The worldwide success of “The Da Vinci Code” wasn’t even expected by its author, American writer Dan Brown (born in 1964). Although a highly educated man and passionate about mysteries and puzzles since childhood, he hadn’t written this novel with high expectations. His first four books hadn’t taken off except regionally, in the small New Hampshire area where he lived, so the fifth one also began without great plans. Yet, over the course of three years, from 2003 to 2006, The Da Vinci Code climbed the bestseller lists and became the screenplay for a successful film, starring Tom Hanks. “What is history, if not a fairy tale you agreed upon?” is one of the book’s most quoted lines. And for Brown, that fairy tale became reality.
Tourism on the trail of the Da Vinci Code
The Da Vinci Code is an inexplicable success, especially considering it’s a “sequel”—the continuation of a story that began with “Angels and Demons” (which, however, was not a success). In short, the plot revolves around a professor of Symbology who finds himself involved in the investigation on the murder of the curator of the Louvre Museum. The professor must study the route of the Holy Grail through artworks, religious symbols, and secrets linked to mysterious Catholic brotherhoods. The investigation even uncovers a “descendant of Jesus” and even the true tomb of Jesus himself, which, according to Brown’s history, was located in the basement of the Louvre.
Tourism linked to Dan Brown’s story therefore revisits famous streets and squares in Paris, London, and Scotland. You might think these locations needed no further publicity… but a Da Vinci Code itinerary helps you rediscover famous places and monuments with a brand new point of view and a “curious” attitude. So… why not give it a try?
The Da Vinci Code’s Parisian itinerary
The journey to discover Dan Brown’s famous novel begins at Paris De Gaulle Airport (CDG) and continues with a comfortable and personalized transfer with a driver, available for any transfer required.
The trip to the French capital will lead you to discover, or rather “rediscover”, places such as the Louvre Museum—the starting point of the story, where the mysterious murder of curator Jacques Saunière takes place—where we recommend spending much more time than expected; the rare and prestigious art works housed here are worth the effort. And a photo with the famous “Glass Pyramid” (if allowed by the strict rules of the Parisian traffic police!) is certainly a must! If you can’t stay at the famous Ritz Hotel, admire it from the outside, imagining the scenes from the novel set there.
The spectacular church of Saint-Sulpice, home to the Pink Line (the Paris meridian) and the research Dan Brown commissioned the monk Silas to do, is a monument to architecture and art that should be explored with a good guide, so to fully appreciate the dozens of works housed within. Finally, to relax and soak up some fresh air, enjoy a stroll through the greenery of the Bois de Boulogne… imagining, between the trees and bushes, the protagonists of The Da Vinci Code moving cautiously!
While in Paris, you obviously shouldn’t miss the chance to visit the classic monuments: the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, Île de la Cité, the Latin Quarter, Notre Dame, and Versailles.
Where will you find The Da Vinci Code in Great Britain?
In the heart of London, deep in the core of the City, where today half the capital’s courts and law firms flourish, the ancient church of the Knights Templar will be an essential stop for all Dan Brown fans. Hidden among the gardens and courtyards of the Inns of Court, it dates back to the 12th century and was opened for worship in 1185, copying the circular nave of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem in its architecture. It can only be visited a few times per month, and to organize a tour, it is always best to book through the official website: https://www.templechurch.com/ . You can get there directly from Heathrow Airport (LHR) or Gatwick Airport (LGW), both very well-connected to the city center.
Another stop on your London literary itinerary will be the National Gallery, where, in addition to the central work of the “Code”—Da Vinci’s Virgin of the Rocks—you can admire hundreds of other international art masterpieces. From there, a short fifteen-minute walk will take you to Westminster Abbey, where, according to the book, much of the truth about the antagonists and the final secret is revealed. The great part is that from Westminster you can easily reach other nearby monuments such as Big Ben, Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace.
The final stop is in Scotland
In order to admire the splendid yet haunting Rosslyn Chapel—a grandiose Gothic building just outside Edinburgh and the setting for the novel’s finale—you will need to book a flight to Edinburgh Airport (EDI) and from there take a transfer to Roslin Glen, about a half-hour drive from the airport. Here, amidst the greenery and mist of the magical Scottish landscape, you’ll see this church, guardian of ancient secrets, emerge.
And since Edinburgh is just a stone’s throw away, why not treat yourself to a longer stay in the area? There’s so much to admire: history, panoramic views, and atmosphere are an integral part of the city. Do not miss Edinburgh Castle, an immortal symbol perched on a hill in the city center; and then go for a walk along the Royal Mile, the main street of the Old Town, lined with historic buildings and quaint shops; Victoria Street, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the picturesque Princes Street Gardens are also fascinating places to explore, in Edinburgh.
Not far from the city, climb to the top of “King Arthur’s Seat”! This volcanic hill has the strange shape of a large chair, and from its summit you can admire a spectacular view. Just a few kilometers from the city, Craigmillar Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Scotland, is worth a visit. To the north, the village of South Queensferry is ideal for a stroll along the seafront and to admire the imposing bridges over the Firth of Forth. Finally, it’s worth exploring the Pentland Hills, perfect for hiking among hills, lakes, and quintessential Scottish landscapes. All these destinations are easily accessible from Edinburgh and allow you to discover a quieter, more authentic side of Scotland… just the best way to relax your mind after the intense tension of the mystery of such a masterpiece as The Da Vinci Code!
