The Marais is the home the city’s historic Jewish community, as well as one of Paris’s most popular neighborhoods. Join us as we explore the area’s best-kept secrets and discover why it continues to enchant locals and tourists today!
Unlike much of central Paris, which was redesigned by Baron Haussmann in the 19th century, the Marais escaped large-scale demolition. As a result, it retains some of the city's most historic buildings and opulent mansions. But this neighborhood is anything but frozen in time! On this 2.5-hour walking tour, you’ll discover how the Marais has evolved into a dynamic blend of past and present. With small groups of no more than 12 guests, you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions and engage in conversation as one of our certified guides brings its rich history to life.
You’ll admire the Church of Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis, a stunning display of Baroque grandeur, before visiting Hôtel de Sully and Musée Carnavalet, magnificent reminders of the royal residences that once filled this district. Of course, no visit to the Marais would be complete without a stop at Place des Vosges, one of Paris’s most elegant squares.
From here, you’ll fast-forward to the 18th and 19th centuries, when the Jewish community established itself in the district. Strolling past tempting bakeries and stylish boutiques on Rue des Francs Bourgeois, you’ll get a taste of the area’s enduring charm. Your tour will conclude at either Hôtel de Ville or the Pompidou Center—two architectural masterpieces from very different eras, yet each an undeniable treasure of the one-of-a-kind Marais.
Highlights: Highlights generally included (but are not limited to)
Church of Saint Paul-Saint Louis: Known for its stunning Baroque facade, this church boasts one of the most impressive architectural exteriors in Paris. Its intricate design and history make it a must-see.
Hotel de Sully: This 17th-century mansion is a marvel of classical architecture. Its elegant design and tranquil courtyard provide a glimpse into Pa...
Le Marais District Guided Walking Tour – Semi-Private (ENGLISH)
Paris, FR
2 hours 30 minutes
What You Will Do
What's Included?
- Semi-private walking tour
- Semi-private" means group size is never more than 12
- Guests maximum
- Professional tour guide
- Duration 2.5 hours
- Tour will run, rain or shine
What's Not Included?
- Tour price does not include hotel pickup or drop-off (we recommend uber or taxi)
- Tour does not include gratuities (optional)
- Tour is not available for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
Cancellation Policy
- Customers can cancel for a **full refund up to 24hrs before the tour start time**. No refund will be provided within 24hrs before the tour start time. Contact us by phone to cancel or Reschedule if necessary. *(reschedule fee may apply)*
- No-shows and latecomers will be charged the full price.
- If you have **booked through a third party, please contact them directly** to cancel or reschedule according to their Terms & Conditions.
Itinerary
Meeting Point
In front of the entrance to Saint Paul's Metro station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/Rmw3jwMu8fvnnQbeA
1
Itinerary
Stops and order may vary: Saint-Paul Metro We begin our tour at the easily recognizable entrance of Saint-Paul metro station, located on a bustling street in the heart of the Marais. Your guide will provide a brief introduction to the neighborhood’s history before leading you to your next stop. Maisons Médiévales (Medieval Houses) One of the few places in Paris where you can still see authentic medieval houses, these timber-framed structures offer a rare glimpse into what the city looked like before Haussmann’s 19th-century renovations. Though much of medieval Paris has disappeared, these buildings remain a testament to the city’s past. (10 minutes) Shoah Memorial (Exterior Only) This solemn and powerful site serves as France’s national Holocaust memorial, honoring the Jewish victims of World War II. The Wall of Names lists the thousands of French Jews deported during the Nazi Occupation, ensuring their memory endures. (10 minutes) Hôtel de Sens One of the few medieval residences still standing in Paris, the Hôtel de Sens is a remarkable blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Keep an eye out for the cannonball embedded in its facade, a remnant from the July Revolution of 1830. (5 minutes) Enceinte de Philippe Auguste Step back in time to the 12th century, when King Philippe Auguste ordered the construction of a fortified wall to protect Paris before his departure for the Third Crusade. Here, we will begin our exploration of Jewish history in medieval Paris, discussing the community’s rise, persecution, and resilience over the centuries. Église Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis Marvel at the stunning Baroque architecture of Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis, one of the few Jesuit-built churches in Paris. Its Italian-inspired facade and impressive dome were modeled after the Gesù Church in Rome. (10 minutes) Jardin de l’Hôtel de Sully Discover the Hôtel de Sully, a magnificent mansion built between 1624 and 1630, blending Renaissance elegance with Baroque grandeur. As you step into its secluded garden, you’ll begin to understand the extravagance of the aristocratic residences that once populated the Marais. (10 minutes) Place des Vosges No visit to the Marais is complete without a stroll through Place des Vosges, Paris’s oldest planned square. Encircled by stately red-brick mansions, this perfectly symmetrical square is one of the most picturesque spots in the city. (10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free) Rue des Francs Bourgeois We will then walk along Rue des Francs Bourgeois, one of the liveliest streets in the Marais, famous for its trendy boutiques, charming cafés, and vibrant atmosphere. (10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free) Carnavalet Museum The Hôtel Carnavalet is one of the rare examples of Renaissance architecture in central Paris. Now home to the Carnavalet Museum, it tells the story of Paris’s past, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s diverse and evolving identity. (10 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included) Rue des Rosiers We will then stroll through Rue des Rosiers, the heart of Paris’s historic Jewish quarter. This charming, bustling street is lined with delis, bakeries, and kosher restaurants, where you can sample some of the city’s best falafel and challah bread. (10 minutes) Jardin des Rosiers – Joseph-Migneret Tucked away between historic mansions and hidden behind boutiques, the Jardin des Rosiers offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Marais. Named in honor of Joseph Migneret, a school principal who bravely hid Jewish children during World War II, this stop allows us to reflect on the Occupation of Paris and the resilience of its Jewish community. (10 minutes) Centre Pompidou Approaching the end of your tour, we will visit the Centre Pompidou, one of Paris’s most provocative landmarks. Love it or hate it, this modern art museum, with its bold exterior of colorful pipes and exposed structures, redefined architectural norms when it was unveiled in 1977. (10 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included) Hôtel de Ville We will conclude our tour at the Hôtel de Ville, the seat of Paris’s municipal government since 1357. This magnificent Renaissance Revival building has witnessed centuries of political upheaval, even coming close to destruction in the Paris Commune fire of 1871. (10 minutes)
Additional Information
This activity is operated by Babylon Tours Paris
- Accesibility: Not Wheelchair Accessible
- Disclaimers: • The Tour may enter religious buildings, appropriate dress is required. • The tour route may be affected by national celebrations. In such cases, we will provide guests with an alternative route, ensuring all highlights of the tour are still covered. Refunds or discounts cannot be provided in these situations. • Due to increased security measures at various attractions, sites may not be accessible for interior visits.