Paris: Île de la Cité, Notre Dame, Sainte Chapelle & Cruise

This in-depth exploration of the histories, myths, legends, and lore hidden behind the stones of Paris’ most interesting neighborhood takes you to the historic Île de la Cité in the heart of the city. From the gothic splendor of the bell towers of Notre Dame that inspired Victor Hugo to create his hunchback bell-ringer, to the dazzling stained glass windows in Sainte Chapelle, you’ll see Paris from several entirely different perspectives, and discover exactly what makes it such a special place. Your medieval Paris walking tour starts in the heart of Ile de la Cité, where you’ll hear all about the hidden history of this intriguing city and take in its romantic sights along the way to your first stop: the breathtaking Sainte-Chapelle. Skip the long lines and step inside to marvel at its stunning stained glass windows. Depicting over 1,000 biblical scenes, these windows are a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a true Paris hidden gem. Your guide will share fascinating insights into the chapel's history and the significance of the artwork, making this an unforgettable start to your tour. Next, you're off to the Conciergerie, a former royal palace that became infamous during the French Revolution as a prison—most famously for Marie-Antoinette. Walk through the historic halls, hear the chilling tales of its past, and learn about the dark days of the Reign of Terror. As you approach the iconic Notre Dame, your guide will take you back in time hundreds of years to when the mighty cathedral (the distance from which all points in France are measured) was first built and Paris looked very different than it does today. Through November 2024, you’ll get as close to the majestic landmark as the ongoing restoration will permit you to give you the best views possible. If you visit from mid-December 2024, the highlight of your tour will be the opportunity to step inside Notre-Dame itself. After years of restoration following the devastating fire, you'll be among the first to experience its reopening—a true once-in-a-lifetime experience. From there, you'll cross the river into the historic Latin Quarter. Stroll down meandering cobblestone streets where you'll hear the stories and learn of the characters—poets, philosophers, artists—that made Paris the City of Light. Last but not least, your guide will leave you with a special treat: a river cruise along the Seine where you can drink in Paris's magnificent buildings from a new vantage point. The cruise will last one hour and offers live commentary on board. Sites Visited: Notre Dame Cathedral (interior access from December 2024) Île de la Cité Sainte Chapelle Conciergerie River Seine Place Dauphine Latin Quarter Île Saint-Louis