Saint-Germain-des-Prés is one of Paris’s most iconic districts, steeped in a rich artistic and literary heritage. The guided walking tour offers visitors a chance to uncover its hidden gems, from the oldest café in the city to the stunning Church of Saint Germain des Prés. As you stroll through the neighborhood, you’ll learn about the influential figures who once roamed these streets, including Picasso and Hemingway. With an optional Seine river cruise and a leisurely pace, this tour provides a unique immersion into the vibrant culture of Paris. But what secrets might this historic district still hold?
Key Points
- A 1.5-hour guided walking tour of the historic Saint-Germain-des-Prés district in Paris, focusing on the area’s rich cultural heritage and iconic landmarks.
- Highlights include visits to the oldest café in Paris, the Church of Saint Germain des Prés, and connections to famous artists and writers.
- Optional upgrade available for a narrated Seine river cruise to explore the area’s unique architectural perspectives.
- The tour covers approximately 1.5 miles at a leisurely pace, starting from the Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
- The tour is priced at $40.03 per person and has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from customer reviews.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Paris: Saint-Germain-Des-Prés Guided Walking Tour offers visitors an immersive experience to explore the historic district, priced at $40.03 per person.
The 1.5-hour tour allows guests to discover the area’s rich cultural heritage, from the oldest café to iconic landmarks like the Church of Saint Germain des Prés.
The experience includes guided stops at significant sites associated with famous artists and writers. Participants can optionally upgrade to include a narrated Seine river cruise.
The tour operates rain or shine, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Reservations can be made now, with payment due later, providing flexibility for travelers.
Experience Highlights
On this guided walking tour of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, visitors can explore the historic district known for its role in art, literature, and philosophy.
They’ll visit iconic landmarks like the oldest café, opened in 1672, the oldest church, jazz clubs, chocolate shops, and renowned restaurants.
Along Boulevard Saint Germain, they’ll see medieval market sites and discover connections to famous artists and writers like Picasso, Hemingway, Sartre, and De Beauvoir.
An optional upgrade offers a narrated Seine river cruise, providing a unique perspective of the neighborhood’s architecture and history.
Itinerary Details
Starting at 3 Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the guided tour first takes visitors along Rue Jacob, providing insights into the area’s medieval history.
Next, the group visits the Church of Saint Germain des Prés, the oldest church in Paris.
The tour then explores iconic landmarks like the Hotel La Louisiane, Rue de Buci, and the Cour du Commerce Saint-André before reaching the Odéon Theatre.
The final stops include the Church of Saint-Sulpice and the conclusion at the Église Saint-Sulpice.
Throughout the 1.5-mile route, the guide shares connections to famous artists and writers who frequented this historic neighborhood.
Meeting Point and Directions
To begin the tour, visitors should meet outside Église de Saint-Germain-des-Prés at 3 Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés, 75006 Paris. This location is across from the Louis Vuitton store, and the guide will be holding an orange "ExperienceFirst" sign.
| Transportation | Line/Number |
|---|---|
| Metro | 4, 10 |
| Bus | 95, 96, 87, 39 |
The tour covers approximately 1.5 miles at a leisurely pace, and comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour operates rain or shine, with gratuities, food, drinks, and transportation to/from the meeting point not included.
Tour Duration and Pace
The tour covers approximately 1.5 miles at a leisurely pace, allowing visitors to comfortably explore the historic Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood.
The 1.5-hour duration provides ample time to visit iconic landmarks, from the oldest café in Paris to jazz clubs, chocolate shops, and renowned restaurants.
Throughout the walk, the guide shares insights into the district’s rich artistic and literary heritage, tracing the footsteps of famous writers and philosophers like Hemingway, Sartre, and de Beauvoir.
The relaxed tempo ensures guests can fully enjoy the charming atmosphere and vibrant culture that have made Saint-Germain-des-Prés a celebrated destination for centuries.
Recommended Attire
Comfortable shoes are recommended for this guided walking tour of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. The tour covers approximately 1.5 miles at a leisurely pace, so you’ll want to wear footwear that provides comfort and support as you explore the historic neighborhood.
| Recommended Attire | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comfortable Shoes | ✓ | |||
| Light Jacket | ✓ | |||
| Sun Protection | ✓ | |||
| Umbrella/Raincoat | ✓ | |||
| Portable Fan | ✓ |
The tour operates rain or shine, so be prepared for the weather conditions on the day of your visit.
