For such a tiny island, Île de la Cité has a lot of stories to tell. It's where Paris was first settled, where some of the city's greatest dramas were acted out, and where the most beautiful buildings were constructed. Find out how this tiny island became the centre of one of Europe's most vibrant cultures with this fascinating walking tour of Île de la Cité and the heart of Paris.

This walking tour delves into the city's medieval roots to reveal a fascinating side of the City of Lights. See the stunning Notre Dame up close, either from the courtyard or by skipping the line to head inside the iconic cathedral (available from December 2024), which still stands proud after the recent fire. 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.

From there, it's a short walk to two historic monuments awaiting your discovery. With pre-reserved tickets, you'll enter the Conciergerie, famous for having the prison cell that once held Marie Antoinette, as well as Paris' most beautiful church, Sainte Chapelle. Finally, after passing through the tranquil Place Dauphine, experience Paris from a different vantage point on an idyllic 1-hour Seine river cruise, which also has a live guide on board.