Learn about the history of Paris, starting from the Roman era moving through the ages to the occupation of World War II and seeing how Paris became like it is today. You will start with the gorgeous Jardins du Luxembourg and then continue through the medieval streets of the majestic Pantheon and down hidden paths that lead to open-air markets bustling with shoppers, squares with pretty fountains, boutiques, stores, cafés and many more facets of the Parisian daily life. You will continue your history tour as you make your way to the Seine. You will visit the fascinating Gothic Notre Dame church, where you will hear about the legend of the carvings in the façade, the flying buttresses, what happened to it during the Revolution and the famous rose windows. Inside you willsee the glorious colors of these windows and the vast openness of the church and maybe even hear the organ play. Lunch will be on Île St Louis, the pretty village-like island behind Notre Dame. The island is a 17th century wonder of architecture filled with cafés, crêperies, bistros, boutiques, fromageries, hand-made chocolate shops, and a storeselling exquisite jams and jellies, vinegars and flavored mustards from Provence. Of course, after lunch, you will stopfor the famous ice cream that is made on the island. You will continue your walk through 16th and 17th century Pariswhile crossing one of the stone bridges into the back streets of Le Marais. You will visit the stunning Place des Vosges located in the heart of Le Marais, a magical area of narrow medieval streets, cobbled passageways and grandiose mansions. Along the way, you will see some of the most wonderful local fashion and accessory boutiques. You will wander through the Jewish Quarters and take in the boutiques and gourmet shops. You will finish your tour on top of the George Pompidou Center with spectacular views over Paris.
