paris walking tour audio

Tourists flock to this city on the Seine in their droves seeking an elusive imagined Paris that lives in a set of images: carelessly flicked cigarettes; rock star philosophers debating; the smell of freshly baked baguettes wafting from the baskets of passing bicycles; beauty in all things – buildings, art, food, clothing, people and ideas.

Urbs' audio tours of Paris  are the ultimate way to see the sights, including the many hidden gems dotted throughout the city. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or longer, there’s no better way to take it all in than a self-guided walking tour of Paris .

The Urbs Way

Listen & discover.

Enjoy 4+ hours of audio content written by cultural experts Explore 70+ fascinating cultural locations Discover 130+ restaurants, cafes, bars and shops recommended by local writers

Plan your route.

Plan your perfect day with our unique route plotting function You can also use one of our curated routes which can be amended according to interests, schedule and budget

Book tickets

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This is modern Paris

Romantic, breathtaking, chic and cultured – the city of Paris and its bright lights never fail to impress. It’s said that you have to visit Paris at least once in your lifetime - and with so much to experience, it’s easy to see why a visit to the French capital is not only rich in art history, but also a fun city to base yourself – alone, with a loved one, or even with a group of friends. Whether this is your first or seventh visit to the capital, you’ll want to have a plan in order to visit the best parts, to discover something new, and to have a memorable time, which is why self-guided walking tours of Paris are so popular. The Urbs app allows you to plan your own schedule and add all your favourite sights and attractions, with recommendations from those in the know. It’s a bit like a France travel podcast, travel guide book and modern travel hack rolled into one. So why not join us on a journey of discovery and history, and make new memories at the same time!

J’adore Paris

Ready to put your audio tour of Paris together? Here are some of the walks, attractions and neighbourhoods currently trending that you can find more about on the app. Why not add them to your list.

​ Paris has a reputation for some of the best art and culture in the world. Here you can find the finest galleries and museums, including the Musee d’Orsay, the Musee National Picasso and the Centre Pompidou. However, the best place to start your audio tour of Paris is the Louvre Museum, home to some of the world’s most famous artworks, including the Mona Lisa. Better still, our audio tour answers all your pressing questions, saving you the hassle of having to Google afterwards. If you plan to visit several museums, a Paris Museum pass will serve you well.

Green space

​ There are so many beautiful parks and gardens within the square mile of the city, making the perfect backdrop for your audio tour of Paris. Jardin du Luxembourg is a popular spot with locals, with plenty of information and signage in the area. But perhaps, for the best view, get off the beaten track and head to Montmartre. Across the sweeping skyline, you can see why it’s the basis for many well-known French artworks.

Boutique shopping

As you immerse yourself in your self-guided walking tour of Paris, don’t forget to make time for shopping. There are so many neighbourhoods in Paris for fashion lovers, including the district of Le Marais, which more than lives up to its name as a shoppers’ haven. Head to either Rue des Francs-Bourgeois or Rue Vieille du Temple for luxury bijou shops in the heart of the city.

Iconic landmarks

If you visit just one place on your audio tour of Paris, make it the Eiffel Tower. Located in the Champs de Mars, this world-famous landmark is a prerequisite for your visit. During your walking tour, be sure to take lots of photos for your Instagram account.Some of the sights that also have to be visited include the epic Champs Elysées – a stunning piece of architecture within the city, and of course Notre Dame - which is still undergoing renovation.

Finally, for your audio tour of Paris, head to the lively Latin Quarter for fun evening entertainment, popular with students. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to book tickets for the mesmerising Moulin Rouge – it’s all part of the mandatory French experience!

Café culture

​ Food and Paris go hand-in-hand. If you have a sweet tooth, one of the best places to order crepes and a coffee is Breizh Café – a real gem hidden away in the Marais district. That said, walk around any local square and you can find a market stall selling delicious local foods. The city, of course, has tons of restaurants, where you can sample five-star dining like no other. To really impress, head to Le Cinq at the Four Seasons.

Access Paris by app

​ Before you take off on your French adventure, there’s something you need to do. Download the Urbs app to your iPhone or smartphone device – the only way to create your Paris audio tour. Here’s some of the benefits in doing so:

Bespoke travel plan

Why do the same tourist route as everyone else, when you can curate your very own audio tour of Paris? Or, if you’re looking for inspiration, choose from one of the many walking tours available.

Discover something new

Whether you’re looking for a hidden gem, or local tip, our self-guided tours can be mixed and matched from over 400 options, allowing you to discover Paris and places of interest.

To get about the city with ease and enjoy the many attractions, book ahead of time using the Urbs app – it’s a great help, especially for big groups.

Download the app

Planning a trip to Paris? Then don’t miss the chance to access the city in this audio feast, now available to download on Android and iOS devices.

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Paris Top Ten

Best of Paris

Discovering Paris: Walking audio tour along the Seine river

Tour details.

• Duration: 3 hours
• Price: €11.00

Top-Rated Tours in Paris

Introduction to paris walking audio tours.

Embark on an enchanting journey through the heart of Paris with an audio walking tour that offers a seamless blend of freedom and insight. Delve into Paris’s storied streets and picturesque riverbanks at your own pace, guided by the rich narratives and cultural details that emerge with each step along the Seine river.

Advantages of Audio Tours

Audio tours present a unique advantage by melding comprehensive guidance with personal convenience . Here’s why they are a brilliant choice for your Parisian escapade:

• Flexibility : Tour at your own pace, pausing when inspiration strikes or a café beckons.
• Rich Content : Be enlightened by stories and facts typically curated by Paris experts.
• Cost-Effectiveness : Often more affordable than live tour guides without compromising on the quality of information.
• Privacy and Comfort : With your headphones, immerse yourself intimately in the ambience of Paris without external intrusions.

