Notre Dame Outdoor Tour | Choose: Conciergerie or Crypt Entry

Our tour begins at the historic statue of Charlemagne. Here, your guide will set the stage, providing a grand introduction to Île de la Cité, the island where Paris was born. We'll discuss its pivotal role in French history and get our first overview of the legendary Notre Dame Cathedral, outlining its incredible story from its medieval origins to the present day.

After our introduction, we will move closer to the cathedral's magnificent facade. Your guide will draw your attention to the intricate details you might otherwise miss. We will focus on the stunning sculptures of the portals, the famous gargoyles and chimeras, and the groundbreaking Gothic architecture of the flying buttresses that have supported the cathedral for centuries.

We'll take a short, scenic stroll to the banks of the River Seine to discover the iconic green stalls of the Bouquinistes. A Parisian tradition for centuries, these open-air booksellers are so unique they are protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your guide will share their fascinating history as you browse their collections of antique books, vintage prints, and charming souvenirs

As we walk through Île de la Cité, your guide will point out the grand Haussmannian architecture that defines modern Paris. Learn how Baron Haussmann's radical transformation in the 19th century tore down medieval streets to create the elegant stone buildings and wide boulevards we see today, forever changing the face of the city.

For guests with Sainte-Chapelle booking: Sainte-Chapelle is included and is a self-guided tour.