Paris: Private Tour with a Local Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Paris and want to experience the city like a local, this private tour could be just what you need. It’s offered by Suisse Plus Travel, and while I haven’t done it myself, I’ve gone through the details to give you a clear picture. What really stands out is the balance between visiting popular sights and uncovering lesser-known treasures—plus, the flexibility to customize your journey.

Two things I particularly like about this experience: First, the personalized attention with a private guide makes all the difference in getting insights tailored to your interests. Second, the opportunity to explore hidden spots like Canal Saint-Martin or Galerie Vivienne, which most travelers miss. That said, a potential consideration is that it’s a walking tour, so if mobility is an issue, you might want to plan accordingly or consider transportation options.

This tour suits travelers who want a flexible, intimate experience that covers both the must-see sights and some secret corners of Paris. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning and craving a more authentic, local perspective, it could fit well.

Key Points

• Flexible durations: From 2 to 8 hours, catering to your schedule
• Customizable itinerary: Focus on sights that interest you most
• Expert local guides: Friendly guides with versatile language options
• Hidden gems included: Canal Saint-Martin, Galerie Vivienne, and more
• Walking only: Ideal for those comfortable on foot; public transport is optional
• Cost-effective: About $63 per person for a tailored experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This private Paris tour is designed with a simple idea in mind: show you the city through a local’s eyes, blending the well-known with the hidden. The experience is highly adaptable, which is a big plus if you’re particular about what you want to see or just want to keep it spontaneous. The tour can be booked for anywhere from 2 hours up to 8, giving you plenty of options depending on your time and energy.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The tour kicks off with a pickup in Paris, ensuring a smooth start without the hassle of finding meeting points. From there, your guide will take you on a walking journey, highlighting major landmarks like Montmartre, Notre Dame, and the Eiffel Tower, depending on your preferences and the time you have. These are the classic sights that most travelers aim to tick off their list, and having a guide helps bring their stories to life.

But what makes this experience more appealing are the hidden secrets tucked away along the way. For example, you might stroll through Galerie Vivienne, one of Paris’s most beautiful shopping arcades that feels more like a secret passage than a tourist hotspot. Or perhaps you’ll explore Canal Saint-Martin, a picturesque waterway lined with trendy bars and cafes—an authentic slice of Parisian life away from the crowds.

Guides and Personalization

The reviews repeatedly praise the guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to adapt to your interests. One traveler mentions Juliette, who responded to their wishes and made excellent suggestions, even during a rainy day when they visited galleries instead of outdoor sites. Another highlights Jacques for his passion and storytelling, making every stop memorable.

Because the tour is private, you can discuss your preferences beforehand or on the spot. The guide is flexible about which sights to include, whether you’re more interested in historic landmarks or hidden local favorites. This level of customization ensures you get the most out of your time in Paris.

Tour Logistics and Practicalities

The tour is entirely on foot, which means comfortable shoes are a must. It’s a walking experience, so be prepared for some pavement pounding—though the pace can be adjusted. The price is roughly $63 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the personalized nature of the experience.

Included in the price are the hotel pickup and drop-off (if you’re staying centrally), a local guide in your language of choice (English, French, Vietnamese, German, Italian, Russian), and a flexible duration. However, tickets for attractions like museums or the Eiffel Tower are not covered, so you’ll need to purchase those separately if you want to go inside.

The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly. Since it’s a private experience, you can also decide whether to incorporate public transport to save time or just stick to walking and local taxis.

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What the Reviews Say

Travelers seem quite happy with this experience. For instance, one reviewer from Germany called Juliette “super friendly and attentive,” mentioning how she introduced them to Cardinal Richelieu’s library, which they would never have discovered on their own. Such hidden gems are what really set this tour apart.

Another reviewer from the U.S. called their guide Jacques “incredible,” emphasizing his passion and personalized approach. They felt their tour was “absolutely phenomenal,” highlighting how engaging and professional the guide was, which makes a big difference on a city walk.

There’s also praise for the value for money. At just over $60, many feel it’s a good deal for a private, flexible tour with a knowledgeable guide. The reviews reflect a sense that the experience was tailored to their interests rather than a cookie-cutter approach.

The Bottom Line: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who values a personalized approach, this private tour offers a fantastic way to see Paris at your own pace. It’s especially valuable if you want to explore both the iconic landmarks and some lesser-known spots. The flexibility is perfect for travelers with specific interests or those who prefer spontaneous adjustments during their trip.

This experience is also suitable for those who enjoy walking and are comfortable navigating city streets. Keep in mind that the tour is not an inside museum visit—if that’s what you’re after, you’ll need to plan separately for attraction tickets.

For travelers on a budget, the price is very reasonable for a private guide, especially considering the customizability. However, be prepared to pay additionally for entrance fees if you want to go inside certain attractions.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? Since it is a walking tour, comfortable shoes and good mobility are recommended. If you have specific needs, it’s best to discuss with the provider beforehand.

Can I customize the itinerary? Yes, the tour can be tailored to your interests either when booking or during the tour itself. Your guide is happy to incorporate your preferences.

Are entrance tickets included? No, tickets for attractions such as museums or the Eiffel Tower are not included in the price. You will need to purchase those separately if you wish to visit inside.

What languages are guides available in? The tour can be conducted in English, French, Vietnamese, German, Italian, or Russian, depending on availability.

How long is the tour? You can choose from 2 to 8 hours, allowing flexibility based on your schedule and stamina.

What’s the price? It costs approximately $63 per person, which is quite reasonable for a private experience that includes a local guide and flexible itinerary.

Is it rain or shine? Yes, the tour takes place regardless of weather, so dress accordingly.

Can I book last minute? Yes, but availability of guides, especially in your preferred language, cannot be guaranteed for very late bookings (like the day before).

Final Thoughts

This private Paris tour offers a personalized way to experience the city’s highlights along with its hidden corners. The combination of knowledgeable guides, flexible scheduling, and the chance to see places most travelers overlook makes it a smart choice for many travelers. It’s especially suited if you want to avoid cookie-cutter tours and prefer a more intimate, tailored experience.

Whether you’re a first-timer eager to cover the essentials or someone who’s visited before but wants an insider’s perspective, this tour can adapt to your needs. Just remember that it’s primarily a walking tour—so come prepared with comfortable shoes and an open mind.

All in all, it seems like a worthwhile way to deepen your connection with Paris without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a friendly, flexible, and insightful way to explore, this might just become one of your favorite parts of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: