Paris: Notre Dame & Latin Quarter Food Tour with 8+ Tastings

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, chances are you want to experience its legendary food scene along with iconic sights. This Notre Dame & Latin Quarter Food Tour by Secret Food Tours promises exactly that—a tasty journey through one of Paris’s most historic neighborhoods, complete with 8+ tastings and engaging stories from a local guide. We haven’t done this tour ourselves, but from what’s offered and the glowing reviews, it’s a warm, lively way to get a taste of the city’s soul.

What really catches our eye are the well-balanced mix of food and culture, and the small group size—limiting it to just 10 participants means more personalized attention and less rushing. On the flip side, the tour is not suited for people with mobility issues, so if that’s you, you might want to consider other options. This tour seems perfect for foodies, history lovers, and those wanting a relaxed, insightful experience in Paris’s most storied districts.

Key Points

• Authentic French tastings including viennoiseries, cheeses, tarts, and a secret dish.
• Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and add historical and cultural context.
• The small group size enhances the experience and interaction.
• The tour covers iconic sights like Notre Dame and Île Saint-Louis.
• Price reflects a substantial tasting experience and a full cultural walk.
• Not suitable for those with mobility restrictions or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

This 3-hour culinary walk through the Latin Quarter and Le Marais offers a chance to enjoy French food at its best without the hassle of planning. The tour starts in the lively Pont Marie area, where you’ll meet your guide and immediately get a taste of Parisian life with a welcome bite from a local bakery. From there, the route weaves through historic streets, famous landmarks, and vibrant markets, making it as much about the sights as the flavors.

What we love about this experience is how it combines delicious tastings with stories about Paris’s history and culture. Your guide isn’t just a food expert but also a storyteller, sharing insights that make each bite more meaningful. Plus, the 8+ tastings cover a variety of iconic French foods, so you leave feeling both full and inspired. A possible drawback could be the pace—if you’re not comfortable walking or standing for a few hours, this might be a bit tiring.

It’s particularly well-suited for those who want to explore Paris beyond the usual tourist spots and enjoy a leisurely, appetizing journey through its neighborhoods. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour offers an engaging way to connect with the city’s culinary and historic fabric.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

Starting Point: Pont Marie

The adventure begins right in the heart of the Marais, a historic district filled with narrow streets, boutiques, and centuries-old buildings. Meeting your guide here sets the tone for a relaxed but lively walk.

Le Marais & a Local Bakery

Your guide kicks things off with a brief walk and charming stories about the area’s history. The first food stop is at a local bakery, where you’ll sample freshly baked viennoiseries—think flaky croissants or pain au chocolat, straight from the oven. It’s a simple yet delightful way to start your taste adventure.

More Great Tours Nearby

Ile Saint-Louis & a Macaron

Crossing the Seine, you’ll step onto the tiny, picturesque Île Saint-Louis, often called Paris’s most charming island. Here, you will grab a macaron on the go, a sweet treat that captures the essence of Parisian pastry craftsmanship. The island is also rich in stories, serving as a peaceful contrast to the bustling city around it.

Notre Dame & the Île de la Cité

Next, you’ll walk past the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral, stopping for photos and absorbing its history. Crossing the smallest of the Seine bridges, le Petit Pont, you’ll reach Île de la Cité, the oldest part of Paris. Here, the tour includes a food tasting from a cheese monger and a bakery—think cheese boards, savory tarts, and regional specialties.

Latin Quarter & More Tastings

The Latin Quarter is the highlight for many. Once here, you’ll visit a cheesemonger and bakery, sampling cheeses, freshly baked breads, and savoring a galette (savory crêpe) from Brittany. The area’s lively atmosphere and storied past make it a favorite spot for locals and travelers alike.

The Secret Place & a Well-Deserved Break

Midway through, you’ll settle into a Secret Place—a cozy spot where you’ll enjoy regional wines, stories about French culture, and your Secret Dish, a surprise culinary highlight designed to wow your palate. It’s a moment to relax, chat, and soak in the ambiance.

End at the Hill of Legends

The tour finishes on a hill where legends say the road to Rome begins—an apt metaphor for the journey you’ve just experienced. From here, you’ll have a sense of completing a delicious, story-rich walk through Paris’s culinary and historical fabric.

The Food & Tastings: What’s on Offer

The 8+ tastings are carefully curated to showcase the diversity of French cuisine:

• Exceptional Viennoiserie like croissants or pain au chocolat—perfect for breakfast lovers.
• Authentic Macarons—a classic Parisian sweet.
• Galette (savory crêpe) from Brittany—hearty and flavorful.
• French Savory Tarts or Pâté en Croûte—rich, flaky, and satisfying.
• A Selection of Cheeses—from delicate soft cheeses to robust varieties.
• A Seasonal Pastry—a sweet highlight depending on the time of year.
• Freshly Baked Breads—crusty and warm.
• Secret Dish—a surprise that adds a unique twist to the tour.

All food is included in the price, which, at $119, offers great value considering the variety and quality. You’ll be full, yes, but never overly stuffed—more like happily satisfied and eager to explore more of Paris after.

Guides and the Group Experience

Guests frequently praise the guides’ enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendliness. Comments like “Matt was amazing,” and “Arthur was fantastic,” highlight how much guides contribute to the experience. They sprinkle in historical anecdotes, culinary tips, and local insights, making the walk engaging and informative.

The small group size means everyone has space to move comfortably, ask questions, and interact. It creates a friendly atmosphere where you can really connect with your guide and fellow travelers.

Timing, Price, and Practical Considerations

The 3-hour duration hits a sweet spot—long enough to enjoy multiple tastings and sights but not so long that it becomes tiring. It’s scheduled at various times, so you can pick what works best. Remember, comfortable shoes are recommended—you’ll be walking on cobblestones and crossing bridges.

At $119 per person, the tour is a good investment if you value quality food and cultural insights. The fact that it includes all tastings and a secret dish makes it quite reasonable when compared to dining out at restaurants for similar quality.

Note that wheelchair users and people with mobility impairments may find this tour less accessible, as it involves walking on uneven streets and some stairs.

The Verdict: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers eager to taste a variety of French specialties without the fuss of multiple restaurant visits. It’s also great for history buffs who enjoy learning stories behind landmarks while snacking. If you love intimate groups and engaging guides, you’ll find this tour a real highlight.

However, if you’re looking for a leisurely, sit-down meal or have mobility restrictions, this might not be the best fit. It’s also best for those comfortable with walking and standing for a few hours, as the pace is lively but relaxed.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For under $120, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Paris’s culinary and historic treasures. The variety of tastings, the knowledgeable guides, and the charming route make it a standout activity, especially if you enjoy combining food with culture.

Many previous travelers have raved about their guides, with reviews emphasizing how informative and friendly guides like Matt and Nana made their experience memorable. The food, from cheeses to pastries, consistently impresses, often leaving guests full and happy.

If you’re excited to explore Paris through its flavors, and you enjoy stories and scenic walks, this tour hits the sweet spot. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your appetite, and prepare for a lively, tasty adventure.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for adults and involves walking and standing, so it’s better suited for older kids or teenagers who can keep up with the pace and appreciate the tastings.

Are all the tastings included in the price?
Yes, the price of $119 covers all the food and drinks, including cheeses, pastries, bread, and the secret dish.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 3 hours, typically between 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on the pace and group.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, unfortunately, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments due to walking on uneven streets and some stairs.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because you’ll be walking on cobblestones and crossing bridges. Dress for the weather, as much of the tour is outdoors.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
The menu includes cheese, bread, pastries, and possibly vegetarian-friendly savory items, but it’s best to check with the provider for specific dietary needs.

Will I see major landmarks?
Yes, the tour covers Notre Dame, Île Saint-Louis, Île de la Cité, and the Latin Quarter, offering both scenic views and cultural insights.

Is there any wine included?
Yes, the Secret Place offers a selection of wines, enhancing the tasting experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its combination of delicious food, engaging storytelling, and scenic walking through historic parts of Paris makes it a memorable way to spend an afternoon.

In essence, this tour offers a tasty, intimate slice of Paris that’s perfect for curious travelers wanting more than just sightseeing—a true feast for the senses in the heart of the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: