Charm and Secrets of Paris Passages: Private Tour

5.0 (17 reviews) 1–2 hours Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

17 reviews

5.0

Charm and Secrets of Paris Passages: Private Tour — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Charm and Secrets of Paris Passages: Private Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

The Covered Passages of Paris are one of the city’s hidden treasures—elegant precursors to modern shopping malls, built in the early 19th century. Once numbering over 180, only about 25 remain, having survived Baron Haussmann’s sweeping renovations. On this tour, we’ll explore six of the most beautiful and historically rich arcades—perfect for a rainy day in Paris.

These passages were more than just shopping galleries—they were vibrant centers of social life and cultural exchange, frequented by writers, artists, and the fashionable elite. With their glass ceilings, ornate ironwork, and mosaic floors, they preserve the spirit of Belle Époque Paris.

As we explore, you’ll hear the fascinating stories behind their creation and legacy. After sampling the delights of Passage des Panoramas, the oldest arcade in Paris, you may want to return for lunch—or, take a short stroll to Galeries Lafayette for a modern shopping experience beneath its iconic Art Nouveau dome.

Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours Short term availability Weather Dependent - Low

At a glance

Duration: 1–2 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: Tours Truly

What is included

Included

Included: Private guide
Included: Adventure, Charm and Secrets!
Included: Tea and coffee: Coffee and/or Tea

Not included

Not included: Gratuity, Umbrellas

Itinerary

Palais-Royal

20 min

We will stop to see the columns of Buren, one of the most Instagrammed spots in Paris!
Galerie Vivienne

25 min

After exploring the first few covered passages, we’ll take a short stroll to Galerie Vivienne, one of the most beautiful and historic arcades in Paris. Built in 1823, it features exquisite mosaic tile floors, neoclassical décor, and a stunning glass canopy that fills the gallery with natural light. Once a fashionable meeting spot for 19th-century Parisians, today it’s home to elegant boutiques, bookshops, and wine bars—a perfect blend of history and style.
Passage des Panoramas

25 min

We’ll continue through the neighborhood and pass by the Palais Brongniart, the former Paris Bourse (Stock Exchange), built in the early 1800s and once the financial heart of France. From there, we head toward the lively Passage des Panoramas, the oldest covered passage in Paris, dating back to 1799. Lined with vintage boutiques, stamp shops, and cozy bistros, it’s a food lover’s paradise—you’ll definitely want to come back here for lunch after the tour!
Passage Jouffroy

25 min

After sampling the delights of Passage des Panoramas, we’ll continue into the charming Passage Jouffroy, built in 1847 and one of the first arcades in Paris to be constructed entirely of iron and glass. It shares its walls with the famous Musée Grévin, Paris’s historic wax museum, and still houses the Hotel Chopin, a quaint 19th-century hotel where not only tourists—but also the spirit of Frédéric Chopin—are said to linger. This passage blends old-world charm with playful character, making it a true Parisian gem.
Passage Verdeau

15 min

We’ll continue past the charming displays of vintage toys and handcrafted canes into Passage Verdeau, the final stop in this trio of 19th-century arcades. Opened in 1847, Passage Verdeau is known for its antique shops, old book dealers, and nostalgic ambiance—a favorite among collectors and treasure hunters.

From here, you’ll have time to revisit any passage that caught your eye, or take a short walk to Galeries Lafayette, the legendary Parisian department store known for its breathtaking Art Nouveau dome, high-end fashion, and gourmet food hall—a completely different kind of Parisian shopping experience!

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

We will begin the adventure by meeting across the street from the Comédie Française

End point

Leaving you at this classic passage allows for you to contemplate re visiting any prevoius location that held special appeal or walk to Gallery Layettes for a different kind of shopping!