Tales & Tastes of Paris: A City Adventure by That’s All Local

Exploring Montmartre through Tales & Tastes with That’s All Local

If you’re dreaming of a way to experience Paris beyond the usual tourist spots, the Tales & Tastes of Paris tour by That’s All Local offers an engaging mix of cultural insights and delicious treats. While not purely a food tour, it’s a well-rounded exploration that balances storytelling with bites of Montmartre’s best sweets.

What we love about this experience? First, the knowledgeable guide makes all the difference, sharing stories and curiosities you won’t find in guidebooks. Second, the authentic local spots outside the usual tourist trail offer a genuine flavor of Parisian life. Third, the variety of tastings and sights keeps the tour lively and interesting.

A potential consideration is that, despite the focus on tasting, the tour is more about exploring Montmartre’s cultural gems than a heavy food experience—so if you’re seeking a full culinary journey, this might feel a bit light.

This tour works well for couples, families, or solo travelers who want a relaxed but informative way to see Montmartre, especially if you appreciate stories as much as sweets. It’s also excellent for those new to Paris or visitors eager to uncover hidden corners of one of the city’s most artistic neighborhoods.

Good To Know

• Authentic Montmartre Experience: Goes beyond the typical tourist spots with local insights and lesser-known sites.
• Balanced Focus: Mixes cultural stories with tastings of Parisian sweets, not just a food tour.
• Knowledgeable Guide: Kevin’s storytelling is highlighted as a real asset, making the experience engaging and educational.
• Convenient Itinerary: Visits iconic sights like Sacré-Cœur and Place du Tertre, plus charming hidden gems.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, making it a versatile choice for groups.
• Value for Money: At $80.29, the mix of sights, tastings, and stories offers solid value, especially considering the personalized small group experience.

A Detailed Look at the Tales & Tastes of Paris Tour

Starting Point: Château d’Eau and Montmartre Water Network

The tour begins at the Château d’Eau, a historic part of the Montmartre water system, which already hints at the tour’s focus on hidden stories. It’s a practical meeting point, easily accessible by public transport, which is a plus for visitors staying nearby. From here, the guide, Kevin, kicks off with an overview of Montmartre’s water infrastructure—a quirky detail that sets the tone for uncovering the neighborhood’s lesser-known facts.

Sacré-Cœur: The Highest Point with a Self-Cleaning Secret

Our first major stop is Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, perched on the highest hill in Paris. The guide reveals intriguing tidbits, like the church’s self-cleaning feature—an engineering marvel that visitors often overlook. Kevin enriches the visit with stories about the basilica’s construction and its prominent place in Parisian life. The 15-minute stop includes entry, giving a chance to peek inside or simply admire the panoramic views.

Place du Tertre: Art, Atmosphere, and History

Next, we head to Place du Tertre, famous for its artists and lively street scene. The square looks like a postcard from the 1800s, with cobblestones, colorful artist stalls, and the backdrop of the basilica. Kevin shares stories about the artists’ community that flourished here and how Montmartre became a magnet for creatives. Reviewers mention how Kevin’s storytelling makes the history come alive—”Kevin did a great job of explaining numerous details Montmartre and fascinating stories about many of the artists,” says one.

Rue Norvins: Sweet Treats with a Parisian Touch

Our taste stop at Rue Norvins highlights Parisian macarons—those delicate, meringue-based confections. The guide takes us to the best macaron spot, emphasizing the craft behind these perfectly balanced sweets, made with almond powder and sugar. The 15-minute tasting gives a true sense of what Parisian pastry is about. According to reviews, this stop offers “the best macarons you’ll find in Paris”—not just Montmartre—which speaks to the quality.

Musee de Montmartre: Gardens, Art, and Patisserie

The museum visit offers a relaxing pause. We explore the Café Renoir and its gardens inspired by Renoir’s paintings. Surrounded by outdoor tables overlooking the vineyard, it feels like stepping into an artist’s paradise. The museum’s charm is complemented by a taste of local patisserie, where we indulge in more sweet treats. The 30-minute visit is well-paced, and reviewers love the personal touch Kevin provides, making the art and history accessible.

Buste de Dalida: Remembering a Parisian Icon

At Place Dalida, the focus shifts to the singer and actress Dalida, whose bust commemorates her influence on Paris’s cultural scene. This stop offers a glimpse into 20th-century Parisian pop culture, with Kevin sharing stories about Dalida’s connection to the city. It’s a quick but meaningful stop that adds depth to the tour’s cultural tapestry.

Rue Garreau: Choux Pastries and Sweet Bites

The final food stop is at Rue Garreau, where you’ll taste de Choupettes—tiny choux pastries filled with cream. The guide explains the pastry’s history and how these little bites are a delightful snack. Reviewers mention that this stop is brief but satisfying, rounding out the tasting experience with a traditional French pastry.

Rue Lepic and Le Moulin Rouge: Film and Windmills

A walk along Rue Lepic takes us past the famous Moulin de la Galette and the windmills that inspired the film Amélie. Here, you get a taste of Montmartre’s bohemian past and its cinematic fame. Kevin shares stories about the neighborhood’s artistic history, making this a lively, colorful part of the tour.

Le Mur des Je t’aime: Love in Paris

We end at Le Mur des Je t’aime (The Wall of Love), where over 300 “I love you” inscriptions in multiple languages make it a romantic highlight. The quiet, artistic atmosphere offers a fitting conclusion, especially for couples or those looking for a memorable photo spot.

What This Tour Means for You

Value: At just over $80, you’re paying for a comprehensive experience that combines sights, stories, and sweets—all led by a guide whose knowledge shines through. The small group size (max 12) ensures personal attention and engaging interactions.

Pace & Duration: The 2.5-hour length is ideal—long enough to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. The itinerary covers a significant amount of ground, yet the stops are well spaced with enough time for photos and tastings.

Group & Accessibility: Suitable for all ages, the tour’s pace and content are flexible enough for families, couples, or solo explorers. Meeting points are accessible via public transport, and the tour is friendly to service animals.

Authentic Experience: What sets this apart is the chance to see Montmartre through the eyes of a local guide, with insights into both well-known icons and hidden gems. The inclusion of lesser-visited spots like Château d’Eau and the gardens of Montmartre adds depth to your visit.

Final Thoughts

Tales & Tastes of Paris offers an engaging way to experience Montmartre that balances storytelling with sweet indulgences. It’s perfect for travelers who want to learn about Parisian culture while savoring its iconic treats. With a knowledgeable guide like Kevin, you can expect a lively, informative, and pleasant walk that uncovers the neighborhood’s true character.

While it’s not a full-fledged culinary tour, the combination of sights, sounds, and tastes makes for a memorable half-day outing. If you’re after an authentic, small-group experience that combines history, culture, and a sprinkle of sugar, this tour is a charming choice.

Ideal for those new to Paris, families, and anyone eager to explore Montmartre’s artistic and culinary heritage without the tourist crowds. Just book early—this tour tends to fill up, especially during peak seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it a manageable yet enriching experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 14 Rue du Mont-Cenis and ends at Place des Abbesses, right near the metro station.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for all ages, and the relaxed pace makes it family-friendly.

Do I need to prepare anything?
No special preparation is needed, just wear comfortable shoes and bring an appetite for sweets.

Are tickets included?
Yes, all entry tickets to sites like Sacré-Cœur, Place du Tertre, and Montmartre Museum are included.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is this a guided food tour?
It’s more of a cultural walk with tastings; it’s appreciated for its stories and ambiance rather than a full culinary focus.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Are tips included?
Tips are not included; gratuities are at your discretion.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s focus on walking and outdoor stops suggests some limitations; it’s best to inquire directly if accessibility is a concern.

To sum it up, Tales & Tastes of Paris by That’s All Local offers a charming, well-rounded glimpse into Montmartre’s cultural and culinary landscape. The combination of expert storytelling, authentic sites, and sweet treats makes it an enjoyable outing that’s hard to beat for those seeking genuine, small-group exploration of this iconic Paris neighborhood.