Top 12 Best Walking Tours in Paris

Embark on a journey through the world of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism as you explore the Musée d'Orsay. Marvel at iconic works by legendary artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas. Admire the breathtaking architecture of the museum, housed in a former railway station, which adds to the charm of the experience.

How much time do you need:
A visit to the Musée d'Orsay typically takes around 2-3 hours, providing ample time to appreciate the art and ambiance.

Ideal for:
Families, couples, lovers of art, and nature enthusiasts will all find something to adore at the Musée d'Orsay. While pets are not allowed inside the museum, the nearby Seine River banks offer a pleasant spot for dog walkers.

Best time to visit:
Early morning visits are ideal for avoiding crowds, and Tuesdays are usually quieter. However, any time in September allows for a more serene experience compared to the bustling summer months.

Step into a realm of water lilies as you encounter Claude Monet's mesmerizing Water Lilies series at the Musée de l'Orangerie. This intimate museum tucked within the Tuileries Garden also houses Impressionist and Post-Impressionist treasures, making it a hidden gem for art enthusiasts.

How much time do you need:
You can explore the museum comfortably in about 1-2 hours, leaving you with time to enjoy the surrounding gardens.

Ideal for:
Couples seeking a romantic setting, art lovers seeking tranquility, and nature enthusiasts who can appreciate the scenic Tuileries Garden.

Best time to visit:
Weekday mornings are the least crowded, and September offers a pleasant climate for strolling in the garden before or after your visit.

As you step into the Sainte-Chapelle, prepare to be awestruck by the kaleidoscope of colors. This Gothic gem is renowned for its stunning stained glass windows, which depict biblical stories in intricate detail. The experience is like walking into a luminous storybook.

How much time do you need:
A visit to the Sainte-Chapelle typically takes around 30-45 minutes, allowing you to absorb the beauty of the stained glass and the delicate architecture.

Ideal for:
Couples seeking a romantic setting, families with older children who can appreciate the art and history, and lovers of architectural marvels.

Best time to visit:
Arrive early in the morning to admire the windows in the soft morning light and avoid larger crowds.

Discover the elegance of the Palais-Royal and its serene gardens surrounded by striking black and white columns. Nearby, explore the hidden treasures of the covered passages like Galerie Vivienne, filled with boutique shops, cafes, and a nostalgic ambiance.

How much time do you need:
Exploring the Palais-Royal and the nearby covered passages can take 2-3 hours, allowing for leisurely strolls and shopping.

Ideal for:
Couples seeking a romantic setting, families interested in history and shopping, lovers of architectural charm, and those with pets who can enjoy the gardens.

Best time to visit:
Early mornings offer a tranquil experience, and September's mild weather makes it perfect for outdoor exploration.

Venture into the artistic soul of Montmartre, where the likes of Picasso and Van Gogh once roamed. Visit iconic sites like the Moulin Rouge, explore the quaint Place du Tertre, where artists create masterpieces before your eyes, and ascend to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for panoramic views of the city.

How much time do you need:
A thorough exploration of Montmartre can take 3-4 hours, allowing you to soak in the bohemian atmosphere.

Ideal for:
Couples seeking a romantic and artistic atmosphere, families with older children who can appreciate history, and lovers of artistic heritage.

Best time to visit:
Morning visits are best for a quieter experience, and September's comfortable temperatures make it ideal for walking and enjoying the outdoor art scene.

Step into the Latin Quarter, a vibrant neighborhood filled with history, culture, and a youthful atmosphere. Explore the charming streets, visit the Panthéon, and immerse yourself in the academic ambiance of the Sorbonne University.

How much time do you need:
Exploring the Latin Quarter can take around 2-3 hours, allowing you to wander the historic streets and visit key landmarks.

Ideal for:
Couples seeking a romantic atmosphere, families interested in history and culture, lovers of academic heritage, and dog owners enjoying leisurely strolls.

Best time to visit:
The Latin Quarter is lively year-round, but September offers pleasant weather for outdoor exploration and fewer crowds compared to peak summer.

