Paris: French Revolution Walking Tour With a Local Parisian

Set out on a captivating journey through the tumultuous history of the French Revolution with a local Parisian guide. Uncover the stories behind the iconic sites and key figures that shaped this pivotal moment in history. From the birthplace of the guillotine to the Conciergerie, where Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette met their fate, this walking tour offers a unique perspective on the lasting impact of the Revolution’s ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity. Prepare to be immersed in the vibrant past of Paris as you explore the city’s revolutionary past.

Key Points

• Explore Paris’s revolutionary history on a 2-hour walking tour led by a local Parisian guide.
• Visit iconic sites like the Pont Neuf, Palais de Justice, and Conciergerie, where the Reign of Terror occurred.
• Discover the birthplace of the infamous guillotine and learn about key revolutionary figures like Jean-Paul Marat.
• Enjoy the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity that drove the French Revolution.
• Enjoy a flexible tour with a price range of $32.34 to $38.05 per person and the option to save up to 15% with free cancellation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The French Revolution Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating 2-hour exploration of Paris’s revolutionary history.

A captivating 2-hour exploration of Paris’s revolutionary history on the French Revolution Walking Tour.

Priced between $32.34 and $38.05 per person, the tour provides an opportunity to save up to 15% with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour starts at the Odéon Theatre and covers key sites, including the Cour du Commerce Saint-André, Pont Neuf, Palais de Justice, and Notre Dame Cathedral, ending at the Hôtel de Ville.

Led by a local Parisian guide, the tour delves into the stories, conflicts, and ideologies that shaped the revolution, making it an engaging and insightful experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The French Revolution Walking Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the key sites and events that shaped one of history’s most significant uprisings.

The tour starts at the Odéon Theatre, where guests will explore the Cour du Commerce Saint-André, the birthplace of the guillotine.

Next, they’ll visit the iconic Pont Neuf and the Palais de Justice, where the Reign of Terror unfolded.

The tour continues to the Conciergerie, a former prison, and the Caveau de la Huchette, a secret meeting place for revolutionary leaders.

The finale is at the Hôtel de Ville, the site of the French Revolution’s victory.

Historical Insights

Throughout the French Revolution Walking Tour, guests explore the stories, conflicts, and ideologies that shaped one of history’s most significant uprisings.

They’ll learn about the Reign of Terror at the Palace of Justice and Conciergerie, where thousands were guillotined.

The tour reveals the birthplace of the infamous guillotine and the publishing house of Jean-Paul Marat, a radical journalist.

Guests also visit Caveau de la Huchette, a secret meeting place for revolutionary leaders.

Finally, they’ll hear the tale of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette’s lives under constant surveillance, leading to their tragic demise.

Guided Experience

A local Parisian guide leads this engaging French Revolution Walking Tour, sharing captivating stories and insights into the significant events and figures that reshaped France.

With a focus on the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity, the guide brings the Revolution to life through vivid narratives.

Guests explore key sites, from the birthplace of the guillotine to the secret meeting place of revolutionary leaders.

The guided experience offers an immersive journey, allowing visitors to better understand the conflicts, ideologies, and lasting impact of this pivotal moment in French history.

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Preparation and Meeting Information

To prepare for the French Revolution Walking Tour, guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately based on the weather. The tour involves walking on cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces, so proper footwear is essential. Attendees should also check the forecast and pack layers as needed. The meeting point is in front of the Théâtre de l’Odéon, where the guide will be holding an EXPLORE PARIS TOURS sign. Guests are encouraged to arrive a few minutes early to ensure a prompt start to the 2-hour tour.

| Meeting Point | Attire | Weather |

| — | — | — |

| In front of Théâtre de l’Odéon | Comfortable walking shoes | Check forecast |

| Guide holding EXPLORE PARIS TOURS sign | Dress appropriately | Pack layers |

| Arrive a few minutes early | Cobblestone streets, uneven surfaces | |

Exploring the Birthplace of the Guillotine

Although the French Revolution brought about sweeping changes and ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity, it also gave rise to one of the most notorious instruments of execution – the guillotine.

During the tour, visitors learn about the birthplace of this grisly device at the Palais de Justice. Here, revolutionaries like Jean-Paul Marat published their inflammatory writings, calling for the heads of aristocrats.

The tour then leads to the Conciergerie, a former prison where Marie Antoinette was held before her beheading. Guests gain a deeper understanding of the Reign of Terror that marked the most violent phase of the Revolution.

Discovering Revolutionary Meeting Places

As the walking tour progresses, visitors discover the secretive meeting places that revolutionaries once frequented.

One such spot is the Caveau de la Huchette, a jazz club with a hidden history. This basement venue served as a secret gathering place for revolutionary leaders during the tumultuous times.

Guests can almost imagine the hushed discussions and plotting that took place here, away from the prying eyes of authorities.

Hushed discussions and clandestine plotting, shielded from the watchful gaze of authorities in this secret revolutionary gathering place.

The guide shares captivating tales of these clandestine meetings, transporting participants back to the birth of a new France built on the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity.

The Lives of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette

As the tour continues, the guide shifts the focus to the lives of the French monarchs who were at the heart of the revolution – Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.

The guide recounts how the once-revered king and queen lived under constant surveillance, their every move scrutinized by the revolutionary fervor sweeping through France.

Visitors learn about the Reign of Terror that ultimately led to their execution, and how their downfall symbolized the end of the ancien régime.

Through the guide’s vivid storytelling, the tragic fate of the French monarchy comes to life, providing a poignant conclusion to the tour’s exploration of the Revolution.

Ask Away

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, you’re generally allowed to take photos during the tour. Just be mindful not to disrupt the guide or other participants. Check with your guide if there are any specific photo restrictions at certain sites along the route.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible as it involves walking on cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces. Guests with mobility issues may find it challenging to fully participate in the 2-hour walking tour.

What Should I Bring Besides Comfortable Shoes?

Besides comfortable shoes, travelers should bring sunscreen, a water bottle, and a small bag or backpack to carry any items needed during the 2-hour walking tour. Checking the weather forecast is also recommended to dress appropriately for the conditions.

Are There Any Restrooms Along the Tour Route?

There are no publicly listed restrooms along the tour route. However, the guide may know of discreet options if needed during breaks. It’s recommended to use facilities before the tour starts or at the ending point.

Can I Join the Tour Midway Through the Itinerary?

It’s not recommended to join the tour midway through the itinerary, as you’d miss the introduction and key context provided at the start. The tour is designed to be experienced from the beginning for the full historical narrative.

Final Words

This French Revolution walking tour provides an immersive and engaging experience, offering a unique perspective on the pivotal events and lasting impact of this historic period. Led by a local Parisian guide, the tour explores significant sites, shares captivating stories, and delves into the ideals that fueled the Revolution, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of this transformative chapter in French history.

You can check availability for your dates here: