Timeline
07:59
Arrive at the Musée des Égouts de Paris before the crowds. The entrance is opposite 93, quai d'Orsay near the Pont d'Alma. Use the quiet minutes before opening to appreciate the industrial history of the city from the outside.
08:24
Enter the museum. Check the swords found in the sewers over the years and get an appreciation for what it takes to keep Paris running. The tours run on a schedule, so being early helps secure a spot.
09:39
Walk to Gâteaux Thoumieux for breakfast. The patisserie is open from 08:00, so you can grab a coffee and a cake designed by Chef Ludovic Chaussard immediately after your tour. It is a short walk from the sewer entrance.
10:09
Head back out to the Quai d'Orsay. The sun is now high enough to cast a warm golden light on the river and the museum's exterior, providing a perfect end to your early morning exploration.
Local tip
The museum is closed on Dec 25 and Jan 01-Jan 15. On January 15, sunrise is at 08:39, so plan to arrive by 08:00 to allow time for entry and to beat the tour groups.
Check before you go
- Musée des Égouts de Paris: Tu-Su 10:00-17:00. Closed Dec 25, Jan 01-Jan 15.
- Gâteaux Thoumieux: Mo-Sa 10:00-20:00; Su 08:30-17:00.
Worth knowing
- Gâteaux Thoumieux is open at 09:39 only on Su
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Paris (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).