Paris: A Walk Through the Occupation of Paris (1940-1944)｜France

Embark on a unique walking tour that offers a rare glimpse into Paris during the German Occupation from 1940 to 1944. With numerous anecdotes and stories about both famous and unknown individuals, this tour will immerse you in the historical events and daily life of Parisians during this tumultuous period.

Tour Start: Meeting Point

We begin at 6, Bd Haussmann, right outside Richelieu-Drouot métro station exit number 4. Here, we’ll set the stage with an overview of the historical and political circumstances leading up to World War II, including the French defeat, the armistice conditions, and the division of France.

Tour Highlights:

The Jewish Experience During the Occupation:

Visit a school and a nearby synagogue to discuss the plight of the Jewish community, from the new status laws enacted in July 1940 to the devastating round-ups and deportations.
Stories of Ordinary People:

As we navigate through the 9th district, learn about the lives of political opponents, deported Jews, and ordinary citizens who endured hardships during the Occupation.
Economic Collaboration:

Discover the extent of economic collaboration in various industries, including luxury shops, banking, and the stock market. Learn how some businesses thrived under the German regime.
Cultural Life Under Occupation:

Explore the Grands Boulevards and the Opera to gain insights into the cultural aspects of life during these four years. From Nazi parades and propaganda exhibitions to popular cinemas and shows, see how Parisians navigated a city under siege.
Signs of the German Presence:

From the Opera through the grand hotels on rue de Rivoli, observe the political and physical markers of German occupation in Paris. This part of the tour culminates with stories of the Liberation of Paris in August 1944, bringing to life the dramatic events that unfolded in these very streets.
Final Stop: Concorde Square:

The tour concludes at the iconic Concorde square, where a collection of remarkable photos will help you visualize the way of life during the Occupation. Relax on a comfortable bench as we delve into further stories of art thefts, resistance efforts, and the Liberation. Learn about the artworks stolen from Jewish families and stored nearby, and relive the highlights of Paris’s emancipation from Nazi control.