The "Paris by Night Walking Tour: Ghosts, Mysteries and Legends" offers a captivating exploration of the city’s dark past. Guided by knowledgeable locals, participants explore the eerie stories of infamous figures, like the ghost of Marie Antoinette, while navigating the haunting atmosphere of Parisian streets. This tour combines historical insights with a touch of the supernatural, appealing to both history buffs and ghost enthusiasts. What secrets lie hidden in the shadows of the City of Light?
Key Points

- This walking tour explores Paris’ dark history, covering events like the St. Bartholomew’s massacre, public executions, devastating plagues, and violent uprisings.
- The tour visits eerie sites like Place de la Vert Gallant, Palais du Justice, and Hotel de Concierge, which serve as backdrops for recounting the city’s turbulent past.
- Guides share tales of ghosts and legendary figures like Marie Antoinette and Vidocq, providing insights into the haunting realm of Paris’ supernatural realm.
- With an overall rating of 4.2 from 819 reviews, the tour offers a mix of historical insights and ghostly encounters, though some reviewers sought a more intense paranormal experience.
- The tour give you context for Paris’ significant historical events and highlights the city’s tumultuous chapters, from murders and executions to conflicts with the monarchy.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The Paris by Night Walking Tour promises an exploration of the city’s dark and violent history.
With an impressive 4.2 overall rating from 819 reviews, this walking tour takes visitors to eerie sites like Place de la Vert Gallant, Palais du Justice, and Hotel de Concierge.
Along the way, the local guide shares tales of murders, executions, plagues, and wars against the monarchy, including the St. Bartholomew’s massacre and the French Revolution.
The tour focuses on the city’s ghosts, mysteries, and legendary figures such as Marie Antoinette, providing a mix of spooky storytelling and factual history for an immersive experience.
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Exploring Paris’ Dark and Violent History

Although Paris is renowned for its stunning architecture, romantic ambiance, and cultural richness, the city’s history is also marked by a dark and violent past.
The Paris by Night Walking Tour explores these grim chapters, including:
- The St. Bartholomew’s massacre, a brutal slaughter of French Protestants in 1572
- The executions and public hangings at the Palais de Justice during the French Revolution
- The devastating plagues that swept through the city, claiming countless lives
- The violent uprisings and bloody clashes between monarchists and revolutionaries that shaped France’s tumultuous history.
Significant Historical Sites and Events

Visitors on the Paris by Night Walking Tour have the opportunity to explore several significant historical sites that bear witness to the city’s tumultuous past.
The tour includes a visit to the Place de la Vert Gallant, a square near the Palais du Justice, where the St. Bartholomew’s massacre of Huguenots took place in 1572. Participants also visit the Hotel de Concierge, a former prison that housed many victims of the French Revolution.
These sites serve as backdrops for the guide’s recounting of the city’s dark history, including tales of murders, executions, plagues, and conflicts with the monarchy.
Ghostly Encounters and Infamous Figures

Amidst the dimly lit streets of Paris, the walking tour delves into the haunting realm of ghostly encounters and infamous figures that have left an indelible mark on the city’s history.
Travelers may hear chilling tales of:
- The ghostly apparition of Marie Antoinette, the ill-fated Queen of France, wandering the halls of the Palais du Justice
- Sinister whispers from the spirit of Vidocq, a former criminal-turned-police chief, echoing through the shadows of the Hotel de Concierge
- Unexplained footsteps and eerie sounds near the Place de la Vert Gallant, the site of past executions and violence
- Unseen entities lurking in the darkness, lingering reminders of the city’s turbulent history.
Spooky Storytelling and Factual History

The Paris by Night Walking Tour weaves together spooky storytelling and factual history, offering participants a captivating blend of the supernatural and the historical. As the guide leads the group through the shadowy streets, they bring to life the dark and violent past of the city. From tales of ghostly encounters to in-depth accounts of significant historical events, the tour provides a multifaceted experience. Participants can expect to learn about murders, executions, plagues, and wars against the monarchy, all while immersed in an eerie atmosphere.
| Spooky Storytelling | Factual History |
|---|---|
| Ghostly Encounters | St. Bartholomew’s Massacre |
| Infamous Figures | French Revolution |
| Murders and Executions | Plagues and Wars |
| Supernatural Elements | Significant Historical Sites |
| Eerie Atmosphere | Captivating Narratives |
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Traveler Feedback and Insights

Frequently, the reviews for the Paris by Night Walking Tour present a mixed response from travelers.
Some express enjoyment of the historical insights provided by the knowledgeable guides, such as Ami and Katerina.
Others, however, expected a stronger focus on ghostly elements and felt the tour lacked depth in the supernatural aspects.
Common themes include:
- Interesting stories and an enjoyable night walk
- Suggestions for improved pacing and a clearer emphasis on ghost-related content
- Appreciation for the guides’ engaging storytelling
- Disappointment from those seeking a more intense paranormal experience
Pricing and Booking Information

The tour’s starting price is $15.84 per person, offering a lowest price guarantee.
Flexible booking options are available, and confirmation is received at the time of booking.
However, some travelers have reported issues with scheduling and refunds.
Prospective participants should be aware that reservations may face problems, as indicated by the mixed feedback on the booking process.
Meeting Point and Logistics

Meeting for this Paris by Night Walking Tour takes place at the Equestrian Statue of Henri IV, located on the Pont Neuf bridge.
The tour concludes at the Hotel La Ville on Rue de Rivoli. This experience is not wheelchair accessible, but it is situated near public transportation options.
The tour group size is capped at 23 participants, allowing for an intimate exploration of Paris’ dark history.
Guests can expect to cover significant historical sites, such as the Place de la Vert Gallant, Palais du Justice, and Hotel de Concierge, while learning about the city’s haunting past.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The provided tour overview does not specify a dress code. Tours of this nature typically have a casual and comfortable dress code, allowing participants to move freely and prepare for the evening environment. Specific dress requirements are not mentioned.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
The tour allows for photography during the experience. Travelers are generally permitted to take photos at the various historical sites and during the walking portions of the tour, though flash photography may be discouraged in certain areas.
How Long Is the Total Walking Distance?
The tour typically involves 1-2 miles of walking, though the exact distance may vary. The walking pace is moderate, allowing participants to explore the historical sites and listen to the guide’s commentary comfortably throughout the tour.
Can I Request a Private or Customized Tour?
Based on the information provided, it appears the tour operator offers private or customized tour options. While the details are not explicitly stated, travelers may be able to request a personalized experience by contacting the tour provider directly.
Is There an Age Limit or Restrictions for Children?
The tour does not have an age limit or specific restrictions for children. However, the content may not be suitable for very young children, as it focuses on Paris’ dark history and potentially spooky elements. Parental discretion is advised.
The Sum Up
The "Paris by Night Walking Tour: Ghosts, Mysteries and Legends" offers a captivating exploration of the city’s dark history, blending chilling tales of the supernatural with factual insights. Guided by knowledgeable locals, participants explore the eerie stories of infamous figures, navigating the haunting atmosphere of Parisian streets. This tour appeals to both history buffs and ghost enthusiasts, providing a unique and immersive experience.
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