Best Bits of Paris: 40 Favourites Walking Tour 5 hours

Discover Paris in 5 Hours: The Best Bits of the City

This 5-hour guided walking and metro tour offers an excellent introduction to Paris, covering 40 of its most beloved sights. Priced for value and led by knowledgeable guides, it’s designed for first-time visitors eager to see key landmarks and learn about the city’s story. The tour begins in Saint Germain des Prés, a historic neighborhood once home to writers and artists, and finishes at the Place du Trocadéro, providing a spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of classic icons like Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Arc de Triomphe, with charming neighborhood strolls and insider tips. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures a personal experience, and the 5-hour duration balances sightseeing with relaxed pacing. One notable inclusion is a stop for local treats, including a crepe (not included in price), adding a taste of Paris to the experience.

While the tour is packed with sights, it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and standing, as it does not accommodate guests with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. This guided tour offers a practical, engaging way to grasp Paris’s highlights on your first day or short stay.

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Key Points

• Duration: 5 hours, ideal for a rundown of Paris
• Includes: 40 key sights, from Notre Dame to Eiffel Tower
• Start point: 147 Bd Saint-Germain, in the historic Saint Germain des Prés neighborhood
• Tour highlights: Iconic landmarks, hidden gems, charming neighborhoods
• Guide expertise: Knowledgeable guides share stories and tips
• Small group: Limited to 10 participants for a personalized experience

Starting at Saint Germain des Prés Neighborhood

The tour kicks off in the lively and historic Saint Germain des Prés. Once a gathering spot for writers like Ernest Hemingway and Oscar Wilde, this neighborhood brims with cafes, boutiques, and history. The tour includes a quick 5-minute guided walk through the area and a 10-minute visit to the Church of Saint Germain des Prés, the oldest church in Paris. Here, visitors can appreciate its ancient architecture and significance.

This neighborhood also features stops at famous cafes such as Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, where you’ll find photo opportunities and a chance to imagine literary legends sipping coffee. The guided sightseeing here is lively and informative, setting the tone for the rest of the tour.

Exploring the Artistic Heart of Paris: Saint Sulpice and Art Stops

From Saint Germain, the guide leads you to Saint Sulpice, a grand church with impressive interior features and a connection to The Da Vinci Code. You’ll spend about 20 minutes exploring the interior and learning about its history. Nearby, the tour highlights the Wall The Drunken Boat Rimbaud and the Hôtel de Luzy, adding some lesser-known sights to the experience.

Throughout this part of the tour, the guide shares stories about Parisian art, literature, and how these hidden corners reflect the city’s creative spirit. The focus remains on engaging storytelling and discovering charming, off-the-beaten-path spots that often go unnoticed.

Strolling Through Luxembourg Gardens and the Latin Quarter

Next, the tour takes a relaxing stroll through Luxembourg Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the city. The lush greenery and classical statues provide a perfect break from bustling streets. The guide points out interesting features and shares insights into the gardens’ history and design.

Moving into the medieval Latin Quarter, you’ll appreciate the historical ambiance while passing through narrow streets filled with cafes, bookstores, and historic sites. The Sorbonne University and other landmarks frame this lively neighborhood, illustrating Paris’s academic and intellectual roots.

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From the Seine to Notre Dame: Iconic River and Islands

The tour continues with a scenic view of the River Seine, as the group walks along the banks. Key sights include the Île de la Cité, home to Notre Dame, and the Conciergerie. While the exterior of the Louvre is visible, the focus remains on appreciating its grandeur from outside.

A highlight is getting up close to the Arc de Triomphe, where the guide provides context and history. The group then moves toward the Tuileries Gardens and the Obélisque de Louxor, completing a circuit of Paris’s imperial symbols.

Climbing the Arc de Triomphe & Final Stop at Trocadéro

The tour includes a visit to the Arc de Triomphe, offering the opportunity to view the city from this impressive vantage point. The guide shares stories about its history and symbolism, enriching the experience. The group then walks to the Place du Trocadéro, where the Eiffel Tower looms in the background.

The final stop provides a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower, perfect for photos and soaking in the Parisian skyline. This spot is ideal for wrapping up the tour with a memorable vista of the city’s most recognizable landmark.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour departs from 147 Bd Saint-Germain, with the guide waiting just outside the Saint Germain des Prés metro station. The small group size (max 10) ensures a comfortable, personalized experience. The tour operates in English, and participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes for walking, bring water, and dress according to weather conditions.

The tour is fully flexible with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. Payment is pay later, allowing for planning flexibility. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users due to walking demands.

Why Choose This Tour?

This guided walk offers a well-curated selection of Paris’s most famous sights alongside lesser-known gems, perfect for first-time visitors. The focus on storytelling, along with local tips for treats and transportation, enriches the experience. The 5-hour pacing balances sightseeing with relaxed breaks, making it accessible for most travelers.

Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, especially for sharing personal anecdotes and practical advice. The breathtaking views at Trocadéro and close-up encounters with iconic monuments make this tour a valuable introduction to Paris.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time looking to cover a wide array of landmarks in a single morning or afternoon. It suits travelers who enjoy walking tours with storytelling and want expert insights into Paris’s history and culture. The limited group size ensures a more intimate experience, perfect for those who appreciate personalized attention.

The Sum Up: A Practical and Enjoyable Paris Primer

The Best Bits of Paris: 40 Favourites Walking Tour provides a thorough and engaging overview of Paris’s top sights. Its five-hour format balances breadth and comfort, allowing visitors to see major landmarks like Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre while also exploring charming neighborhoods like Saint Germain des Prés and the Latin Quarter.

The expert guides make history alive with lively stories, and the stops for photos and treats add a personal touch. The small group size enhances the experience, making it suitable for travelers seeking a more intimate and informative tour.

While it requires some walking and isn’t accessible for all mobility needs, this tour offers great value for those eager to get a comprehensive Paris introduction. It’s a reliable choice for first-timers who want to cover the essentials with a friendly, knowledgeable guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, covering 40 sights across Paris.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from 147 Bd Saint-Germain, just outside the Saint Germain des Prés metro station.

What landmarks are included?
Highlights include Notre Dame, the Pantheon, the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, and Eiffel Tower.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
No, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as it involves walking and standing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

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