Paris Photography Tour – Self Guided Tour of Paris’ Top Instagram Spots

If capturing beautiful photos of Paris is your goal, the Paris Photography Tour by Vidi Guides offers a budget-friendly way to explore the city’s most Instagram-worthy spots. Priced at $17.84 per person, this self-guided audio tour lasts approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes, making it a quick yet enriching experience. The tour features a curated selection of top landmarks and hidden photogenic gems, all accessible via a GPS-based map that helps prevent getting lost.

Designed for Instagram enthusiasts, the tour combines local insights from a Paris-based historian and social media influencer, enhancing your photo sessions with interesting stories and background. While the tour may not cover every famous Paris landmark, it emphasizes unique viewpoints, including the famous Shakespeare & Company bookstore, a serene square, and scenic views along the Seine. The tour’s offline mode ensures you can listen anywhere without WiFi, which is perfect for spontaneous photo stops.

Despite generally positive feedback, some may find the highlights less exciting compared to similar experiences elsewhere. However, its affordable price and flexibility make it a good option for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. This tour suits casual visitors who want a quick, guided way to find Instagram spots without the constraints of a traditional group tour.

Key Points

• Affordable price at just $17.84 per person with a duration of about 1 hour.
• Self-guided audio led by a local historian and social media influencer.
• Curated stops include famous landmarks like Shakespeare & Company and scenic views along the Seine.
• GPS-based map helps prevent getting lost while exploring at your own pace.
• Offline audio allows listening without internet, ideal for on-the-go photography.
• Limited stops mean the tour focuses on quality photogenic locations rather than covering all of Paris.

Starting Point at Odette: A Quiet Corner of Medieval Paris

The tour begins at Odette, located at 77 Rue Galande. This small, peaceful corner of medieval Paris offers a calm contrast to the city’s bustling streets. It’s an ideal starting point for those wanting to ease into their photo walk without immediately facing crowds. The stop is free of charge and takes about 10 minutes, giving time to set your camera and get your bearings.

Visiting the Iconic Shakespeare & Company Bookstore

Next, the tour pauses at Shakespeare and Company, a beloved English-language bookstore that draws both travelers and locals. Its timeless charm makes it a favorite for photographers, with exterior shots that capture its vintage signage and quaint facades. A brief 5-minute stop allows for capturing shots and hearing stories from your guide about its literary history.

Discovering Square Rene Viviani and Its Old Church

At Square Rene Viviani, visitors find a serene park with a view of the old church nearby. This peaceful spot offers beautiful scenery and a legendary story that adds depth to your photos. The 5-minute stop provides a chance for pictures of the church and its surroundings, ideal for capturing quieter, more personal shots.

Seine Quais: A Treasure Trove of Books and Art

The quais de la Seine are famous for old books, maps, and artwork displayed along the river. This location also reflects the legacy of Notre Dame, offering a mix of historic and artistic images. The 5-minute stop encourages capturing historic bookstalls, river views, and the vibrant atmosphere of the Seine’s embankments.

Scenic View from Ile Saint-Louis

The tour includes a quick stop at Ile Saint-Louis, a picturesque island with magnificent river views. Here, you can photograph the classic Parisian bridges and charming streets. The 5-minute pause is perfect for snapping landscape photos of the Seine and capturing the island’s quaint character.

Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole: A Picturesque Bridge Spot

Another highlight is Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole, a quaint, picturesque spot famous for its bridge and colorful facades. The 5-minute stop offers a chance to photograph the bridges and charming architecture, making it a favorite for those wanting authentic Parisian scenes.

Exploring Hotel de Ville: A Lively Square

The Hôtel de Ville area is a lively public square with plenty of photogenic activity. The tour provides insights into its historical and current significance, making it an interesting backdrop for dynamic street shots. The 5-minute stop is suitable for capturing urban life and the architecture of Paris’ city hall.

Practical Details and Booking

The tour departs from Odette and ends at Hôtel de Ville, with most visits lasting around 5 minutes. The experience is self-guided, giving the flexibility to spend more time at spots that appeal most. Downloadable in offline mode, the audio guides are accessible for most smartphones—though the tour does not include earphones or mobile devices.

The small group size—a maximum of 10 travelers—ensures a personalized experience, while public transportation nearby makes it easy to access the starting point. The entire experience is available every day from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, offering plenty of timing options.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers a great way to find Instagrammable locations, some reviews suggest it may be less exciting than expected. One reviewer describes the experience as “pretty bland and boring”, indicating that the highlighted spots may not meet all visitors’ expectations for stunning views. It’s best suited for those who want a quick, guided route rather than an exhaustive photography tour.

Paris Photography Tour by Vidi Guides: Is It Worth It?

This self-guided tour excels in offering affordable access to key Paris sights with the added benefit of local insights through audio commentary. The curated stops provide good photo opportunities at famous landmarks and hidden spots, making it a flexible option for casual photographers.

However, the limited number of stops and mixed reviews about the overall visual appeal mean that it’s most suitable for visitors seeking a quick overview rather than a comprehensive photography experience. The easy-to-use GPS map and offline mode are practical touches that enhance the self-guided nature of this tour.

If capturing iconic Paris scenes at a budget price sounds appealing, this tour offers a straightforward way to explore the city’s photogenic spots. Just keep in mind that it might not provide the stunning, awe-inspiring views some expect from a dedicated photography tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the Paris Photography Tour?
You receive access to a self-guided audio tour provided by a local or historian, which can be downloaded in offline mode for convenience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes, depending on how long you choose to spend at each stop.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Odette, 77 Rue Galande and ends at Hôtel de Ville in central Paris.

Is this tour suitable for all visitors?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the small group size (max 10) makes it comfortable. It’s accessible via public transportation.

What are some notable stops on the tour?
Highlights include Shakespeare & Company, Square Rene Viviani, the quais of the Seine, Ile Saint-Louis, and Hotel de Ville.

Can I listen to the tour offline?
Absolutely, the audio can be downloaded in advance and used without WiFi.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the tour price covers the audio guide access. However, earphones and mobile devices are not included.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 15 days in advance, but availability is year-round.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time.

Would I recommend this tour?
It’s a cost-effective, flexible way to find Instagram-ready spots in Paris, particularly for those wanting a self-paced experience. However, if you’re after spectacular views or a more immersive photography tour, you might consider other options.

This self-guided Paris photography experience offers a practical way to explore some of the city’s most photogenic spots without the pressure of a guided group, making it ideal for independent explorers and budget-conscious visitors.