Paris Highlights Full Day Tour

Planning a day in Paris? The Paris Highlights Full Day Tour offers an efficient way to see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, all while soaking in the stories and atmosphere that make Paris so captivating. For $186 per person, you’ll spend about 7 hours immersed in culture, history, and stunning views—ideal for first-timers or travelers with limited time.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its balanced mix of must-see sights like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, combined with hidden gems such as the Archeological Crypt beneath Notre Dame and a walk through the lively Latin Quarter. The small group setting, with guides like Monica or Tamar, adds a personal touch that makes the experience warm and engaging.

One important consideration: the tour does not include skipping the line at the Eiffel Tower, and during peak seasons, waiting up to two hours to buy tickets can be expected. Still, with knowledgeable guides keeping you entertained, that wait becomes part of the experience rather than a hassle.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of organizing multiple entries and transport, especially those eager to learn stories behind the landmarks from passionate guides. If you’re ready to explore Paris in a lively, educational way, this tour is a solid choice.

Key Points

Balanced itinerary blending major sights with lesser-known treasures
Expert guides providing engaging, anecdotal insights
Convenient transportation including a 24-hour bus ticket
No skip-the-line Eiffel Tower access, but tickets are purchased after arrival
Small group size enhances personalized attention
Good value considering the inclusion of multiple attractions and guided commentary

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins at 5 Avenue Anatole France, right by the Eiffel Tower, a perfect place to kick off your day. It’s a central location, easy to reach via Metro, RER, or bus, with clear directions provided. Your guide, often holding an “ExperienceFirst” flag, will be ready to greet you, setting an informal tone for an engaging day.

The initial segment involves a 1.5-hour bus ride around Paris. This might sound like a long time on a bus, but it’s your chance to get first impressions of the city’s layout and major neighborhoods while relaxing. The bus ticket is valid for 24 hours, so later in the day, you can hop on and explore further on your own—adding flexibility to your Paris adventure.

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Climbing the Eiffel Tower

No visit to Paris is complete without a trip to the Eiffel Tower. The tour provides tickets for the elevator to both the second level and the summit. While the guide won’t skip the line, they will purchase tickets after you arrive, which during busy seasons could mean waiting up to two hours.

Many reviews mention this wait as a minor inconvenience—your guide will keep you entertained with stories about the tower’s history and architecture. Once inside, you’ll enjoy sweeping panoramic views of Paris, with striking photo opportunities from the summit and the second level. If the summit happens to be closed due to weather or maintenance, you’ll still visit the second floor and receive a partial refund for the summit.

Travelers love the guided ascent because it turns what could be a crowded, stressful process into a relaxed, story-filled experience. The views are truly spectacular, especially on clear days, making it well worth the wait.

Notre Dame and the Crypt

Next, the tour takes you via comfortable bus to the Notre Dame Cathedral. While entry into the cathedral itself isn’t included, you’ll admire its exterior architecture—Gothic spires, flying buttresses, and stunning stained glass. Your guide will tell stories about its construction, its role in French history, and its symbolism in Parisian life.

Following the exterior tour, you’ll have a break for lunch at nearby cafes or bakeries—your guide can recommend places where you can enjoy delicious French pastries or classic quiches. Remember, lunch isn’t included, but this is your chance to indulge in local flavors.

After lunch, you’ll head underground to visit the Archeological Crypt beneath Notre Dame. This site reveals what lies beneath the city—ancient ruins, remnants of old Paris, and insights into how this area developed over centuries. Many travelers find the crypt a fascinating peek into the city’s layered history, a quiet contrast to the bustling streets above.

Walking the Latin Quarter

Post-crypt, your journey continues on foot through the Latin Quarter—a lively neighborhood famous for its cobbled streets, bookshops, and artistic vibe. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided walk, exploring landmarks like the Sorbonne, lively cafes, and hidden corners that exude bohemia.

Guides often share stories about famous writers and intellectuals who frequented these streets, making it a vibrant, storytelling part of the day. Many reviews highlight guides like Tamar or Marine for their enthusiasm and knowledge, which help bring this neighborhood to life.

