cool shore excursions®
Language $Currency
Port schedule
Login / Sign up
Bookings
Bookings
Wallet
$0.00
Wishlists
Wishlists
Cool Rewards Rewards
Gift cards
Profile
Help Center
Language
Log out
Gift Cards Gift Cards Rewards Rewards Specials Specials Group Travel Group Travel Contact Contact
Start your search
Change your search
Place or activity
Select Dates
You booked this experience
You're departing on
Google Calendar
Apple Calendar
Microsoft Outlook
Make your trip unforgettable

Where Paris was Born: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Île de la Cité

8 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 8 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| Paris, France
Book online or call us

from $19.99 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Where Paris was Born: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Île de la Cité Image 1
Discover how a small settlement on the Seine River grew into modern Paris.
Old Bicycle, Paris, Place Dauphine
Au Vieux Paris d'Arcole - Paris
Love locks on the Pont des Arts, Paris
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 31 (0) days in advance.
60 to 90 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Discover the neighbourhood where Paris was born with this affordable walking tour.

• See how the city transformed from a small settlement along the Seine River into one of the most charming places in the world
• Hear from producer Annie Sargent, a tour guide and producer of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast whose passion for France’s history inspired him to craft this bestselling VoiceMap tour
• Do it all in an hour or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish
• Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it
• Use the virtual tour option at home

Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code.

The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

What's Included

  • Lifetime access to Île de la Cité: Where Paris Was Born tour
  • VoiceMap Application
  • Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
  • Smartphone
  • Transportation
  • Food/Drink
See 1 moreSee 4 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

Pont des Arts & Quai François Mitterrand
Paris, France

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

7 Quai de l'Archevêché
75004 Paris, France

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation.
Read more

Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Ile de la Cite (pass by)

The tour takes place in Paris' Île de la Cité.
Read more

Pont des Arts (pass by)

This bridge used to be laden with “love-locks”. Couples came to the bridge with special locks that were usually inscribed with their names, locked them on the bridge and then threw the keys in the river. This would presumably ensure that their love would last.
Read more

Pont Neuf (pass by)

The tour takes you over Pont Neuf.
Read more

Statue equestre d'Henri IV (pass by)

Under the Equestrian Statue of Henri IV, on one side you'll see a bas-relief panel that shows a humble Henri IV bringing loaves of bread to the people of Paris after a siege. What the picture doesn’t explain is that HE was the one who had put Paris under siege!
Read more

Square du Vert-Galant (pass by)

The park on the tip of Île de la Cité is called the Square du Vert-Galant. We use the word “square” in French to mean a small park but the Square du Vert-Galant is actually triangular!
Read more

Saule Pleureur de la Pointe (pass by)

The tour passes by the Saule Pleureur de la Pointe.
Read more

Place Dauphine (pass by)

Place Dauphine plaza was financed by Henri IV and named “The Dauphin” after his son Louis who would become Louis XIII.
Read more

Restaurant Paul (pass by)

The tour passes by the Maison Paul restaurant.
Read more

Palais de Justice de Paris (pass by)

Palais de Justice means courthouse, but it's no ordinary courthouse. It's the Cour de Cassation, one of the highest jurisdictions in the country.
Read more

Quai de l'Horloge (pass by)

The tour passes by Quai de l’Horloge.
Read more

Conciergerie (pass by)

The Conciergerie Museum is where you can learn about the French Revolution and Marie-Antoinette. It's a must-see for people who have an interest in the French Revolution.
Read more

Sainte-Chapelle (pass by)

Inside the Sainte Chapelle you'll see the most spectacular Gothic stained-glass windows in the world. On a sunny day it feels like you're walking through a kaleidoscope!
Read more

Crypte Archéologique de l'İle de la Cité (pass by)

The tour passes by Archaeological crypt of the Île de la Cité.
Read more

Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Paris (pass by)

As you may know, the Cathedral was severely damaged by a fire in April 2019 and is in the process of being renovated. As a result, access to the Cathedral is now limited and you can only see it from the north and east side.
Read more

Memorial des Martyrs de la Deportation (pass by)

The Deportation Martyrs Memorial is a somber tribute to all the French Jews that were captured in France and sent to Germany to die during WWII.
Read more
Show 14 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Where Paris was Born: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Île de la Cité?

