Private Full Day Tour Louvre & Sainte Chapelle Church Tickets

Explore Paris in a Day with a Private Guide and Skip-the-Line Tickets for the Louvre and Sainte-Chapelle

This private full-day tour in Paris offers a smart way to see the city’s top sights in just one day. Priced at $234.79 per person, the tour covers approximately 6 to 8 hours and includes skip-the-line tickets to two of Paris’s most famous monuments: the Louvre Museum and Sainte-Chapelle. It is designed for those who want an efficient, personalized experience with a dedicated guide, giving insight and context to the places visited.

Departing from Place de la Bastille, the tour takes you through historic neighborhoods like Le Marais and the Latin Quarter. You’ll explore landmarks, enjoy local culture, and learn about Paris’s history from a knowledgeable guide. An optional upgrade adds a coffee break at an authentic Parisian café and a traditional French lunch, making this tour perfect for travelers who want both sightseeing and moments of relaxation.

While the tour involves quite a bit of walking and sightseeing, it is well-suited for those interested in a comprehensive yet personalized day in Paris. The small-group format ensures an intimate experience, and the included skip-the-line tickets save valuable time at busy sites.

Key Points

• Private, customizable Paris tour with a dedicated guide
• Includes skip-the-line tickets to the Louvre Museum and Sainte-Chapelle
• Optional upgrades for cafés and French lunch
• Visits to iconic landmarks like Notre-Dame, Pantheon, and Sorbonne
• Flexible itinerary with numerous stops in Le Marais and Latin Quarter
• Duration of 6 to 8 hours, ideal for a full immersion in Paris

Starting at Place de la Bastille and Discovering Its Significance

The tour begins at Place de la Bastille, a historic square inaugurated in 1840 to honor those who fought during the French Revolution. This site holds symbolic weight as a symbol of freedom and rebellion, and is a lively hub reflecting Paris’s revolutionary past. The stop is brief but sets the tone for a day of exploring Parisian history.

From here, the guide leads you through the marvelous neighborhoods of Le Marais and the Latin Quarter, each with distinct character. The tour allows 15 minutes at each stop to absorb the sights, with free admission at these locations, giving a relaxed pace to appreciate the city’s charm and elegance.

Walking Through the Oldest Planned Square: Place des Vosges

A highlight in the Le Marais district is Place des Vosges, known as the oldest planned square in Paris. Its symmetrical red-brick facades and peaceful arcades offer a glimpse into Parisian elegance and history. This stop provides an opportunity to enjoy a quiet moment amid the bustling city, with 15 minutes allocated for strolling and photos.

The square’s history dates back to the 17th century, and it remains one of Paris’s most beautiful urban spaces. Its architecture and serene atmosphere make it a favorite for a quick, relaxing walk.

Discovering the Paroisse Saint-Paul Saint-Louis Church

Next, the guide takes you to Paroisse Saint-Paul Saint-Louis, a historic Jesuit church in the Marais. Inside, centuries of religious art and architecture are on display beneath a stunning dome. The Corinthian columns and ornate details highlight the church’s architectural beauty, making it a meaningful stop for those interested in religious history and art.

This 10-minute visit is free of charge and offers a glimpse into Paris’s spiritual heritage, with the chance to appreciate its intricate design.

Admiring the Medieval Charm of Hotel de Sens

The tour includes a visit to Hotel de Sens, one of Paris’s remaining medieval mansions. The turreted façade and tranquil garden provide ideal photo opportunities. Originally housing archbishops, this 15th-century residence later became entangled in royal scandals, adding layers of historical intrigue.

A brief 10-minute stop allows for admiration of this well-preserved example of medieval architecture, with plenty of stories behind its walls.

Visiting the Church of St. Etienne du Mont

St. Etienne du Mont is renowned for its beautiful Gothic architecture and houses the tomb of Saint Genevieve, Paris’s patron saint. The 15-minute visit offers insight into Paris’s religious history and the church’s artistic details, including its impressive stained glass windows.

This church is considered one of the most beautiful in Paris, and its serene atmosphere provides a peaceful pause during the busy day.

Exploring the Pantheon and Its Historical Significance

The Pantheon is a grand monument inspired by the Roman Pantheon, symbolizing French gratitude to notable figures who shaped its history. Though a 15-minute visit is included, the exterior and surroundings are impressive, and the guide can share stories about its role in French national identity.

