FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is a private tour ?
A private tour is a visit during which you are only with people you know. Before contacting me, you will have formed a group (of less than 6 people, but this can vary depending on the tour). This allows you to experience a special moment with your loved ones, just you (and me !). You choose a visit from the catalog and the time slot that suits you, according to my availability. I'll adapt to your wishes, your parents or children, and your pace, to create a unique experience. One price per visit, bookable online, for up to 6 people. If you are a larger group or a company, please contact me directly. This will also be a private tour, but with more people.
What is a shared visit ?
A shared visit is a visit scheduled by Marbre & Pastel. You can sign up as an individual or as a group. Monument, district, temporary exhibition, thematic tour or visit to the permanent collections... you can enjoy a guided tour with a group of curious people like you (and me !). The price is the same per person, for up to 20 people. Of course, all shared tours can also be private visits !
Why this price for a visit ?
The profession of tour guide requires a wealth of knowledge, which in turn calls for in-depth study and an insatiable curiosity to share the best anecdotes with you. It takes several days, even weeks, to create your tour ! The tour may have to be adapted to suit the visitor's profile, which requires additional work. What's more, it's often necessary to scout the area the day before, as the works of art in museums change a great deal, so this is extra time. Finally, we manage the logistics of the visit, and over and above the taxes we pay as a contractor, we pay a fee to the museum for each visit (between 0 and 300€).
Is online payment secure ?
Yes, online payment at marbreetpastel.com is completely secure. Advanced encryption protocols guarantee the confidentiality and security of your financial information.
I'm breast-feeding my baby. Can I take a guided tour ?
This is entirely possible, as you are allowed to breastfeed at the museum ! For a private visit I'll make sure you're comfortable if you need a break, for a shared visit I'll show you the best places and then you'll have to join the group.
How do I buy museum admission ?
The price of the guided tour does not include the entrance fee (except in exceptional circumstances). You must therefore purchase your tickets at the time of the tour. To do so, go to the museum's website ! If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me by phone or e-mail.
Can you offer me an off-catalogue tour ?
It's possible, but we need to discuss it. Either I create it for you and it will be in the catalog, or I can't and I'll put you in touch with my fellow tour guides.
Are shared tours suitable for children ?
Shared tours are for adults. However, children aged 12 and over with an aptitude for the site or the theme of the tour are welcome to join in. Please note that it is necessary to purchase a place for the guided tour, as well as admission for the child.
Who can attend a shared tour ?
All ages are welcome for a shared visit, but I'd advise you to invite children over 8, or even over 10, so that they can enjoy the visit. Please note that you'll need to buy a ticket for the guided tour, as well as a museum entrance ticket for all the children (which is sometimes free).
What is the "Made-to-measure" offer ?
Marbre & Pastel has an insatiable curiosity and can adapt to your needs ! Tours can be transposed into indoor conferences, or themes can be specially developed for you (tour or conference format). I can also work on tour itineraries.
What is the Marbre & Pastel "Manifesto"?
The Marbre & Pastel Manifesto is the reason for being of my business, why I do it and what's important to me. I invite you to discover it in the "About me" page.
Is it suitable for people with disabilities ?
Private tours are accessible to people with disabilities. However, depending on your disability and the location of the tour, it's best to inform me in advance so that I can make the best possible logistical arrangements. Shared tours are not always suitable, depending on your disability and the location. I am available to discuss your requirements and do my utmost to adapt.
How to book a tour ? (private or shared)
To book a private tour, you can check my availability on the tour presentation site and pay directly online. I'll get back to you within 48 hours to discuss the details of the visit, your wishes, your constraints... Please note that the price of admission to the museum is not included, so you'll need to buy a ticket at the same time. You can also contact me by telephone or via the contact form. For shared tours, you can book a visit by purchasing a place on the tour presentation web page. For further information, I can always be reached by telephone or via the contact form.
Why take a tour with an official tour guide ?
The profession of tour guide is a regulated one, requiring a state diploma, and only authorized guides can guide you in museums or national heritage sites. We benefit from solid, comprehensive training and know how to handle groups, different types of public and special situations.
How do I book online ?
Go to the page of the tour you'd like to take ! For a private tour, you choose a time slot, then pay for the service. For a shared tour, choose the tour you want and reserve your place by paying directly on the site.
Can I cancel my visit ? How soon can I cancel ?
It is possible to cancel up to 7 days before the visit. Up to 5 days in advance, you will receive a 50% refund, after that there is no refund unless you find someone else to do it for you.
Can I pay by bank transfer ?
Yes, it is possible to pay by bank transfer. Please contact me by email helene@marbreetpastel.com so that I can send you my bank details. Your registration will be processed as soon as payment is received.
Can I book a tour if I've already paid for my tickets ?
It's not easy, but it's not impossible! It depends on the place, date and time, because your guide has to book a speaking slot at the museum in advance in order to have the right to guide you. Please contact me via the contact form.
Are private tours suitable for children ?
Private guided tours are intended for adults, but can be adapted for children (over 8) if I am informed well in advance. However, children of all ages are welcome and I'll make sure they have the best possible visit ! (Please let me know if you are bringing strollers).
Can a shared tour be made into a private tour ?
It's perfectly possible ! The shared tour is certainly presented in the "private tours" section of the website, but if this is not the case or if you would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact me directly by telephone, via the form or my e-mail address helene@marbretpastel.com.
Who can attend a private tour ?
All audiences are welcome for a private tour : children of all ages, parents, the elderly or those with reduced mobility. It's important for me to know the composition of your group before the visit, so that I can prepare it in the best possible way (content and logistics).
What is the "Mediation" offer ?
I'm at the disposal of museums or cultural players to create itineraries or cultural mediation content on a variety of themes.
How far in advance of my visit should I make a reservation ?
Private tours should be booked as early as possible. Guides must reserve speaking rights with museums or monuments, and this can take time (sometimes 1 month in advance!). For shared tours, if space is available, you can register up to 2 hours before the tour.
What is a right to speak ?
The right to speak in museums and monuments is regulated. It is granted to tour guides holding a professional card, and ensures a quality visit by a professional in front of the works of art, as well as direct access to the group. The right to speak is included in your guided tour booking, so you don't have to worry about it.