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You are here: Home / Travel / Europe / France / Paris / Covered Passages of Paris: A free self guided walking tour of Paris arcades with map

Covered Passages of Paris: A free self guided walking tour of Paris arcades with map

January 21, 2018 by Karen 20 Comments

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If you’re visiting Paris, you might be looking for something unusual to do in Paris besides seeing the Eiffel Tower.  Either way, you will not want to miss the arcades of Paris.   In my time living in Paris, I loved getting lost in the covered passages in Paris, which retain an air of magic and make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

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If you are looking for more in-depth travel advice about Belgium and the Netherlands, I created a guidebook on behalf of Moon Travel about Amsterdam, Brussels, and Bruges. You can find this book on Amazon!

This free self-guided walking tour through Paris should give you glimpse into the secret Paris that Parisians know, love, and guard with their lives. This walk through the covered passages of Paris includes some of Paris’ most beautiful passages, including Passage Verdeau, Galerie Vivienne, and Passage des Panoramas as well as some off the beaten path attractions.

This free walking tour of the covered passages in Paris is about 4 kilometers total and it should take you about an hour without stopping, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

You’re better off doing your walk through the Paris arcades prior to 5pm on a weekday if possible as shops might close after 5pm and it will be less crowded.  Plan for about 2-3 hours if you follow this itinerary with stopping off to take photos.  Click for my perfect four days in Paris itinerary.

*PRINTABLE MAP OF COVERED PASSAGES AT BOTTOM WITH STEP-BY-STEP DIRECTIONS*  You can also do this route in reverse very easily. 😉

Starting point of the walk

Photo of A la Mere de Famille, a beautiful Parisian confectionary, one of the stops on a self guided walking tour of Paris' covered passages.

Start off your trip at the Cadet Metro Stop, which is along the 7 line.  Walk a block towards Passage Verdeau.  On the way, you’ll pass La Mere de Famille, a beautiful old school Parisian confectery.

Passage Verdeau

Photo of Passage Verdeau in Paris, one of the les passages couverts de Paris. See the secret Paris that most tourists miss.

 Passage Verdeau is a covered arcade built in 1847 named for its founder.  It is an antique lovers paradise with many antique bookshops.  Even if your budget is fairly low, you can get some lovely vintage postcards from Paris.

Passage Verdeau tends to be less crowded than the surrounding passages. Arcades are the precursors to modern-day malls as we know them.

Lunch or dinner at Le Bouillon Chartier

Photo of Le Bouillon Chartier, one of the best budget restaurants in Paris and a must-see for getting off the beaten path in Paris. #Paris #Food

If you’re hungry for lunch or dinner, be sure to get in line at Le Bouillon Chartier, one of Paris’ most affordable French restaurants.  The line can be long although the atmosphere as well as the food is worth it.  

Amazingly, Parisians actually come here, so although you’ll find tourists and an English menu (if necessary).  The menu changes daily and if you’re after trying traditionally French food, be sure to stop off here.

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Passage Jouffroy ​

Photo of unique display in Passage Jouffroy in Paris, one of the covered passages in Paris with unique shops.

Passage Jouffroy is my favorite passage in Paris and it is one of the most famous passages in Paris for good reason.  Its interesting window displays as well as the fact that it houses a hotel (Hotel Chopin), museum, and nightclub within its walls.  

Within Passage Jouffroy, you’ll find the quirk factor with businesses like La Maison du Roy, specializing in antique inspired decorations, as well as Cannes Fayet, which specializes in walking sticks/canes.  I also have a weakness for the miniature furniture store on the corner next to Hotel Chopin.

If you’re interested in staying in the covered passages, you can stay at Hotel Chopin, a charming boutique hotel in the middle of Passage Jouffroy with a friendly cat.

Passage des Panoramas

Photo of Passage des Panoramas, one of the most beautiful passages of Paris. Discover this passage on a self guided walking tour of Secret Paris! #Travel #France #Paris

 If you continue forward, you’ll be in Passage des Panoramas, which is full of vintage stamp/coin shops as well as restaurants.  Here, you’ll find one of Paris’ best restaurants for gluten free dining at Noglu.  

After you see the passage, exit and walk a couple blocks down towards Galerie Colbert (check hours).

Galerie Colbert ​

Photo of Galerie Colbert in Paris, one of the arcades of Paris. Get off the beaten path in Paris on a self guided walking tour of the passages of Paris. #Paris #France #Travel

Galerie Colbert has limited hours as it’s part of the National Library.  Its stunning marble columns might still call to you.  When I visited, we were the only ones there besides a random person scurrying between rooms.

Unlike other Parisian covered passages, there are no stores here, but the atmosphere is a nice change. Don’t be deterred by the security guards although I’d avoid bringing a backpack if possible as it might cause issues.

Galerie Vivienne

Photo of Galerie Vivienne, one of the most famous covered passages of Paris. A must see if you're looking for unusual things to do in Paris.

After visiting Galerie Colbert, walk around the block to see Galerie Vivienne, another famous passage although you’ll find it full of tourists.  Within it, you’ll still find a variety of shops, mostly with luxury goods, although there’s some adorable used bookstores.  

I didn’t successfully get into the one with the miniature second story, but you’re likely to find plenty to admire within this long passage. It has multiple entrances, so just be aware of where you exit.

Photo of Galerie Vivienne, one of the covered passages in Paris, and a must-see attraction in Paris for those looking for unusual things to do in Paris. #Travel #Paris #France

Jardin du Palais Royal & Surrounding Galeries

Photo of Jardin du Palais Royal in Paris, a stop off on a free self guided walking tour of Paris through the covered passages.

Afterwards, walk through the iconic Jardin du Palais Royal.  Imagine yourself in a movie here.  This is the domain of Parisians walking their dogs although depending on which side you’re closer to, you’ll discover some galeries surrounding Jardin du Palais Royal with exclusive clothing brands as well as artisanal goods.  

If you’re looking for something truly unique, stop off along Galerie de Valois and Galerie de Montpensier after enjoying a relaxing stroll in the park.

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Le Palais Royal

Photo of the Royal Palace in Paris (Le Palais Royal).

After walking through Jardin du Palais Royal, you’ll end up by Le Palais Royal, the former royal palace dating back to the 17th century.  It’s now used by the French government although you’ll find tourists and Parisians posing on its striped columns within the courtyard.

Galerie Véro-Dodat

Photo of Galerie Véro-Dodat, one of the most beautiful galleries of Paris. See the historical arcades of Paris on foot for free with a free walking tour with map. #Paris #France #Travel

Although Galerie Véro-Dodat is a bit smaller than some of the other covered passages in Paris, I loved how quiet and serene it was.

Given that you’re about to enter one of the most crowded parts of Paris, enjoy this moment and the beautiful black-and-white floor marble floor tiles.  Interestingly, it was one of the first galeries to have gas lighting, an achievement at the time.

There used to be more businesses in Galerie Véro-Dodat, but after after stagecoaches declined in popularity, its location close to a stagecoach hub meant that it lost a lot of businesses. There’s some clothing businesses and high-end art galleries within the gallery today.

Stop for a cocktail at Le Reset

Photo of Le Reset, a video game bar in Paris. See a different side to Paris with a free walking tour of Paris with a map.

After this, you’ll be walking through a very high traffic area. If it’s almost five (somewhere), stop off at Reset.  Reset is one of my favorite bars in Paris.

If you’re into video games, this geeky bar is a must with some delicious cocktails accompanied by old-school videogames.  This is where you’ll find me out in Paris. 😉

Passage du Bourg l’Abbé & Passage du Grand Cerf

Photo of Passage du Grand Cerf, one of the most beautiful covered passages in Paris and a must-see for secret Paris with a free self guided walking tour of Paris. #France #Paris #Travel

After a refreshing drink, you can stop in at Passage du Bourg l’Abbé, one of the smallest passages in Paris, with many art galleries.

It’s very close to the entrance to Passage du Grand Cerf, so if you’re not tired of Passages yet, be sure to stop in at the little boutiques. The entrances for these are a bit tougher to spot compared to the larger galleries. ​

Passage Molière

Paris walk 2010

Continue walking towards Passage Molière, which differs considerably from the other galleries that you’ve seen so far. It’s not a covered passage as it’s open-air, but it has cobblestones still, which gives it an old world vibe with a twist.

It became famous for the theatre located there for many years, but you’ll find boutiques that cater to things that you never knew that you needed. I know it’s not technically a covered passage, but if you’re into secret Paris, be sure to stop in here.

59 Rivoli

Photo of 59 Rivoli in Paris. This artist studio is a must see for those seeking unusual things to do in Paris. Discover another side to Paris. #Paris #France

Lastly, stop in at 59 Rivoli, an artist-owned building that used to be an artist squat.  Now, this building has been apportioned into artist studios and every day people can stroll in most days (besides Monday) to see the artists in action.

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The facade is often changing although it’s always a unique sight to behold and be sure to bring some extra cash with you as you might find some interesting art (along with stories) to bring home with you as you can discuss the work with the artists themselves.

Most of the artists ask people NOT to take photos of their work without permission, so be careful shutter-bugs when visiting this off the beaten path sight in Paris. 

I hope you enjoyed this self guided walking tour of Paris’ covered passages and it encourages you to discover a bit more of the parts of Paris that make it truly special.  Click for another local’s one day guide to off the beaten path Paris.

If you’ve visited any of the covered passages in Paris, which one is your favorite? ​

Click for the printable version of the map.

Interested in discovering secret Paris? A free self guided walking tour through the covered passages of Paris with a map for getting off the beaten path in Paris. #France #Paris #Travel

Filed Under: Europe, France, Local Guides, Paris, Travel, Travel Photography Tagged With: bookish travel, France, history, off the beaten path travel, Paris, photography, self-guided walking tour, Travel, travel tips

About Karen

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Mia

    January 26, 2018 at 3:51 pm

    What an amazing walking tour! I currently live in Paris and have been meaning to explore the other covered passages besides Galerie Vivienne. Thanks for sharing!!

    Reply
  2. Kavita Favelle

    January 27, 2018 at 9:40 am

    I hadn’t realised they were so extensive, what a wonderful guide!

    Reply
  3. Zoe

    January 27, 2018 at 9:56 am

    Sure does look like some hidden gems here! Will keep it in mind when I next visit Paris.

    Reply
  4. Katie Dickinson

    January 27, 2018 at 8:33 pm

    Karen… this is SO excellent! I have NO idea these even existed! Absolutely adding this to my to-do list when I (eventually) make it over to Paris – and the map is super helpful. 😀

    Reply
  5. Carrie

    January 28, 2018 at 4:06 pm

    This is so awesome! I’m heading to Paris for the first time next month and love the idea of exploring all the little galleries and passages.

    Reply
  6. Donna

    March 17, 2018 at 10:37 pm

    Hi,
    Thanks for this wonderful information.
    I had no idea these existed, but definitely want to wander through them next month when in Paris. Is there a printable version of the directions?

    Reply
  7. Katie Drake-Burrows

    March 20, 2018 at 3:42 pm

    Hello,

    Thank you – this walk looks amazing. Please can you also email me a printable version of the directions?

    Thank you in advance,

    Katie

    Reply
  8. Åse Mohrenberger

    March 29, 2018 at 5:40 am

    Hi there,
    Loved reading it and would also love a printable version

    All the best
    Åse

    Reply
    • Karen

      March 29, 2018 at 5:45 am

      Hi Åse,
      Glad to hear that and thanks for reading. You’ll find a link to the printable version right above the map. 🙂

      Best,
      Karen

      Reply
  9. Jennifer W.

    April 30, 2018 at 1:16 pm

    Hello,

    Heading to Paris on our honeymoon in a few weeks and would also love a printable map of this tour of arcades!!

    Thank you!!
    JW

    Reply
    • Karen

      April 30, 2018 at 5:10 pm

      You’ll find the printable version within the article if you look towards the end!

      Reply
  10. Emilio Mald

    June 19, 2018 at 8:38 pm

    The passages are very nice. However, we had a terrible dining experience at Le Bouillon Chartier. One dish was inedible, the steak was chewy and hard, we sent it back, the waiter ignored us, then made a joke about it, took the utensils from my companion’s hand to show that the steak was soft, it was so hard that he spilled half of the french fries on the table trying to slice the steak! What type of waiter dare to challenge a customer like that and take the utensils from their hands? That give you some perspective of this place attitude. At the end, we complained to the maitre but he was so busy seating people. This restaurant was 100% full of tourists, they don’t really care about returning customers. I would not encourage people to dine there.
    Otherwise, the galleries and passages are great places to walk around.

    Reply
  11. Jeff

    February 9, 2019 at 7:52 pm

    My wife and I absolutely love this post and have added this walk to our Paris itinerary. Our first time in Paris for 6 nights the first week in June, 2019. Thank you for the wonderful ideas!

    Jeff & Deb

    Reply
  12. Astrid Vella

    March 14, 2019 at 3:50 am

    Makes me want to go back to Paris just for these passages!

    Reply
  13. Marion

    May 2, 2019 at 4:10 am

    There is no link to print the walk only for the map. Help! I leave for Paris and would love, love being able to do this. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Janice Macvicar

      June 7, 2019 at 11:59 pm

      Hello. I used the link she provided with the map and it worked really well. Enjoy!

      Reply
  14. Hannah

    August 19, 2019 at 2:28 pm

    This was so amazing! Only bummer is that I saved it for my last day, which was a Monday, and the majority of the shops are closed on Sunday/Monday! Best to go Tuesday-Saturday, as advice to fellow travelers!

    Thank you for the tour, though. I’d never have found these otherwise!

    Reply
    • Jennifer Collier

      February 28, 2022 at 4:32 am

      Thanks for the advice! I am leaving for Paris in three days for slightly over two weeks. I had originally planned to visit the passages on a Monday. I’ll be making some changes to my itinerary. Thank you!!!

      Reply
  15. Vicki

    November 7, 2020 at 1:31 am

    I was wondering what the hours are for the shops. Although they probably varyI would like to get a general idea so I don’t head out too early. Thanks.

    Reply
  16. Andrea

    September 3, 2022 at 7:29 am

    Congrats Karen. That information is so good. Im going for the first time to Paris, I will keep your recommendations in mind, thanks so much!

    Reply

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Authors of Wanderlustingk

Karen. American expat and cat lover from New York City who lived in Amsterdam…. Then, Paris. Now, living in The Hague, the Netherlands. Happily married to Jacob.

Guidebook Author to Moon Amsterdam, Brussels, and Bruges, published March 2022.

 

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