Amidst the cultural renaissance of 1920s Paris, a generation of writers left an indelible mark on the literary landscape. This captivating walking tour invites you to explore the Left Bank haunts of renowned authors like Hemingway, Stein, and Joyce. From the iconic Café la Contrescarpe to their former residences, you’ll uncover the vibrant history that shaped their iconic works. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this immersive experience promises engaging storytelling, photo documentation, and excerpts that transport you back in time. Whether you’re a literature enthusiast or simply seeking a unique glimpse into Paris’ past, this tour promises to captivate and inspire.
Good To Know
- This small group walking tour explores the cafes, residences, and literary legacy of the iconic "Lost Generation" writers in Paris’ Left Bank.
- Guests can discover the lives and stories of renowned authors like Hemingway, Stein, Joyce, and Pound through immersive experiences and guided narratives.
- The tour provides engaging photo and video documentation, as well as excerpts from the authors’ works, to enhance the cultural and literary experience.
- While the tour is stroller-accessible, it requires a moderate level of physical fitness due to the 4-hour walking duration.
- With a 5-star rating and positive customer feedback, the tour promises an informative and immersive exploration of Paris’ literary heritage in the 1920s.
Tour Overview

The "Paris 1920: Lost Generation Writers of the Left Bank Walking Tour" offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the haunts and hangouts of the iconic literary figures of the Lost Generation in Paris.
Taking place on the Left Bank, the 4-hour tour costs $95.08 and starts at 2:00 PM, meeting at Café la Contrescarpe.
With an overall 5-star rating from 23 reviews, the tour promises to transport participants back in time as they visit the former residences and cafes frequented by the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, and James Joyce.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide provides photo and video documentation to bring the stories of these celebrated authors to life.
You can also read our reviews of more walking tours in Paris
Location and Schedule

This walking tour takes place in the Left Bank area of Paris, France. The meeting point is at 57 Rue Lacépède, in front of Café la Contrescarpe, and the tour ends at Le Select, 99 Bd du Montparnasse.
The tour runs for approximately 4 hours, starting at 2:00 PM. Guests should note the following:
- The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible.
- It’s located near public transportation.
- Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness.
With the Left Bank as the backdrop, this tour provides an immersive exploration of the haunts and residences of the legendary Lost Generation writers who shaped 1920s Paris.
Key Highlights
Amidst the vibrant Left Bank, the tour explores the cafes and residences that served as hubs for the legendary Lost Generation writers.
Guests explore the stories and lives of icons like Ernest Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, James Joyce, and Ezra Pound. The guide provides engaging photo and video documentation, bringing these literary figures to life through their works and haunts.
Highlights include visiting Hemingway’s first Parisian flat and the site where Joyce completed his masterpiece, "Ulysses."
The tour offers an immersive experience, allowing participants to walk in the footsteps of these influential writers and gain a deeper understanding of their creative legacies.
Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a local guide, transportation to and from the meeting point, as well as photo and video documentation to enhance the experience.
Visitors will also receive excerpts from the featured authors’ works to further enjoy the literary atmosphere.
However, the tour doesn’t include:
- Food and beverages.
- Accessibility for wheelchair users, although it’s stroller accessible.
- Extensive physical activity, though a moderate fitness level is required.
Despite these exclusions, the overall package provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the Left Bank’s literary legacy, catering to a range of interests and abilities.
Accessibility and Additional Info

Navigating the tour is accessible for strollers, though it may pose challenges for wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain of the Left Bank. The tour’s location is near public transportation, making it easily accessible for those relying on public transit. A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the tour involves a significant amount of walking.
| Accessibility | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelchair Accessible | X | |
| Stroller Accessible | X | |
| Near Public Transport | X |
Guests should keep in mind that the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time, providing flexibility in planning.
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Customer Feedback

Many guests praised the knowledgeable guides and engaging storytelling that the tour offered. Highlights often cited included:
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The detailed context and background information provided by the guides.
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The opportunity to ask questions and engage with the material.
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The immersive experience of visiting the iconic locations associated with the Lost Generation writers.
However, a few guests expressed disappointment in the pace and depth of the tour, suggesting a need for more in-depth exploration beyond the surface-level details.
Tour Summary

This walking tour offers a unique opportunity for literature enthusiasts to explore the lives and works of the Lost Generation writers in Paris.
Visitors can discover the cafes and residences that inspired iconic authors like Ernest Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, and James Joyce.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides photo and video documentation, as well as excerpts from the featured writers’ works.
While the pace may not suit everyone, the experience aims to deliver an immersive journey into the literary legacy of 1920s Paris.
With moderate physical fitness required, the tour is accessible to a wide range of participants, making it a must-do for any fan of the Lost Generation.
How to Book

To book the Paris 1920: Lost Generation Writers of the Left Bank Walking Tour, visitors can easily navigate the tour provider’s website or contact them directly.
The booking process is straightforward and can be completed in a few simple steps:
- Select the desired tour date and time from the available options.
- Provide the necessary personal and contact information.
- Secure the booking by making the required payment.
Once the booking is confirmed, guests will receive detailed instructions, including the meeting point location and any necessary logistics.
This tour promises an immersive exploration of the Left Bank’s literary legacy, catering to both literature enthusiasts and those seeking a unique cultural experience in the heart of Paris.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Photographs Be Taken During the Tour?
Photos are allowed during the tour. The guide encourages guests to capture the historic locations and photo/video documentation shared throughout the experience.
What Language Is the Tour Conducted In?
The tour is conducted in English. According to the overview, the tour includes "photo and video documentation" from the guide, suggesting a language-supported experience for English-speaking participants.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour does not appear to offer an option to extend the duration. It is approximately 4 hours long, starting at 2 pm. There’s no indication that guests can request a longer tour experience.
Are the Café Stops Included in the Tour Price?
The tour price doesn’t cover food or beverage. Guests can visit the cafes and residences along the way, but any purchases at these spots are at their own expense. The focus is on the literary history and guided commentary.
Can the Tour Be Customized for a Private Group?
The tour can likely be customized for a private group. The tour provider may offer private tours with flexibility to adjust the itinerary and pace to meet the group’s specific interests and needs.
Paris 1920: Lost Generation Writers of the Left Bank (Small Group Walking Tour)
The Sum Up
Enjoy the rich literary legacy of 1920s Paris on this captivating 4-hour walking tour. Explore iconic cafés and residences that shaped the lives of legendary writers like Hemingway, Stein, and Joyce. With engaging storytelling and excerpts from their works, you’ll experience the vibrant cultural heritage of the Left Bank. This tour is perfect for literature enthusiasts seeking an immersive journey through the city’s storied past.


























