MUST SEE! History of Paris City & #1 Louvre Museum Exclusive Tour

Explore the “MUST SEE! History of Paris City & #1 Louvre Museum Exclusive Tour” offered by Babylon Tours Paris at a price of $249.23 per person. This 5.5-hour guided experience combines a comprehensive walking tour of Paris’s most iconic landmarks with a reserved entrance to the Louvre Museum, including a guided 2.5-hour exploration of its masterpieces. The tour is ideal for those seeking an intimate, knowledgeable guide and a skip-the-line experience, with available private and small-group options in languages such as English, Spanish, Italian, Russian, and German.

This tour appeals to visitors who want to avoid large crowds and enjoy personalized attention. It departs from Cité at 10:00 am, starting with a walk around Île de la Cité, then passes through numerous landmarks before ultimately entering the Louvre. While the lunch break is on your own, the tour ensures priority access to one of the world’s most famous museums, making it a practical choice for travelers eager to maximize their time in Paris.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Paris city highlights including Notre-Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, the Eiffel Tower, and the Champs-Elysées.
• Private or semi-private options in multiple languages provide a personalized experience.
• Skip-the-line access to the Louvre Museum with a detailed guided tour of the most celebrated artworks.
• The 5.5-hour experience combines walking, museum exploration, and scenic views along the Seine.
• Tour departs from Cité at 10:00 am, with all entrance fees included but no hotel pickup.
• Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and an interest in history, architecture, and art.

Starting at the Heart of Paris: Île de la Cité

This tour begins at Cité, the birthplace of Paris, formerly known as Lutetia. It’s the site where the ancient Roman settlement laid the foundation for the city. The guide leads you through this historic island, emphasizing its significance in Paris’s development.

From here, the walk takes in Notre-Dame Cathedral, one of the most famous Gothic structures in the world, notable for its size and architectural details. The Palais de Justice and Sainte-Chapelle, built within just seven years by Saint Louis, are also on the route. Visitors get a sense of the medieval Gothic style and the religious importance of these sites.

The Conciergerie, a former royal palace turned notorious prison where Marie Antoinette spent her last days, adds a layer of French revolutionary history to the walk. The guide points out secret spots known only to locals, making this a richer experience than a standard tour.

Exploring Iconic Landmarks on the Right and Left Banks

The tour continues with a stroll past the Fontaine Saint-Michel, depicting Archangel Michael fighting the Devil, symbolizing the eternal struggle of Good versus Evil. Nearby, Place Dauphine offers a picturesque, romantic atmosphere, being among the first projects commissioned by Henri IV.

Crossing Pont Neuf, the oldest stone bridge in Paris, you’ll see the equestrian statue of King Henri IV, a replica since the original was destroyed during the French Revolution. The bridge leads to the Île de la Cité side of the Seine and the Pont des Arts, the first iron bridge in Paris, connecting the Institut de France with the Louvre.

From here, the guide introduces you to the Domaine National du Palais-Royal, a peaceful garden space created in 1633, once home to royal families. Walking through the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel and the Jardin des Tuileries adds scenic beauty, with the latter dating back to the 17th century. The Gardens Bookstore offers a chance to browse garden-themed books and gifts.

The Louvre Museum: Skip-the-Line Access and Art Highlights

After a lunch break (own expense), the tour proceeds with priority entry into the Louvre Museum, saving you from long lines. The guided 2.5-hour walkthrough focuses on famous masterpieces and lesser-known treasures, including Venus de Milo, Michelangelo’s Dying Slave, and Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa.

The guide offers insights into the museum’s history as a fortress and royal palace, highlighting its significance during the reign of Napoleon. Visitors can enjoy a curated selection of paintings from France’s Romanticism and Classicism periods and explore some lesser-visited rooms. After the guided tour, you’re free to continue exploring on your own or revisit favorite spots.

Scenic Strolls Along the Seine and Neighborhoods

The tour’s route along the Seine River offers stunning views of Paris’s most iconic bridges and buildings. Passing by La Madeleine and the Champs-Elysées, the walk emphasizes Paris’s blend of historical and modern architecture.

The Place de la Concorde, known historically for public executions during the French Revolution, now stands as a grand square with fountains and obelisks. The Champs-Elysées is renowned for its boutiques and cafes, perfect for some shopping or a leisurely stroll.

Logistics and Accessibility Aspects

This tour departs promptly at 10:00 am from Cité and ends at the Louvre. It’s wheelchair friendly, although private options in multiple languages are available for a more tailored experience. The group size is kept small, ensuring personalized attention from the expert guides.

While lunch is not included, the tour provides ample time for a midday break at your own expense. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy for visitors to access.

Pros and Cons Based on Actual Experience

Pros include knowledgeable guides who provide insights into Paris’s history and art, and the skip-the-line access to the Louvre Museum significantly enhances the experience. The private and semi-private options in several languages cater to diverse preferences.

A notable limitation is that hotel pickup or drop-off is not included, so guests need to arrange transportation. Plus, security measures inside the Louvre may cause some lines or restrictions, but the priority entry helps minimize delays.

Ideal Audience for This Tour

This private tour is perfect for visitors seeking a personalized, in-depth introduction to Paris’s landmarks and the Louvre’s masterpieces. It suits travelers who appreciate guided storytelling, want to avoid crowds, and prefer a flexible pace. The tour is accessible for those with moderate physical fitness, and the small-group format ensures a comfortable, engaging experience.

The Sum Up: A Rich, Personal Journey Through Paris and the Louvre

The “Must See! History of Paris & #1 Louvre Museum Exclusive Tour” offers an intimate exploration of Paris’s most famous attractions, combined with a detailed visit to the world’s largest art museum. The expert guides, priority Louvre access, and scenic route make this tour a compelling choice for those wanting to maximize their time and gain deeper insights into the city’s history and art.

While it doesn’t include hotel transfers or lunch, the personalized experience and professional guidance compensate well. This tour is particularly suited for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and first-time visitors eager to see Paris’s highlights without the hassle of large groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
Yes, the tour requires moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking and some standing.

Are private guides available in other languages?
Yes, private options are offered in English, Spanish, Italian, Russian, and German.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off; guests should arrange their own transportation.

Can I skip the Louvre Museum if I’m not interested?
The museum visit is included with reserved entry, but after the guided tour, you are free to explore the Louvre on your own or skip additional visits.

What is the duration of the museum tour?
The Louvre Museum guided tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch expenses are not included; there is time for a self-funded break.

What should I wear for this tour?
Appropriate dress is recommended for entry into some sites, and comfortable walking shoes are advised.

What if the Louvre is temporarily closed?
In case of museum closure, an alternative will be provided; full refunds are available if the tour is canceled due to minimum participant numbers.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is usually booked 58 days in advance and has a rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on 56 reviews.