When tourists visit Paris, the usual suspects dominate every itinerary — the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Montmartre, and croissants by the Seine. But just steps away from the city’s busiest boulevards lies a secret world: the covered passages of Paris.
These hidden, glass-roofed arcades are 19th-century architectural gems that once served as Paris’s original shopping malls. Today, they offer a timeless Parisian experience — quiet, elegant, and rich in history. Here’s why you should include the passages couverts in your Paris itinerary and exactly where to find them.
What Are the Covered Passages of Paris?
Built mostly in the early 1800s, the covered passages were designed to protect shoppers from rain and mud while browsing boutiques, cafés, and bookshops. They’re filled with mosaic floors, wrought-iron details, glass ceilings, and old-world charm. Many still house independent shops, antiquarian bookstores, vintage toy stores, and hidden bistros.
Why They’re Worth Visiting
- No crowds: Unlike Paris’s main tourist attractions, the passages are quiet and ideal for slow strolling.
- Instagram-worthy spots: The architecture is stunning — perfect for travelers who love hidden photo locations.
- Local atmosphere: You’ll rub shoulders with Parisians, not tour groups.
- Unique shopping: Skip the global chains and discover rare books, handmade jewelry, vintage clothes, and quirky souvenirs.
- Perfect on a rainy day: With their glass ceilings, you can enjoy a Parisian walk without getting wet.
Top Passages You Shouldn’t Miss
Passage des Panoramas (2nd arrondissement)
- One of the oldest covered passages (opened in 1799).
- Perfect for stamp collectors, retro restaurants, and atmospheric charm.
- Don’t miss Canard & Champagne, a restaurant specializing in duck and sparkling wine.
Galerie Vivienne (2nd arrondissement)
- The most elegant of them all, with mosaic floors and high-end boutiques.
- A favorite among fashion lovers and architecture geeks.
- Look for Librairie Jousseaume, a beautiful second-hand bookshop.
Passage Jouffroy (next to Panoramas)
- Home to Musée Grévin (Paris’s wax museum) and several quaint toy shops.
- Ends right by Passage Verdeau, another charming arcade.
When to Visit
Most passages are open during regular shopping hours (10:00–19:00), though some shops open later. Mornings or late afternoons are ideal for fewer crowds and better photos.
How to Find Them
Start near Grands Boulevards metro station (Lines 8 and 9). Within a few blocks, you can explore three of the best passages in one walk: Panoramas → Jouffroy → Verdeau.
Pro Tip for Travelers
Make it a theme day! Combine your passage-hopping with:
- A visit to Musée Grévin (wax figures and Belle Époque interiors)
- A coffee stop at Le Valentin inside Passage Jouffroy
- A wine tasting at Les Caves Legrand in Galerie Vivienne
Final Thoughts
Paris hides her secrets in plain sight — and the covered passages are one of her best-kept ones. They’re perfect for curious travelers who want to go beyond the obvious and experience the Paris that locals love.
So next time you’re tempted by the Champs-Élysées, take a detour instead. The true magic of Paris lies under glass ceilings, somewhere between the past and present.