How to Use Your Smartphone as an Audio Guide

Converting your smartphone into a personal audio guide is straightforward:

• Download a recommended app : Find an app that provides GPS-led and offline options.
• Charge your device : Ensure your smartphone is fully charged before you step out.
• Bring headphones : For the best experience, use comfortable headphones that allow you to stay aware of your surroundings.
• Download tours beforehand : If you prefer not using data, download audio files in advance.

With these simple steps, you’ll be ready to explore Paris with a wealth of knowledge at your fingertips. As you amble along the Seine, allow the whispers of history and the rhythm of Parisian life to accompany you on a walking tour like no other.

Selecting Your Walking Tour Along the Seine River

Paris unfolds along the banks of the Seine River, and selecting the right walking tour for your exploration is key to an enriching experience. Choose wisely to awaken your senses to the city’s charming bridges , iconic landmarks, and historical whispers with every step.

Types of Walking Tours Available

As you set out to pick your Seine riverside walking tour, you’re greeted with a diverse array of options. The audio-guided walking tours are a popular choice, allowing you to immerse yourself in the Parisian aura at your own pace. Here’s what you can expect:

• Narrated Histories : Stories that breathe life into Paris’s storied past.
• Cultural Anecdotes : Insider insights on the city’s rich art and culture scene.
• Flexible Itineraries : Routes that explore from the Eiffel Tower to Musée d’Orsay, and beyond.

Dive deep into the heart of Paris with tales of the Palais de Chaillot, and marvel at the splendour of Les Invalides , all narrated through your personal audio guide.

Booking Process and Refunds

Securing your adventure along the Seine River is straightforward. You can reserve now and pay later , granting you the flexibility to plan without immediate commitment. Here’s a brief overview of what to keep in mind during the booking process:

• Online Ticketing : Easily book through platforms offering instant tickets.
• Free Cancellation Options : Look for tours with free cancellation to retain peace of mind.
• Full Refund Policies : In case plans change, a full refund is often available if the cancellation is made within the stipulated period.

Remember, while the city of Paris is timeless, the slots for these enchanting walking tours are not. Booking ahead ensures your place in uncovering the heart of Paris along the Seine.

See Related: Porte de Versailles Hôtel

Highlights of the Seine River Walking Tour

Embark on a journey where the breeze from the Seine whispers tales of history and the stones of Parisian landmarks hold secrets of the past. This Seine River walking tour, complemented by an audio guide, offers a blend of culture, architecture, and history, inviting you to experience the heart of Paris.

Eiffel Tower and Champ de Mars

Begin your tour awestruck by the Eiffel Tower , also known as Tour Eiffel , which stands as a symbol of architectural marvel and French ingenuity. As you stroll through the Champ de Mars , the expansive greens provide a majestic foreground to the tower’s intricate ironwork. Capture the tower’s grace from various angles, while your audio guide narrates its story from its controversial inception to its global icon status.

Notre Dame Cathedral and Surrounding Area

Continuing along the river, you’ll encounter the Notre Dame Cathedral , a testament to Gothic architecture. Although recent events have marred its structure, the area around Notre Dame resonates with history and offers an unparalleled ambiance. Listen closely as the audio guide brings to life the stories of the cathedral’s construction, its historical significance, and the neighborhood’s charming allure.

Grand Palais and Musée d’Orsay

As you meander past the Grand Palais , its Beaux-Arts architecture is sure to impress, representing a period when Paris was the fashion capital of the world. Alongside, the Musée d’Orsay stands as a former railway station turned museum, housing masterpieces from renowned artists. Your audio companion will enrich your perceptions of these attractions, sharing anecdotes about hidden artworks and architectural details.

Les Invalides and Nearby Museums

The tour would not be complete without visiting Les Invalides , the formidable complex of museums and monuments , including the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte. Hear tales of military grandeur and marvel at the impressive collection of arms, armory, and history nestled within these walls. The audio guide will ensure you gain insight into the significance of the monuments as more than mere tourist attractions, but as keepers of French national pride.

See Related: Paris self-guided audio tour

Exploring Lesser-Known Attractions

Discover the Seine’s hidden gems and Montmartre’s secrets with an expert’s insight on this audio tour of Paris. Venture beyond the well-worn tourist paths.

Hidden Secrets of the Seine Riverbanks

As you stroll along the Seine, you might overlook the whispers of history emanating from its banks. Every nook holds stories, often missed by the hurried passerby. For instance, the narrow streets flanking the river reveal historical plaques that detail significant, yet lesser-known events. These often commemorate revolutionary moments or literary references that have shaped Parisian culture. Listen closely to your audio guide for tales that transform nondescript facades into portals to the past.

Montmartre and the Statue of Liberty Replica

Montmartre, known for its bohemian spirit and artistic legacy, stands as a sanctuary where the bustle of Paris fades into serene cobblestone streets. It harbors the surprising Statue of Liberty Replica , a lesser-known sibling to the iconic New York statue. Situated on the Île aux Cygnes, an island in the Seine, this quarter-scale replica faces west towards her larger counterpart across the Atlantic. The audio tour delves into the history of this gift from France to the United States, examining its symbolic significance and the Franco-American friendship it represents.

See Related : Hôtel Gaillard de la Bouëxière

Practical Information for Tourists

Before setting off on your remarkable journey along the Seine, it’s crucial to understand the logistics to ensure a seamless experience. Navigate through Paris with ease, considering the accessibility options and transportation tools at your disposal.

Accessibility for Wheelchair Users

Paris is striving to improve accessibility for wheelchair users , and the Seine’s riverside paths are a testament to this effort. Most of the promenade, particularly the stretch nearer to central landmarks, is wheelchair-friendly , boasting smooth pathways and ramps. While some areas might be less accessible due to historic cobblestone texture or occasional steps, key viewing spots along your audio tour are designed to be inclusive.

