Papeete Guided Tour
About this activity
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Experience Highlights
Feel the pulse of the capital of French Polynesia with a guided walking tour of Papeete. Accompanied by a local guide, you will stroll through the colourful stalls of the Marché de Papeete, the elegant Notre-Dame Cathedral and the square in front of the Town Hall, all in a relaxed atmosphere.
The meeting point is the pediment of the main market; from there you will start an approx. 2 hour itinerary that is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. You'll enjoy commentary in English, Spanish or French as you discover historical anecdotes, tropical aromas and local handicrafts.
- Book your place now and explore the city with an expert.
- Get a taste of authentic Tahiti: fruits, vanilla and tiare flowers at the market
- Capture unique photographs at the Cathedral and Bougainville Gardens
What’s included
- Qualified local guide (Spanish, English or French)
- 2-hour walking tour of the historic centre
- Audio headsets for groups of more than 8 persons
- Tropical fruit tasting at the market
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Step by Step
The walk starts among the stalls overflowing with pineapples, mangoes and sarongs at the Marché de Papeete, the commercial heart of the island since the 19th century. Amid the aromas of monoï and vanilla, you will learn about the role of the shipping routes in the local economy.
A few steps away, the route stops in front of the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a colonial jewel dating from 1875 with stained glass windows combining Polynesian and Christian motifs. The guide points out details of the coral and limestone façade and shares stories about the arrival of the missionaries and their cultural impact.
Continuing through Bougainville Park, shaded by centuries-old banyans, you'll hear tales of early European explorers and see the statue of the admiral for whom the park is named. Birdsong and the scent of tiaré flowers create a calm haven in the heart of the city centre.
The route continues to the modern Papeete Town Hall, whose neo-traditional design evokes the palaces of Polynesia. Here you will learn about the political autonomy of the community and take pictures of its pastel-coloured balconies.
As a final touch, you can visit the Robert Wan Pearl Museum (optional entrance) and admire the famous Tahitian black pearls. After saying goodbye to your guide, you will be given recommendations to continue exploring boutiques, juice bars and the Vai'ete waterfront on your own.