A: This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-110804P146

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
8 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 8 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
8
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 31 (0) days in advance.
Paris Tours
Attractions
Guides
Calendar
View more

Similar Tours & Activities

Château de Chambord & Chenonceau from Paris by Car

Château de Chambord & Chenonceau from Paris by Car

Discover the wonders of the Loire Valley and visit the Chambord and Chenonceau Castles in one day. Experience a real fairytale and immerse yourself in...

9 to 10 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
from
$330
Louvre Museum Essential Guided Tour Semi Private 6 GUESTS MAX
5.0 (4,491)

Louvre Museum Essential Guided Tour Semi Private 6 GUESTS MAX

Enjoy the Louvre on and exclusive guided tour, making the experience more personal, interactive, and easy to follow. With reserved entry included, your visit starts...

2 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
5.0 (4,491)
from
$72
Louvre Private Tour in Paris with Entry Tickets
4.9 (77)

Louvre Private Tour in Paris with Entry Tickets

Discover the Louvre Museum your way on this 100% private guided tour. Your certified French national guide speaks excellent English and German, sharing expert commentary...

2 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (77)
from
$165
Private Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy D-Day Express trip from Paris
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.9 (115)

Private Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy D-Day Express trip from Paris

Private 15-hour full-day trip from Paris, Bayeux, Caen, Honfleur or Rouen with convenient door-to-door pickup and drop-off at your hotel in a comfortable Mercedes vehicle....

15 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.9 (115)
from
$448
Château de Chambord & Chenonceau from Paris by Car

Discover the wonders of the Loire Valley and visit the Chambord and Chenonceau Castles in one day. Experience a real fairytale and immerse yourself in …More

Château de Chambord & Chenonceau from Paris by Car

Discover the wonders of the Loire Valley and visit the Chambord and Chenonceau Castles in one day. Experience a real fairytale and immerse yourself in...

9 to 10 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
from
$330
Louvre Museum Essential Guided Tour Semi Private 6 GUESTS MAX

Enjoy the Louvre on and exclusive guided tour, making the experience more personal, interactive, and easy to follow. With reserved entry included, your visit starts …More

5.0 (4,491)

Louvre Museum Essential Guided Tour Semi Private 6 GUESTS MAX

5.0 (4,491)

Enjoy the Louvre on and exclusive guided tour, making the experience more personal, interactive, and easy to follow. With reserved entry included, your visit starts...

2 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
5.0 (4,491)
from
$72
Louvre Private Tour in Paris with Entry Tickets

Discover the Louvre Museum your way on this 100% private guided tour. Your certified French national guide speaks excellent English and German, sharing expert commentary …More

4.9 (77)

Louvre Private Tour in Paris with Entry Tickets

4.9 (77)

Discover the Louvre Museum your way on this 100% private guided tour. Your certified French national guide speaks excellent English and German, sharing expert commentary...

2 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (77)
from
$165
Private Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy D-Day Express trip from Paris

Private 15-hour full-day trip from Paris, Bayeux, Caen, Honfleur or Rouen with convenient door-to-door pickup and drop-off at your hotel in a comfortable Mercedes vehicle. …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.9 (115)

Private Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy D-Day Express trip from Paris

4.9 (115)

Private 15-hour full-day trip from Paris, Bayeux, Caen, Honfleur or Rouen with convenient door-to-door pickup and drop-off at your hotel in a comfortable Mercedes vehicle....

