Paris Left Bank: Writers, Revolution & Black Coffee
FREETOUR.com says
Our Secret Traveller calls this free tour "the fundamental Left Bank experience...which examines both old and modern-day Paris". "joining my local guide for a tour of the most artistic neighbourhood in Paris, we explored from Sorbonne University all the way to the Luxembourg Gardens, learning about the student traditions and rites of passage, bohemian cafes, secretive alleys, casual Parisian fashion and got intriguing insight to local culture and history, as well as excellent local tips and hints for how to do Paris like a local. Highly enjoyable and worthwhile!"
Overview
We all had that moment once — young, restless, convinced the world needed changing. The Left Bank was built on that feeling.
Explore the picturesque medieval streets that shaped art, literature, and rebellion for centuries. Stand where ideas stirred revolutions, in neighborhoods still alive with student energy today. Discover cafés that fueled debate and creativity — places where writers reshaped the world over strong black coffee.
From the Sorbonne and the Panthéon to the Luxembourg Gardens, trace the footsteps of Hemingway and Kerouac; revisit the worlds of Cyrano de Bergerac and Picasso. Along the way: art-house cinemas, historic bookshops, quiet courtyards, and cafés where generations of Parisians came of age. With small groups, you can fully absorb the unique atmosphere of the Left Bank.
Hot weather comfort: because Paris summers can be intense, on hot days we adapt our routes, stay in the shade whenever possible, make regular water stops, and provide hand fans for guests.
This activity includes:
- Sorbonne Université
- The Pantheon
- Luxembourg Gardens
- Place de la Sorbonne
- Student Drinking Holes
- Elegant Café terraces
- The haunts of the Unicorn
- Cyrano de Bergerac
- Hemingway
- Dante Alighieri
- Where to find the blade of the Guillotine
On arrival
Your guide will wear a pink vest and start at the feet of the Horseman statue in front of Notre Dame. The tour starts on the clock, rain or shine.
Please don't be late, as the guide will not wait for you.
Things to note
Average duration: 90 minutes.
The average number of guests on this tour: 8.
Wheelchair accessible tour.
How can the tour be free?
Our concept is simple — there is no set price. Instead, you tip your guide at the end of the tour whatever amount feels right to you. Typically, guests give between $10 to €50, depending on their satisfaction and budget.
Most guides accept cash or card payments, or you can do it via our app.
Cancellation policy
You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.
