Our walk will have two main themes. We will dive deep into the sphere of esoteric, magic and occult and tell you tales and legends too creepy and bloody to include them on the main free tour. You will learn stories of alchemists, mysterious characters associated with Paris like the man in the iron mask and the Templars, catacombs, the secrets of Notre Dame, murders, tortures, and executions. 

Join us and dare to step into the dark side of Paris, allegedly the city of lights.

During this tour, you will see and discover:

• Mysteries of the Notre-Dame Cathedral
• Legend of the Bloody Barber
• Public Executions: Town Hall Square 
• La congerie
• ︎The tower of Saint Jacques
• ︎Catacombs (the first cemetery in Paris: Place des innocents)- no entrence
• And much, much more

I’ve been to Paris several times and this was such a unique and fun thing to do! I also learned some interesting historical facts. Eva was really entertaining. Don’t hesitate and just book!

I’ve been to Paris several times and this was such a fun and unique thing to do. I also learned some interesting historical facts. Eva was really entertaining. Don’t think twice, just book this tour!

An Unforgettable Journey!

Recently, I had the pleasure of joining the Mysteries and Legends tour of Paris, and I must say, it was an extraordinary experience, largely thanks to our guide, Ewa. Her narration was not just informative but incredibly engaging, filled with passion and an evident love for the city’s hidden stories. Ewa has a gift for storytelling; she brings the mysteries and legends of Paris to life in such a vivid way that you’re completely absorbed. The two hours felt like mere minutes, a testament to how captivating the tour was.

Ewa’s knowledge and passion for Paris are unmatched. It’s clear she loves what she does, and her enthusiasm is infectious, making the tour not just a learning experience but a truly enjoyable adventure.

For anyone looking to uncover the layers of Paris that you won’t find in your average guidebook, this tour is an absolute must. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the city and stories that will stick with you long after the tour has ended. Thank you, Ewa, for making my Paris experience unforgettable!

Chillingly Spooky

Despite snowing that afternoon, Eva’s tour went forth and was spectacular, wondering through the smallest street in Paris, learning how to start a blockade, and ensuring that we don’t eat human remains in the middle ages.

Highly recommend Walkative tours and Eva’s was fabulous

We had this tour and it was amazing. The guide was lead by Ruben (vampire) and he was magnific during the all tour. I recomend

This tour is also available as a Private Tour.

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The 20 best free activities in Paris

Aug 17, 2023 • 9 min read

From museums and galleries to canal-side walks, here are the best free things to do in Paris © Drazen_ / Getty Images

Sleek and sophisticated, the City of Love isn't known for being a cheap date. However, Paris has a whole heap of fun and free attractions even the most budget-conscious traveler can enjoy, ranging from free-entry museums and galleries to frenzied markets and canal-side strolls.

Here are the best free things to do in Paris.

1. Watch the Eiffel Tower light show from Parc du Champ de Mars

A lift to the peak of the Eiffel Tower will lighten your purse, but views from below can be equally stunning. Parc du Champ de Mars has lawns and flowerbeds manicured with military precision (as you’d expect from a former army marching ground). Bring a blanket, wine, and the best picnic ingredients you can find to this expanse of greenery and wait for the light show at dusk to set La Tour Eiffel a-twinkle.

2. Go window-shopping in Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen

Window shopping (or lécher les vitrines to the locals) is a great way to take an indulgent peek at objets d’art and wild curiosities you’d never actually buy. The St-Ouen flea market and antiques fair is the perfect place to let your imagination run riot.

Marvel at bearskin rugs, antique tapestries, and brass diving bells in this decadently eccentric marketplace. (But try to keep your eyebrow-raising in check when you look at the price tags.) Hop off the metro at Porte de Clignancourt (line 4) and continue under the bridge until the souvenir stalls give way to side streets crammed with beautiful buys.

3. See the permanent collections at Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris

For a surreal view of French culture, dive into the permanent collections at the  Museum of Modern Art , one of Paris's many free museums (a €5 donation is recommended). From the bolshy cubism of Braque to Matisse’s dancers, there’s sure to be something to lift your spirits. Take metro line 9 and alight at Alma-Marceau.