15 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.9 (115)
from
$448

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Paris City Center Free Walking Tour (Tip-Based)
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
5.0 (2,123)

Paris City Center Free Walking Tour (Tip-Based)

Enter the very heart of Paris on this tip based walking tour of the city center. What better way to fulfill your Paris dream than...

2 hours 15 minutes Free Cancellation
5.0 (2,123)
from
$3
Paris Seine River Sunset & Evening Champagne Cruises
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.4 (673)

Paris Seine River Sunset & Evening Champagne Cruises

Don’t miss the chance to relive the magic of the Paris 2024 Olympic Opening Ceremony: step onto a cruise along the Seine River, Champagne in...

1 hour Free Cancellation
4.4 (673)
from
$44
Versailles Bike Tour with Market, Gardens & Guided Palace Tour
5.0 (1,407)

Versailles Bike Tour with Market, Gardens & Guided Palace Tour

-We are amongst the few licensed to guide you inside the Château not abandon you with an audio. We mic up so you don't miss...

8 hours Free Cancellation
5.0 (1,407)
from
$166
Paris Croissant Small-Group Baking Class with a Chef
4.9 (1,102)

Paris Croissant Small-Group Baking Class with a Chef

It all starts with a warm cup of tea or coffee before jumping right into the crafting of your own Buttery Croissant, Pain au Chocolat...

2 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.9 (1,102)
from
$154
Paris City Center Free Walking Tour (Tip-Based)

Enter the very heart of Paris on this tip based walking tour of the city center. What better way to fulfill your Paris dream than …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
5.0 (2,123)

Paris City Center Free Walking Tour (Tip-Based)

5.0 (2,123)

Enter the very heart of Paris on this tip based walking tour of the city center. What better way to fulfill your Paris dream than...

2 hours 15 minutes Free Cancellation
5.0 (2,123)
from
$3
Paris Seine River Sunset & Evening Champagne Cruises

Don’t miss the chance to relive the magic of the Paris 2024 Olympic Opening Ceremony: step onto a cruise along the Seine River, Champagne in …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.4 (673)

Paris Seine River Sunset & Evening Champagne Cruises

4.4 (673)

Don’t miss the chance to relive the magic of the Paris 2024 Olympic Opening Ceremony: step onto a cruise along the Seine River, Champagne in...

1 hour Free Cancellation
4.4 (673)
from
$44
Versailles Bike Tour with Market, Gardens & Guided Palace Tour

-We are amongst the few licensed to guide you inside the Château not abandon you with an audio. We mic up so you don't miss …More

5.0 (1,407)

Versailles Bike Tour with Market, Gardens & Guided Palace Tour

5.0 (1,407)

-We are amongst the few licensed to guide you inside the Château not abandon you with an audio. We mic up so you don't miss...

8 hours Free Cancellation
5.0 (1,407)
from
$166
Paris Croissant Small-Group Baking Class with a Chef

It all starts with a warm cup of tea or coffee before jumping right into the crafting of your own Buttery Croissant, Pain au Chocolat …More

4.9 (1,102)

Paris Croissant Small-Group Baking Class with a Chef

4.9 (1,102)

It all starts with a warm cup of tea or coffee before jumping right into the crafting of your own Buttery Croissant, Pain au Chocolat...

2 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.9 (1,102)
from
$154

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Where Paris was Born: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Île de la Cité?
A:
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Lifetime access to Île de la Cité: Where Paris Was Born tour.
  • VoiceMap Application.
  • Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata.
The following is NOT included:
  • Smartphone.
  • Transportation.
  • Food/Drink.
  • Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

The minimum age to participate is 6..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Where Paris was Born: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Île de la Cité is as follows:

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Where Paris was Born: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Île de la Cité will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Lifetime access to Île de la Cité: Where Paris Was Born tour
  • VoiceMap Application
  • Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
  • Smartphone
  • Transportation
  • Food/Drink
  • Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Report Product Issue

Activity name