Venture into the captivating world of Père Lachaise Cemetery, where the stories of Paris’ most iconic figures unfold before your eyes. This 1.5-hour walking tour promises an immersive experience, guiding you through the historic grounds and unveiling the intriguing love stories, scandals, and legacies of notable residents such as Oscar Wilde and Edith Piaf. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, you’ll uncover the rich narratives that have made this cemetery a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to connect with the city’s captivating past. Prepare to be transported, as the tour unveils the secrets that lie within these hallowed grounds.
Key Points
- The 1.5-hour walking tour explores the famous graves and stories of Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris, available in English.
- Highlights include the tragic love story of Héloïse and Abélard, Oscar Wilde’s tomb, and the fertility-related Victor Noir grave.
- The tour provides insights into scandals and histories of notable figures, such as Edith Piaf’s tumultuous life.
- An optional upgrade includes a 1-hour Seine river cruise to combine with the walking tour for a total duration of 2.5 hours.
- The tour is suitable for ages 12-99 and children 4-11, with comfortable shoes recommended for the approximately 2 miles of leisurely walking.
Tour Overview
The walking tour of Père Lachaise Cemetery offers visitors an engaging 1.5-hour exploration of this historic Parisian landmark.
The tour starts at 28 Bd de Ménilmontant and is available in English. Participants can choose a group or private tour option, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour includes admission to the cemetery and shuttle transport from Paris, but excludes hotel pickup/drop-off, food, and drinks.
It’s suitable for adults and children ages 4-11, but not for those under 13 or wheelchair users, as the tour involves approximately 2 miles of leisurely walking through the cemetery.
Highlights of the Tour
On the walking tour, visitors explore the stories behind famous graves in Père Lachaise Cemetery.
The tour highlights include:
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The tragic love story of Héloïse and Abélard, whose tomb is adorned with sculptures depicting their embrace.
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Oscar Wilde’s tomb, where visitors can participate in the tradition of kissing the stone marker to honor the renowned writer.
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The grave of Victor Noir, where visitors believe touching the statue can bring fertility.
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The final resting place of legendary singer Edith Piaf, whose life and music captivated Paris.
The tour guides share captivating tales of scandal, romance, and the legacies of these notable figures, bringing the cemetery to life through their engaging narratives.
Exploring Famous Graves
One of the highlights of the walking tour is the opportunity to explore the famous graves within Père Lachaise Cemetery.
Visitors can pay respects at the final resting places of icons like Héloïse and Abélard, whose tragic love story captivates many.
The tour also includes stops at the graves of Oscar Wilde and Victor Noir, where visitors can participate in unique traditions – kissing Wilde’s tomb and touching Noir’s statue for fertility.
Other notable figures, such as Jim Morrison and Edith Piaf, have drawn countless admirers to their graves over the years.
Through these visits, the tour uncovers the scandals, romances, and histories that have made Père Lachaise so renowned.
Uncovering Scandals and Histories
Beyond the famous graves, the walking tour at Pè re Lachaise Cemetery uncovers a wealth of scandals and histories that have shaped the lives of its notable residents.
Visitors will learn about:
- The tragic love story between Héloïse and Abélard, whose remains were reunited after centuries
- The scandal surrounding Oscar Wilde’s tomb, now famous for the tradition of visitors "kissing" it with lipstick
- The fertility tradition associated with Victor Noir’s grave, where people leave flowers and trinkets
- The tumultuous life of singer Edith Piaf, France’s national treasure, who overcame a difficult childhood to become a beloved icon
These captivating tales bring the cemetery’s residents to life, offering a glimpse into their extraordinary pasts.
Upgrade: Narrated Seine River Cruise
For those interested in extending their exploration of Paris, the walking tour offers an optional upgrade – a narrated Seine river cruise. This 1-hour boat tour provides a picturesque perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks along the serene waterway. Guests can soak in the sights of Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower from the comfort of the boat. The cruise is available for an additional fee and can be booked in advance or on the day of the walking tour.
| Experience | Duration | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walking Tour Only | 1.5 hours | Included | Always |
| Walking Tour + Seine Cruise | 2.5 hours | Additional fee | Seasonal |
| Private Walking Tour + Seine Cruise | 2.5 hours | Additional fee | Upon request |
Inclusions and Exclusions
The walking tour includes admission to the cemetery, a guided exploration led by a knowledgeable guide, and shuttle transport from Paris.
However, the tour doesn’t include:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks
- Tips for the guide
- River cruise upgrade
Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves approximately 2 miles of leisurely walking through the cemetery.
The tour runs rain or shine, making it a great option regardless of the weather.
Private tours are also available for families with children.
Important Information for Visitors
Visitors should note that the walking tour is suitable for adults aged 12 to 99 and children aged 4 to 11, but not for children under 13 or wheelchair users.
The tour involves approximately 2 miles of leisurely walking through the cemetery, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
The tour runs rain or shine, so visitors should dress appropriately for the weather.
For families with children, private tours are available.
Customer Feedback
Travelers have expressed satisfaction with the walking tour of Père Lachaise Cemetery. Reviews highlight the tour’s knowledgeable guides who bring the stories of the cemetery’s residents to life.
Visitors appreciate learning about the scandals, love stories, and histories of notable figures like Héloïse and Abélard, Oscar Wilde, and Edith Piaf. The tour’s value for money receives slightly lower ratings, but many still feel it’s a worthwhile experience.
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Travelers praise the engaging narration and fascinating insights provided by the guides.
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Some feel the tour could be more in-depth or offer additional options, impacting the value perception.
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The cemetery itself and the ability to visit famous graves are frequently cited as tour highlights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Visitors With Mobility Issues?
The tour is not suitable for visitors with mobility issues. It involves approximately 2 miles of leisurely walking through the cemetery, and it’s not recommended for wheelchair users according to the important information provided.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Interests?
Yes, the tour can be customized for special interests. The tour operator offers private tours that can be tailored to focus on topics like art, history, or architecture for individual groups or families.
What Is the Refund Policy for Cancellations?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy allows customers to easily reschedule or cancel their tour if necessary.
Do the Tours Run on a Set Schedule or Are They Flexible?
The tours run on a flexible schedule. They’re offered regularly throughout the day, and customers can choose a start time that works best for them. The tours proceed rain or shine, so they’re available year-round.
Are Audio Guides or Listening Devices Provided During the Tour?
The tour doesn’t provide audio guides or listening devices. It’s a guided walking tour, so you’ll follow along with the knowledgeable guide who’ll share stories about the cemetery’s famous residents throughout the 1.5-hour experience.
Sum Up
The "Paris: Stories of Père Lachaise Cemetery Walking Tour" offers an engaging and immersive experience for visitors to uncover the captivating histories of iconic figures. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, the tour promises a compelling journey through the historic cemetery, exploring famous graves and uncovering intriguing scandals and love stories. This unique tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to explore the rich narratives that make Père Lachaise Cemetery a cultural treasure of Paris.