Tour of Literary Women in Parisian History With Tastings

Enjoy the captivating history of literary women who have left an indelible mark on Parisian culture. This guided tour through the iconic Saint-Germain-de-Prés neighborhood promises to unveil the stories of celebrated authors like Simone de Beauvoir and Colette, while offering a delightful sensory experience with tastings at renowned Parisian bakeries. Uncover the connection between these remarkable women and the women’s liberation movement that shaped the city’s literary landscape. Where will this journey take you?

Good To Know

• Explore the literary heritage of influential female writers like Simone de Beauvoir and Colette in the historic Saint-Germain-de-Prés neighborhood.
• Learn about the women’s liberation movement and its societal impact, with insights into the struggles and achievements of pioneering feminists.
• Discover the charming streets and intellectual atmosphere that inspired these literary pioneers, reflected in the local cafés and shops.
• Enjoy a multi-sensory experience of Parisian culture by tasting renowned local pastries, such as salted butter caramel and the classic kouignette.
• Participate in an immersive tour led by a company dedicated to highlighting women’s contributions and challenging the status quo in Paris.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Explore Saint-Germain-de-Prés

As the tour begins, you will explore the historic Saint-Germain-de-Prés neighborhood.

This iconic area was a hub for influential literary women like Simone de Beauvoir and Colette. Participants will wander the charming streets, taking in the atmosphere that inspired these writers.

They’ll learn about the women’s liberation movement and its impact on Parisian society. The neighborhood’s cafés and shops provide a glimpse into the intellectual and cultural traditions that defined this era.

Influential Female Writers

Though the Saint-Germain-de-Prés neighborhood was home to many influential male writers, it also served as a hub for some of Paris’ most celebrated female authors.

The tour highlights the contributions of iconic women like Simone de Beauvoir, a central figure in the women’s liberation movement, and Colette, a renowned novelist known for her provocative writing.

Participants will learn about these literary pioneers and their impact on French culture and society.

Participants will gain insight into the literary pioneers who shaped the intellectual landscape of Paris.

The tour provides an opportunity to gain insight into the lives and works of these powerful female voices that shaped the intellectual landscape of Paris.

Women’s Liberation Movement

The tour also highlights the women’s liberation movement, a significant social and political shift that empowered women in Paris during the 20th century.

This pivotal movement challenged traditional gender roles and advocated for equal rights, education, and opportunities for women. Visitors learn about pioneering feminists like Simone de Beauvoir, whose groundbreaking work "The Second Sex" sparked a revolution.

The tour explores how these activists fought for reproductive rights, workplace equality, and societal recognition of women’s contributions. Guests gain insights into the courageous struggles and remarkable achievements of Paris’ influential women during this transformative era.

Sampling Local French Pastries

Along With exploring the literary legacies of influential Parisian women, the tour includes delightful opportunities to sample local French pastries and sweets.

Participants visit two renowned Parisian bakeries, where they’ll taste the signature offerings. At the first stop, they’ll savor Henri Le Roux‘s renowned salted butter caramel.

Then, they’ll head to Georges Larnicol’s bakery to try the classic kouignette, a flaky pastry with a caramelized glaze.

These sweet tastings provide a delightful complement to the tour’s literary focus, offering a multi-sensory experience of Parisian culture.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Taste Salted Butter Caramel and Kouignette

As part of the "Tour of Literary Women in Paris", participants get to indulge in delectable Parisian pastries at two renowned bakeries. The first stop is at Henri Le Roux, where guests sample the signature salted butter caramel, a decadent treat that has made the shop famous.

| Salted Butter Caramel |

| — | — | — |

| Flavors | Buttery, Salty, Sweet |

| Texture | Smooth, Creamy |

| Origin | Brittany, France |

Next, the tour visits Georges Larnicol to try the kouignette, a flaky and caramelized pastry that originated in Brittany. Both of these indulgences provide a sweet respite during the literary exploration of Paris.

About Women of Paris Tours

Established in 2016, Women of Paris Tours (WoP) offers unique experiences that focus on women’s history and influence in Paris. The company aims to challenge the status quo by highlighting women’s contributions.

WoP provides tours that explore the city’s literary heritage, showcasing the lives and works of influential female writers like Simone de Beauvoir and Colette. Participants can also learn about the women’s liberation movement and sample local French pastries and sweets during the experience.

WoP’s tours are designed to offer an immersive and insightful exploration of Paris through the lens of its extraordinary women.

What to Bring

Participants on the Tour of Literary Women in Paris will want to come prepared with a few key items. Comfortable shoes are a must, as the tour involves walking through the historic Saint-Germain-de-Prés neighborhood.

Bringing a water bottle is also recommended, especially on warmer days. Plus, dressing in weather-appropriate clothing is advised, as the tour will continue rain or shine.

These simple items will ensure participants can fully engage with the tour and its highlights, from learning about influential female writers to savoring local French pastries and sweets.

Important Information

The tours require a minimum of 3 guests to run as scheduled; they may be rescheduled or canceled if this minimum isn’t met.

Tours require a minimum of 3 guests to run as scheduled, and may be rescheduled or canceled if this minimum isn’t met.

The meeting point is outside the main entrance to Saint Germain-des-Prés church, located in the 6th arrondissement. Guests should check availability for starting times and participant selection.

• Tours are wheelchair accessible.

• Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Booking is available through a reserve now and pay later option to secure your spot without upfront payment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, but participants should be respectful and avoid disrupting the guide or other guests. It’s best to check with the tour provider for any specific guidelines or restrictions.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes tastings of local French pastries and sweets, so bringing outside items is not allowed. Participants should come hungry and ready to indulge in the provided tastings.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is wheelchair accessible. According to the tour overview, it states that the tour is "Wheelchair accessible", ensuring individuals with disabilities can fully participate in the experience.

Do the Tour Guides Provide Any Historical Artifacts or Documents?

The tour guides do not provide any historical artifacts or documents during the tour. They focus on sharing information and stories about the influential women writers and the women’s liberation movement in Paris through their guided commentary.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can’t be extended, as it’s a fixed 2.5-hour experience. However, guests can opt for private or customized tours if they want a longer or more tailored experience with the tour provider.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour offers a captivating glimpse into the literary legacy of Parisian women. Visitors will uncover the historic neighborhood of Saint-Germain-de-Prés, explore the influential works of writers like Simone de Beauvoir and Colette, and discover the women’s liberation movement. On top of that, the tour includes delightful tastings at renowned bakeries, providing a multi-sensory exploration of Parisian culture and its remarkable women. It’s a must-visit experience for literature enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper understanding of Parisian history.

You can check if your dates are available here: