Paris Left Bank Walking Tour: Landmarks, Stories & Pastry

Meeting point and end point

Check the meeting time and place on Viator when you book. They can differ by option and date.

What you will do on this tour

1. 1

   At this meeting point, we’ll take a step back in time to explore Sylvia Beach’s original bookstore and George Whitman’s vision of a 'socialist utopia.' You will discover the story of the 'Tumbleweeds' — adventurous travelers who are invited to stay in the shop in exchange for reading a book a day and helping out with daily tasks.

   15 min

2. 2

   Crossing to Notre-Dame via Rue de la Cité. We’ll focus on the “resurrection” of Notre-Dame, briefly recalling the 2019 fire and the remarkable restoration efforts that led to its reopening.

3. 3

   pass by Point Zero – the geographical centre of Paris

4. 4

   Return to the Left Bank via Pont au Double. The bridge’s name comes from the 17th century, when a “double denier” toll was charged to help fund the nearby hospital, the Hôtel-Dieu. This will be covered while walking, without stopping.

5. 5

   One of the oldest churches in Paris, dating back to the 12th century. In the adjacent square, we’ll highlight the Robinia tree planted in 1601 — the oldest tree in the city — and enjoy one of the most beautiful views of Notre-Dame.

   15 min

6. 6

   While the museum won’t be visited during the tour, its façade is striking and a unique example of Gothic architecture. A fascinating blend of Roman and Medieval history, built on 1stcentury Roman baths. We’ll also mention The Lady and the Unicorn tapestries, often referred to as the “Mona Lisa” of the Middle Ages.

7. 7

   The Panthéon (via Rue SaintJacques). Originally built as a church dedicated to Sainte Geneviève, the Panthéon evolved into a secular monument honoring France’s “Great Men.” We’ll mention Foucault’s Pendulum, which demonstrated the Earth’s rotation.

8. 8

   Jardin du Luxembourg (Medici Fountain & Palace) Created in 1612 by Marie de’ Medici, who longed for her native Florence. The Medici Fountain is a romantic masterpiece, depicting the giant Polyphemus.

9. 9

   Treat your senses to a legendary stop at Georges Larnicol. We’ll pause here to discover the sweet treat.

   20 min · Admission included

10. 10

    Le Procope (Drop Off Place) We’ll conclude at Le Procope, passing through one of Paris’s most beautiful historic passages.

    10 min

What is included

Good to know

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• By joining this tour you help promote tourism diversity as the tour keeps travellers away from the very touristic sites and from the crowds that often damage the local atmosphere.
• For this tour, we can cater for the following dietary requirements: vegetarians
• Please note that this tour covers 1.6 km (1 mile) of walking.
• The tour also includes opportunities to refill water bottles, along with local recommendations and other thoughtful touches that enhance the guest experience.
• Due to the route and venues visited, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
• This tour is operated by a Certified B Corp™
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• Book up to 1 day before the start

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

• Full refund if you cancel 1 day or more before the start.
• No refund if you cancel less than 1 day before the start.

Rules can differ by option and date. The policy shown on Viator when you book is the one that applies.

Frequently asked questions