Paris: Private Full Day Tour to Montmartre & Eiffel Tower

Setting out on a full-day private tour of Paris like this one promises a well-balanced blend of culture, history, and gastronomy. Although we haven’t experienced it ourselves, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s an enriching way to see the city’s most iconic sights in one go.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the personalized attention from a local guide ensures you get tailored insights into Parisian life. Second, the carefully curated stops—like Montmartre’s bohemian streets and the Eiffel Tower—are thoughtfully chosen to give visitors authentic and memorable moments. Lastly, the inclusion of a traditional French lunch and a visit to the café from the movie Amélie makes it feel like a day straight out of a Parisian film.

Of course, there are a couple of things to consider. The tour covers quite a lot in seven hours, which means you’ll be on the move—potentially tiring if you’re not a fan of walking or frequent transitions. The Eiffel Tower visit is on your own, which could be a pro or con depending on your preference for guided vs. independent exploration.

This experience seems best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible, and intimate look at Paris with a knowledgeable guide, especially if it’s your first visit or you want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning.

Contents show

Key Points

Private, personalized experience with a local guide
Includes a traditional Parisian lunch (Full Option)
Focuses on iconic sights like Montmartre and the Eiffel Tower
A well-paced itinerary that balances sightseeing and local experiences
Ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting an overview without the crowds
Potentially tiring due to the amount of walking and transitions

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Tour Experience

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Paris

The Convenience of a Private Guided Tour

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is its private setting. With a dedicated local guide, you’re not just another face in the crowd; you get tailored attention and insights into each stop. The guide’s knowledge shines through, making visits more meaningful—whether it’s the history behind Sacré-Cœur or the stories tied to the Moulin Rouge.

The tour lasts around 7 hours, which is ample time to cover key highlights without rushing. Having a local guide means you can ask questions, get personalized recommendations, and enjoy a flexible pace. Plus, the transportation between sites, including taxi rides and the funicular to Montmartre, keeps the momentum going and minimizes fatigue.

Exploring Montmartre: The Artistic Heart of Paris

Montmartre remains a highlight for many visitors—its bohemian spirit, colorful streets, and artistic history make it a must-see. Your guide will take you to Sacre-Cœur, perched high above the city, offering some of the best panoramic views of Paris. The guided 20-minute tour here is enough to appreciate the basilica’s architectural beauty and its significance.

Next, the charming Lapin Agile, the historic cabaret, provides a glimpse into the area’s lively past. Then, stroll through Vigne du Clos Montmartre, a small vineyard that proves Paris can surprise you with its hidden corners. The lively Place du Tertre is perfect for soaking up artists’ creations and street performances.

The Wall of Love adds a romantic touch, with its declaration of love in many languages, and the Place des Abbesses offers a lively local vibe. Visiting Café des Deux Moulins, the café from Amélie, is a delightful treat—here, a 30-minute coffee break immerses you in Parisian café culture, as one reviewer noted, “You get to sit where Amélie sat.”

The Cemetery and the Moulin Rouge

A walk through Montmartre Cemetery lets you glimpse at the graves of notable figures and soak in the old-world charm of this historic site. It’s a quiet, reflective moment amid the bustling neighborhood.

A quick stop at the Moulin Rouge provides a photo opportunity outside the legendary cabaret, with some guides even sharing colorful stories about its famous shows.

More Great Tours Nearby

A Taste of Parisian Life: Lunch and Local Spots

The full option includes a traditional French lunch at a local restaurant, which is a great way to experience authentic cuisine away from tourist traps. The careful selection of this meal offers both flavor and value, giving you a true taste of Paris.

The Bouillon Pigalle stop, lasting approximately an hour, is a lively spot for lunch or a drink—an experience many reviewers found enjoyable. It’s a great way to break up the day, and the guide’s tips help you navigate the menu if you choose to stay longer.

Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Paris

From Montmartre to the Heart of Paris

After Montmartre, the tour transitions to the city center, walking through Tuileries Gardens and arriving at Place de la Concorde, where history whispers from its statues and obelisk. Here, you’ll learn about the site of Marie Antoinette’s execution—an impactful moment in French history.

