Walking tour Paris Map

Welcome to Paris, the City of Lights—a metropolis brimming with history, art, and romance. This self-guided walking tour is designed to help you explore Paris's most iconic attractions at your own pace. From the gothic spires of Notre-Dame Cathedral to the majestic Eiffel Tower, you'll experience the essence of Parisian culture and architecture.

Tour Map

To navigate the map click on the image.

Our walking tour covers approximately 6 kilometers and takes around 4-5 hours to complete, not including time spent inside attractions. The route is a pleasant stroll along the Seine River, through historic neighborhoods, and past some of the most famous Paris attractions.

List of Attractions

1. Notre-Dame Cathedral
   • A masterpiece of Gothic architecture on the Île de la Cité.
2. Sainte-Chapelle
   • A royal chapel known for its stunning stained glass windows.
3. The Louvre Museum
   • The world's largest art museum, home to the Mona Lisa.
4. Tuileries Garden
   • A beautiful public garden perfect for a leisurely walk.
5. Place de la Concorde
   • The largest square in Paris, rich in historical significance.
6. Champs-Élysées
   • A famous avenue lined with shops, theaters, and cafes.
7. Arc de Triomphe
   • A monumental arch honoring those who fought for France.
8. Eiffel Tower
   • The iconic iron lattice tower offering panoramic city views.

Tour Details

1. Notre-Dame Cathedral

History & Facts: Constructed between 1163 and 1345, Notre-Dame Cathedral is a pinnacle of French Gothic architecture. Known for its intricate facades and gargoyles, it has witnessed centuries of Parisian history.

Tips for Visiting:

• Opening Hours: Currently closed for renovation (as of 2023).
• Tickets: No entry due to restoration; admire from the outside.
• Note: Check for updates on reopening dates.

Next Stop: Walk 5 minutes to Sainte-Chapelle.

2. Sainte-Chapelle

History & Facts: Built in 1248, Sainte-Chapelle was commissioned by King Louis IX to house religious relics. It's renowned for its 15 towering stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes.

Tips for Visiting:

• Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
• Tickets: Around €11.50; purchase online to skip the line.
• Photography: Allowed without flash.

Next Stop: A 15-minute walk to The Louvre Museum.

3. The Louvre Museum

History & Facts: Originally a fortress, the Louvre became a royal palace before transforming into a museum in 1793. It houses over 38,000 works of art, including the famous Mona Lisa.

Tips for Visiting:

• Opening Hours: Wednesday to Monday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Tickets: €17 online; booking in advance is recommended.
• Quick Visit: If short on time, admire the glass pyramid and explore the exterior.

Next Stop: Stroll through Tuileries Garden adjacent to the Louvre.

4. Tuileries Garden

History & Facts: Created in the 16th century, the Tuileries Garden is a classic French formal garden. It's an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Tips for Visiting:

• Opening Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
• Amenities: Free entry, benches, and public restrooms available.
• Activities: Perfect for picnics and people-watching.

Next Stop: Walk 10 minutes to Place de la Concorde.

5. Place de la Concorde

History & Facts: Established in 1755, this square has witnessed significant historical events, including the execution of King Louis XVI. The Egyptian obelisk at its center dates back over 3,000 years.

Tips for Visiting:

• Photography: Great spot for photos of the obelisk and surrounding fountains.
• Caution: Be mindful of traffic when crossing streets.

Next Stop: Begin the 20-minute walk along Champs-Élysées.

6. Champs-Élysées

History & Facts: Dubbed "the world's most beautiful avenue," the Champs-Élysées stretches 1.9 kilometers from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe.

Tips for Visiting:

• Shopping: Home to luxury brands and flagship stores.
• Dining: Numerous cafes and restaurants for a meal or coffee break.
• Events: Hosts parades and celebrations, especially on Bastille Day.

Next Stop: At the end of the avenue, you'll reach the Arc de Triomphe.

7. Arc de Triomphe

History & Facts: Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, the Arc de Triomphe honors those who fought and died for France. Beneath it lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I.

Tips for Visiting:

• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
• Tickets: €13 for access to the top; free for EU citizens under 26.
• View: Offers a panoramic view of Paris.

Next Stop: A 30-minute walk or a short metro ride to the Eiffel Tower.

8. Eiffel Tower

History & Facts: Completed in 1889 for the Exposition Universelle, the Eiffel Tower stands at 324 meters. It's the most-visited paid monument in the world.

Tips for Visiting:

• Opening Hours: Daily from 9:30 AM to 11:45 PM.
• Tickets: Prices vary (€10.40 - €26.80); advance booking recommended.
• Best Time: Visit in the evening to see it illuminated.

End of Tour: After enjoying the Eiffel Tower, you can relax on the Champ de Mars lawns.

Practical Tips

• Best Time for the Tour: Spring and fall offer mild weather ideal for walking. Weekdays are less crowded.
• What to Bring:
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Water bottle
  • Camera or smartphone
  • Sunscreen and a hat in summer
• Public Transportation:
  • Metro: Convenient stations near each attraction.
  • Bus: Numerous lines run along the route.
• Additional Recommendation: Enhance your experience by joining a free tour in Paris with Guruwalk, where local guides share insider knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does the self-guided walking tour of Paris take?

The tour covers approximately 6 kilometers and takes about 4-5 hours to walk, not including time spent inside attractions.

2. Are the attractions open every day?

Most attractions are open daily, but hours can vary. It's best to check the official websites for the most up-to-date information.

3. Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

For popular sites like the Louvre Museum and the Eiffel Tower, purchasing tickets in advance is recommended to avoid long queues.

4. Is the walking route suitable for children and the elderly?

Yes, the route is generally flat and accessible, but consider using public transportation for longer stretches if needed.