Paris of the Great Gatsby Walking Tour

If you’re dreaming of stepping back into the vibrant, rebellious Paris of the 1920s—think jazz, surrealism, and literary giants—this Paris of the Great Gatsby Walking Tour promises an immersive journey. Running for about two hours, it takes you through the bohemian heart of Montparnasse, where some of history’s most influential artists and writers made their mark.

Our review is based on a single, glowing 5-star experience, but what really makes this tour stand out are the insightful guides, the well-chosen itinerary, and the authentic atmosphere you’ll encounter along the way.

Three things we love about this experience are the depth of storytelling, the access to iconic cafes, and the comprehensive PDF guide featuring 15 hidden Paris gems. One thing to keep in mind: the tour involves walking and may require comfortable shoes, especially as you explore some outdoor locations.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, literature fans, and art lovers who want more than just surface-level sightseeing. If you’re intrigued by the Golden Age of Paris or looking to understand what drew an eclectic mix of creators to Montparnasse, this walk will suit you perfectly.

Contents hide

Introduction: What Makes This Tour Worth It

What to Expect from the Tour

Highlights and Unique Experiences

The Practical Details: Price, Duration, and Value

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Authentic, Knowledgeable Guides Make All the Difference

Who Should Take This Tour?

FAQ

Good To Know

In-depth storytelling from a knowledgeable guide brings the 1920s Montparnasse to life.
Iconic landmarks and cafes provide perfect photo opportunities and a tangible connection to history.
A well-paced 2-hour itinerary balances walking, sightseeing, and fascinating anecdotes.
Post-tour PDF guide with 15 hidden Paris gems offers added value and exploration suggestions.
Focus on authentic experiences rather than just ticking off tourist spots.
Small group or private options ensure personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction: What Makes This Tour Worth It

Getting to know Paris through the lens of its bohemian 1920s scene is a delightful way to deepen your understanding of the City of Light. The Paris of the Great Gatsby Walking Tour offers a chance to walk through history, guided by experts who bring the era vividly to life. It’s a great pick for anyone curious about the stories behind the cafes, the artists, and the writers who shaped our cultural landscape.

What sets this experience apart are three specific highlights: the chance to stand where Hemingway once fought a legendary boxing match, explore the cafes where artists like Picasso and Dalí met, and uncover the romantic tales surrounding Kiki de Montparnasse. The tour’s detailed narrative makes history feel personal and alive.

A potential drawback? As with many walking tours, it’s weather-dependent and involves some outdoor strolling, so good shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. But if you’re ready to explore Paris’s artistic and literary past with a passionate guide, this tour caters especially to those eager for authentic, story-rich encounters.

Interested in exploring Paris on foot? Other walking tours we've covered

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Point: 27 Rue de Fleurus

The tour begins right in Montparnasse, a neighborhood synonymous with artistic innovation and literary rebellion. From here, you’ll set out on a route that combines outdoor exploration with storytelling about key figures and moments.

Luxembourg Gardens

Your journey kicks off at the Luxembourg Gardens, a peaceful oasis that was a favorite hangout for writers and artists. Here, your guide sets the scene, explaining how the area’s ambiance fostered creativity and bohemia during the 1920s. Expect picturesque scenes perfect for photos and a solid introduction to the era.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Café de la Rotonde

Next up is the legendary Café de la Rotonde, one of the most iconic cafes of the period. This spot was a hub for surrealists, including Salvador Dalí and André Breton. According to reviews, guides provide fascinating stories about how surrealism began here, making it more than just a picture-perfect backdrop.

More Paris tours and activities we've reviewed

La Coupole

A quick walk takes you to La Coupole, a grand café that played host to many artists and writers. The guide shares anecdotes about the “craziest couple in Paris”, F. Scott Fitzgerald and Zelda, who spent time here. The interior décor and history make it a must-see for fans of literary history.

La Closerie des Lilas

Moving on, you’ll visit La Closerie des Lilas, another legendary café, famous for its artistic clientele. Reviewers mention how this spot was a favorite for Hemingway, who supposedly watched his legendary boxing match nearby, adding an extra layer of historical intrigue.

Gare Montparnasse

The walk continues to Gare Montparnasse, linking the neighborhood’s artistic past with its modern importance. The guide explains the neighborhood’s transformation and its role in Paris’s literary scene.

Drop-off Locations: Montparnasse & Gare Montparnasse

The tour concludes at these well-chosen points, perfectly positioned for further exploration or easy access to transportation.

Highlights and Unique Experiences

Discovering Hemingway’s Boxing Match: The guide shares vivid details about where Hemingway fought his iconic match, making it feel like you’re stepping into a sports legend’s shoes.

Artistic Hotspots: Visiting cafes like La Rotonde and La Coupole reveals how Montparnasse became the epicenter of artistic experimentation, from Picasso to Dalí. The guide provides insights into surrealism’s roots, enriching your appreciation of these artworks.

Kiki of Montparnasse: The story of the muse who inspired many artists is woven into the narrative, giving a human face to the artistic movement. This detail makes the history both accessible and memorable.

Literary and Political Stories: Learn about Vladimir Lenin’s fight against Leon Trotsky and the role Paris played in political upheavals, plus the influence Japanese artists had on the scene. These stories highlight the neighborhood’s international appeal.

Cafes as Cultural Landmarks: The three main cafes—La Rotonde, Le Dôme, and Closérie de Lila—are more than just eateries. They’re chapters in a story of artistic rebellion and social artistry, with insights into who frequented them and why.

The Practical Details: Price, Duration, and Value

At $59 per person, this tour offers a thoughtful, story-rich experience that we’d say provides excellent value. The two-hour format is ideal for fitting into a busy sightseeing schedule, ensuring you get a solid taste of the era without exhaustion.

The tour is led by Vlad Paris Guide, known for his engaging storytelling and knowledge. The group size is kept small or private, which means you’ll get personalized attention and the chance to ask questions. The tour includes a free PDF guide with 15 hidden gems, encouraging further exploration in the city after the walk.

While food and drinks aren’t included, the experience is primarily about culture, not dining. Transportation isn’t covered either, so plan to use public transit or walk to the starting point.

The tour’s flexibility is a big bonus—full cancellation refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later, making it easy to fit into your travel plans.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Starting at 27 Rue de Fleurus

This location acts as a symbolic anchor, as it’s close to many key spots of the era. Although the tour doesn’t specify a visit inside this address, it sets the scene for the aesthetic and cultural atmosphere of Montparnasse.