The 12 best walking tours in Paris

One for the newbies: this two-hour tour will take you to all the big Parisian landmarks. Think Notre Dame, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, all in a smaller group setting. It’s even led by a clued-up guide who’ll keep you informed as you go. Or you can just Google stuff along the way instead. 

Time Out tip: Be sure to wear something that covers your shoulders and knees, as certain pit stops are places of worship and can deny entry if you're too exposed. 

Immerse yourself in la vie bohème – Bohemian Montmartre is one of Paris’s most charming (and historic) areas. This tour will take you around the hilly northern district, stopping at cool shops and some of the finest food spots in the area. Of course, you can expect the odd historical anecdote... or three.

Time Out tip: Make sure your camera's fully charged, as atop the highest hill in the city lies some of the best panoramic views Paris has to offer. 

True-crime fans will love this historical crime Paris walking tour. Embrace the Parisian streets from a different, slightly eerie, perspective. Join the darker side of Paris on a walking tour learning all about the dangerous past of the criminals who roamed the streets before you. Visit sites of executions, stroll the routes known for dodgy dealings, and discover the maze of side streets – the helping hand for criminals to outrun the law. Hold onto your purses.

Time Out tip: Listen out for the surprising facts and shocking anecdotes your clued-up guide has up their sleeve. 

You know, like that film? One of the French capital’s eeriest attractions, these underground ossuaries hold the remains of more than six million Parisians. Your guide will fill you in on the long and storied past of this spooky subterranean cemetery. Definitely one for fans of spine-chilling adventures.  

Time Out tip: You can opt for a hosted tour, which comes with a 30-minute briefing outside the catacombs, or dive straight in with a self-guided audio tour. 

This late-night tuk tuk tour will introduce you to the city just as it starts to get dark – you’ll journey along the Seine, around the courtyard of the Louvre, and then pay a visit to some lesser-known (and largely tourist-free) attractions.

Time Out tip: This is the perfect tour to do with your significant other if you happen to be on a couples holiday. 

Fashionistas can see Paris through the eyes of one of the 20th century’s greatest designers. The tour will begin at Coco’s favourite café, Angelina – renowned for its hot chocolate. Then you’ll venture on to Rue Saint-Honoré, where Chanel lived, and see the site of her first shop (which remains today). Lastly, you can rummage through a vintage shop in the hope of scoring some old-school designer goods. 

Time Out tip: The audio guide set-up of this tour means you can begin at any time and go completely at your own pace. All you need to do is download the VoiceMap app. 

For something beautiful and slightly less touristy, take a moment to admire the in-your-face artwork lining walls all over the city. Learn about some of the capital’s most well-known street artists, and discover the techniques they use to scale those mighty Haussmannian façades. Make sure to bring a camera, you'll have heaps of good photo ops. 

Time Out tip: Make the most of your local, knowledgeable guide by asking as many questions as you like. 

Treat that sweet tooth with a delectable tour of the city’s most impressive chocolatiers. Learn all about the history of confectionery in Paris by visiting some swanky sweet shops along the Right Bank and, best of all, get your sticky mitts on some freebies. Our pro tip: wear elasticated trousers and thank us later. Bon Appétit.

Time Out: Be sure to get your fair share of hot drinks, with tea, coffee and even hot chocolate available. 

Immerse yourself in the life of a bourgeois 'it girl' with this Emily in Paris walking tour. Inspired by the hit TV show, you'll visit key filming locations from the series while immersing yourself in the charm of Paris from La place de l'Estrapade to the Seine. The educational portion of the tour will focus on the Paris expat community and what it's like to really live here as a non-native, and locals will give their take on the French stereotypes portrayed in the media.

Time Out tip: Skip Emily's signature heels and opt for some footwear that's a little more comfy. 

The history books love an underdog, don't they? On this two-hour tour, you'll discover the stories of the women who helped shape French history all the while walking along the mesmerising left bank. You'll meet at a women-owned cafe just outside Luxembourg Gardens where you'll uncover some hidden gems and learn about these lesser-known historical figures. Pray for good weather, and, voila, you'll have the perfect day out. 

Time Out tip: You'll have a choice between a morning and afternoon start time, so make sure to factor that into your itinerary. 

It can be hard keeping the tots entertained when you’re in a new city. But we've got you covered. This fun tour caters to families with young children, with light commentary, frequent breaks, stops for food and a playground included in the route. 

Time Out tip: You'll be able to secure some amazing family pictures on this tour worth hanging up at home. 

14 stops in two and a half hours? This guided tour is picking up the pace and taking you off the beaten track on a cover-all-bases exploration of the city's Roman-era sites. From classic monuments to hidden gems, highlights of the tour include the remains of the oldest church in Paris (featured in the Da Vinci Code), cafes frequented by Ernest Hemingway and the Roman baths. Walk in the footsteps of WW2 soldiers while hearing stories from the time, try artisinal treats and end up at one of the best crepe spots in Paris.  

Time Out tip: If you get a chance to pop into Café de Flore, order one of their famous hot chocolates with Chantilly cream.