PRIVATE TOUR: Highlights & Hidden Gems of Paris With Locals

A private tour of Paris costing $137.87 per person offers an engaging 3-hour walking experience that combines iconic landmarks with lesser-known gems. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour promises a highly personalized exploration of the city’s most celebrated sights and secret corners. With the flexibility to customize the route, it’s ideal for those who want an insider’s perspective without the crowds of large group tours. While it does not include transportation or hotel pickup, the tour is designed for ease, starting at a central location and ending nearby many major attractions.

This tour receives a perfect 5.0 rating from 321 reviews, with 96% recommending it to others. It is especially suitable for travelers who value expert commentary, tailored itineraries, and a more intimate experience of Paris’s highlights. The tour’s emphasis on local insights and quiet spots makes it stand out, but be prepared for a walk of several hours with some steep or cobbled paths. It’s a flexible, accessible option for those craving a deeper connection to the City of Light.

Key Points

• Private, customizable walking tour led by a knowledgeable local guide
• Includes highlights like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Palais Royal
• Visit hidden spots and local favorites for authentic Parisian experiences
• Duration of 3 hours, starting at a central location in Paris
• Price of $137.87 per person, with mobile ticket and group discounts
• No transportation included, but the tour is walkable and accessible

Paris’s Top Landmarks and Hidden Corners in One Walk

This private tour covers both world-famous sights and the city’s lesser-known charms. You’ll pass the Louvre Museum, one of the world’s most visited cultural institutions, and admire the Eiffel Tower from prime vantage points. The guide leads you through the Palais Royal and Galerie Vivienne, stunning examples of historic Parisian architecture and vibrant arcades, often missed by visitors rushing through the city.

Along the way, the tour includes a baguette tasting at a historic bakery, giving a taste of authentic Parisian cuisine. Other stops include the Opera Bastille, a modern venue with a lively atmosphere, and a rooftop viewpoint offering 360-degree views of Paris. The route also takes in Place de la Concorde, the Grand Palais, and Petit Palais—each with their own stories and unique facades.

Starting Point and Meeting Details at Café Auguste Rivoli

The tour begins at the Café Auguste Rivoli, located at 154 Rue de Rivoli in the 1st arrondissement, a central spot easy to reach via public transit. The guide meets your group here to start the walk, ensuring a smooth beginning to your private experience. Since this is a private tour, only your group participates, allowing for a more relaxed pace and personalized attention.

The tour ends in a convenient location in central Paris, close to other attractions and transportation options, making it easy to continue exploring afterward. The flexible nature of the tour allows the guide to adapt based on your interests, whether that means spending more time at certain landmarks or exploring some hidden alleyways.

The Itinerary: From the Champs-Elysées to Pont de l’Alma

The tour’s itinerary combines major sights with quieter neighborhoods. The first stop is the Champs-Elysées, France’s most iconic avenue, lined with historic buildings and lively cafes. Then, the group visits the Jardin du Palais Royal, once a royal residence, where a large black and white sculpture offers a striking contrast between history and modern art.

Next, you explore the Galerie Colbert, an elegant arcade filled with shops dedicated to education and culture, before strolling through Place des Victoires, built as a tribute to King Louis XVI and featuring a statue of the monarch. The tour continues to the Louvre Museum, where the guide shares insights into the art treasures housed inside.

The route proceeds along the Seine, crossing over Pont Alexandre III, one of the city’s most beautiful bridges, and stops for photos of the Eiffel Tower from scenic spots along the river. The walk concludes near Pont de l’Alma, another picturesque bridge, perfect for capturing views of the cityscape.

Exploring the Louvre Museum with a Private Guide

While admission to the Louvre Museum is not included, the guide offers expert commentary on its most famous masterpieces and tips for planning your visit later. The focus remains on experiencing the building’s architecture and understanding its significance in Parisian history. The guide also points out key artworks and stories behind the collections, making your visit more meaningful when you explore the museum independently later.

This personalized approach helps visitors grasp the Louvre’s vast scale and highlights the must-see pieces without feeling overwhelmed. The tour’s flexibility allows for a deeper dive into areas of personal interest or a quick overview, depending on your preferences.

Unique Views from a Rooftop Overlooking Paris

One of the tour’s standout features is access to a little-known rooftop offering a 360-degree panoramic view of the city. This spot provides a rare perspective of Paris’s rooftops, monuments, and skyline, making it a highlight for photography enthusiasts and those seeking a memorable vista. The guide’s local knowledge ensures you visit this hidden gem, often missed by standard tours.

This quiet viewpoint offers a moment of serenity amid the bustling city, perfect for taking in the sights or snapping photos without large crowds. It embodies the tour’s goal of blending famous sights with hidden perspectives.

Personalized Commentary and Recommendations from Guides

Throughout this tour, the guides provide tailored insights into Paris’s history, architecture, and local culture. Based on reviews, guides like Wan, Izzy, and Andrea are praised for their knowledge, friendly demeanor, and ability to adapt to guest interests.

One reviewer notes how a guide went out of their way to accommodate late flights, while another highlights how guides share lesser-known tips and photo spots that enrich the overall experience. The tour’s flexibility means you can ask questions, modify the route, or spend extra time at favorite spots.

The guides also suggest local eateries, best photo locations, and cultural tips, making this tour not just about sights but about gaining local insights for the rest of your stay.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour generally involves moderate walking over cobbled streets and some stairs near viewpoints and historic sites. The 3-hour duration is manageable for most physically fit participants, but it’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes. The tour is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels, and while accessible for many, some locations may pose challenges for guests with mobility issues.

Since no transportation is included, guests should be comfortable navigating Paris’s streets and public transit if they plan to explore further after the tour.

Booking, Cancellation, and Flexibility

This tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing peace of mind. It is popular enough to be booked 44 days in advance on average, highlighting good demand and reliability. The mobile ticket makes it easy to present your booking at the meeting point, and group discounts are available.

The private nature of the tour ensures exclusivity and flexibility, allowing guides to adapt the itinerary based on weather, guest interests, or time constraints. Since the tour is designed for a moderate physical effort, it suits most visitors looking for an active but manageable experience.

Final Words on the Paris Highlights & Hidden Gems Tour

This private walking tour provides a comprehensive yet intimate experience of Paris’s most famous sights and lesser-known treasures. The personalized guidance and customizable route make it an excellent choice for visitors who want to see a lot without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

While it does not include transportation or museum entry fees, the expert local guides, stunning viewpoints, and authentic local experiences justify the price for many. The tour’s flexibility and depth appeal most to those eager to explore at their own pace and gain insider knowledge.

This tour promises a well-balanced introduction to Paris, perfect for first-time visitors or returning travelers seeking fresh perspectives on the city’s timeless charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in this tour?
The tour includes a private guide, 1 local drink or tasting, and the opportunity to explore landmarks and hidden spots. Transportation and museum entry are not included.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Café Auguste Rivoli, located at 154 Rue de Rivoli in the 1st arrondissement, a central and accessible meeting point.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the guide offers flexibility to tailor the route based on your interests, whether focusing on major sights or exploring lesser-known areas.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable yet enriching experience of central Paris.

Is this tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
It requires moderate walking over cobbled streets and some stairs. Guests should wear comfortable shoes and have moderate fitness.

How do I cancel the tour?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations made later are non-refundable.