Luxembourg Gardens, a serene oasis in the heart of Paris, offers beautifully landscaped gardens, fountains, and the Luxembourg Palace. Enjoy the manicured lawns, explore the Medici Fountain, and watch children sail miniature boats in the pond.

How much time do you need:
A leisurely visit to Luxembourg Gardens can range from 1-2 hours, providing a relaxing break from city exploration.

Ideal for:
Families looking for a peaceful escape, couples seeking a romantic stroll, nature lovers who appreciate well-tended gardens, and dog owners enjoying a tranquil park.

Best time to visit:
September's mild weather makes it an ideal time to visit the gardens. Mornings and late afternoons are often less crowded.

Discover the Petit Palais, a gem of Beaux-Arts architecture. Inside, explore a diverse collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from various time periods. The museum's architecture and courtyard are attractions in themselves.

How much time do you need:
Visiting the Petit Palais typically takes around 1-2 hours, allowing you to appreciate the art and ambiance.

Ideal for:
Couples seeking a cultural experience, families interested in art and history, lovers of architectural beauty, and those with pets who can enjoy the museum's courtyard.

Best time to visit:
Weekday mornings offer a more serene museum experience, and September provides a comfortable climate for outdoor relaxation in the courtyard.

Embark on a historic journey to the Notre Dame cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Admire the intricate details of the facade and consider climbing the towers for breathtaking views of the city from above.

How much time do you need:
A visit to the Notre Dame cathedral, including a tower climb, can take 1.5-2.5 hours, depending on your exploration.

Ideal for:
Couples seeking a romantic setting with a touch of history, families with older children who can appreciate the architecture, and dog owners exploring the surrounding square.

Best time to visit:
Early morning visits provide a serene experience, and September's mild weather is ideal for enjoying the cathedral's exterior and the views from the towers.

Embark on a comprehensive tour of the Louvre, one of the world's largest and most famous museums. Admire masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and countless other treasures spanning millennia of art history.

How much time do you need:
Exploring the Louvre can take anywhere from 3-5 hours or more, depending on your interests and the exhibits you wish to see.

Ideal for:
Couples seeking a cultural and artistic experience, families with a passion for history and art, lovers of world-class museums, and dog owners exploring the museum's exterior and nearby gardens.

Best time to visit:
Mornings are the best time to beat the crowds, and September offers a comfortable climate for both indoor and outdoor exploration around the museum's iconic glass pyramid.

Discover the enchanting Saint-Paul Quarter, a hidden gem within the Marais. Stroll through cobblestone streets, explore charming courtyards, and admire preserved medieval architecture. Visit art galleries and antique shops and soak in the neighborhood's artistic spirit.

How much time do you need:
Exploring the Saint-Paul Quarter can take around 2-3 hours, allowing you to leisurely appreciate the historic ambiance.

Ideal for:
Couples seeking a romantic and historic setting, families interested in exploring Parisian heritage, lovers of artistic and antique treasures, and dog owners enjoying a leisurely walk.

Best time to visit:
Mornings offer a quieter experience, and September's pleasant weather enhances the appeal of outdoor exploration in this picturesque district.

Cross the Seine to the charming Île Saint-Louis, a serene island in the heart of Paris. Here, you'll find picturesque streets, centuries-old buildings, and delightful boutiques. Savor delicious ice cream from Berthillon, stroll along the riverbanks, and take in the views of the Seine River.

How much time do you need:
Exploring the Île Saint-Louis is a leisurely activity that can be enjoyed over 1-2 hours, allowing you to take in the island's beauty.

Ideal for:
Couples seeking a romantic and peaceful escape, families looking for a serene environment, lovers of quaint neighborhoods, and dog owners enjoying scenic riverside walks.

Best time to visit:
Anytime during the day offers a pleasant experience, and September's mild weather enhances the charm of this island retreat, whether you're indulging in ice cream or taking a leisurely stroll along the Seine.