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Secrets of Ile de la Cite: Notre Dame to Louvre Discovery Walk

Secrets of Ile de la Cite: Notre Dame to Louvre Discovery Walk

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Île de la Cité, the cradle of Paris, where the Parissii tribe first settled in 52 BC. Join our expert guide near "Point Zero," the geographic heart of Paris, from which all distances in the city are measured.

 

Your journey unfolds outside the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, where you'll hear tales of resilience through wars, pillaging, and the devastating fire of April 15, 2019. Marvel at this Gothic masterpiece and its storied past.

 

As the tour progresses, discover the Sainte-Chapelle, renowned for its breathtaking collection of stained glass windows depicting over a thousand biblical stories. Continue to the majestic golden gates of the Palais de Justice and the Conciergerie. This 14th-century edifice, once a prison, played a pivotal role during the French Revolution, notably as Marie Antoinette's final holding place.

 

Pause at the corner to admire the famous Clock Tower, Paris's oldest clock since 1371, a testament to the city's medieval ingenuity in timekeeping. Next, stroll along the banks of the serene River Seine to Pont Neuf, the city's oldest bridge, inaugurated by Henry IV in 1607. Despite its name, "New Bridge," it stands out for its historical significance over centuries.

 

Crossing Pont Neuf, you'll pass by the bouquinistes, Paris's traditional booksellers whose presence along the Seine dates back to the 15th century. The tour culminates in the Royal Courtyard of the Louvre Museum, passing the iconic Pyramid, leading to the finale of your walking tour.

 

As our tour concludes, you'll have explored some of Paris's most magnificent and cherished landmarks. Your guide will offer insider tips on visiting these venues, enhancing your Parisian adventure.

 

Join us on this Paris Walking Tour, from Notre Dame to the Louvre, and uncover the timeless beauty of Île de la Cité. Discover the essence of Paris, its enduring landmarks, and hidden gems, ensuring an unforgettable experience in the City of Light.

  • Practical Information:

    Starting Point: Notre Dame/Point Zero

    Ending Point: Louvre Pyramid

    Schedule: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays at 10 am

    Duration: 2 hours

  • Tour Itinerary

    Starting Point: Point Zero

    • The geographic center of Paris, located in front of the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral. Begin your journey at the historical and symbolic heart of the city.

    Sainte-Chapelle

    • Renowned for housing one of the world's most exquisite collections of stained glass windows, Sainte-Chapelle also hosts enchanting candlelight concerts, offering a glimpse into medieval Parisian spirituality and artistry.

    Conciergerie

    • A historic 14th-century prison that transformed into law courts. This landmark is infamous for being the final holding cell for Marie Antoinette before her execution, symbolizing the tumultuous times of the French Revolution.

    Pont Neuf Bridge

    • Despite its name, "New Bridge," Pont Neuf is the oldest bridge in Paris, gracefully spanning the River Seine and connecting the city's left and right banks. It stands as a testament to Paris's enduring history and architectural innovation.

    Louvre Pyramid

    • The iconic glass pyramid that marks the entrance to the Louvre, the world's largest and most visited museum. This modern marvel, amidst historical grandeur, encapsulates the blend of tradition and contemporary culture that defines Paris.
  • Tour Hilights

    Entry to Sainte-Chapelle Included

    • Enjoy exclusive access to Sainte-Chapelle, included in your tour. Let the kaleidoscope of light from its stained glass windows transport you to a bygone era of royal devotion and artistic magnificence.

    Discover the Birthplace of Paris

    • Explore Île de la Cité, the island that witnessed the birth of Paris. This historical heartland is where the city's earliest chapters unfolded, setting the stage for the metropolis it would become.

    Notre Dame's Resilient Spirit

    • Hear the poignant tales of Notre Dame Cathedral, celebrating its past glories, recent trials, and hopeful future. Witness the resilience of this Gothic masterpiece as it rises from the ashes.

    Royal and Revolutionary Paths

    • Trace the footsteps of kings and revolutionaries at the Palais de Justice and the Conciergerie. These sites embody the dual nature of Parisian history, marked by grandeur and upheaval.

    Parisian Time Capsule: The Clock Tower

    • Discover the Clock Tower, Paris's oldest timepiece, a testament to the city's medieval ingenuity and the timeless rhythm of Parisian life.

    Seine's Scenic Stretches

    • Revel in the scenic beauty of the Seine River, a lifeline that has shaped the city's landscape, culture, and history, offering serene moments and picturesque vistas.

    Memories at the Louvre Pyramid

    • Capture the essence of Paris with unforgettable selfies at the Louvre Pyramid, an emblem of the city's artistic legacy and innovative spirit.

    Expert Insights and Insider Tips

    • Benefit from the wealth of knowledge shared by your guide, offering insider tips on how to further explore the landmarks visited, enhancing your experience of Paris's historic and cultural riches.

    Embark on this immersive walking tour, complete with entry to the magnificent Sainte-Chapelle, and experience the multifaceted splendor of Paris, from the sacred to the revolutionary, the ancient to the modern.

£85.00Price
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