Paris: Le Marais Walking Tour of the Jewish Quarter & Medieval Streets
We trace the story of Le Marais from its medieval walls to grand aristocratic hôtels particuliers, through the vibrant Jewish Quarter and today’s chic boutiques and galleries. Highlights include the Hôtel de Sens, Hôtel de Sully, Place des Vosges, the Musée Carnavalet, and Rue des Rosiers in the historic Pletzl — woven into the charm and elegance that make the district uniquely Parisian.
Basic Information
Total time
2h
Language
English (check the calendar for availability)
Price
„Pay what you wish” tours do not have a fixed price. It is up to you to evaluate your guide’s work and reward it. Some people give 10€, others 50€ depending on their satisfaction and abilities.
Meeting point
Exit of metro Saint Paul Nearest public transport: Rue de Rivoli metro station; Pont Marie (Île Saint-Louis) metro station
Additional info
☂︎ This tour is organised by Walkative Paris guides. Look for the guide with the yellow umbrella.
❗Our tours run no matter the weather. High or low temperatures, rain or snow is not a reason for us to cancel our tours. We are always here for you. The only reason for cancellations are extreme weather conditions (like heavy storms…), guide's sudden sickness or no minimum number of people (5) to run the tour, but we will always let you know using the data you provided during registration for the tour.Booking rules
Booking is obligatory. Our pay as you wish tours are designed for individual travellers and small groups. We don’t accept parties of more than 7 people on them. If you travel in a party of 8 or more (school groups, bigger groups of friends etc.), please choose a paid option of 18€ per person or book a Private Tour. For more information on the latter, please contact us.
About the tour
Tucked away behind the famous Notre Dame is a small gem of a neighbourhood where amongst mediaeval architecture, nowhere to be found in the rest of Paris, you can discover the trendiest boutiques and galleries, chic spots for brunch and the best night bars. The area is a home to two distinctive communities: Jewish and LGBT+ and a favourite meeting place for Parisians. Join us to discover Le Marais, a local treasure with tons of stories to tell and flavours to discover.
Its story begins in the 13th century when it was primarily marshland (hence the name “Marais,” meaning “marsh” in French) before being transformed into a district favoured by the nobility in the 16th and 17th centuries. This era saw the construction of opulent mansions and private hotels, such as the Hôtel de Sens and Hôtel de Sully, which exemplify the architectural elegance of the period. Le Marais was spared from Haussmann’s urban renewal, preserving remnants of its illustrious past, mediaeval and renaissance. Over the centuries, Le Marais has been a melting pot of cultural influences, notably becoming a prominent Jewish community hub in the 19th and 20th centuries. Despite facing challenges such as neglect and proposed demolition in the 20th century, preservation efforts have since protected and revitalised the area. Today, Le Marais stands as a cherished emblem of Parisian history, art, and diversity, attracting visitors and locals alike to its picturesque streets, historic buildings, and vibrant cultural scene.
Join our tour to marvel at the architectural masterpieces and explore this unique Parisian neighbourhood. Let us guide you through Le Marais, offering local insider tips on the best eateries, patisseries, museums, and galleries and immerse yourself in the unique vibe of this iconic Parisian neighbourhood.
Highlights
- 1
Hôtel de Sens
An opulent mansion exemplifying the architectural elegance of Le Marais's aristocratic past.
- 2
Wall of Philippe Auguste
The oldest city wall of Paris, a remnant of the city’s 12th-century medieval fortifications.
- 3
Hôtel de Sully
A magnificent private mansion offering a glimpse into the district’s opulent 17th-century history.
- 4
Place des Vosges
An iconic royal square, a favourite Parisian meeting place and once home to Victor Hugo.
- 5
Musée Carnavalet
The Museum of the History of Paris, deeply intertwined with the district's rich heritage.
- 6
The Pletzl
The historic Jewish quarter, a vibrant cultural hub for Paris's Jewish community since the 13th century.
7Rue des Rosiers
The heart of the Jewish quarter, renowned for traditional delicacies and the city's best falafel.
Map
Exit of metro Saint Paul Nearest public transport: Rue de Rivoli metro station; Pont Marie (Île Saint-Louis) metro station
