Tours/Paris/Viator
Viator · group up to 12 pax

Secret Covered Passages Tour in Paris

4.7(16)Paris1 hour
VIATOR4.9(7)TRIPADVISOR4.6(9)

Description

Explore the Hidden Covered Passages of Paris ✨ Step beyond the Eiffel Tower and uncover a secret side of Paris most visitors never see. On this guided walking tour, discover the city’s enchanting covered passages — hidden arcades filled with history, charm, and timeless elegance. Wander beneath glass ceilings and through beautifully preserved galleries such as Passage Verdeau, Galerie Vivienne, and Passage des Panoramas, alongside lesser-known gems loved by locals. Learn the stories behind these unique spaces and experience the “secret Paris” that Parisians cherish. Discover hidden gems most visitors miss Small group experience for a more personal feel Engaging storytelling that brings Paris to life Perfect mix of history, culture, and local insight Relaxed 2 km route, suitable for all ages The tour covers approximately 2 km at a comfortable pace. Please note: Comfortable shoes recommended. Bring water and a camera. Bibliothèque nationale de France is closed on Monday

Tour Options

Secret Covered Passages Tour in Paris

Itinerary

10 min

We enter into a chocolate shop that is the oldest in Paris 1761. The building is now protected. Here you can buy arguably the best chocolate in Paris.

15 min

Named after its creator, Jean-Baptiste-Ossian Verdeau, the Passage was opened in 1846 as an extension of the Passage des Panoramas and the Passage Jouffroy. The gallery's originality lies in its high, fishbone-shaped glass roof. You car't leave without stopping at Ausmane, the elegant perfume house founded by Choukk Ausmane, A few steps away, the Keopi cafe with its refined gourmet specialities brings France and Korea together.

15 min

The first of its kind to be built entirely of iron and glass, the Passage Jouffroy was built in 1847. Adjacent to the Musée Grévin, this busy passage was renovated in 1987. The signs of the past are still there, such as the Pain d'Épices, the very first toy shop in Paris, which dates back to 1849. Opposite this children's paradise, adults with a passion for retro elegance will find their heart's desire at Galerie Fayet, the last French manufacturer of high-quality walking sticks.

Pass by

Since 1929, the imposing painting by Germond has been enthroned in Bouillon Chartier Grands Boulevards' Belle Époque dining room listed as a historical monument

15 min

Built in 1799 by Jean-Louis Girard, this covered passage, listed in 1974, is considered to be the first in Paris. It is home to eight stamp shops and the gourmet Caffe Stern, a former 19th-century engraving workshop converted into an Italian restaurant in 2014. More unusual, Kimochi's sushi burger (the only one in France) is a taste experience not to be missed!

10 min

France’s national library, holding roughly 42 million items as a central repository of national heritage, including books, manuscripts, prints, and multimedia.

5 min

Built in 1823, the Colbert Gallery is located a stone's throw from its great rival, the Vivienne Gallery. This pretty covered gallery is the property of the National Library and, unlike other Parisian galleries, does not host any shops. Focused on culture, it is home to the National Institute of Art History

5 min

Its history begins when the president of the Chamber of Notaries, Maître MARCHOUX, made known his wish to build the most beautiful and attractive gallery in Paris. A leading shopping space, where the Parisian elite could meet to stroll and have fun.

10 min

The Palais-Royal became the property of the Orleans, the youngest branch of the Kingdom of France, in February 1692, when Louis XIV offered it to Monsieur, his brother. The palace garden was then open to the city.

Pass by

Historically, stock trading took place at several spots in Paris, including rue Quincampoix, rue Vivienne (near the Palais Royal), and the back of the Opéra Garnier (the Paris opera house).

5 min

(Closed on Monday) Is the national library and premier research institution of France, headquartered across multiple sites in Paris, with its main modern site in the 13th arrondissement

Highlights

Bibliothèque nationale de France is closed every Monday
Friendly Guide

What's included

Included
Bibliothèque nationale de France is closed every Monday
Friendly Guide
Not included
Coffee and/or Tea
Personal Expenses
Gratuities

Traveller Ratings

4.7
16 reviews
5
14
4
1
3
0
2
0
1
1

Important Information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Reviews(16)

4.7
Based on 16 verified reviews
Read all 16 reviews on Viator →