Paris: Notre Dame & Sainte-Chapelle Exterior Walking Tour
Uncover the captivating tales of Notre Dame Cathedral on this engaging outdoor walking tour. Explore the stunning exterior of this architectural marvel as you delve into the secrets of its famous gargoyles, intricate portals, and impressive flying buttresses. Led by a passionate local guide, you will join an intimate small group (max 10 people) for a unique storytelling experience that brings the history of Paris to life. This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking a deeper connection with Parisian heritage.
Options
Notre Dame Paris: Small-Group Exterior Walking Tour
What's included in Paris: Notre Dame & Sainte-Chapelle Exterior Walking Tour
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Notre-Dame
Please note: This is a walking tour that takes place strictly on the outside of Notre Dame Cathedral. We do not enter the building. Your entire tour will be dedicated to exploring the magnificent exterior of this iconic landmark. Your guide will lead you on a journey around the cathedral, revealing the secrets of its famous features. You will get an up-close look at the intricate sculptures of the main portals, hear the stories of the kings and saints depicted, and learn the difference between the world-famous gargoyles and chimeras. We will also admire the stunning flying buttresses, a marvel of Gothic engineering, and learn about the cathedral's incredible history and ongoing restoration.
Les bouquinistes de paris
After exploring the cathedral, we will take a short, scenic walk to the banks of the River Seine. Here, we'll spend a few minutes discovering the iconic green stalls of the Bouquinistes, a tradition so special it is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your guide will explain the fascinating history of these open-air book sellers. You'll then have a moment to browse their unique collections of antique books, vintage prints, and charming souvenirs of Paris.
Sainte-Chapelle
Our tour concludes at the historic heart of French royal power, the Palais de la Cité. From a perfect vantage point, your guide will bring centuries of history to life. You will see the formidable Conciergerie, the oldest part of the palace, famous as the final prison of Queen Marie Antoinette. Next, you will admire the breathtaking Gothic architecture of Sainte-Chapelle, the king's private chapel built to house the most sacred relics in Christendom. We will uncover the stories of royalty, revolution, and religion, all from this one historic spot.
Inclusions
- A professional, local guide
- Live storytelling and expert commentary in English
- An in-depth look at Notre Dame Cathedral, the Conciergerie, and Sainte-Chapelle exteriors
- An intimate small-group experience (maximum 10 people)
- A comprehensive 1.5-hour exterior walking tour of Île de la Cité
- Gratuities
- Coffee and/or Tea
- Public transportation
- Pickup/drop off
- Entry to Notre Dame Cathedral, Sainte-Chapelle, and the Conciergerie is not included.
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- Find the large bronze statue of a man on a horse (Charlemagne) on the main square in front of Notre Dame, on the side closer to the River Seine. Your guide will be waiting at the base of the statue, holding a sign with the red 'SZ' logo.
End Points
- Our tour concludes at the historic heart of French royal power, the Palais de la Cité. From a perfect vantage point, your guide will bring centuries of history to life.
