Paris Self-Guided (GPS) Audio Walking Tour, France - City of Lights historic streets, iconic landmarks & hidden gems
Places: 16 POIsDistance: 3.34 miDuration: 1h:38m
Tour #1786
About this English self-guided 1h:38m walking tour in Paris
Welcome to the captivating streets of Paris, where history and beauty intertwine to create a mesmerizing journey through time.
On this walking tour, we'll embark on a delightful exploration of iconic landmarks and hidden gems, immersing ourselves in the essence of the "City of Lights".
Starting with the glorious Arch de Triomphe and with stops between until we reach the iconic Notre Dame, I am excited to unravel the magic of Paris, one landmark at a time.
Let's meet near the underground pedestrian passage, (or, Passage du Souvenir), on the pavement near Av. de la Grande Armee.
Ch. de Gaulle - Étoile Grande Armée, 75116 Paris, France
La Defense
Hey there, let's start the tour.
While the iconic Arc de Triomphe stands proudly before us,
take a moment to glance behind you at the striking modern arch.
Do you see it?
It's a straight line of about 5km, or, 3.1 miles from here, in the direction of av. de la Grande Armee.
That is La Défense’s Grand Arch, commissioned as part of France’s bicentennial celebration of the French Revolution in 1989.
The Grand Arch is a colossal, cube-shaped structure rising 110 meters (361 feet) high, and it is a modern reinterpretation of the iconic Arc de Triomphe.
Its clean, monumental lines symbolize modernity, progress, and innovation, creating a striking contrast with the classical architecture of the historic Arc de Triomphe.
It's main use is of an office building, but with a spectacular terrace, and a unique view over Paris
As you look back at the Arc de Triomphe, think of it as France’s past—a symbol of history, honor, and tradition.
Looking toward La Défense and the Grand Arche, you are witnessing the future, a bold reminder of how France continues to grow, innovate, and inspire.
Now, let's use the underground pedestrian passage to cross under the busy roundabout and reach the middle of the Arc de Triomphe, I'll meet you there, after you exit the stairs going up to the Arc.
L'Arc de Triomphe de l'Etoile, 75017 Paris, France
Arch de Triomphe
Welcome to the Arc de Triomphe.
The Arc is the center point of twelve grand avenues that get you anywhere across the city.
It stands magnificently at the western end of Champs-Elyses, a symbol of France's military prowess.
Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 to honor the victories of the French army, the construction faced delays due to historical events, finally reaching completion in 1836.
Yes, that's right, it took 30 years to complete.
Adorned with intricate sculptures and reliefs, the arch commemorates significant military events and pays tribute to the brave soldiers who fought for France's glory.
It serves as a solemn reminder of the nation's rich history and the sacrifices made for its freedom.
Beneath the imposing arch lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a poignant memorial dedicated to the fallen heroes of World War I. An eternal flame burns here, perpetually illuminating their memory and honoring their sacrifice for the nation.
Feel free to take photos and explore.
When you're done, let's go down the stairs and use the pedestrian passage to cross over to the other side, and enter the iconic Champs-Elyses avenue.
Tour itinerary stops | Additional places you'll see on this self-guided tour
Place 1La Defense
Place 2Arch de Triomphe
Place 3Avenue des Champs Élysées
Place 4Ladurée
Place 5Grand Palais & Petit Palais
Place 6Place de la Concorde
Place 7Musée de l'Orangerie
Place 8View of Musee D’Orsay
Place 9Jardin des Tuileries
Place 10Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel
Place 11Pyramide du Louvre
Place 12Cour Carrée
Place 13Pont des Arts
Place 14Pont Saint-Michel
Place 15Sainte-Chapelle
Place 16Notre-Dame Cathedral
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How to take a UCPlaces tour
Taking a UCPlaces tour is fun and easy.
Download the app (Android or iOS), purchase the tour (either here on the website, or from within the app).
That's it, you're ready to go!
When you want to start the tour, find the tour in the app (via a quick in-app search or by clicking the tour link received in your confirmation email) and click "Start Tour" (headphones recommended for best experience.)
* After purchasing a tour you will receive a purchase confirmation email including the tour link and instructions on how to take the tour, so you don't have to remember anything now.
How does the tour work?
UCPlaces acts as your personal tour guide, providing self-guided audio tours fully navigated within our app using GPS-based navigation. You won't need to switch between external navigation apps.
Whenever you approach a point of interest (POI) on the tour, our app will automatically play the relevant audio story at the right time and place.
If you start the tour before reaching the first POI, the app will navigate you to the starting point and then begin the tour.
How is this more convenient than a traditional tour?
UCPlaces offers an innovative and flexible way to explore exciting destinations on your terms.
Here are some key advantages over traditional tours:
No need to commit upfront or purchase in advance; buy a tour only when you're ready to go.
Walk at your own pace.
No waiting for groups; go on your schedule.
Take the tour in your preferred language.
Start, stop and continue the tour whenever you want.
Returning to the same destination? Take the tour again, and again, and again... And bring a friend!
Enjoy preferred prices.
What's included?
A self-guided audio tour taken via the UCPlaces app [Android / iOS (iPhone) / Apple CarPlay].
Tour route map and in-app GPS navigation (via the UCPlaces app).
Audio stories for places visited during the tour.
Apple CarPlay connection (for iOS users); for a seamless driving tour experience.
What's NOT included?
Earphones (highly recommended).
Smartphone.
Any kind of transportation (including tickets and passes).