Navigating with Google Maps and Public Transport

Employ Google Maps to orient yourself—the app provides real-time updates and walking routes. For longer stretches or to hop between sites, make use of Paris’s extensive public transport network . The RER and metro stations, marked on your map, are convenient ways to traverse the cityscape. Remember to check for the nearest stations like Saint-Michel Notre Dame (RER B and C) or Musée d’Orsay (RER C) to rejoin the riverside at different points during your tour. They provide efficient connections, enhancing your experience as you uncover the city’s heart through its river.

See Related : Hôtel de Gargan

Maximizing Your Walking Tour Experience

Embarking on a walking tour with an audio guide along the Seine River in Paris can be a remarkable experience. To make the most of it, here are specific tips and considerations for a journey that promises both enlightenment and pleasure.

Best Times to Embark on the Walking Tour

Early Morning:

• Streets less crowded, providing a more intimate atmosphere
• Soft light ideal for photography

Late Afternoon to Evening:

• Enjoy the warm glow of the setting sun
• Witness the city’s landmarks beautifully lit up at night

Weather Consideration: Opt for mild weather conditions; avoid the walking tour during extreme weather to ensure comfort.

Tips for a Comfortable and Enjoyable Journey

Wear Comfortable Shoes:

• Essential for the cobbled streets and promenades
• Prioritize footwear that provides support and cushioning

Stay Hydrated:

• Carry a water bottle to stay refreshed
• Numerous water fountains along the route

Pack Light:

• Bring only essentials to avoid being weighed down
• Use a small backpack or crossbody bag for free movement

Battery Power:

• Charge your phone beforehand
• Consider bringing a portable charger

Take Breaks:

• Sit at public benches or steps near the riverside
• Ideal for absorbing the views and information from your audio guide

Enjoy at Your Pace:

• Relax and take in each site, no need to rush
• The audio guide allows for flexibility in the journey

Stay Alert:

• Keep your belongings secure
• Stay aware of your surroundings for a safe experience

See Related: Hôtel d’Évreux

Culminating Your Tour at the Arc de Triomphe

As you approach the end of your audio-guided stroll along the Seine, the mighty Arc de Triomphe stands as a sentinel at the confluence of history and grandeur. Erected at the top of the Champs-Élysées, this monument has witnessed over two centuries of French history.

Construction and Significance

• Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806
• Celebrates military victories and honors those who fought for France
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier lies beneath its vault

Visiting the Monument Accessing the Arc de Triomphe involves climbing 248 steps to the top. Here, a breathtaking panorama of Paris awaits, offering a perfect culmination to your journey.

Ticket Information

• Entry Fee: 12-18 euros (varies seasonally)
• Discounts available for EU citizens, children, and pensioners

Exploring the Top Once you reach the summit, take a moment to capture the cityscape that stretches out before you. Marvel at the intricate design of the monument—the sculptures and friezes that narrate chapters of French valiance.

Your audio tour might regale with tales from the Napoleonic Wars to the French Resistance, each story further enriching your understanding of the nation’s capital. As the whispering winds of history swirl around you, absorb the essence of Parisian pride and resilience that the Arc de Triomphe so profoundly symbolizes.

As day turns to dusk, linger to witness the flame of the Unknown Soldier flicker against the twilight, a serene epilogue to your Seine-side promenade.

See Related : B&B HOTEL Paris Châtillon

Enhancements to the Walking Tour

Discovering Paris along the Seine has never been more engaging with recent improvements to the walking tour.

In-App Audio Tour Features

The in-app audio tour is a technological marvel that allows you to explore at your own pace. As you stroll, vast library of narratives unfold before you:

• Narration by Experts : Tales of the city from local historians and guides.
• Interactive Map : Pinpoints your location and suggests the next point of interest.
• Easy Playback Controls : Allows you to pause, play, or skip through the audio as needed.

Multilingual Guide Options

Communication barriers are no longer a concern with:

• Languages Available : Not only can you select English or French , but additional languages are at your disposal to ensure a seamless experience.
• Synchronized Subtitles : Follow along the narrative with textual aid on your screen.

Incorporating Music into Your Tour

The essence of Paris isn’t just in its sights, but also in its sounds. The audio tour enriches this sensory journey with:

• Curated Playlists : Enjoy French classics that resonate with the surroundings.
• Historical Tunes : Music from different eras to transport you through time as you walk.

See Related: Hôtel Avenir Vaugirard

Bridges Along the Seine: Bir-Hakeim and Beyond

As you meander along the Seine, the melody of Paris unfolds with each bridge telling its own story. Let your audio tour guide you to the Bir-Hakeim Bridge , a dual-layered marvel that blends practicality with architectural grace. Named after a battlefield from World War II, the bridge not only offers a conduit for travelers but also serves as a monument to history.

• Structure : Featuring metal arches, this bridge supports both vehicular and pedestrian travel on its lower deck while the upper deck carries the rattling trains of Paris Métro Line 6.
• Visuals : Imagine the scene: you’re strolling under the girders, a sight captured in countless films, with the Eiffel Tower framing your view. The intricacies of its design are illuminated at dusk, adding a romantic ambiance to your tour.

Moving beyond Bir-Hakeim, the Seine is lined with over 30 bridges, each with a unique design:

• Pont Alexandre III : Known for its opulent Beaux-Arts style, complete with ornate sculptures.
• Pont des Arts : A pedestrian bridge that invites leisurely walks and once hosted thousands of love locks.
• Pont Neuf : Despite its name, ‘New Bridge,’ it stands as the oldest bridge across the Seine, steeped in over 400 years of history.

These bridges serve as milestones in your journey, spots where Parisians and tourists alike pause to reflect. Every arch and every curve whisper tales from centuries past, inviting you to experience the enduring soul of Paris. As the audio guide details the stories behind these iconic structures, your walk along the Seine becomes a passage through time.

Related Resources:

• Paris Catacombs Skip The Line Walking Guided Tour
• Small group excursion to the D-Day sites with lunch and minibus from Paris
• Atelier Parent/Enfant – Choux

Other Travel Guides

• Which Arrondissement is the Eiffel Tower in? A Guide to Its Location
• Where to Stay in Paris for the Olympics: Top Accommodation Choices
• Review of Giraffe Restaurant in Paris: Memorable Dining Experience
• The Unmissable Places to Visit in Paris
• The Ancient Wonders of Pantheon Paris: A Travel Guide
• 11 Best Foods in Paris to Try & Where to Find Them

Paris: Self-Guided Discovery Pack

Book Your Tour

Self guided audio tour.

Free cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Immediately take advantage of our unique navigation functionality which makes self-guiding easy, with plenty of suggested walking routes to explore. Find yourself immersed in the culture and history of the city, as you approach iconic landmarks including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame and Arc de Triomphe.

Don’t forget to tune into your audio commentary to hear all about the tourist hotspots, or take a break whenever you fancy to suit your own schedule. When you’re ready, plan your next walking route, pinpoint your favourite sights and source the best photo hotspots, as you continue your exploration of Paris, the Vox City way!

Inclusions & exclusions

What you get:  ✔️ Unlimited access to all self-guided features ✔️ Unlimited use for the duration of your stay  ✔️ Multilingual audio commentary in English, Spanish, French, German, Chinese and Italian

What you don’t get: ✖️ Mobile Device ✖️ Headphones ✖️ Entry to Attractions ✖️ Public Transportation Tickets

Highlights across the tour include:

⚬ Eiffel Tower ⚬ Louvre Museum ⚬ Notre-Dame ⚬ Arc de Triomphe ⚬ Champs-Élysées ⚬ Palace of Versailles ⚬ Tuileries Garden ⚬ Luxembourg Gardens ⚬ Place de la Concorde ⚬ Moulin Rouge ⚬ Catacombs of Paris ⚬ Champ de Mars ⚬ Montparnasse Tower ⚬ Petit Palais

Know before you go

⚬ Please note, this is a digital experience. There is no meeting point or staff on-site. ⚬ This tour includes multilingual audio commentary, available in English, Chinese, German, French, Italian and Spanish ⚬ This tour requires you to use your own mobile device and headphones at all times; further download instructions can be found on your voucher ⚬ Please note, this product is non-refundable and non-amendable, however you may redeem it at a time that suits you best

Frequently Ask Questions

What is a self-guided tour?

A self-guided tour is a type of tour where visitors explore a destination on their own using an audio guide or a map. Unlike a guided tour, visitors are not led by a tour guide and are free to choose their own pace and explore the sights that interest them the most. Self-guided tours offer more flexibility and freedom to visitors. They are a popular option for those who prefer to explore a destination independently. 

Is a Walking Tour suitable for all ages?

The walking tour is suitable for all ages, but keep in mind that it involves a fair amount of walking and standing, so participants should be able to walk for at least 2.5 hours. Additionally, wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing a water bottle can help ensure that you're comfortable throughout the tour

What is a Multilingual Audio tour?

A multilingual audio tour is a type of tour that provides visitors with audio guides in multiple languages. Visitors can use headphones to listen to the audio guide as they explore a destination, with the audio guide providing information about the sights, history, and culture of the area. The audio guides are typically pre-recorded and offer visitors the option to choose their preferred language.

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Paris City Guide + Musée d’Orsay Audio Tour

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Paris: Eiffel Tower, Palaces and Gardens Self Guided Tour

• Champ de Mars
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Paris Montmartre: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App

• App with Audio Guide in 7 languages on smartphone
• GPS guidance
• Admission fee for attractions
• 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France The route doesn't have a specific start and end point. You can start at any point on the route. Once you are inside the CityAppTour-app, walk to any point of interest. If you are within 15 meters a message will pop-up and the tour will start.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This activity requires an internet connection and gps function on your phone.
• The average duration of the activity is is 2-3 hours. However you have until the end of the next day to finish it. Enough time to take a break, visit a museum or have a drink.
• Don't forget to bring headphones.
• You will receive instructions to activate your self-guided tour in a separate email.
• Walking distance: 5,0 km
• Number of stops/stories: 41
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Moulin Rouge

Similar experiences

• You'll start at 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France The route doesn't have a specific start and end point. You can start at any point on the route. Once you are inside the CityAppTour-app, walk to any point of interest. If you are within 15 meters a message will pop-up and the tour will start. See address & details
• Pass by Montmartre The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre Place du Tertre Wall of Love Moulin Rouge
• You'll return to the starting point

More to explore in Paris

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Self Guided Walking Tours of Paris

In this post, you will find a free, self-guided walking tour of the historic heart of Paris, along with a map and a GPS-enabled audio option.

The route includes many locations we cover in our free guided walking tours, so we offer you lots of information based on our knowledge of the history of what you will be seeing in this self-guided tour.

This tour starts on the Left Bank in the Latin Quarter before exploring Île de la Cité and ends at the Louvre Museum.

When you are done with this self-guided tour, why not try our others?

• Right Bank Landmarks
• Latin Quarter
• Père Lachaise Cemetery

Like this one, they come with maps, routes, and in some cases, audio tour versions.

You can use these to discover the city at your own pace or as a preview of what you will see on a live-guided tour, like our free walking tours of Paris .

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SELF-GUIDED TOUR - HEART OF PARIS

The tour starts on the Left Bank in the Latin Quarter, passes through Île de la Cité and ends at the Louvre Museum.

The route is a little less than 3 kilometers (just under 2 miles).

If you'd like to enhance your experience, you might like to use our accompanying GPS-led audio tour , developed and narrated by one of our local tour guides, Andrew.

The audio tour is a more detailed version of the written information below. It costs just 2.99€ per download.

Here is a sample of the tour.

Click on the map to expand or to download it to your phone.

For directions between stops, use the map above or download a PDF version of this tour.

