Secrets of Ile de la Cité
Ferit Onger, a Paris native and experienced guide, takes you through the birthplace of Paris on this immersive walk through Île de la Cité, where the entire city began. History enthusiasts, curious travelers, and anyone fascinated by hidden stories will uncover the island's remarkable secrets spanning 2,000 years. You'll explore medieval towers that once imprisoned Marie Antoinette, find bullet holes from WWII liberation battles, and hear tales of ancient barber shop murders that shaped Parisian folklore. Walk along Roman-era foundations, visit the oldest public clock in Paris, and learn why French police are called "chickens." This captivating journey transforms your understanding of how a small Celtic settlement became the City of Light.
Created by Ferit Onger
Ferit, who studied Mechanic, Transport and Logistics, and completed a bachelor in Industrial Management at the IUT of Cachan. Being from a Franco-Turkish family, his interest for language and Culture took him on a different path after he met Josephine. He decided to go back to University and Study history and history of Art in order to become a National Licensed Tour Guide.
"Even tho i’ve lived in paris for a while, this tour transported me to another time, the stories are so interesting and well told, that they take you, along with the background music, to another place. Wonderful experience, can’t wait to do all the tours.:)" - Haya T.
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What you'll walk and learn about
Statue of Henry IV
Start your journey in the center of Paris in front of King Henry IV monument
Place Dauphine
Walk through a charming park right in the middle of Île de la cité
Palace of Justice
Pass by France’s top court building
Palais de Justice
Discover Paris's oldest public clock
La Conciergerie
See the previous street level of Paris
Sainte-Chapelle
Walk past the spire of this iconic chapel
Gustav Eiffel’s Flower Market
Explore the grounds of a 100 year old flower market
Police Station
Pass by remnants of WWII
Gargoyles of Notre-Dame
Uncover the family ties to one of Notre-Dame’s famous gargoyles
Au Vieux Paris
A restaurant with a dark past…
Rue de la Colombe
End this tour with a touching love story
"Short & sweet. Opportunities to take break & wander about before rejoining the tour. Informative & fun. Love the historic narratives. Definitely worthwhile. "
"Interesting, easy to follow. Please make the starting spot larger on this and other tours as well as it is sometimes difficult to get to the same exact spot!"
"The tour was lovely, I loved the little details about the places we visit and the soundtrack made the walk so much more special! 🤍"
"This tour made me feel connected to the history of Paris. The gargoyles of Notre-Dame were fascinating and the tales of Henry IV were interesting too. Highly recommend it."