Looking for the most beautiful passages in Paris? Enjoy a pleasant stroll through a piece of authentic Paris? Then be sure to visit the magnificent covered passages. In the 19th century, Paris boasted more than 150 covered passages scattered throughout the city. Today, about 20 remain, particularly around the Grands Boulevards in the 2nd and 9th arrondissements. These passages are lined with charming bookshops, restaurants, and even theaters. In passages like the Galerie Vivienne, the Passage des Panoramas, and the Passage Jouffroy, you can stroll among antique shops, boutiques, art galleries, and vintage bookstores.
These secret passages are completely free to visit and one of our favorite spots in Paris. Each passage has its own character: some chic and refined, others a bit cluttered but charming in all their faded glory. You can also opt for a guided tour of the passages. Ideal for a warm day or, of course, a rainy autumn day in Paris. In our opinion, these are the most beautiful covered passages in Paris. A visit to the passages is highly recommended in the City of Light, especially during the Christmas season! Also discover a handy map and walking tour.
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1. The famous passages or covered shopping galleries in Paris
The arcades in Paris are historic, covered shopping arcades that exude a unique character and charm. Originating in the 19th century, the arcades offered shelter from rain and mud at a time when modern shopping malls did not yet exist. With their glass roofs, ornate cast-iron details, and tiled floors, they are not only functional but also architectural gems. Here you’ll find a mix of boutiques, antique dealers, cafés, and bookstores, giving each arcade its own unique atmosphere.
In the 19th century, Paris boasted more than 100 arcades thanks to Baron Haussmann’s major urban transformation plan. Today, Paris has only 20 covered shopping arcades open to the public.
Famous arcades like the Galerie Vivienne and Passage des Panoramas attract both locals and tourists seeking a touch of nostalgia and elegance amidst modern city life. They are a true journey back in time and a hidden gem in the heart of Paris.
• Fun to do: Covered Passages Walking Tour in Paris (1,5h) →
2. Walking tour of the 5 most beautiful passages of Paris (with map)
This short walk of about an hour takes you along five of Paris’s most beautiful and iconic passages. A discovery tour that not only transports you back to 19th-century Paris but also invites you to slow down and experience the city more intimately. Ideal for a peaceful afternoon stroll with time for photos, coffee, or browsing through old books!
• Walk starts at Passage Verdeau
• Walk ends at Galerie Véro-Dodat
• Distance: 1.5 km
• Duration: approximately 1 hour
A) Passage Verdeau (9th)
Passage Verdeau is a covered shopping arcade in Paris dating back to 1847 and home to many antique, book, and art dealers. Be sure to visit La Belle Epoque, a charming boutique specializing in fashion and accessories from the Belle Époque period. You’ll find clothing, jewelry, and accessories specially made during this period.
B) Passage Jouffroy (9th)
The Passage Jouffroy is the very first covered passage in Paris, constructed entirely of metal and glass. Opened in 1845, it boasts many charming shops, including antique dealers, bookstores, fashion boutiques, and jewelers. One of the most famous attractions in the passage is the Musée Grévin, a very popular museum with 450 wax figures of French and internationally renowned figures such as Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Elton John, Louis de Funès, and Charles Aznavour.
C) Passage des Panoramas (2nd)
The Passage des Panoramas opened in 1799 as one of the first covered passages in Paris. This passage is a popular destination for art and antique lovers, with several art galleries exhibiting works by renowned artists. There are also numerous shops selling stamps and vintage postcards. It offers a unique blend of historic and modern, while preserving the original charm of the 19th century.
D) Galerie Vivienne (2nd)
Galerie Vivienne, founded in 1823, is one of the oldest shopping arcades in Paris. It’s also considered by many to be the most beautiful arcade. A stunning example of 19th-century architecture, it features beautiful mosaic floors, stained-glass windows, and magnificent ceiling paintings. This famous arcade, with its unique shops, antique dealers, bookstores, fashion boutiques, and jewelers, is well worth a visit. It’s especially beautifully decorated during the Christmas season.
E) Galerie Véro-Dodat (1st)
Galerie Véro-Dodat is a great place to enjoy the stunning architecture. Built in 1826, it houses many chic boutiques selling home decor, furniture, art, shoes, and more. Fashionistas can visit Christian Louboutin (a boutique with a studio), the luxury shoe store at the entrance to the arcade.
• 10 ADDITIONAL PASSAGES TO DISCOVER: in addition to the 5 most famous passages in Paris, there are many more hidden gems to discover, such as the Passage du Grand Cerf, Passage Choiseul, Passage des Princes, Passage du Caire, Passage Brady, Passage du Prado, Passage Puteaux, Passage Bourg-l’Abbé, Galerie Colbert and Passage de l’Ancre. You can also find all 10 of them on the Google Map above.
