Overview
Walk and learn with our expert guide!
Most people don't know a great deal about the 1920s and 1930s in Paris - don't worry, your guide is an expert, and a good story teller too!
We begin with a stroll through the Montparnasse neighborhood on the Left Bank of the River Siene. along the Boulevard de Montparnasse, a classic Parisian avenue, rebuilt by Baron Haussmann in the mid-19th century. Liberal arts lovers delight in the plethora of art schools, literary cafés, dance halls, cabarets where Man Ray, Tristan Tzara and Surrealists met.
On to the Statue of Honoré de Balzac, a commemoration to a French novelist whose works capture the essence of life in Paris after the fall of Napoleon. Sculpted by Auguste Rodin, the statue itself is a milestone in modern architecture.
It's time for our café stop and there are numerous to choose from. Life for the lost generation circled around these now infamous literary cafés, the Rotonde, Dôme, Select and Coupole, all frequented by Man Ray, Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso along with numerous others. We'll continue along the Rue Delambre where your guide will point out the former homes of the artists who once roamed these streets. See the home of Modigliani, Foujita, Gauguin, and dancer Isadora Duncan.
You'll be wowed by the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens, once Maria de Medicis' palace and now the gardens of the Senate. Many Parisians have stood and admired these flowers, ask your guide about the association to Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, William Faulkner etc.
Next is the Place de l'Odéon where you will learn about the Odéon Theatre. The history here is rich, dating from the time of Marie Antoinette to modern day. In 1968 this was the site of tempestuous meetings during 1968 student revolution.
End your walk feeling inspired to learn more about this fascinating period of culture in Paris.
- Please know that this is a slow-paced walking tour. There is no rush. It is more of an immersion into the sites.
- This tour can accommodate up to 6 passengers. Please contact ShoreTrips if there are more than 6 people in your group.
- Please contact ShoreTrips if you would like to customize your experience.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 10:00 AM, duration: 2.5 hours