Scandalous Paris – Brothels, boudoirs and courtesans

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.

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.

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.

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.

Please note that due to the walking distance (around 3 miles) and the high walking pace, we do not recommend this tour for families with young children or for people with walking difficulties. We can however adapt the itinerary as part of a private tour. Please contact our customer service team, only note that privatizing your tour will incur an additional fee.