Paris Walks

Paris Walks is an English-language walking tour company founded in 1994 by Peter and Oriel Caine, who settled in Paris and began sharing their knowledge of its history and neighbourhoods. All tours are led in English by native English speakers who have lived in France for many years, and the company has built a loyal following among visitors who want depth and storytelling rather than a quick tour of the highlights.

The programme includes neighbourhood walks through areas such as the Marais, Montmartre and the Île Saint-Louis, themed walks on subjects like Hemingway's Paris, fashion and chocolate, and an introduction to Paris for first-time visitors. There are also guided museum visits to the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay, and private tours for individuals, families and groups. Seasonal programmes of summer and winter walks are published on the website, and the company also produces Paris Footnotes, a guide to exhibitions and events.

Walks last about two hours at a gentle pace, which makes them suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Families can book dedicated family tours, and student groups are also catered for. Because the guides focus on history, architecture and stories, the walks suit curious travellers, repeat visitors and anyone who enjoys learning about the places they pass through.

From March to November there is at least one scheduled tour a day, usually starting at 10.30am, priced at 25 euros per adult. Bookings are made by email, and for private tours you give your preferred dates, the tour, the number of people and any children's ages, after which the company sends a price. Meeting points, typically near a metro station, are confirmed when you book. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a waterproof, as tours run in most weather.

Paris Walks has no single office for visitors to drop into, so contact is by phone or email before your trip. Booking a few days ahead is sensible in spring, summer and around holidays, when the scheduled tours are popular. The website calendar shows the walks on offer each day, so it is easy to plan a tour around the rest of your itinerary.