Paris Champagne & Food Tour with Tastings in Saint-Germain

Discover the charm of Saint-Germain-des-Prés on this 3-hour 15-minute food and Champagne tour in Paris, priced at $165.15 per person. Led by an English-speaking wine expert guide, the experience highlights local shops, delicious French delicacies, and at least 3 Champagne tastings. The tour departs from Les Deux Magots, ending at a different location, with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy tasting authentic French food, exploring historic districts, and learning about Champagne in a relaxed setting. While the walking can be moderate, the focus on delicacies and Champagne makes it a rewarding outing, especially for food lovers and wine enthusiasts. It’s recommended to book around 58 days in advance to secure your spot.

Key Points

• Duration: About 3 hours 15 minutes in the historic Saint-Germain neighborhood
• Price: $165.15 per person, including food and Champagne tastings
• Highlights: Shop at artisan bakeries, cheesemakers, and pastry shops
• Champagne: Enjoy at least 3 tastings with guidance from a level 4 sommelier
• Small Group: Max of 10 participants for a more intimate experience
• Private Option: Upgrade to a private tour for more personalized interaction

Start at Les Deux Magots in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

The tour begins at Les Deux Magots, a landmark in Paris’s literary and artistic scene, located at 6 Pl. Saint-Germain des Prés. This spot sets the tone for a leisurely, culturally rich walk through the historic district. The meeting point’s proximity to public transportation makes it convenient for most travelers to access.

From the start, the guide leads you through Saint-Germain’s atmospheric streets, sharing stories about famous cafes, churches, and local life. The small group size ensures personal attention from the guide, who is both knowledgeable about Paris history and a wine expert.

Exploring Saint Germain des Prés Church

A key stop is Eglise Saint Germain Des Pres, one of the district’s most notable religious sites. Here, the guide shares insights about the church’s history and architecture. While admission isn’t included, the church’s story enriches the neighborhood experience.

This quick visit offers a glimpse into Paris’s spiritual heritage, and the guide’s storytelling makes the stop engaging. Expect about 5 minutes at this site, making it a brief but meaningful part of the tour.

Sampling French Pastries at Cour du Commerce Saint André

Next, the tour pauses at Cour du Commerce Saint André, a charming courtyard home to a renowned pastry shop. Here, visitors select one of their best desserts, experiencing authentic Parisian bakery craftsmanship.

This stop is perfect for food lovers who want to try classic French treats. The 5-minute stop provides a chance to soak up the lively atmosphere and enjoy a sweet taste of Paris before continuing.

Discovering Église Saint-Sulpice and Its Stories

The Église Saint-Sulpice is another highlight, known for its famous stories and impressive architecture. The guide shares anecdotes about the church’s history and significance. Since admission isn’t included, visitors only see the exterior and interior briefly.

This stop provides cultural context within the neighborhood, allowing visitors to appreciate the district’s artistic and spiritual heritage. Expect around 5 minutes dedicated to this site.

Shopping at Artisan Food Stores

A key part of the tour involves visiting local shops specializing in bread, cheese, pastries, and other French delicacies. The guide leads participants through authentic shops, emphasizing quality and tradition.

Guests get to shop for their favorite items, experiencing the vibrant local food scene firsthand. The focus is on delicious, high-quality products that will later be paired with Champagne.

Champagne Tasting with a Level 4 Sommelier

The culmination of the tour is a guided Champagne tasting featuring at least three Champagne styles. Led by a wine guru, the tasting offers insights into the art of Champagne production and pairing techniques.

Participants taste a variety of Champagnes, experiencing different styles and flavors. The guide’s expert explanations make the experience both educational and enjoyable. The tasting lasts roughly 30-45 minutes, with plenty of opportunity for questions.

Authentic Food Pairings with French Delicacies

During the Champagne tasting, the guide pairs several French delicacies such as bread, cheese, and pastries, enhancing the flavors of each Champagne style. These pairings showcase the traditional art de vivre that Paris is famous for.

The focus on pairing at least 3 Champagnes with carefully selected local treats makes this experience a true culinary highlight. It offers a tasty introduction to French gastronomy alongside exquisite Champagne.

The Authentic Parisian Atmosphere and Guide’s Expertise

Throughout the tour, Raphaël — a friendly, knowledgeable guide — enriches the experience with stories about Paris history, architecture, and local culture. Multiple reviews praise Raphaël’s ability to explain complex topics simply, making the tour accessible to all.

He also shares anecdotes about the neighborhood and personal insights, adding personality and warmth to the walk. The small group setting fosters interaction, making the experience more engaging.

Physical Aspects and Practical Tips

The tour involves moderate walking around the Saint-Germain district, covering roughly 3 hours. Although the pace is relaxed, the walk is thorough, covering several historic and retail stops.

Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a fair amount of walking. The tour does not include transportation from the meeting point, so plan accordingly, especially if arriving from farther away.

Booking, Cancellation, and Custom Options

The tour is highly recommended, with 96% of reviews giving a perfect 5-star rating. It is generally booked about 58 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

For those seeking a more private experience, an upgrade option is available for a private tour with even more guide interaction. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing peace of mind for flexible plans.

Paris’s Saint-Germain Food and Champagne Experience in Detail

This tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, blending culinary delights and champagne in a small-group setting. Its strength lies in quality tastings, the expertise of the guide, and the authentic atmosphere of Paris’s most charming district.

The pairing of French treats with Champagne delivers a balanced and flavorful experience. Guests walk away with new knowledge of Parisian culture and the art of Champagne tasting.

While the walking may be somewhat brisk for some, the delicious food, bubbly, and storytelling make the effort worthwhile. The cost reflects the premium experience, especially given the small group size and expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers guided walking tour, at least three Champagne tastings, and several French delicacies. Admission to churches is not included, but the guide provides cultural insights.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Les Deux Magots in Saint-Germain-des-Prés and ends at a different location specified during booking. The meeting point is near public transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 3 hours 15 minutes.

Is the tour suitable for children or food allergies?
The tour is designed for most travelers, but physical walking and food allergies should be considered. It’s best for adults and older children who enjoy walking and tasting.

Can I upgrade to a private tour?
Yes, there is an option to upgrade for a private experience that offers more guide interaction.

What kind of Champagne is tasted?
At least three different styles of Champagne are sampled during the tutored tasting.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation from the meeting point to other locations is not included. Participants should plan to use public transit or walk.

What makes this tour stand out?
The tour combines historic storytelling, authentic local shops, delicious pairings, and expert Champagne tastings in a small-group environment.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book around 58 days in advance due to its popularity.

Who is the guide?
The guide is an English-speaking wine expert, with reviews praising Raphaël’s knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills.

This Paris Champagne & Food Tour in Saint-Germain offers an engaging way to experience Paris through its food, history, and bubbles. Its quality tastings, personalized attention, and authentic district discoveries make it a worthwhile choice for culinary enthusiasts and wine lovers eager to explore the city’s most charming neighborhood.