Île de la Cité Guided Tour & Audio-Guided Visit of Notre-Dame
Description
Discover the heart of the Île de la Cité, the historic birthplace of Paris, on a guided walking tour rich in history and heritage. Meet your guide near Notre-Dame Cathedral and explore this fascinating district while learning about the history of Paris, the spiritual and political role of Sainte-Chapelle, the Flower Market, and many hidden treasures. Along the way, admire iconic landmarks such as Pont Neuf, the Conciergerie, the Palais de Justice, and the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral. The tour ends on the forecourt of Notre-Dame, where you can continue your visit independently using the ParisCityVision online audio guide to explore the cathedral’s interior at your own pace (free admission). Please note: Notre-Dame Cathedral is a place of worship dedicated to prayer and contemplation. Admission is free of charge. The guided outdoor tour and accompaniment services are independent of access to the cathedral. The audio guide is available on your smartphone in 10 languages.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Guided tour of the Ile de la Cité, the birthplace of Paris
The guide will introduce the exterior façade of the Cathedral and share key historical and architectural insights. After the explanation, you will be free to join the line and enter the Cathedral independently. An audioguide for the interior visit, available in 10 languages, will be provided. Please note that we cannot guarantee entry. However, we provide an audio guide so you can listen to information about the interior of the Cathedral once inside. The admission is free for the Cathedral.
The Parisii: Origins and heritage of Paris Roman conquest: Lutetia replaces Parisii Decline and Christianization Barbarian invasions Historical legacy: Lutetia becomes Paris "The Parisii and Nautes laid the foundations of Paris, combining wealth, commerce and spirituality. Their legacy remains visible in the modern city, a fascinating link with its ancient past. "
Sainte-Chapelle is a stunning Gothic chapel located on the Île de la Cité in Paris. Built in the 13th century by King Louis IX, it was designed to house precious Christian relics, including the Crown of Thorns. The chapel is famous for its magnificent stained-glass windows, which cover almost the entire upper level and create an extraordinary display of light and color. Today, it is considered one of the finest masterpieces of Gothic architecture in Europe.
Let’s discover the Conciergerie clock Installed in 1370, during the reign of Charles V, it was the first public clock in the capital. Two golden statues frame the clock, representing fundamental principles: On the left, the Law, imposing, which symbolizes order and rules. On the right, Justice, with her sword and scales, embodying impartiality.
A name full of history: This bridge takes its name from the money changers who, in the Middle Ages, set up their shops there. These specialized merchants exchanged coins and currencies, making this place a strategic center for the Parisian economy.
The mystery of Friday the 13th and the Île de la Cité The origins: a medieval drama It all begins on Friday, October 13, 1307, when King Philip the Fair orders the arrest of all the Templars in France. These once powerful knights are accused of heresy and corruption. This event marks the beginning of the end for the order of the Templars, which will be officially dissolved shortly after.
An innovative bridge: Built in 1854, the Pont d'Arcole is famous for being the first metal bridge in Paris without intermediate pillars. A technical feat for the time! Unusual anecdote: The Pont d'Arcole was the scene of many popular demonstrations, notably those of the Revolution of 1848.
Discover the history of Rue de la Colombe
Rue Chanoinesse: a street full of history and mysteries
The back of Notre-Dame
The adventures of Notre-Dame: between titanic construction and miraculous survival
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Guided tour outside the cathedral. Please note that we do not provide reserved entry to the interior of Notre-Dame de Paris (free access).
- You will need to download the audio guide on your smartphone to access the recorded commentary inside the cathedral. Don’t forget your headphones, and make sure your phone is fully charged for a better experience and to have the internet connexion.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris is a place of worship dedicated to prayer and contemplation.
- Admission to Notre-Dame Cathedral is free of charge. The services provided (outdoor guided tour, accompaniment) are independent of access to the building.
- We offer the adioguide for the interior of the Notre Dame Cathedral in English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Italian, German, Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Russian
- Waiting times to enter the Cathedral may vary depending on queue conditions. This tour does not guarantee access to the Cathedral, as admission is free, but an audio guide with commentary is provided so you can explore the interior at your own pace.
- Cathedral entrance not included. You can reserve a time slot online to enter the cathedral free of charge, but this service is not included in this offer
- The selected time corresponds to the guided tour time.
- Please Wear Appropriate Dress inside the Cathedral : modest clothing suitable (avoid wearing transparent or tight-fitting clothing, cover shoulders, torso, stomach and thighs, for men remove hats, caps or bonnets indoors).
- All visitors will undergo security checks upon entry. Please limit your personal belongings to facilitate these checks. Luggage and large bags are prohibited.
- The first and last name of each participant is required to make a reservation for the Archeological Crypt Entry Ticket
- The option with Crypt access is not accessible to people with reduced mobility (many stairs).
- If you select the option with the Crypt, please note that the order of the visits can change
Reviews(1)
Anna was an excellent tour guide. She was informative, friendly, and even cinematic at times when she told her stories. I highly recommend the tour.
Dear Heidi, Thank you so much for your comment. We’re pleased to hear that your tour of Ile de la Cité went so well thanks to Anna! We look forward to welcoming you again in the future! Kind regards, Extime Travel (formerly Paris City Vision)
