Best Layover Tours in Paris: Top 15 Must-See Tours for Paris

Last Updated on June 28, 2024 by April Nicole

Looking for the best layover tours in paris to maximize your time?

Then this is the guide for you!

Caught in a layover at Paris and itching to make the most out of your brief rendezvous with the City of Lights? You’re not alone.

Many travelers find themselves pondering how to effectively explore Paris’s rich culture and iconic landmarks in the limited hours of a layover.

This post is your guide to the best layover tours in Paris, tailored for those who want to experience the essence of Parisian charm without the worry of missing their next flight.

From navigating through the romantic streets of Montmartre to savoring a quick gourmet treat near the Eiffel Tower, I’ve got you covered.

Get ready to embark on a concise yet memorable journey through the best layover tours in Paris, all while keeping an eye on the clock.

If you are in a hurry, here’s a summary of best layover tours in Paris :

15 Best Paris Layover Tours

These locally led tours offer carefully selected glimpses into the city’s famous landmarks and cultural treasures, making them ideal for visitors looking for a quick taste of Parisian charm.

1. Famous Sights of Paris- Private Tour with Pick-up and Drop-off

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 5 hours | 🇫🇷 BOOK NOW

Included: Meet up in your hotel lobby or at your indicated meet-up point (Charles de Gaulle Airport for an extra fee)

Travelers who can walk well should take this half day in Paris tour. You can also tailor the itinerary and travel at your own speed since it’s private.

If time permits, taking a quick walk along the Seine River or perhaps paying a visit to a stunning fine arts museum are options.

You make the decision!

The experience was amazing from beginning to end! Kristine was great, she came to pick us up at the location that worked best for us, and brought us to many different places with so much knowledge of each of the spots. The best part was when she brought us to a cafe for us to have some coffee and pastries.

Nathaniel (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Sightseeing of the Louvre, Sacré Coeur, Arc de Triomphe, Moulin Rouge, Eiffel Tower, and Notre Dame, among other famous sites; you’ll also take in the oddities seen along the road and attempt to get up close to the landmarks.

In order to really experience the atmosphere, you’ll also enjoy a French coffee or tea while sitting in a café.

2. Layover in Paris tour 24/7

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 5-7 hours | 🇫🇷 BOOK NOW

Included: Air-conditioned vehicle and Airport Pick-up and Drop-off

Groups up to eight people can be accommodated on this private Paris layover tour.

This experience is unique in that it gives you the freedom to design your own schedule with stops at the places you’re most excited to see.

This guided tour is a practical option, as it can be scheduled at your convenience, regardless of whether you have a daytime or overnight layover. With seven well chosen stops, it’s best suited for travelers who have a seven-hour layover in Paris.

David was a great guide! He picked us up at the airport, showed us all the special places in Paris and shared so much about history, architecture and culture in just a few hours we had during layover. He brought us back to the airport in perfect time and we also had enough time for breakfast and lunch at special places he recommended in Paris.

Ilya (READ MORE REVIEWS)

This action-packed private tour of Paris’s top attractions was created especially for visitors who have a layover there.

See the famous Arc de Triomphe, the hilltop, bohemian Montmartre, and the Louvre pyramids while relaxing in a climate-controlled car with your own personal guide.

Travel in a chauffeured, luxury car to see more sights in less time.

3. Louvre Museum Paris Exclusive Guided Tour With Reserved Entry

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2.5 hours | 🇫🇷 BOOK NOW

Included: All entrance fees and professional tour guide

First-time visitors may find the Louvre intimidating, so why not take advantage of small-group tours that offer skip-the-line access and individualized attention from your guide?

On this 2.5-hour, eight-person tour, you will explore one of the largest and most renowned museums in the world while traveling through the history of art.

Discover little-known masterpieces, view famous pieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, and gain knowledge of various artistic styles and techniques.

Following your tour, take as much time as you like to independently explore the museum.

Great guide! Claudio was incredibly knowledgeable and brought the Louvre to life. We learned so much more than we would have on our own. Semi-private was much easier way to get around the Louvre instead of the large group tours.

tonya (READ MORE REVIEWS)

The Louvre is a building with more secrets than any other in Paris, dating back to its time as a royal residence and its beginnings as a fortress.

The museum has a rich architectural past in addition to its current collection of 35,000 artworks.

This semi-private tour aims to surprise people who think they know everything about the Louvre and assist first-time visitors in exploring all it has to offer.

