Discover the Flavors of Paris with a Culinary School-Led Tour

The Paris: Gastronomy & Wine Tour by a Culinary School offers an engaging 3-hour stroll through some of the city’s most historic neighborhoods, paired with 9 expertly curated tastings. For $105 per person, this small-group experience is led by local guides who share insights into Paris’ culinary heritage. Beginning at 30 Rue des Saints-Pères, the tour takes you through renowned artisanal shops, historic sites, and classic food spots, all while sampling French pâtés en croûte, gougères, cheeses, charcuteries, tartare, pastries, chocolates, and natural wines.

The tour is especially suitable for those eager to taste authentic French flavors crafted by master artisans, including a world champion and a former La Tour d’Argent chef. While the tour offers hearty tastings and engaging stories about Paris’ culinary roots, it involves walking through the city’s lively streets—comfortable shoes are recommended. No hotel pickup is included, but the tour’s small size promises an intimate experience with plenty of personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

3-hour guided tour focusing on Parisian gastronomy and wine
Includes 9 tastings of French specialties and 4 natural wines
Led by local expert guides with in-depth knowledge
Stops at artisanal shops, historic sites, and renowned restaurants
Features specialized tastings crafted by world champion artisans
Small group experience limited to 8 participants ensures a personalized vibe

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Paris

The Tour Starts at 30 Rue des Saints-Pères in the Heart of Paris

The journey begins at 30 Rue des Saints-Pères, a location close to historic landmarks and the site of one of Paris’ oldest restaurants. From here, the tour sets off on a walking route through the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, offering a chance to explore hidden spots and famous sights alike. The first stops involve tasting French pâtés en croûte and gougères, with the guide explaining their significance and craftsmanship.

This initial segment lasts around 15 minutes and introduces guests to timeless French culinary techniques. The walk proceeds through nearby streets, setting the scene for the next tastings while offering glimpses of Paris’ elegant architecture and lively street scenes. The walk between stops is manageable, and the pace is designed to balance tasting and sightseeing comfortably.

Sampling French Artisanal Pâtés en Croûte and Gougères

The first culinary stop immerses guests in traditional French snacks crafted by master artisans. Pâtés en croûte, a pâté baked inside a crust, highlights Paris’ culinary craftsmanship, while gougères—cheese-filled choux pastries—showcase French savoir-faire. The guide shares stories about the origins and techniques behind each item, enriching the tasting experience.

These bites are paired with explanations of the terroirs and the artisan’s background, including a chef who has earned international recognition. The focus remains on the quality and authenticity of each product, making these not just tasty but also educational moments.

Passing Iconic Landmarks: Les Invalides and the Eiffel Tower

As the tour advances, guests pass by Les Invalides and enjoy stunning views of the Pont Alexandre III and Eiffel Tower. These iconic sights serve as a scenic backdrop to the culinary journey, offering opportunities for photos and brief stories about Paris’ history and the neighborhood’s evolution.

The proximity to these landmarks adds a special touch, making the tasting stops feel embedded in the city’s fabric. The guide provides insights into the neighborhood’s transformation from aristocratic hunting grounds to a hub of haute cuisine.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting a Historic Charcuterie and Cheese Shop

Next, the group visits a traditional charcuterie shop, where a variety of meats and sausages are displayed. The tasting includes an assortment of French cheeses, carefully paired with natural red, white, and orange wines. The guide explains how weather, soil, and tradition influence the terroir behind each wine and cheese pairing.

This segment lasts about 30 minutes and emphasizes the importance of pairing techniques, showcasing artisan craftsmanship. The shop’s historic ambiance and expertly selected products make for a memorable tasting experience.

While you're exploring Paris, here are other experiences we've looked into

French Pastries, Chocolates, and the Napoleon-Era Chocolate Shop

The tour continues at a chocolate shop founded under Napoleon, designed by architects linked to the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel. Here, guests sample pastries and handcrafted chocolates, discovering French sweet artistry. The guide shares stories about the shop’s history and its connection to Paris’ imperial past.

The pastry and chocolate tastings highlight the skill of master chocolatiers and pastry chefs, giving insights into techniques that have been refined over centuries. The shop’s historic setting adds a layer of enchantment to the sweet experience.

Wine Tasting with a Master Sommelier and Artisanal Food Pairings

One of the tour’s highlights is a 30-minute wine tasting curated by a world champion or a former La Tour d’Argent chef. Guests sample 4 natural wines, each paired with selected French specialties like tartare or charcuterie.

The guide explains the nuances of natural wine production and pairing principles, making this segment both educational and delicious. This part of the tour offers a deeper appreciation of how wine complements the flavors of French cuisine.

Visiting a Local Bakery: Fresh Breads and Pastries

The final tasting stop takes place at a local bakery where guests enjoy freshly baked breads and pastries. The bakery’s history and craftsmanship are explained, along with the bakery’s role in Parisian daily life. Tasting the bakery’s offerings provides an authentic conclusion to the culinary journey.

Guests can savor warm bread and pastries, wrapping up the experience with a taste of Parisian everyday life and culinary tradition.

The Tour Concludes Near the Eiffel Tower at 16 Av. de la Motte-Picquet

The tour finishes at 16 Avenue de la Motte-Picquet, a short distance from the Eiffel Tower. From here, visitors are free to explore more of Paris or continue their day. The small group size ensures personalized attention from guides, who are fluent in French, English, and Spanish.

While the tour does not include hotel transfers, the walkable ending location makes it easy to access nearby attractions or cafes for further exploration.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

This small-group experience is limited to 8 participants, providing an intimate setting ideal for engaging conversations and tailored insights. The 3-hour duration fits well into a day of sightseeing and costs $105 per person.

Booking includes all tastings and guided commentary but does not cover hotel pickup or drop-off. Flexible cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and reservations can be made with the option to pay later, offering added convenience.

Why Choose This Paris Gastronomy & Wine Tour?

This tour stands out for its curated selection of artisanal products crafted by renowned experts, including a world champion chef. The combination of historic sites, authentic tastings, and expert storytelling offers a comprehensive look at Paris’ culinary scene.

The intimate group size and local guides ensure a personalized experience, emphasizing quality over quantity. The focus on pairings with natural wines and learning about terroirs appeals to food and wine enthusiasts eager to deepen their appreciation.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience Most?

This tour is perfect for foodies, wine lovers, and anyone curious about Parisian cuisine beyond the typical tourist fare. It suits those interested in artisan craftsmanship, culinary history, and pairing techniques. The tour’s pace and walking are manageable for most visitors, but comfort with some walking and standing is advised.

It offers a delightful blend of tasting, learning, and sightseeing—all within a relaxed, small-group setting. Perfect for travelers who value authentic experiences and expert guidance.

✨ Book This Experience

Paris: Gastronomy & Wine Tour by a Culinary School

5.0

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

What is included in the price?
The price covers 9 tastings of French specialties, 4 natural wines, and guided commentary by local experts.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should know about?
Some tastings may not be suitable for those with food allergies; it’s best to inquire beforehand.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Some areas may not be accessible; it depends on the specific location and route.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable walking shoes and a water bottle are recommended; dress for various weather conditions.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a guide available in my language?
Yes, guides speak French, English, and Spanish.

Where does the tour end?
At 16 Av. de la Motte-Picquet, near the Eiffel Tower, allowing easy access to other sights or cafes.

This Paris: Gastronomy & Wine Tour by a Culinary School offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Paris’ culinary heritage, perfect for those seeking a heartfelt, expertly guided exploration of French flavors.