Small-Group Paris Walking Tours + Photography Services

Paris adventures, made personal

Eiffel Tower and a person holding a film camera in Paris, representing walking tours and photography.

Small-group Paris walking tours and professional photography, all under one roof: learn, explore and capture the city, whether you’re a solo traveller, small group or a brand with a vision.

Choose your own adventure

Handpicked guided tours in Paris with everything you came for and the stuff you didn’t know you needed.

People walking past a yellow Wallace Fountain on a Paris street during a guided tour.

Let’s create your ideal Parisian day with a custom private tour in Paris. We’ll build an experience around your interests, at your pace.

Bouquiniste stall along the Seine in Paris used to illustrate custom private tours built around your interests.

Paris has so much goodness going on. Brand launch, event or something else entirely? We’ll look after the photography.

Photographer taking photographs on a Paris street during a brand or content shoot.
Three empty green metal chairs by the water at Jardin des Tuileries in Paris.
“I believe, every day, you should have at least one exquisite moment.”
— Audrey Hepburn

For the daydreamers. The adventurers. The folks looking for something a little different.

If we haven't met yet… Bonjour! I’m Meli

I’ve lived the expat life for over a decade, graduated with degrees in history + literature and now split my days between leading small-group walking tours in Paris and photographing the people, places and events that bring this city to life.

As your English-speaking tour guide, it’s my job is to make the city feel exciting, approachable and a little bit like your own.

I believe the best days (whether you’re travelling or hosting) are the ones that leave you a little changed, a little inspired and completely smitten with where you are.

But with so much going on in Paris, it’s easy to wonder:
Where do I even start?

That’s where I come in. This site is your starting point for personalised walking tours, custom itineraries and professional photography. Whether you’re here for a day, a week, a whole new chapter or hosting something special, I’ll handle the planning (or the photos) and help you fall in love with the city your way.

Melissa Ray, Paris-based guide and photographer behind Locals and Travellers, sitting at a café table.

Before you book

Helpful FAQs and must-reads to make sure we're all on the same page before the adventure begins.

  • All tours are currently conducted in English.

  • I like to keep things cozy. Most tours are capped at 8 people max. Smaller groups mean more flexibility, better conversation and a more personalized experience for everyone.
    That said, if you're planning something for a larger group, no worries! Just let me know on the booking form and we’ll see what we can work out.

  • All bookings must be paid in full to confirm your spot.

    • Payment can be made securely online via PayPal.

    • For all tours a 50% deposit is required to reserve your date, with the balance due before the experience. If you are booking a Photography Service, all payment details and terms and conditions will be shared via email.

    • All prices are listed in Euros.

  • Photos taken during the experiences may be shared on social media or website, but only with your verbal consent. If at any time you’d like a photo removed, just send me an email.

  • By booking and participating in a tour or photo experience, you acknowledge and accept that:

    • You are responsible for your own safety and personal belongings during the experience.

    • Locals and Travellers and its collaborators are not liable for injuries, accidents or damages sustained during the activity.

    • Tours often involve walking on uneven surfaces, stairs and cobblestones, so please wear appropriate footwear and let me know in advance if mobility accommodations are needed.

  • I understand that plans can change and I’ll always do my best to accommodate you, where possible.

    • Cancellations made 7-days or more in advance of your scheduled tour are eligible for a 75% refund.

    • Cancellations made between 3-days and 7-days in advance are eligible for a 30% refund.

    • Cancellations made less than 72-hours before your scheduled experience are non-refundable.

    • No-shows are not eligible for refunds.

    Like that scene from Midnight in Paris, I also believe that “Actually, Paris is most beautiful in the rain.”

    That said, all tours will proceed as scheduled, rain or shine.

    Photography tours may be subject to weather-related cancellations due to the nature of photography equipment and the importance of light during the session. In the event that the Locals and Travellers deems conditions unsafe or unsuitable (e.g., heavy rain, storms), you will be offered the option to:

    • Reschedule the session at a mutually agreed-upon time or

    • Receive a full refund for the affected service.

    Please note that light rain or cloudy skies will not automatically result in a cancellation. The final decision rests with Locals and Travellers.

    In the rare event that Locals and Travellers needs to cancel or reschedule due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g. illness), you will be offered the option to:

    • Reschedule the session at a mutually agreed-upon time, or receive a full refund for the affected service.

  • GDPR-compliant.

    Information such as your name, email, tour preferences, etc. is used solely for communication and planning purposes and will never be shared, sold, or distributed.

Vintage Paris Metro sign and streetlamp on a Paris street.

Over on the ‘gram

Empty outdoor café table and ed and white striped, rattan, Parisian bistro chair with a glass of white wine and no other items. Paris terrace. Paris. Paris Tours. Small group and private tours. Walking Tours.
Interior of Quai de la Photo cafe in Paris with large windows overlooking the Seine, featuring hanging art pieces, wooden boats on display, and tables with chairs. Paris. Paris Tours. Small group and private tours. Walking Tours.
A vintage photo booth machine inside Palais de Tokyo with a wooden exterior and a blue curtain opening, with a stool inside, and a sign above it that says 'PHOTOS'. Paris. Paris Tours. Small group and private tours. Walking Tours.
An old white bicycle with rust on the frame and wheels, leaning against a weathered white wall with graffiti and stickers. To the left, a shop window displays mugs and framed artwork, reflecting the sky and nearby buildings. To the right, there's a mural of a figure with a bouquet of yellow sunflowers, and a small leaflet board with posters and stickers. A gray planter with plants is near the bike, and there's an electrical box on the wall.
France's Institute de France with a dome, a flag, and a clock. Two people in athletic clothing near the entrance, one standing and one jogging. Classic stone architecture with columns and statues.

Let’s meet on a virtual terrace in Paris— mais, oui.

Planning a custom tour, a photography project or just want to say hi? Send me a message: