A Glimpse into Paris' Covered Passages:

A Journey Through History and Elegance

Nestled within the heart of Paris are hidden treasures that evoke the city's rich history and timeless elegance. Among these are the covered passages, enchanting arcades that transport visitors to a bygone era of sophistication and charm. Join me on a captivating journey as we explore these architectural gems and unravel the secrets they hold.

Paris' covered passages emerged in the 19th century as covered walkways connecting the city's bustling streets. As you make your way through the covered passages, marvel at the exquisite architecture and intricate details characterized by soaring glass ceilings, ornate facades, and mosaic floors. Within them, you will uncover hidden treasures, from charming boutiques and artisanal shops to antique bookstores and vintage galleries. As you meander through their narrow corridors, take time to discover the quaint cafes, bistros, wine bars, and restaurants.

Although there are 21 covered passages in Paris, the most iconic ones you should take time to explore are Galerie Vivienne, Passage des Panoramas, and Passage Jouffroy, each boasting its own unique style and ambiance.

The Passage des Panoramas was the first covered passage in Paris, built in 1799. The passages were built as a place for ladies to shop,  away from the dark, muddy streets. As this was a rainy day, I decided to tuck in and explore. 

The food scene at Passage des Panoramas

Here you will find shops of collectors; of stamps, coins, and postcards. But mostly, this passage is lined with a variety of restaurants, so be sure to bring an appetite.

Some of my favorite spots are…

Gyoza Bar specializes in exactly what its name promises…perfectly crafted gyozas, served fresh and flavorful. There’s also a speakeasy bar in the basement which is open on Friday and Saturdays evenings.

Racines - Is a Michelin-starred restaurant tucked away in this passage that is the perfect blend of old world Italian recipes in a contemporary Parisian bistro. Reservations are definitely required.

Asado - A classic Argentinian eatery transports me back to my time in Buenos Aires with their delicious Argentinian imported black Angus steak or their homemade empanadas.

Culottée café - A cozy little cafe perfect for some pastries, breakfast, brunch or a relaxed lunch. It’s warm, inviting, and effortlessly charming.

Passage Jouffroy, was built in 1836 as a continuation of Passage des Panoramas…just across Boulevard Montmartre. It is the first covered passage in Paris built entirely of metal and glass. This passage feels like the largest and brightest in the sense of light and color.

Stepping into a time capsule

If you go, you may be interested in visiting the Musée Grevin, the famous wax museum that has been welcoming tourists since 1885. You can also shop for the little ones in the beautiful toy shops and grab some lunch or pastries at Le Valentin. If you look up Le Valentin, be sure to note which one you’re going to as there’s also one inside of Galerie Vivienne. And for a true sense of nostalgia, visit La Maison du Roy, a true cabinet of curiosities. It’s like walking into your very own wonderland of Baroque charm and decor.

There’s also a hotel located inside the passage, L’hôtel Chopin which has been opened since the opening of the passage. I’ve not stayed, but it’s well reviewed online and I’ve had a couple people comment on my Instagram, saying they’ve stayed there and really enjoyed it.

And of course, my favorite, Galerie Vivienne, built in 1826. This is the most glamorous covered passage, as is evident in its incredible glass roof and mosaic tiles. Walking through here, one has a sense of a timeless, elegant era.

Where Parisian elegance whispers from every corner.

Some of my favorite spots here are…

Bistrot Vivienne (classic French bistro) - I’ve come here for lunch, typical French fare that is unpretentious, yet delicious. But mostly I stop in during apéro hour and enjoy a glass, or two, of wine with their frites maison (homemade), just perfectly golden and crispy and just enough saltiness. You can sit indoors or enjoy their terrace seating inside the Galerie.

La Table des Caves Paris (wine bar & restaurant) - This is directly across from Bistrot Vivienne. I haven’t been for dinner, but I have gone a few times during apéro hour (a repeating theme with me I guess). They have a great selection of wines and you can also schedule a wine tasting.

Librarie Jousseaume - One of those nostalgic looking book shops that looks like it’s straight out of a movie. This bookstore has been here since the Galerie’s opening in 1826, making it one of Paris’ oldest continuously operating bookstores. It is a family owned bookstore specializing in antique literature, postcards, prints, engravings and more. Obviously the perfect place to pick up a gift.

La Marelle (Upscale thrifting) - This is not your usual thrift store where everything is crammed in and difficult to search through. At La Marelle, the layout is curated and elegant, making it easy to browse. You’ll find pre-loved treasures for every budget, from high-end designer pieces to chic everyday staples, all with that effortless Parisian flair.

Si Ti Veux - A toyshop from yesteryear, well, not really but it feels like it with its beautifully crafted wooden toys. However, there are many toys and creative games of skill for the modern child to keep their minds engaged.

Daroco (Italian restaurant & great cocktail bar) - A trendy Italian restaurant that is as delicious as it is hip. However the real star here is Danico, the cocktail bar located inside the restaurant. This bar ranked in the 2024 World’s Best 50 Bars and although not cheap, the cocktails are worth every sip.

As we make our way through the covered passages, we’re reminded of the city’s enduring allure and timeless beauty. These enchanting arcades are far more than architectural curiosities, they’re living, breathing testaments to Paris’ layered history and cultural richness. Lined with antique bookstores, vintage shops, cafés, and elegant boutiques, each passage offers a glimpse into a more refined, slower-paced Paris.

In this journey, I focused on just a few gems…Passage Jouffroy, with its whimsical charm and historic wax museum; Passage des Panoramas, a haven for food lovers; and the luminous Galerie Vivienne, with its refined elegance. Each one has its own character, its own rhythm, and its own stories to tell.

But these are just the beginning.

Scattered throughout the Right Bank are many more hidden arcades waiting to be explored…Passage Verdeau, Passage Choiseul, Galerie Véro-Dodat, and others, each with its own distinct ambiance. So take your time, let curiosity guide you, and allow yourself to be swept up in the quiet magic of these tucked-away passages. Who knows what treasures you’ll stumble upon just beyond the next archway?

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Explore Paris with @inseinleyparis: Looking for a more intimate, insider experience of Paris? I offer personally guided walking tours, curated itineraries, photo shoots and bespoke travel services through Travels with Tadji. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for more, I’d love to help you see the city through a new lens.

Daily Parisian Inspiration: Follow along on Instagram @inseinelyparis for daily glimpses of Parisian life…architecture, cafés, hidden corners, and timeless city moments.