Free Tour Paris - PARIS STEP BY STEP TOURS
Rating
Family of 4
0 upfront — tip-based
Duration
2–2.5 hours
Best Ages
7–16
About
Paris Step By Step Tours offers free walking tours of central Paris on a tip-based model, making it one of the most accessible ways for budget-conscious families to experience guided city exploration. The format attracts passionate, energetic guides who rely on positive reviews and tips to build their business, which means they are strongly motivated to be engaging and entertaining — often more so than guides on paid tours. For families, the free tour model offers a low-stakes way to get oriented in Paris, cover the major landmarks, and hear the stories that make each location memorable, without committing to a large upfront cost.
Guides typically cover an impressive amount of ground in two hours — from the Notre-Dame area along the Seine to the Louvre, Palais Royal, and beyond — with commentary that is designed to hold the attention of international visitors of all ages. Children who are old enough to walk a meaningful distance and pay attention will get real value from the experience, especially if the guide is one who naturally incorporates humor and interactive moments for younger members of the group. The tip-based system means families pay what they feel the experience was worth at the end, which can be economical if the tour was good but not extraordinary.
Tours meet at fixed points in central Paris — details are confirmed upon booking or checking the website. A solid first-day-in-Paris activity for families who want a ground-level introduction to the city.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Setting
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Morning tours to avoid peak tourist crowds
Wait Times
5–10 minutes at meeting point
Nearby Food
Tours typically end near central Paris landmarks surrounded by cafes and food options. The guide will often point out a nearby favorite.
Why Kids Love It
Guides compete to be the most entertaining — making free tours surprisingly engaging with humor, props, and interactive questions for children.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Book online to reserve a spot even though the tour is free — spots can fill up.
- Have some cash ready for tipping. A good tip per adult is meaningful to the guide.
- Wear your most comfortable shoes — two hours of Paris pavement adds up quickly.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes for extended city walking
- Water and portable snacks for children
- Cash for tipping at the end of the tour
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
0 upfront — tip-based
Tips to Save
- The tour itself is free; a reasonable tip per adult is expected at the end.
- Children typically tip less or are exempt — ask at the start.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 10:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Monday
- 10:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday
- 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday
- 10:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:30 AM – 8:00 PM