Saint Germain Des Pres is one of Paris’s most lively neighborhoods—a place where old-world charm meets modern elegance. Its narrow streets, chic cafes, and literary history make it ideal for walking tours that reveal both the sights and the flavors of the area. We’re especially fond of tours that combine cultural insights with delicious bites, like the Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Pastry and Chocolate Walking Tour — which offers a sweet walk through the streets filled with exquisite chocolates, pastries, and artisan breads. This tour not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a taste of the neighborhood’s upscale shopping and craftsmanship.
Another favorite is the Saint-Germain-des-Prés: 2-Hour Walking Tour, which covers the neighborhood’s historic and intellectual roots. If you want a quick but enriching experience walking among famous cafes and gardens, this one hits the mark. These tours showcase different sides of Saint Germain—one for food lovers, the other for history and culture buffs—allowing you to choose what suits your interests best.
Below, you’ll find detailed looks at each of these top-rated walking tours, helping you decide which experience fits your Paris plans.
1. Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Pastry and Chocolate Walking Tour
For around $164 per person, the Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Pastry and Chocolate Walking Tour offers a delectable 3-hour stroll through one of Paris’s most fashionable districts. With a 4.7/5 rating from 163 reviews, this tour is a favorite for those who want to indulge without feeling guilty. It begins in the upscale streets of Saint Germain, where you’ll admire shop windows filled with hand-crafted sweets and artisanal baked goods.
This tour digs into the neighborhood’s reputation as a hub of haute gastronomie. You’ll taste a variety of exquisite chocolates, pastries, and breads that are made by some of the city’s best chocolatiers and bakers. What makes this experience unique is the focus on small-scale, handcrafted specialties, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at Paris’s gourmet artisans. The guide shares insights into the history of these crafts, making each tasting feel like a mini-lesson in Parisian pastry artistry.
Guests describe the tour as “a delicious journey through Paris’s best chocolatiers and pastry shops,” and mention that the elegant shop windows alone are worth the walk. The tour is ideal for food lovers who want to combine sightseeing with tasting authentic Parisian sweets. Keep in mind, it’s a bit on the pricey side, but the quality and variety of treats make it a worthwhile splurge.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for those who want a taste of luxury and craftsmanship in a refined neighborhood. It’s a slightly longer, more indulgent experience—great if you love food and want to learn about the artistry behind Paris’s patisseries.
2. Saint-Germain-des-Prés: 2-Hour Walking Tour
Priced at $94 per person, the Saint-Germain-des-Prés: 2-Hour Walking Tour is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to soak up the neighborhood’s history and atmosphere. With a perfect 5/5 rating from one review, this tour offers a quick, engaging look at the most famous sights and stories.
Starting at Église de Saint Germain des Prés, the tour takes you through literary hotspots like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore—famous cafés where intellectuals like Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir once gathered. You’ll learn about the neighborhood’s reputation as the intellectual and artistic hub of Paris, and visit landmarks like the Luxembourg Gardens and the Odeon Theatre. The itinerary includes walking past Church of Saint-Sulpice and along Boulevard Saint-Germain, framing the city’s lively street life and cultural landmarks.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on history and culture rather than just food. The guide provides stories about famous writers and thinkers who once called Saint Germain home. It’s a perfect fit for travelers interested in literature, history, and Parisian cafes. Since it only lasts two hours, it’s a good way to get a quick yet comprehensive taste of the neighborhood.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a brisk overview of Saint Germain’s literary and cultural heritage, this tour offers a rich narrative alongside key sights, making it a good choice for history buffs or first-time visitors.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two tours, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re a true foodie eager to indulge in Paris’s best pastries and chocolates, the Pastry and Chocolate Walking Tour is the way to go, especially if you enjoy learning about artisanal crafts. On the other hand, if you’re short on time but want to walk in the footsteps of famous writers and see the neighborhood’s key landmarks, the 2-Hour Walking Tour offers a concise and insightful experience.
Think about your budget—this range from $94 to $164 per person reflects different depths of experience. Also, consider your interests: culinary exploration or culture. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Saint Germain Des Pres offers a variety of engaging walking tours that showcase both its culinary delights and historic charm. The pastry and chocolate tour is perfect for those who want a leisurely, indulgent experience, while the 2-hour cultural walk is a quick way to explore the neighborhood’s storied past. For food lovers who want to savor the flavors of Paris, the sweets-focused tour is a clear winner. Conversely, travelers interested in literature and architecture will find the 2-hour walk more aligned with their interests.
No matter which you choose, these tours are a great way to see Saint Germain with fresh eyes—so book early, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare to enjoy some of the best that Paris has to offer.
