Ile de la Cité: Sainte Chapelle, Conciergerie, Notre Dame Private Guided Tour
● Your expert guide will take you through the historic Île de la Cité, the oldest neighborhood of Paris, where the City of Light began, sharing captivating tales.
● Personalize your monument visits by selecting one, two, or all three of the island's iconic landmarks—Notre Dame (not possible to visit with the guide), Sainte-Chapelle, or the Conciergerie (subject to availability)—and dive into their fascinating histories.
● Enjoy from a hassle-free access with timed entry tickets for a smooth visit to these historic landmarks.
Set off on a captivating 3-hour walking tour of Île de la Cité, the historic heart of Paris and the birthplace of the City of Light. Once known as Lutetia during Roman times, this enchanting island on the River Seine is where Paris began. Wander through its cobbled lanes and medieval streets, soaking in the timeless charm as your expert guide brings the island’s rich history to life.
During your tour, you have the option to visit one, two, or all three of the island’s iconic monuments. Explore the breathtaking Sainte-Chapelle, known for its stunning stained-glass windows, or step inside the Conciergerie, a former royal palace turned revolutionary prison. Alternatively, discover the majestic Notre Dame (please read our Good to Know Comments below), whose restoration is nearly complete and will soon reopen its doors to the public. Along the way, you’ll also visit the elegant Place Dauphine, one of Paris’ royal squares, and stroll along the Quai de l'Horloge, where medieval towers like the Caesar Tower and Clock Tower stand as proud reminders of the island’s past.
A little history about each of the sites:
Visit the inside of Sainte Chapelle is a stunning Gothic chapel famous for its breathtaking stained glass windows that depict biblical scenes and intricate designs. Built in the 13th century by King Louis IX to house holy relics, the chapel is a masterpiece of medieval architecture and a symbol of the wealth and power of the French monarchy. Visitors to Sainte Chapelle can admire the stunning rose windows, vibrant colors, and delicate detailing that make this chapel a true gem of Parisian history.
Also, visit La Conciergerie next to Sainte Chapelle, a former royal palace turned prison with a fascinating history. Originally built as part of the Palais de la Cité in the 14th century, the Conciergerie later served as a prison during the French Revolution, where many notable figures, including Marie Antoinette, were held before their executions. Visitors to la Conciergerie can explore the cells, halls, and chambers of this imposing fortress-like structure, gaining insights into the darker side of Parisian history and the turbulent times of the Revolution.
Continue your journey through history admiring Notre Dame Cathedral before visiting charming Place Dauphine, the second of five royal squares in Paris named in honor of Dauphin Louis XIII. Follow the Conciergerie and stroll along the Quai de l'Horloge, where a series of towers like the Caesar Tower and the Clock Tower stand proudly, offering glimpses into the island's medieval past. Experience the magic of Ile de la Cité with a knowledgeable guide who will bring its history to life before your eyes.
*Please note that during this tour, you may choose to visit one, two, or all three of the following sites: Sainte-Chapelle, the Conciergerie, and Notre-Dame*.
*Kindly note that we only visit the exterior, but clients have the option to queue and admire the interior on a self-guided visit.
*Your private guide will provide a detailed historical explanation of the cathedral’s remarkable past and allow you to fully appreciate its extraordinary architecture from the outside.
*Kindly be aware that the order of the monuments visited depends on the availability of time slots, which we will book for you. Rest assured, we will do our utmost to make your visit as comfortable and seamless as possible.
Included
● English-speaking private licensed guide
● Entrance slots for Notre Dame as well as Sainte Chapelle and the Conciergerie are included in this tour unless specified otherwise by your agent.
Not Included
● Entrance tickets for any other activity are to be paid on-site or to be included upon request
● Gratuity to the guide
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