Guided Tour of Cite and Notre Dame + Sainte Chapelle Entry

Discover the rich history and architectural marvels of Île de la Cité with a guided walking tour that grants exclusive access to the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and the stunning Sainte-Chapelle. Beginning at the Equestrian Statue of Henri IV, this one-hour journey leads you through the Conciergerie, Palais de Justice, and other captivating landmarks, each with its own fascinating past. Enjoy the convenience of skip-the-line entry and the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, as you learn about the cultural heritage of Paris. This unforgettable experience promises to transport you through the city’s architectural gems and uncover the hidden stories that have shaped its iconic landmarks.

Key Points

• A guided walking tour of Île de la Cité, including visits to Conciergerie, Palais de Justice, and concluding at Notre Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle.
• Exclusive access and skip-the-line privileges for Conciergerie and Sainte-Chapelle, allowing for efficient exploration of these historical sites.
• Expert guide providing engaging storytelling and historical insights about the iconic landmarks and the island’s storied past.
• Tour duration of one hour, offering excellent value and a well-rounded experience for both history enthusiasts and sightseers.
• Free cancellation policy and reserve now, pay later option for added convenience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The guided walking tour of Paris focuses on the historic Île de la Cité, offering visitors a chance to explore the heart of the city.

Priced at a discounted rate, the tour costs between £32.40 and £45.00 per person, providing excellent value.

Lasting for one hour, the tour allows participants to make the most of their time, with a free cancellation policy that provides a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

For added convenience, a reserve now and pay later option is available.

Whether you’re looking to dive into Parisian history or simply experience the city’s iconic landmarks, this guided tour is an excellent choice.

Itinerary and Main Stops

Kicking off the tour at the Equestrian Statue of Henri IV on the Pont Neuf, visitors embark on a captivating journey through the historic Île de la Cité. The first stop is the Conciergerie, a former royal palace and notorious prison during the French Revolution. Next, the group explores the Palais de Justice, the historic judicial center operational since Roman times. Stepping into the vibrant Place Louis Lépine, guests admire the beautiful flower market renamed in honor of Queen Elizabeth II. The tour culminates at the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that has weathered wars and the 2019 fire, and the stunning Sainte-Chapelle, renowned for its breathtaking stained glass windows.

Stop	Attraction
1	Conciergerie
2	Palais de Justice
3	Place Louis Lépine
4	Notre Dame Cathedral

Tour Highlights and Experiences

One of the key highlights of this guided tour is the opportunity to skip the lines at both the Conciergerie and Sainte-Chapelle.

This exclusive access allows guests to explore the rich history of these iconic sites without the hassle of long queues. Throughout the tour, the expert guide shares fascinating insights, bringing the past to life through engaging storytelling.

Visitors can explore the Conciergerie, a former royal palace and infamous prison during the French Revolution, and marvel at the stunning stained-glass windows of Sainte-Chapelle.

Plus, the tour offers stunning views of the Seine and the chance to learn about Parisian traditions, providing a well-rounded experience for both history enthusiasts and sightseers.

Meeting Point and Important Information

Guests are to meet the guide at the middle of Pont Neuf Bridge, in front of the equestrian statue of Henry IV.

They’ll recognize the guide by the red and white "One Journey" sign.

It’s important to note that this tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Smoking is also not allowed during the tour.

With skip-the-line tickets for the Conciergerie and Sainte-Chapelle, guests can expect a smooth and efficient experience exploring the historical sites.

The guide will provide insider tips throughout the tour, enriching the overall experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Feedback and Recommendations

The tour has received an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 2 reviews.

Customers have praised the friendliness and historical knowledge of the guide. While the tour provides skip-the-line access to the Conciergerie and Sainte-Chapelle, some reviewers suggest that a brief guided tour of Sainte-Chapelle would further enhance the entry experience.

The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Île de la Cité, covering key landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral, the Palais de Justice, and the vibrant Place Louis Lépine flower market.

The tour’s combination of historical insights, skip-the-line privileges, and Parisian traditions makes it a popular choice for visitors seeking an engaging and efficient way to discover the heart of Paris.

Exploring Île De La Cité

During the tour, visitors are taken on a captivating journey through the heart of Île de la Cité, an island that lies at the very center of Paris.

The guide expertly navigates through the island’s storied past, highlighting its role as the birthplace of the city. Guests explore the Conciergerie, a former royal palace that witnessed the French Revolution’s dark chapter, and the Palais de Justice, a historic judicial center dating back to Roman times.

The tour also offers a chance to witness the vibrant flower market at Place Louis Lépine and marvel at the Gothic splendor of the Notre Dame Cathedral, which has endured wars and a devastating fire.

Visiting Conciergerie and Palais De Justice

As visitors approach the Conciergerie, they’re immediately struck by its imposing medieval architecture, a stark contrast to the bustling streets surrounding it.

This former royal palace and prison played a significant role during the French Revolution, housing thousands of prisoners, including Queen Marie Antoinette, before their execution.

The tour guide provides in-depth insights into the building’s history and the harrowing tales of its past occupants.

Next, the group heads to the Palais de Justice, the historic judicial center that has been operational since Roman times.

Visitors learn about the building’s architectural evolution and its enduring importance in France’s legal system.

Admiring Notre Dame and Sainte-Chapelle

Exiting the Palais de Justice, the group makes its way to the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that has withstood wars and the devastating fire of 2019.

The guide provides commentary on the cathedral’s rich history and architectural wonders, pointing out the intricate flying buttresses and the grand rose windows.

Next, the group visits the nearby Sainte-Chapelle, renowned for its stunning stained glass windows that depict biblical stories.

Skipping the lines, they enter the chapel and marvel at the vivid colors and the intricate details of the glass.

The guide shares insights into the chapels’ significance and its role in Parisian history, leaving the group in awe of these two iconic Parisian landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

According to the tour information, pets are not permitted on this walking tour. The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, so it’s unlikely that pets would be allowed to join. Guests are advised to leave their pets at home.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Headphones?

No, you don’t need to bring your own headphones for this tour. The tour provider will provide audio headsets, allowing you to hear the guide’s commentary clearly throughout the walking tour.

Is the Tour Available in Multiple Languages?

The tour is available in multiple languages. According to the description, the guided walking tour of Paris focuses on Île de la Cité and is offered in various languages to accommodate international visitors.

Can I Take Pictures Inside the Historical Sites?

Photography is generally allowed inside the historical sites visited on the tour, but visitors should be respectful and follow any posted rules or instructions from the guide. Some areas may have restrictions to preserve the sites’ atmosphere and ambiance.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

The tour company offers a private tour option, allowing visitors to have a more personalized experience with the guide. Private tours can be booked for an additional fee and are subject to availability.

Recap

This guided tour of Île de la Cité offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the rich history and architectural marvels of Paris. With exclusive access to Notre Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle, as well as visits to iconic landmarks like the Conciergerie and Palais de Justice, the tour provides a comprehensive insight into the city’s cultural heritage. The convenience of skip-the-line entry and the expertise of a knowledgeable guide make this a must-do experience for anyone seeking to uncover the secrets of this iconic Parisian district.

You can check if your dates are available here: