Discover our tours of Parisian neighborhoods
Every month, one or two unique and original tours of Paris are organized by the Club International de Paris for those looking to escape the touristy side of the city. Led by French tourism and history guides, these tours ensure you’ll discover a different side of the French capital.
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#1//Tour of Quartier Latin
Developed around the Sorbonne from the Middle Ages, the Latin Quarter is still at the heart of university life today. A key site of student protests in May 1968, this neighborhood is now very popular with tourists. From the Fontaine Saint-Michel to the Arènes de Lutèce, passing by the Sorbonne, the Cluny Baths, the Panthéon, and the Saint-Étienne-du-Mont Church, come and discover a lively district with a thousand-year history!
Focus on Saint-Étienne-du-Mont: The magnificent Saint-Étienne-du-Mont Church blends flamboyant Gothic with Renaissance style in its architecture. Inside the church and in the cloister gallery is the finest collection of ancient stained glass in Paris, second only to the Sainte-Chapelle. The church also houses the shrine of Saint Geneviève, the patron saint of Paris.
#2//Tour of Montmartre
Let’s explore one of the last villages in Paris. Perched atop its hill, Montmartre fascinates visitors. This neighborhood has managed to retain its village spirit. We will follow in the footsteps of famous artists such as Cézanne and Picasso in this charming area that contributes to the legend of Paris.
Focus on the Sacré-Cœur: This majestic church attracts tourists and pilgrims from all over the world. Built just after the turmoil of the years 1870 and 1871, it was intended to atone for the sins of Parisians.
#3//Tour of the Opéra / Madeleine Neighborhood
Representative of Haussmannian Paris, this neighborhood is full of shops, restaurants, theaters, and performance venues, including the Opéra Garnier. We will also explore the Madeleine Church, and then take time to stop at Place Vendôme.
Focus on Place Vendôme : Designed by Louis XIV, this square has long been a site of major political events. Today, it is home to luxury boutiques such as the jeweler Chaumet. At the center of this square stands the famous Vendôme Column, constructed under Napoleon I.
#4//Tour of Île de la Cité, Île Saint-Louis, and Notre-Dame Cathedral
Come discover the true heart of the city of Paris!
On the agenda: a guided tour of Notre-Dame Cathedral and a narrated walk through the famous sites of Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis, such as the Conciergerie, Square de l’Île de France, the mansions of Île Saint-Louis, Pont Neuf, and the charming Place Dauphine…
Focus on Île Saint-Louis: Let yourself be charmed by this oasis of calm and greenery in the heart of Paris. Many notable figures have lived here: the poet Baudelaire, Camille Claudel, the student of sculptor Rodin, and the famous Marie Curie. The island is also home to renowned establishments, such as the very famous Berthillon ice cream shop…
#5//Treasure Hunt / Tour of the Louvre Neighborhood, Palais Royal, and Tuileries Garden
From the Pont Neuf to Place de la Concorde, passing by the Louvre Museum, Saint-Germain-l’Auxerrois Church, and the Tuileries Gardens, come and discover a neighborhood rich in monuments, right in the heart of Paris.
Focus on Saint-Germain-l’Auxerrois: Come and explore this ancient parish of the Kings of France, located by the Seine, and considered the church of the Louvre. A terrifying chapter of French history is linked to this church, as on the night of August 24, 1572, its bell, named Marie, rang to signal the beginning of the St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre. It is also a place where magnificent treasures are preserved.
#6//Guided Tour or Treasure Hunt: "Discovering the Marais"
Le Marais is both one of the trendiest spots in the capital and a key location in historic Paris. It features numerous mansions, prestigious residences built by wealthy bourgeois in the 17th century.
The neighborhood has undergone many restorations that highlight its architectural gems, such as the Carnavalet Museum, the Cognacq-Jay Museum, and the famous Place des Vosges, whose harmonious facades include the house of Victor Hugo.
A treasure hunt will allow you to explore this history-laden neighborhood. Through questions and riddles, you will discover important monuments and historical sites. The most motivated teams will be rewarded with prizes!