1. Place Saint-Michel

Place Saint-Michel is simple – a triangle between two streets, uniform buildings along both, designed by the same architect, a walk of smooth cobblestone.

The centerpiece is St. Michael defeating a devil; far above them are four statues symbolizing the four cardinal virtues of prudence, fortitude, temperance, and justice.

This monument came to be because of the 1848 Revolution and a cholera epidemic in Paris that followed it which killed thousands.

This idea of abstract concepts given human form had been popular during the Revolution, the big one, representing the kind of big virtues – like the Four Cardinal Virtues – that everyone could strive for, instead of a single human being whose actions and legacy would turn people against each other.

Simultaneous with the creation of Place Saint-Michel, Napoleon III’s renovation brought the Boulevard Saint-Michel into being, and that is the next part of the walk.

2. Boulevard Saint-Michel

The character of the street you’re on – wide-open space lined with trees and long, harmonious buildings, plus, often, a view of some landmark in the distance – was a central part of the renovation plan, or the Haussmann plan, as it’s also known.

Georges-Eugène Hausmann was a Paris technocrat. Aside from health reasons, he also made the case to the parliament that wide streets would help prevent so many revolutions in the future.

Many buildings along this road are fine examples of the French 2nd Empire style.

On the left side of the street, just after Boulinier, a used book store, you’ll see the ruins of ancient Roman-style baths.

This is a preview of the Cluny Museum, which you’ll see from the front soon.

3. The Sorbonne

The Sorbonne, or the University of Paris, has been here since 1150, making it the second oldest university in Europe.

It’s the place where some of the fundamentals of today’s education system – things like doctoral degrees – were first put into practice.

The Sorbonne helped put Paris, and the Latin Quarter, on the map. 

It’s hard to overstate how many big names are connected with this institution, then and since.

Among them are churchmen John Calvin and Thomas Aquinas, scientists Marie and Pierre Curie, writers Voltaire, Balzac, Jean-Paul Sartre, T.S. Eliot, Elie Wiesel, Susan Sontag and so many more.

4. Cluny Museum

This is the Cluny Museum, formerly the Cluny Mansion. The name comes from the Cluny monks to whom it belonged and they were named for the city where they were based.

In 1340, they obtained what was left of the thermal baths you saw earlier and built this structure beside them.

Today, it’s France’s National Museum of the Middle Ages. It’s more an art museum than a history museum, with excellent exhibits on tapestries and stained glass.

Apart from those, the museum also has early medieval art from before the Gothic era – the style called Romanesque – medieval work from the Islamic world and the Byzantine Empire, and some other late, near-Renaissance pieces from the era of the tapestries.

There are also some much older artifacts in that oldest part of the property, the Roman baths. 

It’s open every day but Tuesday from 9:15 am to 5:45 pm. Regular tickets are 5 Euros, sometimes more if there’s a special exhibit going on ( more info ).

However, it’s free for teenagers, EU citizens under 26, and, on the first Sunday of each month, for everyone. It’s also free with a Paris Museum Pass .

5. The Church of Saint-Severin

Pause here for a moment to take in the atmosphere of the medieval city.

Saint-Severin is a 13th-century church, and the Rue Saint-Severin, the road just past it, is from that same era.

Look down to the left and you can imagine the crowdedness of these roads, shared by carts. pedestrians and animals and whatever was thrown from upper windows.

And you can imagine how easy it would be to improvise a barricade across one of these streets if you wanted to.

6. Church of Saint-Julien-le-Pauve

The Church of Saint-Julien-le-Pauve, or St. Julian the Poor, began construction in the 12th century, around the same time as Notre-Dame, and steady changes since have made it a mash-up of styles.

But it started Romanesque, the early medieval style that preceded Gothic, and you can see the heaviness of that style, compared to which Gothic would have seemed so revolutionary.

While it was originally a Roman Catholic church, today it’s used by Melkite Greek Catholics, who are part of an Eastern Catholic community, based in the Middle East.

The square is called the Square Rene Viviani, mostly known for its view of Notre-Dame.

The grounds are littered with big pieces of limestone – in the 19th century when Notre-Dame was renovated and also contains a locust tree believed to be the oldest tree in Paris, about 400 years old.

7. Shakespeare and Company Bookstore

This is the second of two bookstores called Shakespeare and Company, the other stood just southwest of here, and both focused on English language books. 

An American named Sylvia Beach opened it, and as both a bookstore and a lending library, it came to be the haunt of writers and artists, including Gertrude Stein, Ernest Hemingway, and Pablo Picasso.

The bookstore provided more than just a place for future artistic celebrities to meet; it also stocked and eventually published books that were banned back home, including James Joyce’s novel Ulysses.

This Shakespeare and Company was founded by George Whitman, who offered lodging to writers in exchange for volunteer work, and if you step inside, you’ll see some of their beds.

8. Left Bank - Pont au Double

On the quays along the banks of the Seine, Shakespeare and Company has plenty of competition in the bookselling business: bouquinistes , the booksellers who set up shop in little stalls along the river. 

From around the bridge, you can get a few important views. First is the Seine itself. The name Seine comes from Sequana, the name of an ancient river goddess. 

The river is the reason for human interest in this site going back millennia, and the Île de la Cité offered a relatively easy crossing, as well as an opportunity to build low bridges and control traffic up and down the river. 

On the opposite side of the water from here is the Île de la Cité. From here you can see the big picture of the island. 

On the west end, to your left, is the Palais de la Justice, the former site of the royal palace and still home to parts of the French government. 

On the east side, to the right, has been religious turf for even longer – Notre-Dame has stood here since 1163.

Before, there was another Christian cathedral that was likely a Roman temple, and those were sometimes built on sacred sites that were older still. 

Nowadays, there’s not much on the island besides that; Haussmann eliminated most of the residences here.

