Paris: Pastries & Damnations – A Sweet Tour of Notre Dame

Exploring Paris isn’t just about admiring iconic landmarks or indulging in croissants; sometimes, it’s about uncovering its lesser-known, darker stories while enjoying some incredible pastries. This 2-hour guided tour offered by Bon Appétit Walks promises a mix of sweet delights and spine-tingling tales across Île Saint-Louis and Notre Dame.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the delicious pastries from charming local bakeries that make you feel like a true Parisian. Second, the dark legends and ghost stories woven into the city’s history, giving a completely different perspective of the city’s romantic façade. And third, the intimate size of the group, which ensures personalized storytelling and a relaxed vibe.

A potential consideration? The tour involves moderate walking and some standing in outdoor areas, which might not suit travelers with mobility issues or those expecting a very relaxed, seated experience. Overall, it’s best suited for history buffs, food lovers, and those eager to discover Paris’s shadowy side alongside its sweet offerings.

Good To Know

• Authentic Pastry Tasting: Sample a variety of melt-in-your-mouth treats from local Parisian bakeries.
• Dark Stories & Legends: Learn about floods, fires, and ghostly tales woven into Paris’s history.
• Cultural & Historical Insights: Discover the significance of Notre Dame, medieval justice, and secret stories beneath the city’s romantic facades.
• Small Group Experience: Intimate tours limited to 10 participants ensure engaging storytelling.
• Value for Money: At $48, this tour combines quality food, expert guides, and intriguing tales.
• Ideal for Curious Travelers: Perfect for those who want a blend of culinary delights and eerie history in a short, manageable walk.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: 7 Rue des Nonnains d’Hyères

The tour kicks off in a quiet, picturesque corner of Île Saint-Louis. Our guide, a charming French storyteller, greets us here, setting a friendly tone. As you gather, you’ll notice the peaceful ambiance of this little island, often overshadowed by the grandeur of nearby Île de la Cité.

Hôtel de Sens & Île Saint-Louis Walk

The first stop is the Hôtel de Sens, a stunning medieval building that hints at the layered history of Paris. The guide shares brief but fascinating insights into medieval architecture, justice, and city life. From there, we meander through the narrow streets of Île Saint-Louis, which many travelers overlook. Expect to see quaint courtyards, charming facades, and hear stories about floods, fires, and ghosts that haunt these quiet streets. The stories are not just historical; they evoke the darker side of Paris’s past, including tales of fires that ravaged the city and spirits said to linger in the shadows.

Pastry Sampling at Local Bakeries

Midway through, the tour takes a delicious turn. We visit local patisseries, small family-run shops where the aroma of fresh pastries fills the air. Here, you’ll taste melt-in-your-mouth treats—think buttery croissants, delicate éclairs, and creamy tarts. Reviewers describe the pastries as “marvelous” and “amazing,” with one reviewer noting that the cream puff was especially memorable. These bakeries are the kind that make Parisians late for work and visitors fall in love with sugar all over again.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Île de la Cité & The Darker Side of Notre Dame

Our route continues onto Île de la Cité, where the Notre Dame Cathedral looms overhead. Standing here, you’ll hear the story of its construction, legendary figures, and the tales of fires and restoration efforts. The guide shares harrowing legends of the cathedral’s past, including the myths surrounding its stained glass and the stories of those who perished in its flames.

Medieval Justice & Haunted Streets

Walking through the Latin Quarter, the tour reveals how medieval justice worked—rough, often brutal, and certainly not as romantic as today’s image of Paris. You’ll learn about the morgue beneath the city and the tragic story of Jacques de Molay, the last Grand Master of the Knights Templar, whose execution took place here. The guide also uncovers haunting secrets beneath the elegant streets, including stories of forgotten souls and buildings with ghostly histories.

Final Stop: The Pantheon

The tour finishes at the Pantheon, a grand tomb to France’s greatest minds. Here, the atmosphere shifts from spooky stories to a reflection on how Paris’s history is intertwined with its most influential figures. Many reviews mention that ending at the Pantheon adds a fitting sense of closure—an acknowledgment of Paris’s blend of brilliance and tragedy.

What We Loved About the Tour

Expert, Passionate Guides

Many reviews mention guides like Loïc and Arthur, who bring their stories to life with enthusiasm. Their knowledge, humor, and ability to weave dark tales into the city’s fabric make the experience engaging and memorable. One reviewer praised Loïc for being “incredibly passionate and full of fascinating stories about French history.”

Authentic Local Flavor & Delicious Pastries

Sampling pastries from small, family-run bakeries provides a genuine taste of Paris. The treats are described as “delicious,” “marvelous,” and “more than I expected,” making this tour a real feast for the senses.

Intriguing Stories & Hidden Corners

The dark legends, ghost stories, and lesser-known histories give a new perspective on Paris. From the haunted streets to tales of medieval justice, the stories add depth to the city’s romantic image.

Cost and Value

At $48 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of food, storytelling, and sightseeing. Reviewers agree that the experience is excellent value, especially considering the quality of the pastries and the engaging guides.

Practical Details

Duration & Group Size

The tour lasts precisely 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy day of sightseeing. Limited to 10 participants, it offers an intimate atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and guides can tailor stories for the group.

Accessibility & Logistics

While the tour is wheelchair accessible, it involves some walking through narrow streets and outdoor spaces. Be prepared for moderate walking—wear comfortable shoes and check the weather forecast. The meeting point is in a charming garden, where you’ll be greeted by your guide in a stylish French ensemble, adding to the Parisian feel.

Price & What’s Included

For $48, you get a guided walk, multiple pastry tastings, and lots of historical insights. Food is part of the experience, so skipping breakfast beforehand is recommended to truly enjoy the treats.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts eager for a darker view of Paris, food lovers wanting authentic local pastries, and anyone interested in uncovering secret stories behind famous landmarks. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate small group sizes and personalized storytelling.

Note: It’s not suitable for children under 8, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users due to walking requirements.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While it is wheelchair accessible, some walking is involved, and the terrain might be uneven, so those with mobility concerns should consider this.

What should I bring?
Bring water and wear comfortable walking shoes. Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as parts of the tour are outdoors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for last-minute changes.

Is this a family-friendly tour?
It’s best for children over 8, as the stories and walking pace may not be suitable for very young kids.

How long does the tour last?
Exactly 2 hours, making it a nice short activity that can complement other sightseeing plans.

What’s the highlight?
Many say the pastries and the dark legends are the most memorable parts, with some reviewers mentioning specific treats like the cream puff as a standout.

Are the stories accurate and well-researched?
Yes, guides are passionate and knowledgeable, with reviews confirming their engaging storytelling and factual insights.

Final Thoughts

This Pastries & Damnations tour offers a truly different way to experience Paris—combining delicious local treats with chilling stories that reveal the city’s shadowy depths. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting to see Paris through a more mysterious lens, while indulging in some of the best pastries the city has to offer.

With expert guides, intimate group sizes, and a balanced blend of food and history, this walk provides both entertainment and authentic local flavor. Travelers who enjoy discovering hidden stories and learning about Paris’s darker side will find this tour both enriching and fun.

If you’re after a memorable, tasty, and slightly spooky adventure, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a chance to see Paris from a different angle—sweet, sinister, and utterly captivating.

You can check if your dates are available here: