Paris Photography Tour – Self Guided Tour of Paris’ Top Instagram Spots

Discover the Best Instagram Spots in Paris on a Self-Guided Tour

When it comes to capturing the essence of Paris, few experiences can match a well-planned photography walk. This self-guided Paris Instagram tour takes you through some of the city’s most photogenic sites at your own pace, with commentary from a local historian and social media influencer. Priced at just $17.84 per person, it lasts about an hour to an hour and ten minutes, perfect for fitting into a busy day of sightseeing.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines famous landmarks like Shakespeare & Company and Notre Dame’s surroundings with some lesser-known spots that offer unique photo opportunities, like a tucked-away pastry shop and scenic views along the Seine. The GPS-based navigation helps keep you on track without the hassle of getting lost, and the downloadable audio ensures you don’t need WiFi once you start.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that some reviewers have found the tour a bit underwhelming, describing it as “pretty bland and boring” compared to similar experiences elsewhere, like London. Still, if you’re looking to explore Paris’s iconic spots without a fixed schedule or large group, this could be a good option—especially if snapping pictures for Instagram is your goal.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who enjoy a flexible pace, value local insights, and are keen on finding that perfect shot for their social media feed. It’s ideal for those who want a quick, budget-friendly intro to Paris’s visual highlights without the pressure of a guided group tour.

Key Points

• Flexible Self-Guided Format: Enjoy exploring Paris at your own pace with GPS navigation and offline audio.
• Curated Instagram Hotspots: A mix of well-known landmarks and hidden gems provides diverse photo opportunities.
• Local Commentary: Insight from a Paris-based historian adds context to each site.
• Budget-Friendly: Cost-effective at under $20 with downloadable content for offline use.
• Short Duration: A compact tour ideal for a quick photo wander.
• Mixed Reviews: While some find it inspiring, others consider it less exciting than similar experiences elsewhere.

An In-Depth Look at the Paris Photography Tour

Starting Point: Odette — A Quiet Corner of Medieval Paris

Launching your adventure at Odette, you’ll step away from the busy streets and experience a slice of medieval Paris. This spot, free to visit, offers a peaceful beginning to your photography journey. We loved the quiet charm of this area—it’s a peaceful way to start your sightseeing before diving into the more bustling parts of the city.

Shakespeare & Company: A Literary Icon

Next, you’ll stop at Shakespeare & Company, a beloved bookstore that’s a magnet for book lovers and Instagrammers alike. The shop’s vintage facade and cozy interior make for a perfect picture backdrop. The short five-minute stop, also free, allows you to snap a few shots and soak in the literary atmosphere.

Square René Viviani: Serenity and Legend

A quick five-minute stop takes you to Square René Viviani, where an old church and a legendary tree provide a calming setting. Its tranquil vibe offers a contrast to the lively streets of Paris, and the commentary from the historian helps bring its history to life.

Quais de la Seine: The Heart of Literary Paris

Walking along the quays of the Seine, you’ll find old books, maps, and artworks—a glimpse into the city’s artistic and literary legacy. This stretch is ideal for capturing the classic Parisian river scenes, especially with the Notre Dame backdrop. Travelers have mentioned the appeal of this spot, but some reviews suggest the overall tour might lack enough standout moments to thrill all visitors.

Ile Saint-Louis: A Scenic River View

The picturesque Ile Saint-Louis offers one of the most stunning views along the Seine. The brief five-minute pause here is perfect for snapping a shot of the river, with the calm waters and historic buildings creating a postcard-perfect scene.

Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole: Picturesque Bridges and Streets

At Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole, a charming spot near the river, you’ll learn about the city’s bridges and enjoy a quintessential Paris street scene. This stop often excites visitors looking for that classic Paris shot, especially with the colorful building facades and cobblestone streets.

Hôtel de Ville: A Lively Square with a Rich Past

The final stop at Hôtel de Ville is a vibrant square filled with history and activity. The commentary here covers its evolution from past to present. Expect lively urban scenes that are great for capturing the city’s energy.

What Does the Tour Offer in Practice?

The tour’s main advantage is its flexibility—you choose when and how long to linger at each site. The GPS-guided map ensures you stay on track, reducing the usual stress of navigating a new city. The offline audio feature means you can enjoy the full experience without worrying about data or WiFi.

Priced at roughly $17.84, this tour provides excellent value, especially considering it includes commentary from a local historian and social media influencer, giving your photos meaningful context. You’ll gain insights into each site’s background, enriching your photographic storytelling.

However, reviewers note that the tour may not be the most exciting in the world. One reviewer, Jennifer, simply found it “bland and boring,” especially compared to similar tours in London. The stops are mostly classic tourist sites, and some may desire more hidden gems or exclusive views. Still, for first-time visitors eager to get a quick snapshot of Paris’s most iconic spots, it covers a good range.

The Practical Side: Duration & Group Size

The tour lasts just over an hour, making it ideal for a short walking break. With a maximum group size of 10, you won’t be lost in a crowd, and you can enjoy a more intimate experience, even if you’re exploring solo or with a small group.

Price & Value

At under $20, it’s a budget-friendly option that can add a lot of value—especially if you use the audio to learn some local stories and history as you go. The self-guided nature means you’re not tied to a schedule, and you can customize your photo stops.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want a low-cost, flexible way to explore some of Paris’s most photogenic spots. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable navigating with GPS and prefer not to be part of a large tour group. Photographers and Instagram enthusiasts looking for a quick, curated set of stops will find it handy, but those craving off-the-beaten-path locations might find it a bit predictable.

If you’re comparing this experience with more immersive guided tours or in-depth museums, keep in mind that it’s more of a highlights reel—ideal for a quick photo jaunt rather than a comprehensive exploration.

The Sum Up

This self-guided Paris Instagram tour offers a practical and budget-friendly way to capture some of the city’s most iconic and picturesque spots. Its strengths lie in the flexibility, local insights, and curated list of photo-worthy sites, making it a good choice for travelers who want to snap memorable images without investing hours or a large budget.

While it may not satisfy those seeking hidden gems or a more dynamic experience, it’s a solid option for first-timers or casual photographers eager to gather a quick collection of stunning shots. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a leisurely, self-paced exploration with some added context about Paris’s history and culture.

In the end, whether you’re a social media lover, a casual tourist, or someone looking to briefly document your Paris trip, this tour can serve as a helpful guide—and a fun way to see the city through a lens.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, since it’s a self-guided walk at your own pace, it can be enjoyed by travelers of most ages, provided you’re comfortable walking.

Do I need to bring my own earphones or mobile device?
Yes, you’ll need your own earphones and mobile device to listen to the audio tour.

Can I do this tour offline?
Absolutely. The tour is available in offline mode, so you can download it beforehand and listen without WiFi.

How long does the tour take?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes, depending on how long you linger at each stop.

Are the stops crowded?
Some sites, like Shakespeare & Company and Hôtel de Ville, can be busy, especially during peak hours. Planning your visit early or late might provide a quieter experience.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time for a full refund.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Most travelers can participate, and since it’s simple walking and listening, it’s suitable for families with children, but keep in mind the walking involved.

Whether you’re after the perfect shot for your Instagram or just looking to see iconic parts of Paris in a relaxed, self-guided way, this photography tour offers a practical, budget-friendly option. Just remember, it’s more about the highlights than hidden treasures, so manage your expectations accordingly.