Your guide will show you everything you need to see at the Louvre, including a few special treats along the way, from the Mona Lisa to the 19th-century masters.

4. Versailles Domain Skip the Line Access and Guided Tour from Paris

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 8-9 hours | 🇫🇷 BOOK NOW

Included: Round-trip transportation from central Paris meeting point

Escape the hustle and bustle with this exclusive 4-hour Versailles tour, offering skip-the-line access to breeze past crowds.

Led by an expert guide, delve into the opulent world of Louis XIV, exploring the palace and its majestic gardens.

Your package includes all entrance fees and convenient round-trip transportation from central Paris.

Say goodbye to long queues and hello to a seamless exploration of Versailles, immersing yourself in history and grandeur.

Perfect way to visit Versailles. Easy and convent meeting spot. Quick ride in comfortable mini van. Skip the line entrance. We learned so much from guide

Joan (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Join the tour at the designated meeting spot near the iconic Eiffel Tower at your selected time slot, either 8:15 am or 1:40 pm, from Tuesday to Sunday.

Glide to the opulent Palace of Versailles in a cozy tour vehicle, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide and a small group of no more than 15 people.

Explore the palace’s rich history, once residence to three esteemed French monarchs spanning a century. Traverse the Royal Chapel, the State Apartments, and the renowned Hall of Mirrors.

After the palace tour, relish leisure moments amidst the sprawling 2,000-acre park adorned with enchanting fountains, sculptures, and elegant formal gardens.

Don’t miss the chance to catch the mesmerizing Musical Gardens or Fountains Show.

5. Paris Layover Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4-5 hours | 🇫🇷 BOOK NOW

Included: Private transportation with pick-up and drop-off

Experience the ultimate Parisian layover adventure with this exclusive private layover tour.

Seamlessly curated for your convenience, a professional driver will whisk you and your companions from Charles de Gaulle or Orly Airport straight into the heart of Parisian splendor.

Immerse yourself in the charm of the City of Light as you visit iconic landmarks like the majestic Arc de Triomphe and the iconic Eiffel Tower.

Capture unforgettable moments before returning to the airport, ensuring you board your onward flight refreshed and brimming with memories.

10 hour layover in Paris and my teenage son and I were able to see the major stops in Paris. Our driver Fadi was fantastic. He accommodated a tricky airport pick up with construction, and a lot of traffic. And his car was especially nice! This was the perfect way to go with no hassle and full service pickup and drop off. And he was mindful of when we needed to get back to our flight. Would definitely recommend!

annie (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Enjoy the convenience of an air-conditioned car with Wi-Fi as you drive through the City of Lights. This will allow you to stay in touch with people and plan your itinerary.

All passengers receive free bottled water to stay hydrated and ready for every thrilling destination. All-inclusive round-trip transportation to and from the airport ensures your peace of mind and makes sure you easily make your connecting flight.

By choosing this Paris layover experience, you’re choosing a hassle-free, flawless, and life-changing journey in one of the most captivating cities in the world.

6. Skip-the-Line Paris Catacombs Special Access Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | 🇫🇷 BOOK NOW

Included: Access to special areas of Paris Catacombs

With your skip-the-line admission, enter the Paris Catacombs right away.

Once inside, the well-informed guide leads you through the vast underground system, which was built when Parisian authorities launched the largest civil engineering project of their time to relieve the congestion in their city’s cemeteries.

Explore two special access tunnels after touring the Catacombs’ main tunnels to find a city of dead beneath the City of Lights.

Fantastic tour! The special access areas were definitely worth the money. I highly recommend this tour.

Jason (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Explore the melancholy Paris Catacombs by delving beneath the City of Light.

Forego the lineups at the entrance and enter this eerie network of tunnels that contain the bones of over 6 million people from Paris.

Gain unique access to chapels and chambers off-limits to the general public while exploring elaborate chambers stacked with artistic arrangements of bones and learning from a knowledgeable guide about the amazing construction of the catacombs.

7. Paris Ultimate Food Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 8-9 hours | 🇫🇷 BOOK NOW

Included: 11 food tastings and 2 half glasses of wine across 8 amazing, family-run establishments in le Marais

Uncover the hidden gems of Marais alongside your knowledgeable local guide, delving into the rich tapestry of family-run eateries that still thrive in this historic Parisian quarter.

Indulge in a culinary journey through time, sampling timeless French classics, tantalizingly innovative pastries, savory Jewish delicacies, and beyond.

