Invader Hunt – Street Art Tour of le Marais

Explore Paris’s Street Art in Le Marais for $47.40

The Invader Hunt – Street Art Tour of le Marais offers a compact yet engaging way to see a different side of Paris. For $47.40 per person, this 2-hour 15-minute small-group tour takes you through the lively streets of Le Marais, focusing on urban art and the iconic Invader mosaics. The tour is highly recommended, with a 97% approval rating based on 38 reviews, and is booked on average 40 days in advance.

Ideal for families with kids and teenagers, this guided walk combines cultural discovery with fun hunting for art, making it a great choice for those seeking a personalized experience in a manageable group of no more than 15 travelers. It’s a practical option for anyone eager to explore Paris’s street art culture with knowledgeable guides and an easy-to-follow app.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $47.40, this tour provides a budget-friendly way to enjoy street art in Paris.
• Short and Sweet: The 2-hour 15-minute duration makes it accessible for most schedules.
• Expert-guided: An artist guide leads the group, sharing insights into street art and local culture.
• Focus on Invader: The tour emphasizes Invader’s famous mosaics, alongside other street artworks.
• Family Friendly: Designed to entertain adults and teenagers alike, with a fun scavenger hunt element.
• Convenient: Starts at 2 Rue Brisemiche in le Marais, with public transport nearby.

Starting Point and Meeting Details in Le Marais

The tour begins at 2 Rue Brisemiche, a central location in Paris’s historic Le Marais district. It starts promptly at 10:00 am, so arriving 5 minutes early helps to ensure you don’t miss the initial briefing. The group size is limited to 15 travelers, allowing for a more personal experience with the guide.

This tour is designed for most travelers, with service animals permitted and close proximity to public transportation. No specific physical limitations are noted, but the walking pace is consistent with a typical city tour, making it suitable for most people.

Discovering Fontaine Stravinsky and Its Street Art

The first stop is at Fontaine Stravinsky, where the group pauses to admire a work by Niki de Saint Phalle and Jean Tinguely. While here, the guide highlights the surrounding street art, giving context to the artworks and their creators. This stop lasts about 10 minutes and is free, offering an excellent introduction to the district’s artistic vibe.

The fontaine itself, combined with nearby street art, sets a creative tone for the tour. Expect to see mosaics, murals, and other urban artworks that contribute to Le Marais’s artistic appeal.

Exploring the Centre Pompidou’s Architectural Marvels

Next, the tour moves around the Centre Pompidou, celebrated for its high-tech architecture designed by Richard Rogers, Su Rogers, and Renzo Piano. The guide points out hidden street art treasures along the exterior and nearby streets, blending modern architecture with urban art.

This 5-minute stop is a chance to appreciate both design brilliance and street art, making it clear how Paris’s contemporary art scene intertwines with its iconic landmarks.

Strolling Past the Gardens of the National Archives

The group then passes by the hidden Gardens of the National Archives, offering a glimpse of a quieter, less touristy part of Le Marais. Although the gardens are not a formal stop, the guide briefly mentions their significance and the street art that often decorates the surrounding streets.

This walk adds a layer of urban exploration, balancing cultural sites with street art discoveries in the vibrant neighborhood.

Walking Through the Jewish Quarter

The tour continues along the Jewish neighborhood of Paris, known for its historic synagogues and lively streets. Here, the guide points out street art pieces and explains their relevance within the area’s cultural context. The walk through this district highlights the neighborhood’s diverse history and artistic expression.

Expect a lively atmosphere, with murals and mosaics that add color and character to the traditional streets.

Invader and Other Artists’ Work as the Main Focus

The core of the tour involves searching for Invader’s mosaics, which are scattered throughout le Marais. Using a free app, participants locate and learn about the space invader characters hidden in various city spots. Alongside Invader’s work, the guide shows other street art pieces, providing a broader perspective on Paris’s urban art scene.

This approach makes the experience interactive and engaging, especially with the hunt-like element of spotting mosaics and murals.

The Role of the Guide in Making the Tour Special

The tour’s success largely hinges on the knowledgeable artist guide, who shares insights about street art culture and local artists. Based on positive reviews, guides like Thom Thom are praised for their expertise and ability to engage both adults and teens.

Their storytelling makes the art more meaningful, helping participants understand the cultural significance behind each piece and the history of street art in Paris.

Practical Tips for Participants

Since the tour is mostly walking, comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour’s pace is moderate, and the stops are brief, making it suitable for most ages and physical levels. It’s advisable to arrive at least 5 minutes early to ensure a smooth start, as the activity begins promptly at 10:00 am.

While no food or drink options are included, the tour’s outdoor nature means you can plan to explore local cafes afterward or take a break at nearby spots.

Booking, Cancellation, and Group Size

Booking is straightforward, with most tickets purchased about 40 days in advance. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility for changing plans. The maximum group size of 15 travelers ensures a personalized experience and easy interaction with the guide.

This small-group setting enhances the opportunity to ask questions and enjoy a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Final Thoughts on the Invader Hunt Street Art Tour

The Invader Hunt in Le Marais stands out as a practical, enjoyable way to explore Paris’s street art scene for a reasonable price. Its focus on Invader mosaics, combined with insights into local street art, offers a rich experience suitable for families, art enthusiasts, and curious travelers alike.

The knowledgeable guides and interactive scavenger hunt format help make the tour memorable, even in a short timeframe. It’s a great introduction to urban art that complements your visit to Paris’s historic neighborhoods.

While it’s not a deep dive into street art history, the tour provides enough context and fun to satisfy most and leaves visitors with a new perspective on the city’s creative landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $47.40 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at 2 Rue Brisemiche in Le Marais.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it is designed to be family-friendly, especially enjoyable for kids and teenagers.

What do I need to bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, but no specific gear is required because the tour is mostly outdoors and on foot.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Are guides knowledgeable about street art?
Absolutely, guides are artists and experts in street art culture, making the experience both informative and engaging.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the start point is near public transit options for easy access.

What makes this tour different from other street art tours?
This tour emphasizes Invader’s mosaics, offers an interactive app-based search, and is led by specialist guides, making it a personalized and focused experience in a vibrant neighborhood.