Invader Hunt – Street Art Tour of le Marais

Discovering the Urban Canvas: Invader Hunt – Street Art Tour of Le Marais

Imagine strolling through one of Paris’s most historic neighborhoods, Le Marais, and uncovering a different layer of its charm—its vibrant street art. This Invader Hunt tour, costing around $47.40 per person and lasting just over two hours, offers a unique chance to see Paris through a contemporary lens. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll follow a downloadable app to hunt down mosaic artworks by Invader, alongside other hidden street art treasures, all while soaking in the neighborhood’s lively atmosphere.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines urban exploration with cultural storytelling. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making the experience not just a walk but a story about Paris’s evolving street art culture. Plus, the small group size means you get a more personal, flexible experience—ideal for families, teens, or anyone curious to see the city’s street art scene up close.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour is centered on street art, so if you’re expecting a traditional historical or art museum experience, this might not be your main focus. Also, you’ll want to arrive a few minutes early to start on time, especially since late arrivals may miss out on parts of the hunt. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for those wanting an active, engaging way to experience Paris beyond its classic sights.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of discovery, art, and local culture—especially families with kids or teens who find street art more engaging than static artworks. If you love the idea of hunting for mosaics in an authentic Parisian neighborhood, this tour will hit the mark.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy enhances personal engagement and flexibility.
• Expert guides bring street art culture alive with detailed stories.
• Interactive app makes the hunt engaging and fun, especially for younger travelers.
• Focus on Le Marais, a neighborhood full of surprises, from fountains to Jewish quarters.
• Ideal for families and teens, offering a lively, active experience.
• Cost-effective way to see a different side of Paris without entry fees or long waits.

Exploring Paris’s Street Art Scene: An In-Depth Look

The Charm of Le Marais

Le Marais is a neighborhood that’s often associated with medieval streets, chic boutiques, and historic landmarks. What makes this tour special is how it flips the script—revealing that beneath its classic facade lies a thriving, colorful street art scene. Walking through narrow lanes, you’ll notice murals and mosaics that tell stories of modern Parisian culture, rebellion, and creativity.

The Invader Mosaics

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the mosaic works by Invader, an artist renowned for his pixelated space invaders, which he has installed across cities worldwide. According to reviews, spotting these mosaics becomes a fun challenge, especially with the guidance of the app designed to help hunters find each piece. As one reviewer noted, “Our guide Thom Thom was very knowledgeable about the street art in the Marais and hunting for Invader works,” which made the experience both educational and entertaining.

Other Street Art and Hidden Gems

Beyond Invader, the tour also introduces you to other forms of street art. Stops at Fontaine Stravinsky showcase works by Niki de Saint Phalle and Jean Tinguely, blending sculptures and murals into an eclectic mix. The walk around the Centre Pompidou not only offers a chance to admire its high-tech architecture but also to discover hidden street art treasures nearby—adding layers to your understanding of this neighborhood’s artistic diversity.

The Tour Itinerary: A Walk Through Culture

The itinerary begins at 2 Rue Brisemiche, where you’ll meet your guide. The first stop at the Fontaine Stravinsky provides a scenic introduction with its famous sculptures and nearby street art. This spot offers a quick 10-minute visit to appreciate the art and set the tone for the walk ahead. Walking past the Centre Pompidou, you’ll marvel at its architecture from the outside and look for street art gems in the surrounding streets—a vivid reminder that Paris is a city where old meets new.

Next, you’ll pass the hidden Gardens of the National Archives, a quiet space often overlooked by travelers, and then wander into the Jewish neighborhood, full of cultural history and lively street scenes. Each stop is designed not only for visual discovery but also for storytelling, helping you understand the context behind the artworks and their creators.

The Experience: What to Expect

Guided by an artist, you’ll use an app to locate mosaics and street art, making the hunt interactive and engaging. The small group size of up to 15 ensures you have the opportunity to ask questions and soak in the details. Reviewers have consistently praised the guides for their knowledge and ability to share insights that bring the art to life.

Most travelers find the tour very accessible—most can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour starts promptly at 10:00 am and concludes at a different location, giving you flexibility to continue exploring afterward.

The Practical Side: Price, Duration, and Value

At roughly $47.40, this tour offers excellent value considering it includes a guided experience, an app for interaction, and a focus on a lesser-known aspect of Paris. The duration of about two hours and 15 minutes makes it a perfect morning activity—long enough to feel fulfilling but short enough to leave room for other sights later in the day.

Given that the tour is highly booked in advance—often 40 days ahead—you’ll want to plan early if this experience appeals to you. Its intimate size and focus on street art mean you avoid large crowds and get a more personalized insight into the neighborhood.

The Verdict: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to see Paris beyond the main sights, interested in street art, or traveling with teens or kids, this tour hits the sweet spot. Reviewers mention that “It was enjoyable for both adults and teens—a great family activity,” which suggests it’s accessible and engaging for a wide age range.

For those looking to add a touch of modern culture to their Paris visit, this is a compelling choice. It’s especially valuable if you appreciate guides who are passionate and knowledgeable, as that really enhances the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs approximately $47.40 per person, which covers the guided walk and access to the app for hunting artworks.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes, making it a manageable adventure that fits into a morning or early afternoon.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, reviews highlight that it’s enjoyable for both adults and teens, making it a good family activity.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at 2 Rue Brisemiche, 75004 Paris, France, and it begins promptly at 10:00 am.

What’s included in the experience?
You’ll have an artist guide and a mobile app to assist in locating street art pieces.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the tour is all-inclusive; there are no extra fees for the street art or guide.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund.

What if I arrive late?
Arriving late might mean missing parts of the tour, as the group starts on time and latecomers may find it difficult to catch up.

Do I need to walk a lot?
Yes, it’s a walking tour through Le Marais, mainly around the neighborhood’s streets and alleys.

Final Thoughts

This street art tour offers more than just a walk; it’s a chance to see Paris through the lens of modern urban culture. The combination of expert guides, interactive technology, and the chance to find mosaics by Invader and other artists makes it a memorable, engaging experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy active exploration, local culture, and discovering hidden corners of a city famed for its art and history.

If you’re looking to add a splash of contemporary creativity to your Paris trip and want a guided experience that’s both educational and fun, this tour deserves your consideration. Keep in mind that it’s popular, so booking early ensures you don’t miss out on this lively urban adventure.

Whether you’re a street art aficionado or simply curious about Paris’s modern faces, this tour provides a fresh perspective on a city that’s constantly evolving. It’s a chance to combine walking, learning, and adventure in one compact, well-organized package—perfect for making your Paris visit truly unique.