Uncover the secret covered passages of Paris on this guided walking tour. Step back in time as you explore the magical arcades and discover the hidden gems of the city. Don’t forget your camera!
- A la Mere de Famille - Step into the oldest chocolate shop in Paris, established in 1761. The building is now a protected site. Here, you can purchase what many consider the finest chocolate in Paris.
- Passage Verdeau - Opened in 1846 and named after its creator, Jean-Baptiste-Ossian Verdeau, this passage extends from Passage des Panoramas and Passage Jouffroy. Its unique feature is a high, fishbone-shaped glass roof. Don’t miss Ausmane, the sophisticated perfume house founded by Choukk Ausmane, and the nearby Keopi cafe, which offers gourmet specialties blending French and Korean flavors.
- Passage Jouffroy - The first passage to be constructed entirely of iron and glass, Passage Jouffroy was built in 1847. Next to the Musée Grévin, this bustling passage was renovated in 1987. Historical elements remain, such as Pain d’Épices, Paris’s first toy shop dating back to 1849. Across from this children’s haven, adults with a taste for retro elegance will love Galerie Fayet, the last French maker of high-quality walking sticks.
- Bouillon Chartier - Since 1929, Germond’s grand painting has graced the Belle Époque dining room of Bouillon Chartier Grands Boulevards, which is listed as a historical monument.
- Passage des Panoramas - Constructed in 1799 by Jean-Louis Girard, this covered passage was listed in 1974 and is considered the first in Paris. It houses eight stamp shops and the gourmet Caffe Stern, a former 19th-century engraving workshop turned Italian restaurant in 2014. For a unique culinary experience, try Kimochi’s sushi burger, the only one of its kind in France!
- 2nd Arr. - Bourse - Historically, stock trading occurred at various locations in Paris, including rue Quincampoix, rue Vivienne (near the Palais Royal), and behind the Opéra Garnier (the Paris opera house).
- Galerie Colbert - Built in 1823, the Colbert Gallery is close to its rival, the Vivienne Gallery. Owned by the National Library, this charming covered gallery hosts no shops but focuses on culture, housing the National Institute of Art History.
- Galerie Vivienne - The history of this gallery began when Maître MARCHOUX, president of the Chamber of Notaries, expressed his desire to create the most beautiful and appealing gallery in Paris. It became a premier shopping destination where the Parisian elite could gather to stroll and enjoy themselves.
- Palais-Royal - In February 1692, Louis XIV gifted the Palais-Royal to his brother, making it the property of the Orleans, the youngest branch of the French royal family. The palace garden was then opened to the public.
- Friendly Guide
- Tea and coffee
If you’re visiting Paris, you might be looking for something unusual to do in Paris besides seeing the Eiffel Tower. Either way, you will not want to miss the arcades of Paris.
You will discover the covered passages of Paris, which retain an air of magic and make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
This guided walking tour through Paris should give you glimpse into the secret Paris that Parisians know, love, and guard with their lives. This walk through the covered passages of Paris includes some of Paris most beautiful passages, including Passage Verdeau, Galerie Vivienne, and Passage des Panoramas as well as some off the beaten path attractions.
The tour of the covered passages in Paris is about 2km in total so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Other things to note
Comfy Shoes
Drinks & Snacks
Camera (for all the photos you’ll be taking!)
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
