Guimard and Lavirotte in Paris

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Itinerary

This private 4-hour tour offers an exclusive exploration of Paris’s finest Art Nouveau treasures in the elegant 16th and 7th districts. Your guide will focus on the works of Hector Guimard and Jules Lavirotte, two Lyon-born architects who shaped the city’s architectural identity during the Belle Époque.

The tour begins in the 16th district, formerly a village away from the city which made it a haven for architectural innovation at the turn of the 20th century. Stroll through streets adorned with intricate façades and admire masterpieces like Guimard’s Castel Béranger, his first major project. Although privately owned and inaccessible inside, the building’s exterior showcases Guimard’s ability to blend organic forms and innovative materials. Your guide will share insights into his pioneering approach to multiple housing design, emphasizing natural light and harmonious compositions.

Hector Guimard was rediscovered in the 1960s, but it wasn’t until the 1980s that he was celebrated with his own dedicated exhibition. Renowned for redefining architecture, Guimard revolutionized multi-unit housing by designing interiors that maximized natural light and crafting façades that seamlessly blended innovative materials with organic, flowing forms. His vision brought a distinctive elegance and functionality to urban living, cementing his legacy as a pioneer of Art Nouveau. During the tour, you’ll admire numerous other buildings, each with its unique story, expertly explained by your knowledgeable guide.

Next, you’ll take a brief ride on the Métro, itself a part of the Art Nouveau experience. Designed by Guimard for the 1900 Exposition Universelle, the iconic station entrances are a testament to his genius, with their flowing lines and decorative elegance.

Arriving in the 7th district, you’ll marvel at Jules Lavirotte’s flamboyant Immeuble Lavirotte on Avenue Rapp. This exuberant, seven-story structure epitomizes the ornamental creativity that made Paris a hub of Art Nouveau innovation.

These neighborhoods, known for their wealth and refinement, provided fertile ground for Hector Guimard and Jules Lavirotte, the two most renowned Art Nouveau figures in Paris, to find patrons and leave their artistic legacies. Today, their works remain remarkably preserved, offering a glimpse into the golden age of Parisian modernism. This private tour ensures an intimate and stylish way to discover the Art Nouveau wonders of Paris, a city at the heart of this extraordinary architectural movement.

Your expert guide in Art Nouveau will delve into the intricate details of these buildings, sharing insights into why Paris, during the 1889 and 1900 World’s Fairs, established itself as the global epicenter of technological and artistic innovation. At the time, Art Nouveau reigned as the leading architectural style, embraced by the affluent as a symbol of opulence, sophistication, and refined beauty.

Tailored to your interests

Discover the elegance and artistry of Paris’s Art Nouveau movement through the works of Hector Guimard and Jules Lavirotte. This tour, led by a guide who tailors every story to match your interests, invites you to explore the luxurious world of Parisian architecture where Mucha’s influence, luxury, and chic design converged.

Whether you’re intrigued by the intricate details of Guimard’s iconic Métro entrances, Lavirotte’s flamboyant facades, or the sophisticated charm of Parisian Art Nouveau, we’ll shape the experience around these themes. Special accommodations for accessibility or family travel needs are also available.

With a flexible itinerary, we’re ready to adjust the tour as needed, responding to your pace and any spontaneous interests. From unexpected discoveries in hidden architectural gems to shifts in the weather, we’re here to make your journey through Art Nouveau Paris both chic and captivating.

In addition to our specialty in Art Nouveau private tours, we offer a variety of other personalized experiences. Explore the sleek lines of Art Deco, delve into the rich history of Paris, or embark on a day trip to the opulent Palace of Versailles. We can also curate a culinary adventure, showcasing the finest French cuisine.

Where the private tour Begins and Ends

Your private guide will meet you in front of Castel Béranger, in the 16th district, and concludes near Ecole Militaire, metro stop in the 7th district. It is near the Eiffel Tower.

Exclusions

Metro ticket for a 15-minute journey between the 16th and 7th districts.

Food and drinks.

Additional Information

We offer private tours in English and French, with other languages available upon request. Please note that unforeseen circumstances like weather conditions or event cancellations may affect the final itinerary.

Our knowledgeable guides offer engaging insights into Paris’s rich history and culture. We specialize in Art Nouveau, but also offer general city tours, art and culture experiences, and themed tours like Jewish Paris or Art Deco.

To ensure the best guide for your group, we recommend booking in advance. We can also arrange additional services like chauffeur services, hotel recommendations, and airport transfers.

Feel free to contact us with your specific interests, and we’ll create a personalized itinerary for your perfect Parisian adventure.

Parisian Splendor: A Guided Tour of Art Nouveau

Paris, a city of timeless elegance, is a canvas upon which architectural styles have been painted throughout the centuries. The 19th century marked a pivotal moment, with the ambitious Haussmann renovation transforming the city’s landscape. Wide boulevards, grand avenues, and ornate facades became synonymous with Parisian grandeur.

However, amidst the Haussmannian uniformity, a rebellious spirit emerged. Art Nouveau, a movement celebrating organic forms and flowing lines, challenged the rigid classical aesthetic. Architects like Hector Guimard and Jules Lavirotte embraced this new style, adorning buildings with intricate details, wrought ironwork, and ceramic ornamentation.

Today, Paris remains a treasure trove of Art Nouveau architecture. From the iconic Métro entrances designed by Guimard to the lavish facades of Lavirotte’s buildings, the city offers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era of artistic innovation and opulence.

Immerse yourself in the latest Parisian Art Nouveau happenings and curate your own exclusive experience! Explore our PARIS Main Page to discover what’s new in the City of Lights and personalize your dream Art Nouveau tour.

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Booking information

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What our guests say

We had a ball. Our guide managed to share the religious, political, historic, social and business history of the art nouveau districts in an effective manner and he’s a pleasure to spend the afternoon with. 5 stars for sure.

Marisa, LA, USA

the guide has been so knowledgeable and pleasant. We had a fabulous tour; we learned so much!

Marieke de Vries, Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Fabulous morning tour with our guide. Extremely informative and pleasant.!!

James Wilson, Edinburgh, Scotland