Each stop offers not just food, but a narrative woven with the stories of the district’s inhabitants and their culinary traditions.

With a total of 11 delectable tastings spread across eight diverse dining spots, prepare to savor the essence of Marais with ample servings that culminate into a satisfying meal.

I was flying solo on a recent trip in Paris and this was a great way to see the city. My guide was incredibly knowledgeable and the food and purveyors were lovely!

Angie (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Start your sumptuous tour of Paris’s most atmospheric and food-loving neighborhood, the Marais, at a time that suits you best.

Choose from a variety of start times, from early in the morning to mid-afternoon, meet your guide in the neighborhood, and go out with no more than nine other guests.

8. Paris Airport Layover Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2-4 hours | 🇫🇷 BOOK NOW

Included: WIFI-equipped vehicle with driver, Charles De Gaulle and Orly airport transfer Pick-up and Drop-off

With this private tour, you can customize your sightseeing to your preferences. This 2-4 hour tour gives you free reign to explore the city as you see fit from 12 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Speaking French and English with ease, your guide’s extensive local knowledge enables him to customize an itinerary that includes the sights you’re most eager to see.

Our driver Md Nazr was awesome and very patient with my family and I. I would definitely book with him again on our next trip to Paris.

Anthony (READ MORE REVIEWS)

This tour provides the perfect opportunity to explore the city in your own special way, regardless of your interests—history buff, art aficionado, or just looking to get a taste of the lively Parisian culture.

9. Pere Lachaise Cemetery Guided Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2.5 hours | 🇫🇷 BOOK NOW

Included: Semi-private walking tour with professional guide

Take a small-group walking tour of the Père Lachaise Cemetery to learn about the history and secrets of the biggest and most well-known “city of the dead” in Paris.

See the final resting places of famous musicians and artists like Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf, Chopin, and Oscar Wilde with a guide, and discover wild moments in Parisian history that took place inside the cemetery walls.

Ten people maximum per group ensures a more private and courteous visit to this revered site.

👉 READ NEXT | Père Lachaise Famous Graves: The Famous People Buried There

I learned so much history and perspective from our guide. I had no idea that so much was contained in this cemetery. Our guide knew everything about French history. It was very informative and of the tours we took in Paris it was the best.

tracy (read more reviews)

On this 2.5-hour, small-group walking tour, discover one of Paris’ most stunning and unexpected locations.

Meet your guide at the cemetery gates just before 2:00 pm, then head out to explore Père Lachaise’s many hidden facets and charms.

Père Lachaise was first established in 1804, and it has since expanded to become the biggest cemetery in Paris. It also has a large number of well-known inhabitants.

See memorials honoring the Holocaust and other wars, and discover the little-known Paris Commune, a public uprising that took place inside the cemetery’s boundaries.

10. 2 Parks Disneyland Paris with private transfer

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2.5 hours | 🇫🇷 BOOK NOW

Included: Access tickets to Disneyland two parks with private comfort car transfer

Experience the magic of Disneyland® Park or Walt Disney Studios Park with unlimited access.

Let your child’s dreams come true as they transform into a fairytale princess. Encounter beloved characters like Mickey Mouse, Goofy, Queen McLighting, and more. Make lasting memories with a full day of family fun.

Say goodbye to transportation worries with included transfers. Your private driver ensures a seamless journey, leaving you free to enjoy every moment of your stay stress-free!

👉 READ NEXT | Disneyland Paris on a Budget: Top Tips for an Affordable Fairy Tale

Disneyland is a MUST when going to Paris and this package that makes you book them both is for sure a relief. The staff very well organized. Arrangements of tickets and transportation were very convenient, and all went smoothly!!!

lina (READ MORE REVIEWS)

11. Giverny Half-Day Trip small group from Paris

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4.5 hours | 🇫🇷 BOOK NOW

Included: Audio guide and round-trip transport by comfortable minivan from Paris included

Immerse yourself in the world of Claude Monet with a captivating guided tour departing from Paris to his picturesque haven in Giverny.

Wander through the very grounds where the revered Impressionist artist resided and created for four decades.

Explore the enchanting Japanese Garden, tracing Monet’s footsteps amidst serene waterlilies.

Gain profound insights into Monet’s life and artistic legacy from a knowledgeable guide, enriched with anecdotes about his family and influences.

With small-group intimacy, limited to only eight enthusiasts, indulge in personalized attention throughout this enlightening journey. It’s an unmissable experience for any Monet aficionado.

One of our favorite days in France! The tour guide was friendly and professional. Giverny itself is absolutely lovely. I highly recommend this small group tour.

Claudia (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Priority Entrance Guaranteed!

Teaming up with the Claude Monet Foundation grants you exclusive access to skip the lengthy lines and go directly into the enchanting garden through a designated entrance.

With the small group tours, relish a precious extra 30 minutes within the breathtaking gardens instead of waiting in queues.

12. Musée d’Orsay Skip-the-Line Impressionists Guided Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | 🇫🇷 BOOK NOW

Included: Skip the line entrance to the Musee d’Orsay

Discover the Musée d’Orsay, a treasure trove housing some of the globe’s most significant impressionist and post-impressionist artworks.

Opt for a guided tour to delve deeper into this artistic realm, bypassing the maze-like corridors with expert guidance.

Delight in curated insights on masterpieces by luminaries like Van Gogh, Monet, Manet, and Renoir.

With a knowledgeable companion, unravel the tales behind each stroke, gaining profound understanding and appreciation.

Say goodbye to aimless wandering and hello to a rich tapestry of artistry, meticulously woven into an unforgettable experience.

The tour with Celia was great. There are so many works to see here; it would have been overwhelming to navigate alone. We did not have to wait in line at all, everything was quick and easy.

Allison (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Learn about how the now-famous paintings’ revolutionary techniques and sublime colors rocked the art world to its core, how the painters’ colorful lives influenced their work, and how art was drastically altered by these now-famous works when they were first shown.

See how these artists battled for recognition; you will undoubtedly recognize many of the amazing paintings on display; and don’t miss the opportunity to view Manet’s sublime Olympia or Monet’s Water Lilies up close.

After your tour of the most notable and iconic pieces in the collection, you are welcome to stay and explore the museum for as long as you like. Your guide will lead you there.

13. Champagne Day Trip with 6 tastings from Paris

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 11 hours | 🇫🇷 BOOK NOW

Included: Round trip transportation from Paris in an air-conditioned minivan

Experience the history and delights of Champagne during this all-day winery tour departing from Paris.

Meet a local producer and tour Nicolas Feuillatte’s home in the Champagne wine region. Experience various Champagne varieties and gain knowledge about the cultivation, harvesting, and bottling process.

See the final resting place of the monk who created the French sparkling wine, Dom Perignon. Take a relaxing van ride and learn the correct way to taste champagne.

A very interesting tour, well organised and absolutely worth the price. It’s a great chance to understand and see how champagne is made in all the details

Pietro (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Your tour guide will also take you to the center of Epernay’s historic district and highlight some of its most noteworthy features.

After that, you’ll have an entire hour to yourself to explore the town and choose where to have lunch. The cost of our tour does not include your lunch.

14. Paris Seine River Private Boat Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 1.5 hours | 🇫🇷 BOOK NOW

Included: Bottled water and private transportation

Enjoy a sightseeing cruise with breathtaking views of the Seine, including the Statue of Liberty, the Eiffel Tower, Pont Neuf, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Paris Plage.

On this Paris cruise, take in the sights of the city of lights and love from the water.

Perfect as an unexpected birthday present or for a get-together with friends. Pets are welcome as well.

We had a fabulous experience on our trip down the Seine River with Rado. Beautiful architecture, nice surprises. Loved the intimacy of the private tour.

Donna (READ MORE REVIEWS)

You will cruise past the Louvre, the Orsay Museum, the Alexander III Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, and the Eiffel Tower first.

The boat will go beneath the iconic Pont Neuf, the first bridge in Paris and the oldest stone bridge in all of Europe.

It will be immediately followed by a unique view of the Seine’s famous artificial beach, Paris Plages, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

After your picturesque riverboat tour of Paris, head back to the Port of Javel Haut.

15. Paris Vintage Private City Tour on a Sidecar Motorcycle

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 1.5 hours | 🇫🇷 BOOK NOW

Included: Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, from your Paris hotel, is included

Don’t miss this exclusive tour in Paris where your guide drives you around in a vintage motorcycle sidecar for a fun twist on a standard sightseeing tour.

With the wind in your hair, cruise the picturesque capital, passing by many of the must-see attractions and off-the-beaten-path locations.

Highlights include a cruise through the Montmartre and views of the Hôtel des Invalides, which is quite large, and the Sacré-Coeur Basilica.