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Concluding at Luxembourg Gardens

The tour wraps up at Luxembourg Gardens, a tranquil oasis perfect for relaxing after a busy day. You can stroll among fountains, statues, and flowering beds—ideal for a quiet moment or some last-minute photos.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes tickets to the Eiffel Tower (with summit access), a guided tour of the tower, a 24-hour bus ticket, guided exterior tour of Notre Dame, tickets to the Archeological Crypt, and a walk through the Latin Quarter.

Not included are food and drinks, but your guide will have recommendations, and you’ll have chances to buy pastries, coffee, or lunch during the day.

Transportation is well-organized, and the small group size ensures you get personal attention and the chance to ask questions freely—something many travelers appreciate, based on glowing reviews.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Arrive early at the starting point to avoid missing the guide.
Wear comfortable shoes—there’s about 2 miles of walking at a relaxed pace.
Bring weather-appropriate clothing; Paris weather can change unexpectedly.
Be prepared for possible wait times at the Eiffel Tower, especially in peak season.
The tour does not include entry into Notre Dame, but the exterior and crypt visits are thorough.
It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchairs due to walking and stairs involved.

Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides—some describe guides like Monica, Tamar, or David as friendly, engaging, and full of stories. Their enthusiasm helps turn sightseeing into storytelling, making the landmarks come alive.

Several reviews mention the stunning views from the Eiffel Tower, with one traveler noting, “The tour guide explained the history very well, and the views were spectacular.” Others enjoyed the crypt beneath Notre Dame, describing it as a quiet, revealing glimpse into the city’s foundations.

Food and neighborhood tips from guides are highly valued too. One reviewer said, “Monica went out of her way with restaurant recommendations and helpful tips,” which can make a big difference, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the city.

This full-day tour is best suited for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a rundown of Paris’s highlights with minimal hassle. The combination of iconic landmarks, insightful guides, and tasteful walking provides a balanced experience that’s both educational and enjoyable.

Travelers who appreciate small group atmosphere and don’t mind a few lines at the Eiffel Tower will find this tour well worth the cost. It’s especially appealing if you want a guided narrative that enriches your understanding of the city’s architecture and history.

While not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking skip-the-line privileges, it offers good value for those eager to see key sights and learn captivating stories.

Does this tour include skipping the line at the Eiffel Tower?
No, the guide will purchase tickets after you arrive. During peak season, this can mean waiting up to two hours. The tour includes the ascent but not the skip-the-line privilege.

What happens if the summit is closed?
If maintenance, weather, or security reasons close the summit, you’ll still visit the second level and receive a partial refund for the summit access.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but the guide can recommend nearby cafes and bakeries, so you can enjoy some local treats.

How much walking is involved?
Expect about 2 miles of walking at a leisurely pace, including the crypt and Latin Quarter stroll.

Can I join this tour if I have mobility issues?
This tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking and stairs involved.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the walking and wait times might be challenging for very young children.

What’s the group size?
While not specified exactly, the emphasis on small group guides suggests a more intimate setting, likely fewer than 20 participants.

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

The Paris Highlights Full Day Tour offers an engaging, well-rounded way to see the city’s most famous landmarks in one day. Its strength lies in expert storytelling, carefully chosen sites, and small-group intimacy, which helps bring Paris’s history and architecture to life. For those who want a structured yet flexible overview with plenty of opportunities for photos, learning, and leisurely strolls, this tour checks many boxes.

It’s particularly suited to travelers eager to maximize their sightseeing without the stress of planning every detail themselves. If you’re ready to experience Paris’s majestic views, historic streets, and hidden crypts with a knowledgeable guide by your side, this tour is a worthwhile choice.

Book early to secure your spot and be prepared for some waiting at the Eiffel Tower.
Come dressed comfortably and bring your camera.
Use the 24-hour bus ticket to explore further or revisit spots on your own later in the day.
Take advantage of guide tips on dining and lesser-known attractions for a richer experience.

Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this tour offers a fun, informative, and practical way to fall in love with Paris all over again.