3. Additional tips for visiting the famous passages
• Combine multiple passages
Many passages are within easy reach of each other, especially around the Grands Boulevards. A fun route: Passage Verdeau, Passage Jouffroy, Passage des Panoramas, and Galerie Vivienne. This creates a lovely mix of classic and vibrant.
• Bad weather is perfect weather
Is it raining in Paris? The passages are at their most charming when the rain gently taps against the glass roof. You’ll also have a better chance of exploring them in peace.
• Pop into a café
Many passages have hidden cafés and tearooms where you can feel transported back in time. Tip: Le Valentin in Passage Jouffroy, ideal for a cup of tea and pastries.
• Look for hidden art
Some passages conceal mini-galleries, small sculptures, or mosaics in the floor. So don’t just look straight ahead, but also up and down!
• Pay attention to the opening hours
Although the passages are usually accessible during the day, some shops (and sometimes the passages themselves) close in the evening. Therefore, it’s best to visit between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
4. A few more fun facts about the historic arcades
• The passages were revolutionary in their time
In the 19th century, these passages were true modern marvels: lighting (sometimes even gas lamps), glass roofs, and a safe, tidy environment for the bourgeoisie. They were the epitome of luxury and innovation.
• Balzac & Co
The French writer Honoré de Balzac was inspired by the passages, as was Walter Benjamin, who wrote an entire philosophical work about them: Das Passagen-Werk (The Work of Passages). A significant place for literature lovers, too.
• Cinematic charm
Several films and series have been filmed here, precisely because of the unique atmosphere. Think French classics or historical scenes with a touch of romance or mystery.
• There’s even a passage with a compass in the floor
In Galerie Vivienne, you’ll find a beautifully inlaid mosaic compass. A great photo opportunity and a symbolic starting point for your exploration of the passages.
• Vintage & niche shopping
These arcades are perfect for those looking for something beyond the big chains: think vintage postcards, secondhand books, fabric shops, philately, board games, miniatures, and curiosities.
These where the best covered passages in Paris. Sheltered from the noise of the Parisian boulevards, the covered passages are ideal for strolling, having a drink or browsing the many quaint shops. Parisian charm from the 19th century. Nice to visit when it rains in Paris or during autumn in Paris.
FAQ about exploring the covered passages of Paris
1. What are the covered passages in Paris?
The covered passages, or passages couverts, are elegant 19th-century shopping arcades tucked between buildings. Think vintage boutiques, antique bookstores, cafés, and mosaic floors, all under beautiful glass roofs. They’re like secret Parisian time capsules.
2. Where can I find them?
Most of the best-known passages are in the 2nd and 9th arrondissements, near the Grands Boulevards and Palais Royal. Famous ones include Passage des Panoramas, Galerie Vivienne, and Passage Jouffroy.
3. Are they free to enter?
Yes! The passages are public walkways, free to explore, browse, and enjoy. You don’t need to buy anything, but it’s hard to resist the charm of a cozy café or quirky vintage find.
4. What kind of shops or places will I find inside?
Expect a delightful mix: artisan boutiques, antique shops, chocolatiers, stamp dealers, comic book stores, tea salons, art galleries, and vintage fashion spots. Each passage has its own unique character.
5. Are the passages open every day?
Most are open during regular shop hours, roughly 10 AM to 7 PM, though it varies by passage and individual shop. Some are quieter on Sundays and Mondays, when many shops close.
6. Which passage is considered the most beautiful?
Many consider Galerie Vivienne the crown jewel, with its mosaic floors, classical architecture, and romantic atmosphere. But each has its own charm, Passage Verdeau and Passage Jouffroy are also very photogenic.
7. Can I eat or have coffee in the passages?
Absolutely! Many passages have cute cafés and restaurants, perfect for a break. Try a traditional French pastry, sip an espresso, or enjoy a quiet lunch away from the busy streets.
8. Are they touristy or more local?
They’re a mix! Locals still shop here, but savvy travelers love them too, especially for the atmosphere, hidden-gem shopping, and Instagram-worthy settings.
9. How long does it take to explore them?
You can stroll through several passages in just a couple of hours. A self-guided tour linking 3–5 of them makes a great half-day walk, especially on a rainy day when you want to stay dry but still explore.
10. Is there a best time to visit the passages?
Late morning to mid-afternoon is ideal, the shops are open, natural light filters through the glass roofs, and it’s not too crowded. Rainy or chilly days are also perfect, as the passages offer cozy shelter from the weather.
Bonus tip: Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Palais Royal gardens or Opéra Garnier for a stylish, off-the-beaten-path Paris experience.
