Typically Parisian, these shopping arcades cut through buildings and serve as shortcuts protected from the rain.
During the first half of the 19th century, the concept became so popular that the capital boasted over 150 of them. Although many have since been destroyed, several passages can still be seen in the 2nd arrondissement.
Step 1: Passage Choiseul
The walk begins a few steps away from the Opéra Garnier, at 23 rue Saint-Augustin. Built between 1825 and 1827, this passage is one of the longest in Paris, stretching over 190 meters, continuing on from Passage des Petits-Champs.
Without a doubt, Passage Choiseul is one of the liveliest, filled with shops on the ground floor and apartments above. This covered arcade is a popular destination, notably home to the Bouffes-Parisiens theater. Upon exiting Passage des Petits-Champs, turn left and continue straight until you reach rue de la Banque, then turn left again.
Step 2: Galerie Vivienne
One of its three entrances is at 5 rue de la Banque. Just two steps from the Palais-Royal, this elegant gallery was built in 1823.
Its mosaic floor with colorful patterns is especially striking when the sunlight hits it at noon, revealing the neoclassical details of the décor.
Symbolizing the economic prosperity of the time, the décor includes cornucopias, crowns of laurels, and plenty of ornamental motifs.
In the same grand style, you can admire the beautiful glass roof arching over the walkway. Once a bustling shopping destination, this arcade regained its former glory after restoration work and now houses the Jousseaume bookstore, which has been here since it first opened.
Step 3: Passage des Panoramas
Exit onto rue Vivienne and walk straight toward Place de la Bourse. At the center stands the Palais Brongniart, built under Napoleon’s orders between 1808 and 1826.
Neoclassical in style, the building features rows of columns on each façade and now hosts numerous events. Continue your stroll on rue Vivienne until number 38. Pass through the doorway and step into the oldest of all Parisian passages.
When it opened in 1799, this passage astonished visitors with its “panoramas” — circular paintings depicting vast landscapes, shown in two rotundas facing the Grands Boulevards.
Since the arrival of gas lighting in 1834, the arcade has drawn crowds with its elegant shops. Today, stamp and coin collectors can still be found here, as well as renowned restaurants such as the Italian Racines.