9. Notre-Dame (Exterior)

This cathedral was started in the 1100s and enhanced with some of its flashiest elements over the next few centuries.

You can see one of those additions: the flying buttresses, those gracefully curved stone supports arrayed along the side of the building. 

The cathedral has 2 beautiful rose windows, both designed in the 13th century, but they were recreated in the 19th century, and they weren’t the only parts of the cathedral added so recently. 

The same is true of much of the stained glass, the spire (now destroyed by the fire), all the gargoyles, and the heads of statues on the western side. 

To help fund that restoration, Victor Hugo penned his novel Notre-Dame de Paris, known in English as The Hunchback of Notre-Dame . 

Looking at the cathedral from the front, you can see an overwhelming number of sculptures and reliefs.

For a time when most attendees were illiterate and didn’t understand the Latin language in which the sermons were given, the church façade itself was the illustrated version of the Bible. 

Over the main western doors, on what’s called the tympanum, is a relief of Judgement Day, with the separation of souls bound for eternal paradise or eternal torment. 

To the left, over the Portal of the Virgin, is a statue of Saint-Denis, who would have needed no introduction for most attendees.

He was beheaded by the Romans for the threat he posed to other religions. 

Now, he’s a patron saint of Paris and he’s also known across the Catholic world as someone to pray for relief from headaches.

In April 2019, a fire led to the collapse of much of the roof and a spire, plus collateral damage from impact, smoke, and water to much of the rest of the building and the artwork inside.

Hundreds of firefighters contained the disaster and kept it from doing more harm. 

The archaeological crypt under the parvis is now open and contains remains of the Roman city, plus models of what Notre-Dame looked like at the various phases of its life.

Tickets are 9€ or for free with a Paris Museum Pass .

Notre-Dame Cathedral's reopening is scheduled for December 8, 2024.

10. Rue de Lutece

Straight ahead, you can see the Palais de la Justice, the next stop.

To your right is the Marché aux Fleurs Reine Elizabeth II, a beautiful, 200-year-old outdoor flower and plant market, operating daily from 9:30 - 19:00 (7 pm).

Lutèce is the French variation of “Lutetia” the ancient Roman name for Paris. The full name was Lutetia Parisiorum – Lutetia of the Parisii. 

The Parisii were the tribe that lived in this area before the Roman conquest, and as you may have guessed, they give the city its modern name.

Though we refer to Roman in this tour, it is Gallo-Roman, to be exact.

The region’s population was the Gauls, a Celtic people, and while they were conquered by the Romans, local culture in the early centuries CE was a fusion of both. 

There’s a limited understanding of the geography of ancient life here – the ancient Gallic city was probably out west in today’s suburbs, and the Roman city, originally on the Left Bank, moved onto the island in the third century to be more easily defended. 

At the end of Rue de Lutèce is Boulevard du Palais, with the massive palace complex on the opposite side of the street.

11. Palais De Justice and Sainte-Chapelle

Altogether, what you see here is the Palais de la Cité. The site has served state functions as far back as being the home of Roman governors in the early years CE.

As for French kings, it was the royal palace until the 14th century, when it moved to various locations across the Seine on the Right Bank, including the Louvre. 

From here you can see Sainte-Chapelle or the Sacred Chapel, easily identified by the tall steeple on the left side of the complex.

As for going inside Sainte-Chapelle, the wait can be long, but you’ll see some of the world’s most impressive stained glass. 

The upper chapel, up a narrow spiral staircase from the entrance and once only accessible by the king and his family, is surrounded by windows, and comprehensive cleaning and restoration completed in 2014 have them in ideal form. 

The lower chapel, the portion originally made for the general population of the palace, has a highly decorated Gothic vaulted ceiling. 

Sainte-Chapelle 's hours are:

• April 1st to September 30th, 9:00 - 19:00 (7 pm)
• October 1st to March 31, 9:00 - 17:00 (5 pm)

Tickets are 13€ per person over 18 years of age; under 18 years old have free admission.

You can also be admitted for free with a Paris Museum Pass .

You can also get a combination ticket with our next stop, La Conciergerie, for 20€, but it’s only available from the La Conciergerie ticket desk; you won’t find it online.

12. La Conciergerie

La Conciergerie is famous as the last residence of Queen Marie Antoinette before she was executed early in the French Revolution. It was also a prison before and after her time. 

La Conciergerie

The royal palace had moved to new locations across the Seine in the 14th century. But some state functions stayed behind here, including part of the French court system. 

In the absence of the king himself, the place was run by a surrogate – a concierge – giving this building its name.

While the Revolution began with the liberation of a prison, the Bastille, it soon took over the palace and found uses for everything there. 

Sainte-Chapelle became storage, the space where the parliament of nobles met became the home of the assembly and the Revolutionary Tribunal, and the prison became... the prison. 

The royalty and their supporters, and eventually all kinds of perceived enemies, were imprisoned, tried, and executed, close to 3,000 of them in this building alone.

The Cell of Marie-Antoinette

In terms of the interior, La Conciergerie is a stark, simple building compared to Sainte-Chapelle, although still majestically Gothic.

Some spaces are set up as they would have looked during the Revolution, including the cell of Marie-Antoinette, which is now a chapel dedicated to her.

Hours : 

• 9:30 - 18:00 (6 pm). Last entry at 17:30 (5:30 pm)
• Early closure on December 24 and January 1 at 17:00 (5 pm)

Lastly, you can purchase a combination ticket that includes La Conciergerie and Sainte-Chapelle for 20€, available from the La Conciergerie ticket desk; you won’t find it online.

There are guided tours (at an additional cost) every day at 11:00 and 15:00 (3 pm) and virtual reality 'histo-pads' available for rental at a modest price. 

At the end of the block, on the corner of the palace, is the first of the palace’s four towers, Tour de l’Horloge.

13. Tour de L'Horloge

Tour de l’Horloge means clock tower, and the clock is hard to miss!

