What You Will Do
The French Revolution had a ripple effect throughout history, and it all kicked off right here in Paris. On this walking tour through the Marais neighbourhood with Context Travel expert Georgia Dearden, you‘ll see where history was made and how catastrophic weather and a series of meteorological events sparked socio-political tensions that ultimately led to the revolution.
Decode symbolism in Place du Chatelet and unravel key events like the Reign of Terror and the beheading of the royal family. Pass by Musée Carnavalet and explore the birth of the National Assembly. Learn how climatic events, social injustice, and political upheaval converged to reshape history.
Get unlimited use of this tour before your booking date and after it. You can use the virtual tour option at home, too.
Once you have booked, you will receive instructions and a unique code to download the tour. The app displays directions to the starting point; when you’re in the right place, tap start.
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Itinerary
Meeting Point
The tour begins at Place de la Bastille. Travelers can take subway lines 1, 5 or 8 to the Bastille station or bus lines 72, 76, 86, 87 and 91 to reach Place de la Bastille.
1
Place de la Bastille
Start your journey at Place de la Bastille, where the infamous political prison of the same name was stormed during the French Revolution, setting off a chain of events that transformed France.
2
Place des Vosges
Stroll through Place des Vosges, a charming square that witnessed significant socio-political upheavals, and learn about the radical transformations that unfolded from monarchy to republic within a few swift years.
3
Pass by the Cour et Jardin de l'Hôtel de Sully, an architectural gem that echoes the medieval past, as you explore the socio-political landscape that shaped the revolution.
4
Sully Hôtel Sté
Delve into the history of Hôtel de Sully, a magnificent mansion, and discover how the French Revolution affected aristocratic properties during this tumultuous period.
5
Place Ste. Catherine
Wander through Place Sainte-Catherine, absorbing the medieval ambiance and historical significance of the Parish Church of Saint-Paul of Saint-Louis, where pivotal events unfolded during the revolution.
6
Musee Carnavalet - Histoire de Paris
Pass by Musée Carnavalet, where you'll learn about the confiscation of buildings from aristocratic owners during the revolution, unraveling the complex narrative of social and cultural transformations.
7
Coulée Verte René-Dumont
Discover the Vestige de la Petite Force, a historical remnant that provides insights into the revolutionary era and the challenges faced by Parisian workers struggling with exorbitantly priced bread.
8
Parish Church of Saint-Paul of Saint-Louis
See the Parish Church of Saint-Paul of Saint-Louis, a site entwined with revolutionary tales, and gain a deeper understanding of the moral struggles and political developments of the time.
9
Hotel de Sens
Pass by Hôtel de Sens, an architectural gem with historical significance, as you traverse the cityscape, uncovering the complexities of the French Revolution's impact on both the aristocracy and the common people.
10
Hotel de Ville
See Hôtel de Ville, Paris' City Hall and reflect on the final days of the royal family and the broader implications of the revolution on the political landscape.
11
Explore the Courtyard of the City Hall, a space that witnessed pivotal moments during the revolution, and gain insights into the birth of the National Assembly and the advocacy for laws by independent citizens.
12
Square of Saint-Jacques Tower
Pass by the Square of Saint-Jacques Tower, catching a glimpse of the over 800-year-old city wall that once protected Paris, symbolizing the enduring historical legacy of the city.
13
Tour Saint-Jacques
Witness the iconic Tour Saint-Jacques, a historical landmark that stands as a testament to the city's rich heritage, and contemplate the significant events that unfolded during the tumultuous times of the revolution.
14
Place du Chatelet
Decode the symbolism behind the ornate column in Place du Châtelet square, gaining insights into the socio-political climate that fueled the French Revolution.
15
Pont au Change
Cross the Pont au Change bridge, absorbing the historical atmosphere, and reflect on the dramatic events that reshaped Paris and the course of history.
16
Palais de Justice de Paris
End your tour at the Palais de Justice de Paris, where you'll discover the complexities of political upheaval, climatic events, and social injustice that converged to reshape the very fabric of the world during the French Revolution.
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