Delve into one of the most violent chapters of Paris’ past, discovering significant sites from the French Revolution on this engaging walking tour. Trek through time as you walk from Les Invalides to the Latin Quarter, exploring aspects of the Revolution along the way.
Meet your guide near Les Invalides and hit the pavement. Learn about the events of the 1789 Revolution—there were more than one as France transitioned from monarchy to empire to republic—as you view the gilded dome of Les Invalides. Revolutionaries crossed the moat and stole weapons from this former ammunition depot to use in the infamous storming of the Bastille.
Follow in the footsteps of these anti-monarchy insurgents as you pass the National Assembly, the makeshift seat of the revolutionaries turned French Congress. Learn how the Louvre was used to serve the monarchy and the people, and see the place where the guillotine was set up. As you stroll through the Latin Quarter, you’ll encounter statues of famous revolutionaries along with their most-visited cafés and meeting points.
In the heart of Paris’ historic center stands the Conciergerie, the prison used to hold King Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette. This castle-like edifice on the banks of the Seine held over 2,500 prisoners during the revolution that spent their final days here before heading to the guillotine. Following the guided portion, your guide can point you in the direction of further self-exploration, such as the Bastille, where the prison no longer stands but remnants of it can be found in the underground metro.
