Paris walking tour discover the marais district

Explore the historic Marais district of Paris, home to the Places des Vosges, Pompidou Centre and the Bastille, on a 2-hour walking tour with an expert guide. The Marais is known for its strong Jewish community and is packed with shops, galleries and cafes that give it a lively atmosphere. Many of the narrow streets of the Marais are pedestrianized, so a walking tour is the best way to guarantee you won’t miss any of the highlights of this delightful Parisian district, including the Hotel de Ville and the Rue des Rosiers.

Wander through one of Paris’ oldest districts during this historical walking tour. Meet your expert guide near the Pompidou Centre (Centre George Pompidou), which celebrates modern art. Its eye-catching exterior design has made it a top Paris attraction, and this will be the first sight you'll see on your tour.

Follow your guide through the narrow lanes of the Marais, where the next point of interest is the Hotel de Ville (the town hall). This impressive building dates back to 1553 and is now the home of the Mayor of Paris. The large square in front of the Hotel de Ville hosts different attractions throughout the year, including an ice-skating rink and outdoor concerts.

As you walk, your friendly guide will explain the fascinating history of this district. The Marais was the site of the first Jewish settlement in Paris and continues to be the hub of the Jewish community today. Pass by the Memorial de la Shoah, an important Jewish site inaugurated in 2005 that stands as a powerful reminder of the Holocaust in France.

Next, see one of the best examples of Jewish culture in the Marais today – the cobbled Rue des Rosiers, home to Jewish bakeries, bookshops and kosher food outlets. Walk along this vibrant street with your guide, and make note of its popular cafes to come back to during your time in Paris.

Continue to the Place des Voges, one of the oldest squares in Paris and a highlight of the Marais. It was once a royal park and is considered to be one of the most beautiful squares in Paris; it was also home to famous French writer Victor Hugo. Your guided Marais walking tour ends at the Place de la Bastille, the site of the famous Bastille prison that was stormed on July 14, 1789, marking the start of the French Revolution.