Next, admire the Grand Palais and the Pont Alexandre III, two of Paris’s most beautiful architectural landmarks. The guide’s insights make these stops more than just pretty views—they’re windows into Parisian elegance and innovation.

The Historic Military and Royal Residences

A quick visit to Les Invalides reveals a building complex originally created by Napoleon to house retired soldiers. It also houses the tomb of Napoleon himself, which adds a layer of historical gravity.

The Highlight: The Eiffel Tower

Finally, the tour culminates at the Eiffel Tower, where you’ll receive your tickets to explore the monument at your own pace. The guide will share tips on how to maximize your visit, whether you want to go up or just enjoy the view from the Champ de Mars.

While the Eiffel Tower visit is unguided, the experience of arriving with a knowledgeable guide’s support and a clear plan makes it much easier to navigate. Reviewers mention that the guide’s local expertise enhances the overall experience, making the visit more meaningful.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour offers excellent value for travelers wanting a rundown of Paris. The package includes 7 hours of private guiding, taxi rides to cut down transit time, and a funicular ticket to Montmartre. The lunch and coffee are optional but highly recommended if you choose the full option, providing a taste of authentic Parisian flavor.

Not included are the Eiffel Tower tickets, which you’ll purchase separately. This setup allows flexibility—if you’re eager to skip the lines, you can buy your tickets in advance. The guided entry into Montmartre and other stops helps you avoid the usual crowds and confusions.

The tour is suitable for wheelchair users and private groups, making it accessible and customizable. Times are flexible based on availability, and the tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

Authentic Experiences and Tips from Reviewers

A common thread among reviews is the praise for the knowledgeable guides, who bring Paris’s stories to life. One reviewer, Andres, highlighted Pamela’s exceptional organizational skills and her dedication to making the trip flawless. Another mentioned the detailed explanations and the perfect pacing, which kept the full day engaging without being overwhelming.

Several travelers also appreciated the stunning views from Montmartre and the Eiffel Tower, with enthusiastic comments about the memorable photo opportunities and the insider tips shared by guides.

The visit to Café des Deux Moulins was a particular highlight for fans of the movie Amélie, with one reviewer noting the joy of sitting where the film’s famous scenes were shot. The local vibe of Bouillon Pigalle adds to the authentic feel, making the day more than just sightseeing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience works best for first-time visitors to Paris who want a thorough introduction without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples seeking a personalized experience with flexible timing.

If you’re interested in authentic neighborhoods, great views, and a taste of local life, this tour hits all those marks. It’s perfect for those who value guided insights, enjoy moderate walking, and want to maximize their time in the city of lights.

However, if you prefer to explore independently or are sensitive to long days of walking, this tour might feel a bit packed. The unguided Eiffel Tower visit also means you’ll need to organize your tickets in advance if you want to skip lines.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

Does the tour include tickets to the Eiffel Tower? No, you will need to purchase Eiffel Tower tickets separately, but the guide will provide tips and support to help you plan your visit.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What is included in the full option? The full option includes a traditional French lunch, a coffee at the café from Amélie, taxi rides, and the funicular ticket to Montmartre.

How long is the guided tour? The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, covering multiple stops around Paris with guided insights at each point.

Are guides available in multiple languages? Yes, guides speak English, Spanish, and French, making it accessible for diverse travelers.

What should I bring? Travelers should carry a passport or ID card and wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Is the tour suitable for families? While not explicitly stated, the flexible, private nature makes it suitable for families, especially those interested in history and culture.

Final Thoughts

This private full-day tour of Paris offers an engaging, detailed way to see the city’s most famous sights while enjoying personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide. The carefully curated stops—ranging from artistic Montmartre to the majestic Eiffel Tower—are combined with local experiences like authentic dining and café visits, making the day both fun and meaningful.

Travelers who appreciate a blend of history, culture, and great views will find this tour a perfect fit. Its focus on authenticity and ease of logistics makes it suitable for first-time visitors eager to maximize their time. While the pace is full, the guide’s expertise ensures you’ll gain deeper insights into Parisian life and stories, enriching every moment.

Ultimately, if you’re seeking an immersive, well-organized way to experience Paris without the stress of planning every detail, this tour is a solid choice. It balances sightseeing, culture, and comfort—perfectly capturing the magic of the City of Light.