👉 READ NEXT | 13 Best Motorcycle Tours in France in 2024

Absolutely superb tour. Very personalized. Covered a lot of ground, super fun way to see Paris. Amazing photos. Highly recommend.

Jonathan (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Passing by iconic landmarks such as the illustrious Louvre Museum, the majestic Arc de Triomphe, and the iconic Eiffel Tower, you’ll find yourself immersed in the captivating essence of Parisian grandeur.

Tailor your tour to your preferences and enjoy a truly personalized experience alongside your dedicated private guide.

With the flexibility to customize every aspect of your journey, from the attractions you visit to the pace of exploration, you’re guaranteed an adventure perfectly suited to your interests and desires.

Layover in Paris FAQs:

Can I Visit Paris During Layover?

Yes, you can leave Paris airport during a layover, but it’s essential to verify whether your passport requires a transit visa for your specific travel circumstances to avoid any inconveniences.

Do You Have to go Through Customs on a Layover in Paris

Yes, you generally have to pass through customs on a layover in Paris if you’re leaving the airport’s international zone. Ensure you check your specific layover requirements and allow enough time for customs procedures.

How Long of a Layover Do I Need in Paris

For a memorable taste of Paris, aim for a layover of at least 6-8 hours. This window allows a quick jaunt into the city, exploring highlights like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and a charming café for a croissant.

With a bit more time, a 12-24 hour layover opens up opportunities to delve deeper into Parisian culture with museum visits or a leisurely stroll along the Seine.

How long of a layover do you need to see the Eiffel Tower?

To comfortably visit the Eiffel Tower during a layover, aim for a minimum of 6 hours. This allows for transit time to and from the airport, security lines, and some buffer for unexpected delays.

Public transportation is efficient, but consider a taxi or rideshare for quicker travel.

Remember, even if you can’t climb the tower due to time constraints, viewing it from the ground is still a breathtaking and iconic Parisian experience.

How far is Paris Charles de Gaulle airport from the city center?

The distance between the Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and the city center is roughly 25 kilometers (15.5 miles). A taxi ride (€58) usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes, the RoissyBus (€14) takes 60 minutes, and the RER B train (€11,45) takes about 40 minutes.

👉 READ NEXT | How to get from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Paris

Final Thoughts on Best Layover Tours in Paris

The best layover tours in Paris offer an exceptional opportunity to experience the allure of this magnificent city, even if your time is limited.

These tours are designed to showcase the quintessence of Parisian charm, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s iconic landmarks, culinary delights, and artistic heritage.

Whether it’s a quick stroll along the Seine or a brief visit to the Louvre, these tours ensure you make every minute of your layover count.

Layover Tours in Paris Travel Planning 🇫🇷

Accommodation 🛌

• Booking.com – Find diverse accommodations, enjoy easy booking with great deals, and rely on real reviews and 24/7 support.
• Expedia.com – With its user-friendly interface, it simplifies the process of booking hotels and holiday packages to France.
• VRBO.com – Your go-to platform for unique and comfortable vacation rentals in France.

Transportation 🚘

• DiscoverCars.com – Offers a seamless booking experience, ensuring you find the ideal car for your adventures in France.
• GetTransfer.com – Is the ultimate solution for your travel transfer needs, offering an efficient, flexible service and comfortable transportation.
• Trainline.com stands as a quintessential tool for savvy travelers seeking to navigate France’s extensive rail network with ease and confidence.
• Skyscanner.com – Simplifies your travel planning with its user-friendly interface, offering a comprehensive comparison of flights.

Attractions, Activities and Tours 🇫🇷

• Viator.com – Stands out as a trusted resource for travelers seeking unparalleled experiences across the globe.
• GetYourGuide.com – Offers an extensive collection of tours, activities, and attractions in France.
• ParisCityVision.com – This tour company specializes in crafting exceptional experiences across Paris and France.

Communication 📱

• Orange Sim Card – Discover seamless connectivity on your French travels with an Orange Holiday Europe Sim Card, a top choice for tourists.
• Airalo.com – The world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving travelers access to eSIMs (digital SIM cards).

Travel Insurance ✈️

• SafetyWing.com – Travel with peace of mind knowing you’re protected in almost every corner of the world.
• Travel Insurance Master – Visit their website to discover the ideal insurance plan that aligns with your travel dreams.

These are only a few of my favorites; for more, see my comprehensive guide to the top travel booking websites for France.

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