What is the cancellation policy for this tour?

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

How long does this tour take?

Please check the tour page for the exact duration.

Napoleon's Paris: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Q: Where does this tour start?

This tour starts at: This tour starts in front of the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, which was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806. The road should be at your back..

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Overview

This self-guided walking tour takes you through Paris’ most iconic landmarks from the French Revolution and Napoleon Bonaparte’s era. Begin at the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel in the Tuileries Garden and end at Napoleon’s Tomb in the magnificent Hôtel des Invalides. Along the way, you’ll discover the grand Rue de Rivoli, the Vendôme Column made from enemy cannons, and the bullet-scarred Church of Saint-Roch. Learn how Napoleon shaped Paris’ architecture and history, from his military triumphs to his brief European peace. Indulge in the city’s best madeleines at Mado à Paris and uncover stories of assassination attempts and political intrigue. This tour is perfect for history buffs and Francophiles alike, offering an unforgettable Parisian experience.

Gallery

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What's Included

✓ Included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

✗ Not Included

Smartphone and headphones
Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour
Food and drink
Transportation

Itinerary

Stop 1

You’ll see this ornate triumphal arch, crowned with a bronze quadriga, and richly decorated with bas-reliefs depicting Napoleon’s victories. As you pass by, it frames the entrance to the grand Tuileries Garden, offering a glimpse of Paris’ imperial grandeur.

Stop 2

This vast, manicured garden is filled with tree-lined pathways, classical statues, and sparkling fountains. Strolling through, you’ll feel a connection to the history of Paris, from its royal past to its role as a gathering place for locals today.

Stop 3

Stretching through the heart of Paris, this grand street is lined with arcaded buildings and luxury shops, epitomizing Napoleonic-era urban planning. Walking along its lively sidewalks and marvel at its architectural symmetry and historic significance.

Stop 4

This charming pâtisserie is renowned for its buttery madeleines, freshly baked and irresistibly golden. Stopping here, you’ll savor a sweet taste of Paris’ culinary heritage as part of your journey.

Stop 5

Known for its luxury boutiques and historic landmarks, this iconic street blends modern elegance with centuries-old charm. As you explore, you’ll soak up the vibrant atmosphere of one of Paris’ most famous thoroughfares.

Stop 6

You’ll pass this baroque-style church, its facade still marked by bullet holes from the French Revolution. As you approach, the contrast of its serene interior and tumultuous history will come to life through your guide's stories.

Stop 7

This picturesque street, lined with Neoclassical arcades, is a masterpiece of urban design from Napoleon’s era. As you stroll through, you’ll hear tales of assassination plots and intrigue tied to this historic location.

Stop 8

Rising from Place Vendôme, this bronze column is adorned with spiraling reliefs made from melted enemy cannons, celebrating Napoleon’s military triumphs. Standing beneath it, you’ll appreciate its imposing symbolism and intricate artistry.

Stop 9

This expansive square features striking monuments, including the iconic Luxor Obelisk, and offers sweeping views of Paris. Walking across it, you’ll uncover its layered history, from royal grandeur to the Revolution’s turmoil.

Stop 10

Home to the French National Assembly, this stately building reflects the influence of Neoclassical architecture on post-Revolutionary Paris. Passing by, you’ll admire its impressive columns and learn about its role in shaping modern France.

Stop 11

This grand complex, with its gilded dome and sprawling courtyards, was originally built as a hospital for wounded soldiers. As you wander the grounds, you’ll see how it embodies both military might and cultural legacy.

Stop 12

Housed beneath the golden dome of Hôtel des Invalides, Napoleon’s tomb is a grandiose marble sarcophagus surrounded by intricate sculptures. Standing before it, you’ll feel the weight of his extraordinary legacy and the artistry dedicated to his memory.

Meeting & End Point

📍

Meeting Point

This tour starts in front of the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, which was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806. The road should be at your back.

🏁

End Point

Your tour ends at the Tomb of Napoleon I.

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Good to Know

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Known For:

Historical Tours in Paris, Audio Guides in Paris, Walking Tours in Paris, Cultural Tours in Paris, Private Sightseeing Tours in Paris

Special Instructions

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me