Paris' Red History : Brothels, boudoirs and courtesans

Paris, FR
Self-guided

Included

  • inclusion
    Other
    A complementary cocktail in a former brothel in Pigalle
  • inclusion
    Other
    A collection of taboo stories and an entertaining walking tour of Paris
  • inclusion
    Alcoholic beverages
    Alcoholic Beverages
  • inclusion
    Other
    Tips on the most sensual Paris hangouts of today

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuities
    Gratuities

Meeting Point

Meet your guide at Le Kiosque des Noctambules; the colored metro station at Place Colette. The exact metro station is “Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre” You should take the Exit N. 5 "Place Colette - Théâtres". Your guide will be wearing a special badge with the TOORERS logo, you can't miss it!

Meeting point

12 Pl. Colette, 75001 Paris , France

End point

End Point

Your tour will finish at the sulphurous Pigalle red-district area, where you will stop for a cocktail at an elegant former brothel. If you haven’t had enough, feel free to explore further with a visit to the bohemian Montmartre district.

Meeting point

75009 Paris , France

End point

What to expect

1

Place Colette

You’ll meet your guide at the very elegant Place Colette, named after one of the most famous sensual themed authors in literature. She will be the first of a long list of many intriguing and scandalous figures that you will learn about on this tour

Duration 30 minutes
2

Palais-Royal

Our off-the-beaten track itinerary will include the Palais Royal, some of the most beautiful Parisian 19th Century Covered Passages, and a walk through the little known 9th arrondissement. From Napoleon Bonaparte to Toulouse Lautrec, you will travel back in time to meet some of the most scandalous characters who gave Paris its racy reputation.

Duration 60 minutes
3

Saint-Georges

Did you know that at the authorized brothels' peak period, there were more than 200 establishments and 150 000 registered filles de joie? How could you recognize a Maison close? What were the rules inside these brothels and who were the famed Belle Époque painters that depicted life here? Who were the most well-known courtesans or cocottes? These are some of the fun facts you’ll learn with your guide on this tour.

Duration 60 minutes
4
Pigalle

Your tour will finish at the sulphurous Pigalle red-district area, where you will stop for a cocktail at an elegant former brothel. If you haven’t had enough, feel free to explore further with a visit to the bohemian Montmartre district.

Duration 30 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Provided by Toorers

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try a nearby café for brunch.
  • icon
    Check out the nearby Moulin Rouge.
  • icon
    Visit Montmartre after the tour.
  • icon
    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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    Bring a camera for great photo ops.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Step into the alluring world of Pigalle with the Pigalle Paris Private Walking Tour, a captivating three-hour journey that unveils the scandalous secrets of Paris. This unique experience is not just a stroll through the streets; it’s a deep dive into the city’s rich history of sensuality, art, and glamour. From the elegantly appointed Palais Royal to the vibrant heart of South Pigalle, your expert guide will regale you with tantalizing tales of notorious brothels and iconic figures from the Belle Époque. With stories that dance between history and myth, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Parisian nightlife, complete with a cocktail in an exquisite former maison close, where every sip is steeped in intrigue. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of art, or simply curious about the more risqué aspects of Parisian culture, this tour is designed to enthrall and entertain.

What to expect?

On the Pigalle Paris Private Walking Tour, participants can expect a delightful mix of history, storytelling, and a vibrant atmosphere. The adventure begins at the picturesque Place Colette, where your guide will introduce you to the intriguing literary figures that shaped the city’s sensual narrative. As you wander through the Palais-Royal and its stunning 19th-century passages, you’ll learn about the infamous courtesans and artists who frequented these spaces, bringing the past to life like never before. The tour culminates in the lively Pigalle district, where you’ll indulge in a complimentary cocktail at a lavish former brothel, perfectly capturing the spirit of yesteryear. Along the way, you’ll also receive exclusive tips on the hottest contemporary sensual hangouts in Paris, ensuring your adventure extends beyond the tour itself.

Who is this for?

The Pigalle Paris Private Walking Tour is perfect for a diverse range of travelers looking to experience a unique slice of Paris. Whether you’re a couple seeking an enchanting date night, a group of friends eager for an unconventional outing, or even a solo traveler curious about the city’s vibrant history, this tour caters to all. Art lovers and history enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by the tales of famous courtesans and the artistic legends who frequented the brothels of Pigalle. Additionally, those with a penchant for the unconventional will appreciate the tour’s focus on the scandalous side of Paris. It’s an inclusive experience that transcends age and background, inviting everyone to discover the hidden narratives that make this city so extraordinary.

Why book this?

Booking the Pigalle Paris Private Walking Tour is a decision rooted in the desire for a genuinely unique experience. What sets this tour apart is not just the rich historical content but the engaging way in which it is delivered. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, participants will feel as if they’re part of a secret society uncovering the city’s hidden gems. The combination of captivating stories, vibrant locations, and the chance to sip a cocktail in a beautifully restored former brothel creates an atmosphere of exclusivity and charm. This experience promises not only to educate but to entertain, leaving participants with lasting memories and plenty of tales to share. It’s an opportunity to connect with Paris on a deeper level, one that transcends the typical tourist experience and delves into the city’s alluring past.

Good to know

Before embarking on the Pigalle Paris Private Walking Tour, it’s good to note that the experience is designed for those with at least a moderate level of physical fitness, as it involves walking through various neighborhoods with a vibrant history. Public transportation options are conveniently located nearby, making it easy to reach the meeting point at Le Kiosque des Noctambules. Service animals are welcome, ensuring that everyone can partake in this fascinating journey. The tour is conducted in multiple languages, including English, French, and Spanish, making it accessible to a wider audience. Lastly, while the tour includes a complimentary cocktail, participants should keep in mind that gratuities are not included, so some extra cash might be necessary for tips.

Reviews

Feedback from participants of the Pigalle Paris Private Walking Tour has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the engaging storytelling and the unique insights shared by the guide. Many have expressed their delight in discovering the lesser-known aspects of Paris's history, with several noting how the tour brought the city’s vibrant past to life in a way that felt both authentic and entertaining. Travelers have praised the immersive experience, particularly the stop at the former brothel, which many found to be a fascinating highlight. Reviewers often mention how the tour exceeded their expectations, combining education and enjoyment seamlessly. Overall, the tour has been described as a must-do for anyone looking to explore a different side of Paris, leaving participants eager to recommend it to friends and fellow travelers.

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