#7//Tour of the Champs-Élysées from the Étoile to the Concorde
Come and discover one of the legendary avenues of the capital by walking in the footsteps of Joe Dassin, from the Étoile to the Concorde.
We will dream in front of the haute couture boutiques on Avenue Montaigne, then stroll along the most beautiful avenue in the world, passing by some of its most famous landmarks: the Arc de Triomphe, the Élysée Palace, the Petit and Grand Palais, masterpieces of 19th-century iron architecture, and finally, the Obelisk of the Concorde. We will stop along the way in front of the famous Lido cabaret, a highlight of Parisian nightlife.
Focus on the Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile: Commissioned by Napoleon I in 1806, it celebrates his victories. Chalgrin, its architect, was inspired by Antiquity. After Napoleon’s defeats, the construction was abandoned, then resumed between 1832 and 1836. Standing 50 meters tall, the monument features imposing bas-reliefs.
#8//Tour of the Bercy Neighborhood and its Park
New architecture, greenery, and charming restaurants bring this neighborhood to life while respecting its history.
Today, on the site of the former wine warehouses—the cellars, some of which have been preserved—stands the very picturesque Cour Saint-Emilion, a favorite among shopping enthusiasts, as well as the large Bercy Park, a place for romantic daydreaming or picnics with friends. The Palais Omnisports and the impressive Ministry of Finance add to the vibrancy of the area. Finally, our steps will lead us to the Viaduc des Arts and its famous planted promenade, a true green oasis above the city.
#9//Tour of the Les Halles Neighborhood and Saint-Eustache Church
We will set out to explore a commercial district that blends both the old and the modern. Indeed, the Halles district has undergone significant renovation since the 1970s while retaining its character as one of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris.
Between the medieval layout of Montorgueil and Ferronnerie streets, and the modernity of the Forum des Halles or the Centre Georges Pompidou, this tour will allow you to discover the “belly of Paris,” following in the footsteps of the Cour des Miracles and the former Cemetery of the Innocents…
#10//Tour of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés Neighborhood
Set out to discover one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Paris. From its famous Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church, one of the oldest in Paris, to the Luxembourg Gardens, and passing by prestigious institutions such as the École des Beaux-Arts and the Institut de France, we will journey back in time, following in the footsteps of 20th-century philosophers and jazz musicians.
In the Middle Ages, this suburb, developed around the wealthy Saint-Germain-des-Prés Abbey, was located outside of Paris. It was absorbed into the city in the 19th century. Since then, it has become a neighborhood with a unique charm, whose mystery continues to amaze and inspire numerous authors, artists, and musicians.
#11//Discovery Tour of the Parisian Passages
Join the Club International in discovering the covered passages.
Emerging at the dawn of the 19th century, the covered passages reached their peak during the Restoration period. They are the ancestors of today’s department stores. Still relatively unknown, these passages now attract visitors with the luxurious charm of their architecture and the lively boutiques they still house. You will find antique dealers, museums, and even tea rooms reminiscent of Belle Époque Paris.
Come discover a poetic, quirky, and unusual side of Paris under soft, subdued light… We will explore these passages through Galerie Vivienne and Galerie Colbert, which form one of the largest covered passages in Paris, as well as the Passage des Panoramas (one of the oldest) and Passage Jouffroy.
#12//Tour of the Nouvelle Athènes Neighborhood and the Musée de la Vie Romantique
Join us to discover another side of 19th-century Paris, more intimate and literary, the Paris of Balzac, Chopin, and George Sand. We will also visit the Musée de la Vie Romantique, which showcases collections of memorabilia related to two major figures of the 19th century: the writer George Sand and the painter Ary Scheffer. Afterward, we will visit the magnificent Church of La Trinité.
Focus on the Church of La Trinité: Built in 1867, the church is characteristic of the religious art of the Second Empire. Largely inspired by French Renaissance, the church is elegantly connected to the square by a balustrade that concludes with two rounded staircases. Come and discover this exceptional church.
#13//Tour of the Rodin Museum Gardens, the Invalides Neighborhood, and the Eiffel Tower
The Hôtel Biron, which later became the Musée Rodin in Paris, welcomed Auguste Rodin in 1908, a major artist of the 19th century who profoundly influenced the arts of the 20th century.
This museum showcases a beautiful collection of the master’s sculptures, as well as paintings, drawings, and works by other artists from his personal collection. The museum’s gardens feature some of his most famous works, such as The Thinker and The Gates of Hell.
The tour continues with the Hôtel des Invalides (exterior), Napoleon I’s tomb, the École Militaire, and concludes with the most iconic monument in Paris: the Eiffel Tower.
#14//Tour of the Belleville Neighborhood & Canal Saint Martin
We will explore one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in the capital. This former rural village, which later became a working-class district, has undergone significant transformations over the centuries. Today, Belleville is a lively and colorful cosmopolitan area: a guaranteed change of scenery! Our steps will then lead us to the Canal Saint-Martin, one of the most pleasant spots for a stroll in the capital.
Focus on the Canal Saint-Martin: This is a popular walking spot that connects, through the former suburbs, the Port de l’Arsenal in Paris to the Bassin de la Villette. Nine locks allow barges, and especially cruise ships, to navigate the canal. It features two swing bridges and several elegant footbridges.
#15//Tour of Parc Monceau and the Saint-Augustin Neighborhood
Join us in discovering the 8th arrondissement: a modern and relatively recent district that marks a break from medieval Paris.
We will visit Parc Monceau, established in 1787 and designed by landscape architects Carmontelle and Blaikie. This true gem of greenery features various follies in the style of the time, such as a pyramid. A 130-year-old sycamore maple and a purple beech tree find refuge here, along with other botanical wonders. We will also visit the beautiful Saint-Augustin Church.
Focus on Saint-Augustin Church: Beyond its blend of Romanesque, Byzantine, and Gothic influences, the unique feature of this church lies in its metal framework covered by a stone facing designed by Baltard. This construction allows the church to reach cathedral-like dimensions, with a length of 94 meters.
#16//Tour of the Bastille Neighborhood
Come and discover an authentic Paris. We will happily stroll through the streets and passages that shaped the history of Paris and the Bastille. On the agenda: exploring the rich history of the Faubourg Saint-Antoine, Saint-Antoine Hospital, passing through alleyways where woodworkers still practice their craft, visiting Sainte-Marguerite Church, Rue de Lappe, and finally, Place de la Bastille.
Focus on Sainte-Marguerite Church: Little known but with a rich history, this church is a symbol of the village that was the site of so many revolts. It was here that the storming of the Bastille took place in July 1789, and where the barricades of the Commune were erected in 1871. The church houses the tomb of the child king, Louis XVII, as well as a beautiful 18th-century trompe-l’œil.
#17//Tour of the Sentier Neighborhood
We will explore an important hub of Parisian fashion, renowned and immortalized in many French films.
Its lively streets also hide historic passages and squares with a touch of the Orient. At the heart of this area lies one of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris, now called the “Quartier du Caire” (Cairo district). The names of the streets, such as Rue d’Aboukir and Rue du Nil, recall Napoleon’s military expedition to Egypt, during which he brought along dozens of French artists and scholars, including Champollion.
#18//Guided Walk: "The Seine and its Bridges"
Join us for a walk and discover Paris through its bridges. As we stroll along the banks of the Seine, we will encounter the most prestigious Parisian bridges. Dating from different periods, they will allow us to trace the history of the city. It’s an opportunity to see the great monuments of Paris from a different perspective, such as the Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame de Paris…
Focus on the Pont Neuf: Paradoxically, the Pont Neuf is the oldest bridge in Paris. Of course, it was new in its time, but its construction took quite a while. The bridge became a fashionable spot, where one could see merchants, fire-breathers, bear trainers, tooth pullers, and street singers. The Pont Neuf, the first bridge without houses, was a lively place where you were “always sure to meet, at any hour, a monk, a white horse, and a prostitute.”
#19//Tour of the Monuments of the World’s Fair
From the mid-19th century to the 1930s, the World’s Fairs left a lasting mark on the landscape of western Paris.
We will take you on a journey to trace these grand events, which aimed to bring together technical and artistic productions from all over the world.
We will explore the sites where they took place: the Champ de Mars, Les Invalides, the Champs-Élysées, as well as the famous monuments they left behind in Paris: the Eiffel Tower, a technical feat heavily criticized when it was built, but now the most visited paid monument in the world; the Petit and Grand Palais, masterpieces of Art Nouveau; and the Palais de Chaillot and the Palais de Tokyo, whose simple architecture is typical of the 1930s.
#20//Tour of Père Lachaise Cemetery
In this vast resting place amidst the city of the living, art and nature blend to create a harmony that invites meditation and daydreaming… Come take a journey into this poetic universe, where the endless variety of tombs, some crafted by the most renowned sculptors, continually renews the scenery.
As you wander through its shaded avenues or winding streets, you will encounter the history of legendary names: Jim Morrison, Chopin, Delacroix, Oscar Wilde, Balzac, or Héloïse and Abélard…
#21//Tour of the Butte-aux-Cailles Neighborhood
In the shadow of the modern towers of Place d’Italie lies a charming little hill. La Butte-aux-Cailles is one of the many original villages of Paris. This old village, once bathed by the Bièvre River, is full of charm. A multitude of curiosities await you: La Petite Alsace, La Petite Russie, a mysterious Antoinist temple, and the beautiful Cité des Fleurs. A touch of countryside in Paris.
Focus on La Petite Alsace and La Petite Russie: Forty brick pavilions with half-timbering are arranged around a rectangular courtyard. This magnificent ensemble is the work of architect Jean Walter. Just above, the aligned houses you can see belong to “La Petite Russie.”
#22//Tour of the Carnavalet Museum (Museum of the History of Paris)
In the heart of the Marais, one of the best-preserved historical districts and near Place des Vosges, the Carnavalet Museum tells the story of Paris, from Prehistory to the present day, through numerous works in a remarkable architectural setting. Paintings, sculptures, furniture, and models allow you to learn everything about the city and its inhabitants throughout the centuries.
Focus on the Hôtel Carnavalet: Built in 1548 for Jacques de Ligneris, the Hôtel Carnavalet was redesigned by François Mansart in the 17th century. It was the residence of the Marquise de Sévigné, and the city of Paris purchased it in 1866 to turn it into a museum dedicated to its history. This hôtel is complemented by the Hôtel Le Peletier de Saint-Fargeau.
#23//Tour of the Luxembourg Gardens
Join us to discover one of the most beautiful gardens in Paris, a true open-air sculpture museum! Located between the Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Latin Quarter neighborhoods, this large garden is haunted by the presence of Marie de Médicis around her palace.
The garden, a green oasis in Paris, has been a source of inspiration for many artists. When the Latin Quarter was still a literary hub, the Luxembourg Gardens were known as the poets’ garden. Although it has changed a bit since then, it remains a favorite spot for students and children.
Focus on this open-air sculpture museum: Numerous statues are scattered throughout the gardens. They depict figures from Greek mythology, as well as animals and famous personalities like Beethoven or Baudelaire. Around the central terrace, you’ll find statues of the queens of France. There is also one of the original casts of the Statue of Liberty.
#24//Tour of the Cernuschi Museum
Located in a charming and original building designed by its founder, Henri Cernuschi (1821-1896), at the edge of Parc Monceau, the museum offers its visitors a high-quality aesthetic journey through Chinese art, from its origins to the 14th century.
Its diverse collections of archaic bronzes, funerary statuettes, and rare Buddhist sculptures are world-renowned. It is the second-largest Asian art museum in France and the fifth-largest Chinese art museum in Europe.