Weather and Inclusions
Does the tour operate rain or shine? Yes, the Saint-Germain-Des-Prés Guided Walking Tour continues regardless of the weather.
Whether it’s sunny or raining, you’ll explore the historic neighborhood and discover its iconic landmarks.
The tour covers approximately 1.5 miles at a leisurely pace, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
While the tour price includes the guided experience, it doesn’t cover:
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks
- Transportation to and from the meeting point
Keep these additional costs in mind as you plan your Saint-Germain-Des-Prés adventure.
Customer Reviews
Travelers consistently praise the Saint-Germain-des-Prés Guided Walking Tour, with an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 6 reviews. Reviewers highlight the tour guide’s expertise and passion, as well as the fascinating insights into the neighborhood’s rich history and cultural significance. The tour’s pacing and length also receive positive feedback, with customers noting it’s a great way to explore the area without feeling rushed.
| Review Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Enjoyable Experience | "Our guide was fantastic – very knowledgeable and engaging." |
| Insightful Commentary | "Learned so much about the history and influence of Saint-Germain-des-Prés." |
| Convenient Tour Length | "The 1.5-hour duration was perfect, allowing us to see the key sights." |
| Highly Recommended | "Highly recommend this tour for anyone visiting Paris." |
| Local Expertise | "Our guide provided great local tips and hidden gems." |
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- Versailles Domain Day Bike Tour With Trianon Estate From Paris
- Versailles Domain Bike Tour With Palace and Trianon Estate Access
- Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Lunch & Sightseeing Cruise
- Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip With Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting
- Paris Top Sights Half Day Walking Tour With a Fun Guide
- Louvre Museum Semi-Private Guided Tour (Reserved Entry Included)
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?
The tour does not mention any restroom facilities being available during the walk. However, participants can likely use restrooms at some of the stops, such as cafes or other establishments, as needed throughout the 1.5-hour tour.
Can Children Participate in the Tour?
Yes, children can participate in the tour. The guided walking experience is suitable for all ages, though it may not be suitable for very young children who may have difficulty keeping up with the pace of the tour.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour is not explicitly mentioned as wheelchair accessible. However, the itinerary indicates it covers approximately 1.5 miles at a leisurely pace, so wheelchair users may be able to participate with some assistance. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specific accessibility details.
Are There Any Special Discounts or Offers Available?
There are no special discounts or offers mentioned for this tour. The standard price is $40.03 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Can the Tour Be Customized to My Specific Interests?
The tour can’t be customized to individual interests. However, the guide provides ample opportunity to explore the neighborhood’s highlights and connect with the local culture and history during the 1.5-hour experience.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Les Invalides: Museum Ticket Entry & 4h Private Guided Tour
- 4 Hours Paris Tour Including River Cruise With Wine Tasting
- Skip-the-line Versailles Palace All Sites Guided Tour
- Europe Travel Esim With Data and Unlimited Calls
- 9 Hours Paris and Shopping Tour With Wine Tasting
- Paris: Mysteries and Legends Smartphone Audio-Guided Tour
- DISNEYLAND PARIS – Private Transfers To/From the Airport
- From Paris: Wine Day Trip to SANCERRE W 10 Tastings & Lunch
- Paris: Stade De France Behind the Scenes Tour
- Paris: Private Customizable City Tour in Spanish
- Paris: Guided Group Walking Tour of Montmartre
- Paris: Private Cruise on the Seine
- Paris: Highlights & History Self-Guided Walking Tour
- Paris : Special Valentines Day Couples Game
- Paris: Private Early Morning City Walking Tour
Sum Up
The Saint-Germain-Des-Prés Guided Walking Tour offers a captivating exploration of one of Paris’s most historic districts. Participants can discover iconic landmarks, learn about the area’s rich artistic and literary heritage, and enjoy a leisurely pace with optional Seine river cruise. With a price of $40.03 per person, this tour provides a unique immersion into the vibrant culture of Paris.