This was the first public clock in Paris, installed in the 14th century, although the decorated face you see now came along a couple of hundred years later and has been restored a few times since. 

The figures on either side are personifications of law and justice – you may be able to see the plaque on the left and the scales on the right. 

The clock face is covered by a small roof.

If you have especially sharp eyes and you look straight up at the underside of that roof, you can see a repeating pattern of intertwined letters: sometimes H and C, for King Henri II and his queen, Catherine de Medici, and sometimes H and M, for King Henri IV and his queen, Marguerite de Valois.

14-15. Place Dauphine

Place Dauphine is another city square, a triangle really; the rows of buildings that border it on the north and south sides slowly converge, leading to the edge of the island. 

Make your way gradually through to that point.

King Henri IV had a son, who would eventually become King Louis XIII, but until he took the throne, he was the Dauphin, or the crown prince. 

Dauphin also means dolphin; a couple of them are featured on the French coat of arms. 

Anyway, during his son’s boyhood, Henri IV converted a private palace garden into a public square and called it Place Dauphine, or Crown Prince Square. 

The buildings have mostly been redone since then; you can get a feel for the original square at the other end, the last buildings where the two sides converge to frame a statue of Henri IV.

16. Pont Neuf

The space where Henri stands is called the Square du Vert Galant, and it’s a relatively new piece of land.

River islands like Île de la Cité naturally build up this way on their downstream side. 

The New Bridge, when it was new at the start of the 1600s, just touched the tip of the island. 

Today, Pont Neuf is the oldest bridge still running across the Seine, and the others have followed its lead.

This one was specifically designed not to have houses on it, so as to offer a view of the Louvre, which is where we’re going next.

17. Quai du Louvre

First, the sights on the Left Bank. 

Directly across the Pont Neuf you can see the Monnaie de Paris, France’s mint, operating for more than a millennium and still producing Euros today.

The building includes a museum on the history of the institution itself and on other money-related matters.

Next to it, you’ll see a wide building with a dome in the middle, the Institut de France.

Founded as a school, this is the home to intellectual institutions like the Académie Française. 

The Academy does many things, including giving life-changing monetary prizes to artists, but it’s best known for promoting a stiff view of what constitutes correct French. 

Crossing the river in front of the Institut de France is another bridge, the Pont des Arts or Bridge of the Arts, named to match with the Louvre, the Palais des Arts or Palace of the Arts.

It’s a pedestrian-only metal bridge commissioned by Napoleon, and the view it offers makes it a popular spot for artists or just souvenir photographers.

There’s a tradition – purely touristic – of attaching locks to the bridge; you’ll endear yourself to Parisians if you decide not to do this.

18. Louvre Museum and Tuileries Gardens

The Louvre used to be a royal palace, and it’s easy to tell. (See our in-depth post on how to visit the Louvre Museum ).

The Louvre remained private after the royalty moved out, and it housed a private collection of art until the Revolution, at which point, in 1793, it was opened to the public.

The open space to the west of the Louvre, centered on a large sculpted hedge, is the Place du Carrousel, and it used to be the location of another royal palace – the Tuileries Palace, destroyed in the late 19th century.

It left behind the arch opposite the Louvre – the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, built to celebrate the military victories of Napoleon and to welcome arrivals to that palace. 

Beyond it are a couple of stairways, leading down into the former location of the moat, which contains some sculptures from the old palace. 

And beyond that is the Tuileries Gardens. At one time an exclusive royal garden, this too became public during the Revolution, and it’s another option for the next part of your adventure.

The gardens have a lot to see – it’s a sculpture garden with about 200 pieces, including several by famous French sculptor Auguste Rodin.

The gardens are bigger than the Louvre, so you could easily find yourself walking further in this park than you have through this entire tour so far!

Luckily, there are a couple of cafes around the middle if you need somewhere to rest.

It’s free to enter the gardens and is open every day, with hours changing seasonally.

• January through December 7:30 - 19:30 (7:30 pm)
• June, July and August 7:00 - 23:00 (11:00 pm)
• April, May and September 7:00 - 21:00 (9:00 pm)

At the far end of the gardens is the Jeu de Paume , a contemporary art museum and L'Orangerie museum dedicated to impressionist and post-impressionist paintings.

This magnicient museum is a must-visit in Paris. It's open 9:00 - 18:00 (6 pm) daily, except Tuesdays. Tickets are 12,50€ or free with a Paris Museum Pass .

Beyond these museums are Place de la Concorde and the Champs Élysées, included in our self-guided tour of Paris' Right Bank !

For more ideas in Paris, including things to do in the Latin Quarter, Marais, and Montmartre , check out our website, linked in the notes.

And look for our articles and audio tours about lots of other cities - you’ll find links in the notes for those, too. 

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A free audio walking tour of historical Paris

During a recent trip to Europe, I tried Rick Steves’ free audio walking tours . Throughout a week, I tried different free audio walking tours in different European cities. One of these was Rick Steves’ free audio walking tour of historical Paris.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of these links and make a purchase, I will make a small commission with no additional cost to you.

How to use a free audio walking tour

I found several free audio walking tours of Europe in my pre-trip research. The most common way to get access to these walking tours is to download an app on your smartphone. Once you access the app, there are usually several audio tours available for download. Just click on the tour you would like to do and download it to your smartphone.

For the Rick Steves’ free audio walking tours , you can also download the sound file and map from his website and then transfer it to your smartphone or audio device you would like to use while walking.

Rick Steves has a variety of free audio walking tours for Paris, including the historical Paris walking tour I did. Other options include the Louvre Museum Tour, the Orsay Museum Tour, the Père Lachaise Cemetery Tour, the Rue Cler Walk, and the Versailles Palace Tour.

The free audio walking tour I chose: the historic Paris walking tour

The historic Paris tour included some well-known sights but also a few that I was not familiar with.

The Notre Dame Cathedral

The historic Paris walking tour started in front of the Notre Dame Cathedral . It was early in the morning, and I was happy to see that there were no crowds at the Notre Dame Cathedral.

The first sight on tour was Point Zéro des Routes de France, which is Point Zero, the point from where the distance to anything in France is measured. I am sure many people walk over Point Zero without even noticing it.

The audio walking tour discusses the carvings on the arches above the doors of the Notre Dame Cathedral . I found this fascinating, and it was impressive that these carvings were done so many years ago when tools were so limited! Some of it was quite gruesome!

From there the audio walking tour continued inside the Notre Dame. It was my first time at Notre Dame, and I was pleasantly surprised when I found out that entry was free! The audio walking tour took me through the entire Notre Dame covering both sides and included explanations of various items in the coves and on the walls of the cathedral. The stained glass windows were stunning!

After walking through the entire Notre Dame, I went outside and saw the statue of Charlemagne and His Guards in the plain outside the Notre Dame Cathedral.

Deportation Memorial

From there the audio walking tour took me along the side of the Notre Dame Cathedral through the Square of Jean XXIII , which is a public park. The Square Jean XXIII features several statues of Popes.

Eventually, I arrived at the Deportation Memorial , only to find that it was still closed. I was a bit disappointed but managed to take beautiful pictures from just outside the Memorial in the Square de L’Ile de France. I have added the Deportation Martyrs Memorial to my bucket list for future trips to Paris.

From there the walking tour took me across a bridge to Ile St Louis , which is an island in the River Seine. The Ile Saint-Louis is connected to the rest of Paris by four bridges.

The left bank

From Ile St Louis the audio walking tour took me back to the left bank, which is opposite the Notre Dame Cathedral. The view of the side of the Notre Dame from the left bank was spectacular!

Square René Viviani

In the middle of the Square is a fountain by Georges Jeanclos. It is quite a unique structure with no water surrounding it, but instead, there were pots full of colourful flowers around the fountain.

Rue René Viviani also contains Paris’ oldest tree – planted in 1901!

Right next to Paris’ oldest tree is the Church of Saint Julien le Pauvre . The Church of Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre is one of the oldest religious buildings in Paris.

Shakespeare and Company Bookshop

The Shakespeare and Company Bookshop and Cafe are next to each other. The Shakespeare and Company bookshop has existed since 1951 and has become an icon in Paris.

I loved the fountain outside the bookshop. It is an example of fountains that are called Wallace Fountains. Wallace fountains can be found in most squares in Paris, always in a forest green colour. The history behind these fountains is quite fascinating.

Latin Quarter

The audio walking tour took me into the Latin Quarter, and I ended up at St Severin . The Church of Saint-Séverin is one of the oldest churches on Paris’ left bank and is still in use today.

Place St Michel

I eventually ended up at Place St Michel , which was around the corner from the hotel I was staying in. Tourists love this magnificent fountain, but I managed to take a photo as the one groups of tourists left. Place Saint-Michel represents the battle between good and evil with the archangel Michael representing the good that vanquishes the bad, or the Devil.

Sainte Chapelle

From Place St Michel, the audio walking tour made me cross the river using the Pont St Michel. I was in two minds about visiting Sainte Chapelle since I had seen several churches during my time in Paris and I was wondering if one more would not be a waste of time. I decided to visit the Church of Saint-Denys de la Chapelle since it was known for its gorgeous stained glass windows.

Sainte Chapelle is much smaller than the Notre Dame Cathedral and you have to pay an entrance fee. Despite this, I was not disappointed with my decision to visit Sainte Chapelle. It is a small, but colourful church. The colour is everywhere – on the walls, on the ceilings, the floors, and the windows. The stained glass windows were not only colourful, but the massive sizes made it even more impressive.

Sainte Chapelle was completed in seven years and was intended to house Christian relics such as Christ’s crown of thorns, which had been acquired by Saint Louis.

The Conciergerie

The Conciergerie has a long history.  King Philip the Fair built the monument and King John the Good later finished the kitchens. La Conciergerie served as a royal palace for several years before the French royal family moved to the Louvre and Vincennes.

The building then became the Palace of Justice and a prison. It played a significant role during the French Revolution with the establishment of the Revolutionary Court. It’s most famous prisoner was Marie-Antoinette. During the Restoration, a commemorative chapel was built in Marie-Antoinette’s cell.

Outside the Conciergerie, I found the most beautiful clock! It is the oldest clock in Paris and still keeps time.

Place Dauphine

The audio walking tour took me along the side and back of the Conciergerie to Place Dauphine , which is a square near the western end of the Île de la Cité. Place Dauphine was created by Henry IV in 1607.

Nowadays there are plenty of cafes and shops located in the Place Dauphine .

The audio walking tour ended at Pont Neuf. The Pont Neuf is the oldest standing bridge over the Seine River.

On the Pont Neuf is a statue of Henry IV who was responsible for the completion of the bridge’s construction in 1607.

Compare hotels and AirBnBs near the Notre Dame in Paris

The verdict.

I loved the free audio walking tour offered by Rick Steves. A walking tour gives you the opportunity to see the sights, but also to experience the smells and sounds of the city – which you may not get from the top of a sightseeing bus. The audio walking tour also works well since Rick Steves, and his co-presenter pointed out where to go for the next sight on the list. I love the fact that you are in control of the tour and can stop it to explore on your own once you reach a specific spot. The insights and explanations of the different points of interest were fascinating. The map on the app is also useful in following the directions given by the presenters.

One thing is for sure; I will be looking for more audio tours in my future travels! I can recommend this as an exciting way to explore a city.

Do you like doing self-guided walking tours? Which has been your favourite?

2 thoughts on “A free audio walking tour of historical Paris”

Looks like it was a great trip. I would have never thought of doing an audio tour.

Audio tours are amazing! I can definitely recommend it!

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