Focus on Henri Cernuschi (1821-1896): He was the creator of the museum that now bears his name. This Italian patriot, born in Milan, sought refuge in France in 1850. He embarked on a world tour from 1871 to 1873, during which he brought back 5,000 works of art from China and Japan. Upon his return, he had a private mansion built, which he later bequeathed, along with his collection, to the city of Paris.
#25//Tour of the Petit Palais (Museum of Fine Arts of the City of Paris)
Come and discover the Petit Palais, which houses the Museum of Fine Arts of the City of Paris. Located in the renowned setting of the Champs-Élysées gardens, it is part of a monumental ensemble that includes the Grand Palais and the Alexandre III Bridge.
The Petit Palais is an architectural masterpiece, both inside and out, particularly with its vast, light-filled galleries and transparent features surrounding the interior garden.
Built for the 1900 World’s Fair, this art space offers an artistic panorama from Antiquity to the early 20th century. You can explore ancient and medieval collections, as well as Flemish and Dutch paintings. Fully renovated, the Petit Palais blends modernity with the spirit of the 1900s.
#26//Tour of the Victor Hugo House
We invite you to discover the world of a genius of French literature: Victor Hugo. Through a guided tour of the house where he lived from 1832 to 1848, in the heart of the historic Marais district, we will gain a deeper understanding of the life and journey of the author of Notre-Dame de Paris and Les Misérables.
The Victor Hugo House Museum, established in 1902, showcases drawings, books, and personal belongings of the writer, allowing us to step into his private life.
#27//Tour of the Antoine Bourdelle Museum
Let yourself be guided for an afternoon into the world of Antoine Bourdelle with a visit to his museum. A world-renowned sculptor, Bourdelle was an assistant to Rodin and a teacher to Giacometti, Germaine Richier, and Vieira da Silva. This museum was created in 1961 to mark the centenary of the artist’s birth and is located in the apartments, studios, and gardens where he lived from 1884 onward.
Focus on this museum inside the workshop! Preserved in its original state, the museum still contains the sketches and monumental statues, as well as the Gothic furniture that the artist loved. Additionally, you will discover an exceptional collection of plasters, bronzes, and marbles by Giacometti, Germaine Richier, and Vieira da Silva.
#28//Tour of the Cognacq-Jay Museum
Located in the magnificent Hôtel Donon in the Marais district, the 18th-century European art collection evokes the refined life of the Age of Enlightenment. Come and discover this museum, which showcases a fine selection of paintings and sculptures, where great artists (Lemoyne, Chardin, Fragonard) are displayed alongside lesser-known masters (Lavreince, Saly). Wood paneling, furniture, and decorative art objects recreate the lifestyle of the elegant society of that time.
Focus on the Cognacq-Jay couple: Théodore-Ernest Cognacq (1839-1928) and his wife Marie-Louise Jay (1838-1925), merchants of humble origin, were the founders of the famous Samaritaine store. They also founded the museum that bears their name, thanks to the collection they began assembling in 1895, which Théodore-Ernest bequeathed to the city of Paris upon his death.
#29//Tour of the Museum of Modern Art of Paris
We will visit the rich permanent collections of the Museum of Modern Art of the City of Paris. Discover this museum dedicated to 20th-century art. Its impressive collections showcase the major French and European art movements, from Fauvism to contemporary creation, including Cubism and Conceptual Art.
Built for the 1937 International Exhibition, its architects were Aubert, Dastugue, Dondel, and Viard. This building houses part of the State’s modern art collections, which were previously exhibited in the Orangerie of the Luxembourg Gardens, as well as those of the City of Paris, previously kept at the Petit Palais.
#30//Tour of the Gustave Moreau Museum
We invite you to visit the magnificent apartment-museum of the painter Gustave Moreau together. Everything here was chosen by the painter himself. Gustave Moreau (1826-1898) wanted this museum to reflect his image and gather all his works.
Thousands of drawings, eight hundred watercolors, and paintings immerse you in the world of Moreau, a painter fascinated by mythological, biblical, and literary themes. In addition to Moreau’s creations, we will explore his apartment, where his personal memorabilia are displayed (works by Degas, Ricard, Poussin, Chassériau, etc.)
