American history in Paris : Paris, Birthplace of the U.S.A.
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Explore the rich and enduring ties between France and the United States on this unique walking tour through Paris.
From the Statue of Liberty on the Seine to the Hôtel de Coislin at Place de la Concorde, where France first recognized American independence in 1778, you’ll follow in the footsteps of key figures who shaped history.
Along the way, discover Benjamin Franklin’s life in Passy, stand before the statues of George Washington and General Lafayette, and wander through the symbolic Place des États-Unis. At each stop, engaging stories and little-known anecdotes will bring to life the deep bonds of friendship, diplomacy, and shared ideals between the two nations.
This 2.5-hour experience (about 1 hour of walking) includes 10 significant landmarks, with memorable views of the Eiffel Tower along the route. A printed map is also provide at the end, so you can continue exploring Franco-American heritage sites at your own pace after the tour.
Available options
American history in Paris : Paris, Birthplace of the U.S.A.
What's included
Government Fees
Detailed itinerary
1
Stand before Paris’s Statue of Liberty and discover the surprising story behind this iconic monument here in Paris.
2
Step into Benjamin Franklin’s neighborhood in Passy and discover stories of his diplomacy and Parisian life as America’s first ambassador. Learn about his time at the Hôtel de Valentinois (demolished in 1905) and admire the statue dedicated to him in Square Yorktown, a place that recalls the decisive Battle of Yorktown during the American Revolution.
3
Discover the impressive statue of George Washington at Place d’Iéna and learn its story.
4
Stop 4
Wander through the historic Place des États-Unis, filled with little-known monuments linked to U.S. history and wartime heroes.
5
Enjoy a pleasant walk along the Seine to discover the replica of the Statue of Liberty’s flame and the first statue of General Lafayette in Paris, each with its own story.
6
Learn how the Hôtel de Coislin at Place de la Concorde became the stage for the 1778 Treaty of Alliance, when France officially recognized American independence, and discover the story of the current U.S. Embassy in Paris, located right next to it.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meeting point in the middle of Pont de Grenelle, facing the Statue of Liberty. Your guide will be waiting with a sign showing your name.
About Paris
Paris, the capital of France, is a city steeped in history, art, and romance. Known for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and charming neighborhoods, Paris offers a unique blend of timeless elegance and modern vibrancy. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, the city is a treasure trove of cultural and historical gems.
Top Attractions
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is Paris's most iconic landmark and a symbol of France. Built in 1889 for the World's Fair, it offers breathtaking views of the city.
Architecture
2-3 hours
€17.10-€26.80 (depending on the level)
Louvre Museum
The Louvre is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris. It houses thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
Museum
3-4 hours
€17 (full price), free for under 18s and EU residents under 26
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture and one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. It has been undergoing restoration since the 2019 fire.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free (towers and crypts may have reopening fees in the future)
Montmartre
Montmartre is a historic and artistic district known for its bohemian past, charming streets, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
Cultural
Half-day
Free to explore (Sacré-Cœur dome visit €6)
Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790.
Historical
Full day
€18-€28 (depending on the pass)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Croissant
A buttery, flaky pastry made from laminated dough. Best enjoyed fresh from a local bakery.
Breakfast
Contains gluten and dairy
Baguette
A long, thin loaf of French bread with a crispy crust and soft interior. Often served with cheese or ham.
Breakfast/Lunch
Contains gluten
Steak Frites
A classic French dish consisting of steak and French fries, usually served with a side of salad and béarnaise sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains gluten (if served with fries) and meat
Crêpes
Thin pancakes that can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients, such as Nutella, cheese, or ham.
Snack/Dessert
Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian/vegan options available
Popular Activities
Hot air balloon rides
Rock climbing in Fontainebleau forest
Kayaking on the Seine
Picnicking in the Luxembourg Garden
Boat tours on the Seine
Spa day at a luxury hotel
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending a cabaret show
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in Paris, with warm weather and long daylight hours. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: French
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Paris is generally safe for travelers, but pickpocketing and petty theft can be a problem in tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Charles de Gaulle Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center
- Orly Airport • 14 km (8.7 miles) from city center
By train
Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon
By bus
Bercy Seine, Porte Maillot
Getting around
Public transport
The Paris Metro is one of the most efficient and extensive subway systems in the world, covering all major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, G7
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Le Marais
Montmartre
Latin Quarter
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Champs-Élysées
Day trips
Versailles
17 km (10.5 miles) from Paris • Full day
The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790 and is famous for its opulent interiors and vast gardens.
Giverny
75 km (47 miles) from Paris • Half day to full day
Giverny is a charming village known as the home of the famous impressionist painter Claude Monet. The village is home to Monet's House and Gardens, which inspired many of his most famous works.
Château de Fontainebleau
55 km (34 miles) from Paris • Full day
The Château de Fontainebleau is a grand royal château and park located just outside of Paris. It was a residence of the French monarchs from Louis VII to Napoleon III and is known for its beautiful architecture and vast forests.
Festivals
Fête de la Musique • June 21st (annual)
Paris Fashion Week • February and September (annual)
Nuit Blanche • First Saturday in October (annual)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic French phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
- Use public transport, walk, or bike to get around the city and avoid traffic and parking issues
- Consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass or a multi-day public transport pass to save money on attractions and transport
- Explore the city's many neighborhoods and hidden gems, not just the major tourist attractions
- Try local specialties and enjoy the dining experience slowly and leisurely
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
