by Paris is known for its many beautiful Passages and Galeries. These are narrow, covered streets that were once used to avoid the rain and the cold. Today, they are popular tourist destinations, thanks to their charming architecture and unique atmosphere.
These passages are great places to find souvenirs, gifts, and other Parisian treasures.
Table of Contents
- What are Passages and Galeries?
- Paris Passages and Galeries
- Top Passages and Galeries in Paris
- Passage des Panoramas
- Passage de Choiseul
- Passage du Grand Cerf
- Galerie Vivienne
- Galerie Véro-Dodat
- Passage Verdeau
- Galerie Colbert
- Passage Jouffroy
- Passage Brady
- Passage du Bourg-l’Abbé
- Passage des Deux Pavillons
- Galerie des Variétés
- Passage du Prado
- Passage Puteaux
- Galerie de la Madeleine
- FAQ
- What are Passages and Galleries?
- How many Passages and Galeries are there in Paris?
What are Passages and Galeries?
Passages and Galeries are a type of covered walkway that is found in many European cities. They are typically lined with shops and cafes and are a great place to find gifts or souvenirs. They are also a great way to stay out of the rain or sun and can be a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Paris Passages and Galeries
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the start of construction of covered corridors in Paris (also known as “Les passages couverts”) displayed their ingenuity.
These passages were constructed a very long time before the advent of retail malls to shield pedestrians from adverse weather conditions and muddy and dusty streets.
However, these weren’t merely covered corridors (also known as “Galeries”) in the building. By the 1850s, there were roughly 150 covered passages in Paris; but, as a direct result of Haussmann’s rebuilding of Paris, this number was significantly reduced.
Top Passages and Galeries in Paris
Here are the top Passages and Galeries in Paris you need to see.
Passage des Panoramas
If you’re looking for a truly unique experience in Paris, check out the Passage des Panoramas. This historic covered passage is the oldest in the city and is home to several charming shops and restaurants.
Even if you don’t end up buying anything, it’s well worth spending some time exploring this unique slice of Parisian history. It is among the spot to enjoy a covered passages tour.
And if you get thirsty, stop by ARABICA for a drink. This cozy spot is known for its natural wines and friendly atmosphere. The Passage des Panoramas is located on the Grand Boulevard in Montmartre and is easily accessible from nearby metro stations.
See Related: Rue de Rivoli-Le Marais
Passage de Choiseul
If you’re looking for a covered passage that’s a little off the beaten path, Passage de Choiseul is worth a visit.
This historic passageway is located on Rue Saint-Augustin and Rue Petits-Suisse, and it’s the largest covered passage in Paris, measuring 180 meters long. It was built in 1826 and is a popular tourist destination thanks to its charming architecture and many shops and restaurants.
Passage Choiseul is also home to the Musée de la Vie Romantique, which celebrates the life and work of French author George Sand.
Unlike some of the more glamorous passages, Passage de Choiseul is home to dozens of restaurants, making it the perfect place to grab a bite. And even though it’s not as well-known as some other passages, it’s still worth a visit.
If you’re looking to explore some of Paris’ hidden gems, make sure to add Passage Choiseul to your list! This charming passage is worth a visit.
Passage du Grand Cerf
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience in Paris, check out Passage du Grand Cerf. This historic arcade is one of the tallest in France, and its glass roof allows plenty of natural light to enter. You’ll find a variety of shops selling everything from vintage letters to custom jewelry.
And if you get hungry, there are several restaurants and cafes. It is also just a short walk from the Etienne Marcellis Metro station. The Passage du Grand Cerf is a great place to find gifts for friends, family, or even yourself!
Galerie Vivienne
The Galerie Vivienne is one of the most iconic shopping arcades in Paris. It was constructed in 1823, located in the 2nd arrondissement, and features a beautiful mosaic floor and a high iron and glass canopy.
The arcade is L-shaped, with entrances on rue des Petits Champs and rue Vivienne. The portion of the arcade on rue des Petits-Champs is home to the well-known Bistro Vivienne. The Galerie Vivienne is a must-see for any visitor to Paris.
See Related: Carnavalet Museum
Galerie Véro-Dodat
Galerie Vero-Dodat is a beautiful place to window shop and dine in Paris. The arcade features the main Christian Louboutin shop but also a small shop. It comprises buildings on rue des Petits Champs and rue Vivienne, erected in 1823.
It’s situated near the Louvre Museum and has decorative tile and ceiling styles worth observing. The restaurant is small, with an extensive wine list.
Nearby Metro: Palais Royal Museum Galerie Vero-Dodat is the perfect place to bird-watch in Paris. The gallery is near the Tuileries Garden, making it the perfect spot to see many different birds.
Passage Verdeau
If you’re looking for a peaceful oasis in the heart of Paris, look no further than Passage Verdeau. This hidden gem is located between Passage Jouffroy and Passage des Panoramas, two of the city’s most famous historic shopping arcades.
The passage is home to several restaurants and antique shops, making it the perfect place to explore an afternoon. Plus, it’s conveniently located near Richelieu Rouot and Grand Boulevard metro stations.
Galerie Colbert
In Paris, France, the Galerie Golbert or Passage Colbert is a significant historical landmark. It is a magnificent arcade with a glass dome that was constructed in 1823 and now houses cultural organizations and an art nouveau brasserie.
The Galerie Colbert was built during a period of great prosperity in France when Paris rapidly expanded and became one of the world’s most important cities.
The arcade was designed to be a beautiful and luxurious shopping destination, and it quickly became popular with the city’s elite. The Galerie Colbert is still a popular destination for tourists and locals today, owing to its many bookstores, graphic comics stores, and shops.
See Related: Best Outdoor Parisian Food Markets
Passage Jouffroy
It is situated in the 9th arrondissement and was constructed between 1847 and 1848. The Passage Jouffroy is one of the oldest shopping arcades in Paris and is considered to be a masterpiece of early 19th-century architecture.
It is home to several shops and businesses and the Musee Grevin, a wax museum that opened in 1882. Hotel Chopin, an affordable hotel with great views, is also located in the Passage Jouffroy. It is also near Passage des Princes.
In the middle of the Boulevard Montmartre, between the Grands Boulevards and the Rue de la Paix, is where you’ll find the Passage Jouffroy.
It is made up of a pair of parallel galleries known as the Grande Galerie and the Petite Galerie. These galleries are linked to one another via several smaller corridors and courtyards.
Passage Brady
Passage Brady is a small, unassuming passage in the heart of the Marais district. But don’t be fooled by its size – Passage Brady is home to some of the best art galleries in Paris.
Whether you’re a modern art or classical sculpture fan, there’s something for everyone at Passage Brady. So be sure to check it out the next time you’re in Paris!
See Related: Pont Mirabeau
Passage du Bourg-l’Abbé
It is a beautiful and historic passage in Paris. This passage was originally built in the 16th century, and pedestrians and cyclists have used it for centuries.
The Passage du Bourg-l’Abbé is a great place to enjoy a walk or bike ride, and it is also a popular spot for shopping and dining. There are many shops and restaurants in the passage, and it is also closed to several historical landmarks in Paris.
The Passage du Bourg-l’Abbé is a great place to visit when you are in Paris, and it is sure to provide you with an enjoyable experience.
Passage des Deux Pavillons
The Passage des Deux Pavillons is a beautiful and historic passage located in the 2nd arrondissement of Paris. Initially opened in 1820, the passage is made up of two rows of elegant arches parallel to each other.
The passage was once home to several prestigious boutiques and art galleries, and today it is still a popular spot for shopping and window-shopping. If you’re in the area, take a stroll through this lovely passage.
Galerie des Variétés
In the 2nd arrondissement of Paris in Paris, France, the Galerie des Variétés is a street that runs through the neighborhood. Location In the city of Paris, the Galerie des Variétés is a street that can be found in the 2nd arrondissement.
It starts at 38 rue Vivienne and finishes at the Saint-Marc gallery at number 28. Where the name came from The proximity to the Théâtre des Variétés is the inspiration for its moniker. History The Passage des Panoramas and these galleries, located immediately opposite it, opened in 1834.
Passage du Prado
Passage du Prado is a beautiful and historic passage located in the heart of Paris. It opened in 1785 and is home to various shops and restaurants. The passage is a great place to visit for a relaxing afternoon out in the city.
Passage du Prado is one of the oldest covered passages in Paris, and it’s easy to see why it’s been so popular for centuries. The shops and restaurants are set up in interconnected courtyards, making for a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
See Related: Pont Dela Tournelle
Passage Puteaux
If you’re ever in the mood for some retail therapy, Passage Puteaux is the perfect place to go. This large shopping center is located in the commune of Puteaux. You’ll find everything from fashion to homewares to electronics under one roof.
And if you get peckish, there’s even a Carrefour Hypermarket where you can pick up some snacks or prepared meals. The passage is located near Grande Arche de la Defense. Whether you’re looking for a specific item or want to browse, Passage Puteaux is sure to have what you’re looking for.
Galerie de la Madeleine
The Galerie de la Madeleine may be little, but it is not lacking in elegance. The tiny covered shopping alley runs from number 9 Place de la Madeleine to number 30 rue Boissy d’Anglas and measures 53 meters in length and 4 meters in width.
It is a few remaining covered passages in Paris, and the Galerie de la Madeleine can be found there.
FAQ
What are Passages and Galleries?
Passages and Galeries have covered walkways that are typically found in Paris. They are a great place to enjoy a stroll, shop, or grab a bite to eat.
How many Passages and Galeries are there in Paris?
It is estimated that there were roughly 150 covered passages in Paris by the 1850s, but only 21 covered passages remain in the city today.
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