Planning tip:  The museum has a free multi-lingual mobile app that guides you through the collections as you explore.

4. Take an atmospheric stroll through Cimitière du Père Lachaise

The most haunting spot in Paris allows you to rub shoulders with the ghosts of literary greats like Proust and Balzac, and modern icons like Oscar Wilde and Edith Piaf. Jim Morrison also lies in this ancient cemetery, his grave barricaded off to protect it from over-zealous fans who make a musical pilgrimage here.

The tree-lined avenues and calling crows make Père Lachaise the most atmospheric walk in Paris. Head to the 20th arrondissement and jump off the metro at Père Lachaise (line 2) or Gambetta (line 3).

5. Promenade in Parc Monceau

If celebrity-spotting in a cemetery is too morbid for you, march among France’s greats in Parc Monceau , which has statues of luminaries such as the composer Chopin and celebrated writer Guy de Maupassant. The park’s rich history makes it a fascinating spot for a promenade (stroll): this peaceful green space was the site of a massacre in 1871, and was a favorite painting spot for Monet. Take line 2 to the Monceau metro station in the 8th arrondissement.

Planning tip:  Throw in an extra freebie with a gander at the wonderful collection of rarely seen Chinese statuary showcased in the Musée Cernuschi , a municipal Asian Art Museum inside an elegant mansion next to the park’s eastern entrance on Av Vélasquez.

6. Enter Basilique du Sacré-Coeur for free 

This palatial white marble church crowns the lively Montmartre district in the 18th arrondissement . Its interior is bedecked with gold mosaics and towering stained-glass windows, and you can listen for the peal of one of the world’s heaviest bells. There's a charge to ascend into the dome or explore the crypt, but visiting the basilica itself is free. This is also a great place to come at night, with the monument lit up by floodlights and couples strolling happily arm in arm through the neighborhood. 

7. Walk along the Seine by Cathédrale Notre Dame de Paris

Festooned with gargoyles and Gothic touches, the imposing Cathédrale Notre Dame is an icon of Paris and a must-see for every visitor. Although the interior of the structure remains closed to visitors following the devastating fire of April 2019, you can still stroll along the neighboring Seine for an alternate view of the cathedral's beautiful exterior.

Planning tip:  The CASA volunteer guides that used to give free tours of the Cathedral's interior are still hard at work outside. Free, multilingual guided tours are available, and the meeting point is next to the statue of the Virgin in the square. Check the calendar before you visit.

8. Explore Roman heritage at Arènes de Lutèce

Trace the ruins of Paris’ Roman heritage at the Arènes de Lutèce in the Latin Quarter. Dating back to 1CE, it is thought to be the longest Roman amphitheater ever constructed. While the arena no longer hosts gladiatorial fights, it does provide a space for a competitive sport no less formidable: pétanque.

9. Wander the paths of Cimitière du Montparnasse

The final resting place for hundreds of glamorous and intellectual Parisians, Montparnasse cemetery is less ostentatious than Père Lachaise but perfect for a serene stroll. Get closer than you ever thought possible to Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Samuel Beckett. Ride metro line 6 to the Edgar Quinet or Raspail stop.

10. Enjoy peace in Parc des Buttes Chaumont

Paris’ steepest park is tough on your calf muscles but a feast for your senses. With abundant birdlife, rocky reliefs, and even a waterfall masterminded by landscaping genius Baron Haussmann, it’s easy to forget you’re in France’s hectic capital city. Find the park from Botzaris and Buttes Chaumont metro stops (both line 7) in the 19th arrondissement.

11. See into the mind of an artist at Atelier Brancusi

Immerse yourself in the smooth shapes of Brancusi’s sculpture with a free visit (between 2pm and 6pm) to his recreated studio in front of the Centre Pompidou . The Romanian-born abstract sculptor, who moved to Paris in 1903, is considered a pioneer of modernism, producing beloved works like The Kiss (not to be confused with Rodin's sculpture of the same name, which can be seen across town at the Musée Rodin ). This Brancusi workshop is a lovingly assembled and surprisingly intimate glimpse into the mind of an artist.

