We love walking in Paris, France! Strolling along lanes lined with impressive architecture and reveling in the authentic Parisian atmosphere is the best way to get acquainted with the city.
We’ve created 5 Fabulous Paris Self-Guided Walking Tours that highlight the best of the city. Our walks take in must-see sights and a few lesser-known attractions in the most enchanting places in Paris – and they are absolutely free of charge!
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Paris Self-Guided Walking Tours: Get Ready to Explore
Whether spending a day or planning a One-Week Paris Itinerary, our outlined routes are a fantastic way to discover the City of Light.
For each of our Paris walks, we feature multiple important stops along the route. Each attraction is enhanced with a short description and a map link.
You will need a connection, like Pocket WiFi, an eSim or an international data plan, to access our maps in real-time.
Additionally, we have created a map of all the self-guided tours to help you plot our your complete sightseeing.
For each sight listed, we indicated whether it is free or requires a ticket (and if it is included with the Paris Museum Pass).
5 Self-Guided Walking Tours in Paris
Our walking routes in Paris cover some ground – so lace up your shoes and let’s get going! Later in the article, we share more tips for sightseeing in Paris, France.
#1 Iconic Paris Walk
One of the best self-guided Paris walking tours for first timers, our Iconic Paris Walk features world-famous sights – like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Arc de Triomphe.
You will also experience the vibrant promenade along the River Seine and stroll the renowned Champs Elysees.
Complete the walk as a half-day introduction to the city – or make it a full day adventure by visiting two of the Best Paris Museums along the route.
#2 Self-Guided Walking Tour: Ile de la Cite
Exploring Ile de la Cite on foot is one of the fun self-guided walking tours of Paris. The natural island in the Seine River has been inhabited since ancient times. In the Middle Ages, it became the center of Paris – as it remains today.
Many top Paris sights are located on Ile de la Cite. The prime places to see are Notre Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, Palais de Justice, Conciergerie prison and the Memorial des Martyrs de la Deportation. Naturally, our Ile de la Cite Walking Tour covers them all!
#3 Paris Le Marais Self-Guided Walking Tour
The historic Le Marais District was once the posh neighborhood of nobles…until the French Revolution.
When the noblemen abandoned their mansions, Le Marais became home to Paris’ Jewish community and working-class families.
It wasn’t until the 1950s that many of the rundown residences were restored to their original architectural splendor. Most of these hotels (as homes were called) are now museums and art galleries.
This Paris Self-Guided Walk of Le Marais features the premier spots that capture the essence of the renowned neighborhood.
# 4 Self-Guided Walking Tour Paris: Left Bank
The adjoining districts of Saint-Germain-des-Pres and the Latin Quarter are two fun and dynamic neighborhoods to discover when visiting Paris’ Left Bank.
Home to Sorbonne University, ornate churches, spacious parks, classic cafes and chic nightclubs, the area has long attracted notable intellects, legendary artists and famed literary giants.
In our outlined Left Bank Walking Tour, we cover the most intriguing sights in both distinguished neighborhoods.
#5 Free Self-Guided Waling Tour Paris City Center
From opulent architecture to the superb shopping venues, the center of Paris does not disappoint! On this journey, you will walk to the best sights in the 1st and 2nd arrondissements.
Highlights of the Paris City Center Walking Tour include grandiose architecture, quaint covered shopping lanes (one of Paris’ Top Hidden Gems) and a phenomenal view.
Map of our 5 Free Self-Guided Walks in Paris
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Walking in Paris Map from below.
Tips for Self-Guided Walking Tours Paris, France
Before setting off on tours of Paris, we have some honest advice to make your walk enjoyable!
Self-Guided vs Guided Walking Tours in Paris
While our 5 tours cover the most amazing sights in Paris, there are some benefits to taking a guided tour.
With a local guide, you don’t need to worry about directions and they often offer personal insight. We recommend finding the best guided Paris tours on Viator, where you can read fellow traveler reviews.
Note too that there are some Free Paris Guided Walking Tours. While these budget tours are usually fun, a tip will be expected at the conclusion of the walk.
What You Will Need Walking in Paris
- Durable Shoes: We cover some miles; make sure you have good travel shoes for your walk!
- Travel Camera: Capture the beauty of Paris with a real camera; we use a DSLR Canon Rebel.
- Zippered Day Bag: Keep pickpockets at bay with a anti-theft day pack.
- Portable Charger: Keep powered up for your exploring with a solid power bank.
- Water: Stay hydrated with these Collapsible Water Bottles that are great for travelers!
Paris Trip Planning Resources
- Paris Travel Tips
- 7 Days in Paris Itinerary
- Palace of Versailles vs Fontainebleau
- Craft Beer Bars in Paris
- Trip to London, Paris, Rome
Start planning your trip to France! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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