Paris through the Ages: A Walking Tour from Notre Dame to Pont de la Concorde

Few visitors to the City of Light know the depths of its fascinating, but often brutal and bloody, history. On this walking tour through the French capital, you’ll trace Paris’ evolution from medieval times, through revolution and empire, to the present day. Starting at Point Zéro des Routes de France, a small disc-shaped plaque in the shadow of Notre-Dame Cathedral, you’ll learn about this architectural marvel’s construction and survival through the centuries. From there, you’ll make your way to Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre, where you’ll discover Paris’ oldest tree and hear tales of the city’s first patron saint. You’ll marvel at the Palais de Justice’s magnificent black and gold gates before encountering the famous chapel, Sainte-Chapelle, King Louis IX’s stunning tribute to faith and power. As the city’s story unravels, you’ll cross over several notable bridges including Pont au Double, Pont au Change, St. Michael’s Bridge, and Pont Neuf. Your journey continues through the Tuileries Garden, the former Roman vineyards that became France’s first public garden under Louis XIV. The tour concludes at Pont de la Concorde, where you’ll gain a fresh perspective on the Eiffel Tower and its significance to Paris. Along the way, you’ll have a chance to: • Discover the bloody history behind Saint-Germain l’Auxerrois’ church bells and the St. Bartholomew’s Day massacre • Admire the Tour Saint-Jacques monument and hear how Baron Haussmann transformed medieval Paris into a modern metropolis, on Napoleon’s orders • Take in the romantic Square du Vert-Galant from the equestrian statue of Henri IV, and hear tales of his flamboyant lifestyle • See the magnificent Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel and understand its imperial significance • Hear stories of revolution and resistance as you make your way towards Place de la Concorde • Stand before the statue of Louis XIV sous les Traits de Marcus Curtius and learn why the Sun King shunned his capital This 90-minute walking tour brings together centuries of Parisian history, from Roman settlements to royal intrigue and revolutionary fervour. There are several cafés and patisseries along the way where you can stop for refreshments.

Price: £9.99 from VoiceMap