12. Picnic alongside Canal St-Martin

Join chic Parisians at the water’s edge while the sun goes down or skip stones like the heroine of Amélie . The lively waterside haunt of Canal St-Martin , between République and Gare du Nord in the 10th arrondissement, is the perfect spot to bring a picnic, pop a cork, and eavesdrop on the locals.

13. Travel through history at Musée Carnavalet

Experience a tour de force through Paris’ history, from its ancient origins to the fashion-forward capital of sophistication it is today. Musée Carnavalet’s permanent collection is free to visit, allowing you to saunter through fin-de-siècle drawing rooms and delicately reconstructed baroque interiors without spending a euro. The closest metro stops are Chemin Vert (line 8) and Saint Paul (line 1).

14. Pick up picnic supplies on rue Mouffetard

This cobblestoned market street is crammed with artisan bakers, fromageries  and gourmet sweet shops. Visit it on a Saturday when it closes off to form a huge food market and listen out for the hum of bartering foodies and vendors enthusiastically touting their wares.

15. Tour the vibrant Belleville neighborhood

A stroll along the streets of Belleville, a district with a history of rebellion and multicultural flair, is certain to fire the imagination. Belleville’s bustling Chinatown and artist residents make it a lively place to explore. Wander up rue de Belleville to see where tragic chanteuse (female singer) Edith Piaf is said to have been born under a street lamp, then turn right onto pedestrianized rue Dénoyez where you'll find Paris’ most dazzling street art. End your Belleville encounter with a meander through leafy Parc de Belleville , offering first-class views over the city.

16. Walk a former railway track at La Promenade Plantée

A railroad track with a floral makeover, this elevated walkway offers superb views and allows you to sidle through lush green archways high above the city crowds. The charming 4.5km (2.8 mile) pathway runs through most of the 12th arrondissement, and you can join it from Ave Daumesnil near the Bastille metro stop.

17. Overload your senses with the smells and sights of Marché d’Aligre 

Feast your eyes on the finest local produce at this fabulous covered food market on Place d’Aligre in the 12th arrondissement. Mountains of cheese, artisan butchers, and a field of flower stalls can send you into sensory overload after wandering through a few aisles.

It's worth parting with some cash for a discreet glass of Bordeaux and to get your hands floury on a crusty baguette, but otherwise admiring the mouthwatering produce is free. Ride metro line 8 to the Ledru-Rollin stop.

18. Tour the lovely artworks at Musée de la Vie Romantique

If you’re in Paris for the romance, there is no lovelier free place than the Musée de la Vie Romantique , a museum dedicated to two artists active during the Romantic era: writer George Sand and painter Ary Scheffer. Squirreled away at the end of a film-worthy cobbled lane, the villa originally belonged to Scheffer and was the setting for popular salons of the day, attended by notable figures such as Delacroix, Liszt, and Chopin (Sand’s lover). Objects in the museum center around Sand and Scheffer's life, with one notable inclusion being a bust of Chopin's left hand.

19. Catch free seasonal events in Parc de la Villette

As well as being one of Paris's largest green spaces, the Parc de la Villette is also one of the cultural hubs of the city, home to the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie (City of Science and Industry) museum, Philharmonie de Paris concert hall, and Grande Halle de la Villette, an abattoir turned contemporary exhibition space.

Though most of these institutions charge entry fees, each regularly hosts free events, sometimes on the actual grounds of the park. A notable example is the Parc de la Villette open-air cinema, which screens films to picnicking crowds throughout July and August.

20. Go to Paris' free festivals

Paris has an array of exciting, free festivals on offer throughout the year. Stay up all night viewing eclectic art installations in quirky locations during La Nuit Blanche (October), see pros and rising stars perform impromptu sets throughout the city for Fête de la Musique (June) or catch the grand military parade (and accompanying revelry) along ave des Champs-Élysées that kick-starts Bastille Day (July).

This article was first published June 2019 and updated August 2023

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