Paris is a city where every corner hides a story — sometimes even in the street names themselves. On this themed free walking tour in Paris, you’ll discover the fascinating origins of street names in the Latin Quarter and the Marais. Many names have changed over time, but the old inscriptions carved in stone remain as silent witnesses of the city’s past.
Highlights of This Walk
This 2-hour walk (approx. 2.5 km) will take you through charming medieval streets, hidden passages, and lively squares. Along the way, you’ll encounter:
- Orfèvres en la Matière – Once home to goldsmiths, the Rue Saint-Germain-des-Prés recalls the artisans who gave their craft to Paris.
- Fuseaux et Quenouilles – Old weaving tools gave their names to streets where workshops once flourished.
- Manque de Peaux – Tanners and furriers once worked here, leaving a name tied to leather and hides.
- Gravé dans la Pierre – Ancient stone inscriptions, still visible, telling forgotten tales.
- Connaître l’Enfer – A famous restaurant called La Combe (Hell!) stood here, showing the humor of Parisians past.
- Chat Pêcheur – One of the narrowest streets in Paris, with a curious sign of a “fishing cat.”
- Cul-de-Sac – A name engraved long ago, later erased during the Revolution, but still remembered.
- Hirondelle et Salamandre – Names inspired by royal emblems of François I, carved into stone.
- Bélier et Éléphant – Strange animal figures hidden in facades, waiting to be spotted.
- Buci ou Bussy – A street named after a charitable Parisian, its stone plaque still visible.
- Une Part du Gâteau – A quirky pastry shop name that stuck and became part of local memory.
Why You’ll Love This Walk
- Explore hidden gems of Paris that most tourists miss.
- Stroll through the Latin Quarter, a lively area full of cafés and history.
- Learn fun stories behind Paris street names that date back centuries.
- Perfect for history lovers, curious explorers, and anyone wanting a free cultural experience in Paris.
Practical Info
- Start/End: Between the Marais and the Latin Quarter
- Duration: Around 2 hours
- Distance: ~2.5 km
- Type: Free, self-guided walking tour
Source: Georges Feterman, 24 Balades à Thèmes – Paris (Éditions Bonneton)
Stay tuned — we’ll be publishing more free Paris walking tours from this series soon!