Charm and Secrets of Paris Passages: Private Tour
Description
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.
Tour Options
Itinerary
We will stop to see the columns of Buren, one of the most Instagrammed spots in Paris!
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.
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!
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.
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!
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(16)
Opens up a new facet of Paris to the traveler who has seen the main city sites. Architecture and beauty combined with the historical perspective is wonderful.
Thanks so much for choosing the Passages tour. It is such a joy to share the real Paris with seasoned guest. Enjoy Rome and come back soon.
Allison and Riley knocked it out of the park with this tour! Not what I was expecting! So much more. I have been to Paris 6 other times and did not know about these passages! The learn the history behind the passages is worth the tour. But, you also get to see all of the cute shops!! Allison and Riley are personable and knowledgeable in so much more! They gave us great Paris advice and a restaurant recommendation that was amazing! Book this tour! You will not regret it!
Merci for the kind words! We certainly had a blast with you too and can't wait for your next visit. There's still so much to discover and come back to. See you this spring!
We could not have asked for a better guide in Paris. We spent several days with Allison and from the very beginning, she struck the perfect balance of deep knowledge, engaging storytelling, and genuine warmth. Every neighborhood, landmark, and hidden corner came alive through her insights and experiences -- not just the history, but the culture, the nuances of what we were seeing. What truly set this tour apart was how thoughtful and tailored it felt. Allison adjusted seamlessly to our pace and interests, shared wonderful recommendations we never would have found on our own, and made even the most iconic sights feel fresh and meaningful. Questions were welcomed, conversations flowed naturally, and nothing ever felt rushed or scripted. If you’re looking for a guide who is passionate, personable, and deeply knowledgeable—and who will help you experience Paris beyond the postcards—look no further. This was a highlight of our trip and an experience we’ll remember fondly.
Merci for such kind words. It’s always a pleasure to meet people I genuinely get along with—it makes the experience feel much more like a walk with a friend. I’m so glad you enjoyed it as much as I did, and I truly hope you’ll come back to visit.
Discovery of really unusual places For a bike novice it is very easy and our guide very attentive and he shares his passion and know about Paris
Merci!
We were looking for something unique and unusual to do while in Paris. This was an eye-opening experience. Our good vibe guide took us to passageways that we would not have been able to discover on our own, even though they were hidden in plain sight. I would highly recommend for a life enhancing experience in Paris.
Merci! It is always such a pleasure to see the passages through new and enthusiastic eyes. So glad you enjoyed it and hope you'' be in Paris again soon. Merci, for the review!
an unexpected incredibly charming tour showing us a side of Paris that we would have never discovered without allyson and her expertise. so much fun and easy to navigate.
Super fun time for me too! I can believe the coin landing on the column like that! Amazing! Come back soon :)
This was so fun! We would not have seen these passages without this tour. We loved exploring the various places and learning their history.
It was so much fun showing the way. Thanks for sharing the enthusiasm you had with me! See you next time!
Allison was friendly, knowledgeable, answered all our questions and took her time without rushing us. She surprised us with a little French dessert at the beginning of the tour and we ended the tour at a coffee shop where we enjoyed a cup of coffee together. This gave us a chance to talk further about French culture and habits. I would give this 10 stars if I could!! We would not have known about the passages had it not been for this tour - so this gave us a starting point for more exploration!
SOOOOO happy to hear it was a successful visit. I had a great time with you gals and look forward to your return!
Allison was a wonderful guide, full of knowledge and tidbits of Paris in addition to the history of the passages.
Milles Merci Stacy! Such a pleasure to share the day with you both. See you next time!
My daughter and I booked this tour with our wonderful guide Allison. We got to see so many beautiful buildings and learn more about these hidden historical gems of Paris. Highly recommend!
Merci Eduardo! Such a privilege to spend the day with you and your brilliant graduate;) Looking forward to your return!
Allison was amazing! A kind, welcoming, and knowledgeable guide who was well versed on the history of Paris. Cannot wait to book again with her!
Merci Gio, I know you'll be back and cant wait to show you more Paris magic, hopefully less rain next time;)
Alison's Paris Passages tour rocks! Always reminds Rebecca and I that we need to flauner with a local professional guide who has studied with passion all of the details. We loved everything about it discovering nuances of the great passages of Paris!
Gosh John you're so kind to take the time to write a review for me. I really appreciate it, but the real joy comes from your appreciation of the lesser-visited Paris historical venues. I am glad Luch ended up a success as well. Looking forward to Flaeuring with you next time;)
Lovely tour by Pierre! Would definitely recommend it to those who are interested in learning more about the history of paris and exploring local hidden charms!
I booked this tour with my mom, and boy were we surprised! Our trip to Paris was during the cold and rainy winter season. Yet, our tour guide Pierre made it feel like a summer breeze. Wanting more of a history lesson rather than a stop and go “look at this attraction, ok let’s go” Pierre radiated with passion about the history and literal hidden gems that this gorgeous city has to offer. We were delighted that Pierre accepted our last minute tour request, and despite the cold and rain, Pierre was cheerful, fun, and animated when describing the stops, routes, and wonderful stories. Would highly recommend this tour if you are looking for more of a local feel, and history lesson of Paris. Thank you Pierre for making our trip memorable.
Tour was amazing, as was our tour guide Pierre. Very comfortable atmosphere, organized, and interesting. Bring water for stops, as there is really only one stop to grab snacks and drinks.
Merci!
My daughter and I really enjoyed our tour Paris’s hidden passages with Allison! She is very knowledgeable about the city and its history and also gave us great suggestions for restaurants, museums, and exhibits. 5 stars!
Thank you so much! It was such a fun tour to share with you both. Since you seem to make it back on a regular basis, I hope to see you again soon!