Paris Time Machine: Hidden Gems & Local Stories Free Tour
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One street away from the crowds, discover a living Paris that still feels like a village. From the cathedral that inspired Victor Hugo to the home where he once lived, this walk connects 2,000 years of history with authentic local life.
Paris has 2,000 years of history and it's not in the museums, it's hidden in the streets. Whether it's your first or fifth time in Paris, this tour is the perfect introduction to the city.
We're a small team of passionate Parisians who created this Paris Time Machine to take you one street away from the crowds, into the heart of the city!
This is a walking tour, not a standing lecture! The tour is carefully paced to keep you engaged from start to finish.
We'll take you where others don't go. This tour combines Paris's iconic sights with the places most visitors never discover: - Cannonball and bullet marks still visible on the walls - Kings, emperors, revolutionaries, and WWII resistance fighters who shaped Paris - Beautiful churches, hidden gardens, and medieval houses - Street art is everywhere in Le Marais!
We'll share our favourite spots: Restaurants / Bars / Hidden corners
- Children are absolutely welcome - Jokes included at no extra charge - Hot Summer! We'll stay in the shade
Meeting point
Parvis de l'Hotel de Ville / Square in front of City Hall
Before you go
- Length
- About 1h 45min
- Languages
- English
- Usual start times
- 10:30, 14:00 (Paris time)
- Coming up
- 120 departures in 3 months, 14 this week
Questions about this tour
How much does this tour cost?
Nothing up front. You book for free and tip your guide at the end. Many travellers tip around €5 to €15 per person, depending on the length and quality of the tour.
How long does it take?
About 1h 45min.
Where does it start?
The meeting point is Parvis de l'Hotel de Ville / Square in front of City Hall. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
What languages is it in?
Upcoming departures are in English. Pick your language in the calendar to see only those.
When does it run?
120 departures are listed in the next three months, 14 of them in the next 7 days, usually at 10:30 and 14:00. Times are local to Paris.
Do I need to book?
Booking is a good idea: groups are limited and popular times fill up. Create a free Tripsora account, pick a day and time, and press Book to finish with the tour provider.
Is it accessible?
The tour provider has added accessibility information for this tour. Check the details with them when you book, and tell your guide about any needs on the day.
Can I bring my dog?
The tour provider lists this tour as pet friendly.
Other free tours in Paris
- Paris at Your Reach: Free Tour through the Heart of the City 4.8 ★ (1,994) · 2h 45min
- Montmartre Paris Free Tour: Moulin Rouge to Sacre Coeur 4.8 ★ (1,495) · 1h 30min
- Free Tour of Montmartre in Paris 4.9 ★ (934) · 2h 30min
- Free Tour Montmartre: The bohemian heart of Paris 4.9 ★ (740) · 2h
- The Original Free Tour of Paris 4.7 ★ (777) · 2h 15min
Accessibility information availablePet friendly
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