Born in the UK, I moved to Paris 30 years ago and live in the 11th Arrondissement, I am bilingual and and have been guiding for not far off 20 years. I am a licensed guide which means being recognised by the French Ministry of Culture as an ambassador for French history and heritage. My passion for history came as an adult ( I hated history at school as the teachers were dull and lifeless).

In my tours I aim to inform, to entertain and to have real exchange with visitors to the city of all ages and backgrounds. I adapt the tours to my audience which is essential as is also relating history to the world we see around us today -not just locked in some distant time bubble. I aim to transmit the "whats" but also the "whys and wherefores"- in a digestible fashion - not like a visit to the dentist!

I conduct over 30 different tours in and around Paris which can be tailored to suit different interests and levels of expertise in French history- from first time introductory visits to more specialised circuits aimed at veteran visitors. I think my interest in literature and language helps me paint vivid and concise pictures of Paris, past and present, to english speaking visitors. Outside of guiding I am a weekend fossil hunter, an occasional freelance journalist , a keen globe-trotter and a nature lover

David Tucker, co-owner of the famous london walks, interviewed me for a collaboration (click above)

Complete list of tours offered

The Catacombs

Van Gogh -the last 70 days of his life

The Marais area

The French Revolution

The Rodin Museum

The Invalides

Introductory tour to Paris

Copy link below to watch a 10 minute programme I did with RFI (Radio France Internationale) on Roman Paris. RFI broadcasts worldwide in English and French.

https://www.rfi.fr/en/video/20210507-paris-perspective-10-the-speed-of-romanisation-chris-spence

The living City- come and explore with me!

What They’re Saying

In the past I have been on 4 walks with Chris, and he is the best!
I will be in Paris from December 3 to 11.
Could a tour be arranged?
Thank you,
Phyllis October 2022

…a fantastic guide, Christopher was superb and fun! He enhanced our trip much nicer.Well done.

Wona and Derek December 23

Despite the weather, Chris was absolutely delightful on today’s tour and shared his wealth of knowledge about the area and the Templars. Being a school teacher, I truly commend him on his interaction with the children, keeping them engaged as we trudged around the neighbourhood in the rain.

Carolyn November 25

…my partner and I wanted to learn more about Paris during WWII. We both are not walking tour people, but we LOVED the "Paris during the Occupation" tour. The guide was knowledgeable, engaging AND funny. Highly recommend this to any English speakers.

ANON June 25 Google

google business.

.I really enjoyed this morning’s “Hemingway” tour. The British fellow who was are tour guide was excellent. He was interesting and humorous.

Paul Ward

Williamsburg VA December 24

Thank you very much for a most interesting and informative tour yesterday. You captured the attention of FTG members right way. This is one tour that has always interested me but I have never had the opportunity to take. Now we have all learned lots about the history of Medieval Paris and the importance of the Knights Templar. The numerous stops along the way developed the history very well. You pointed out places I have never noticed before! Your manner of presenting much information plus sense of humor kept our interest from beginning to end.

Nancy April 18

The highlight of my trip to Paris was most definitely tours with Chris Spence. Although the weather was not cooperative with frequent rain & chilly air it really didn't matter because Chris had me captivated with his brilliant wealth of knowledge and interesting tidbits combined with a sensational sense of humor and wit. After our first tour we were all "hooked" and made a point to join Chris on future tours during our visit. Every tour was memorable and I'm looking forward to any and all future tours. Of course my ultimate goal is another trip to Paris and more walking tours with Chris Spence.

Explore 749988 Trip Advisor Oct 2020