Note that the admission ticket to the Pantheon is not included, but viewing the building from the outside offers a substantial appreciation of its architecture and importance.

Enjoying a Coffee Break at Boulangerie Moderne (Full Option)

For those opting for the full experience, a 25-minute coffee break at Boulangerie Moderne provides a chance to enjoy an authentic Parisian coffee in a traditional café. This quick stop offers a taste of local life and a moment to recharge before continuing the tour.

This included break emphasizes the tour’s focus on combining sightseeing with moments of leisure and genuine Parisian ambiance.

Visiting Sorbonne Université and Place Saint-Michel

Next, the tour takes you past Sorbonne Université, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, founded in 1257. The exterior architecture reflects centuries of academic history, providing an inspiring backdrop for those interested in education and intellectual pursuits.

Following that, Place Saint-Michel is a lively square at the Seine’s edge, featuring a 19th-century fountain and bustling with students, cafés, and city life. This 5-minute stop offers a window into Paris’s vibrant, youthful energy.

Discovering the Narrow Rue du Chat qui Peche (Full Option)

For the full option, a 15-minute walk along Rue du Chat qui Peche unveils the story of Paris’s narrowest street. This small, charming alleyway is full of character and demonstrates the city’s varied architecture, making it a fun and informative addition for those interested in hidden corners.

Visiting Notre-Dame de Paris and Sainte-Chapelle

The iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral remains a symbol of Paris, currently under restoration after the fire. The 15-minute visit allows for admiration of its Gothic architecture, though the interior is not included in the skip-the-line tickets.

Then, the tour moves to Sainte-Chapelle, where skip-the-line tickets grant quick access to this Gothic masterpiece. The hundreds of stained glass windows create a kaleidoscope of color, and the building houses some of Christianity’s most precious relics. The 30-minute visit provides a deep appreciation of its spiritual and artistic significance.

Lunch Break at Le Sarah Bernhardt (Full Option)

An optional 50-minute lunch break at Le Sarah Bernhardt offers a chance to indulge in traditional French cuisine in a cozy setting. This restaurant is centrally located, providing a restful pause amid the sightseeing, and is included in the full option.

Exploring the Louvre Museum with Skip-the-Line Access

The day concludes with a 2-hour visit to the Louvre Museum, where skip-the-line tickets and an audio guide make exploring the world’s largest art museum more manageable. The guide introduces you to key highlights, including world-famous works like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.

Because entry is flexible, visitors can stay as long as they like within the museum, making this a customizable experience that complements the busy day of sightseeing.

Practical Logistics and Additional Details

The tour begins at Place de la Bastille and ends at the Louvre Museum, with transportation included—a taxi ride and metro ride—to facilitate smooth transitions between locations. The private tour format means only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention.

Options are available for group discounts, and the experience is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join. The tour is confirmed upon booking, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility for your plans.

Final Thoughts: A Well-Rounded Day in Paris

This private full-day tour offers an efficient way to see major Parisian landmarks with a knowledgeable guide, skipping long lines and including some delightful local experiences like coffee and French lunch. It’s particularly suitable for visitors who want a curated, flexible itinerary with personalized attention.

While the walking can be extensive, multiple stops and optional breaks help manage fatigue. The skip-the-line tickets to Sainte-Chapelle and the Louvre save hours in queues, and the customizable itinerary means you can focus on your most interests.

This tour provides a balanced blend of history, culture, and leisure, making it a practical choice for those eager to experience Paris’s highlights in a single, well-organized day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, as the tour involves walking and sightseeing but is designed to be accessible for a wide range of ages.

Are inside the Louvre and Sainte-Chapelle included?
Inside the Louvre, no guide accompanies you, but skip-the-line tickets and an audio guide are provided. For Sainte-Chapelle, skip-the-line tickets grant quick entry, but there is no guide inside.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since it is a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the guide to focus on specific locations or interests.

What if I want to include lunch and a coffee break?
The full option includes a traditional French lunch and a café break, offering a more relaxed experience with local flavors.

How early should I book?
Most bookings are made around 89 days in advance, but confirmation is provided quickly, and the experience is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.