Bastille: Architecture, Artisans and Anarchy walking tour
Explore the lives of the artisans, the anarchists and the architecture that makes Bastille one of Paris’ most vibrant neighbourhoods. We’ll learn about the tumultuous history of the Bastille, the creativity born from this melting pot and the architectural gems that are scattered throughout the neighbourhood.
You’ll join renowned architect and photographer, Juan Jerez and our resident historian, Ed as you wander through the 12th arrondissement’s alleys, courtyards and parks. You'll be able to stand in the very spots that saw the beginning of the historic revolution in France and explore the artisanal roots of Faubourg St Antoine. And throughout the tour, Juan will point out his favourite photo spots and local recommendations for food and drink.
This immersive audio tour is the ultimate guide to Paris’ most vibrant neighbourhood, and can be downloaded anytime directly onto your smartphone.
Highlights
- The ultimate cultural & historical guide to Bastille - Paris’ most vibrant neighbourhood
- Learn about the artisans, the anarchists and the architecture that makes Bastille such a creative melting pot
- An architecture and photography masterclass given by a world famous architect
- Let a local PHD historian explain the neighbourhood’s pivotal role in the 1789 revolution
What's included
- Digital audio guide, to be downloaded onto your smartphone before your visit
- On-screen pictures to enhance your experience
- Geo-localised map to keep you on the right track
- Headphones
Overview
The tour starts at the Place de la Bastille - a place synonymous with the French revolution. We’ll follow in the footsteps of the 18th century revolutionaries as Ed explains the historical context that led to the revolution.
As we wander down the Rue du Faubourg Saint Antoine, we’ll explore the neighbourhood’s artisanal past: from carpenters to modern day designers. We’ll explore themes of gentrification and hear from some of the residents.
We’ll enter little alleys such as the Passage du Chantier, where we’ll meet some artisans and discover why Bastille remains Paris’ “artisanal artery”. We’ll pop into hidden courtyards where the architecture will give us clues about how the area has evolved - from fields to factories to modern creative studios.
We’ll notice a change in architecture as we continue walking, and Juan will dissect what makes “Haussmannian” architecture so iconic. We’ll uncover secret fountains commissioned by Kings and squares built by emperors.
No trip to Bastille is complete without a visit to its famous brocantes. We’ll visit the Marché d’Aligre, where we’ll point out some of our favourite stalls, shops and restaurants. We’ll learn more about French market culture and take a dive into French politics. Juan will also point out his studios and tell us about creative initiatives that support local artists.
Finally, we’ll arrive at the magnificent Coulée Verte - the inspiration for New York’s Highline. As we walk through this elevated park, Juan will point out some of his favourite photo spots and give us a few tips to capture that perfect photo.
The Vidi Guides experience is enriched with on-screen photos and videos. We also point out where to take the perfect Instagram photos during the tour, and include recommendations for food, drinks, and local attractions. Don't worry, none of our recommendations are sponsored - they are simply favourites of the locals who helped craft the experience.
Vidi Guides creates immersive audio experiences that are like podcasts. This is a self-guided audio tour that can be started or stopped at your own convenience. Download the Vidi Guides app & your Bastille tour to explore the area independently and safely! Make sure to download your tour before your visit to streamline your trip!
Additional Information
How to access your self-guided tour:
1. You will receive an email from [email protected] with a unique access link
2. Click on your link to download the Vidi Guides app
3. Once you’ve created your account, you will be able to access your Bastille Architecture tour on your smartphone
Please remember to bring a pair of headphones with you
You are able to cancel at any time providing the code you receive has not been redeemed
Know before you go
Please download 'Vidi Guides' from the App Store of your mobile device and enter the code you receive after booking (from email address: [email protected]). Please remember to bring a pair of headphones with you
Cancellation policy
Non refundable
