Covered Passages: Quaint Shops, Current Concerns

The covered passages of Paris are a perfect immersion into a bygone age of shopping, but surprisingly fashionable again since recently. 

 

Since few decades, people are concerned by their disappearance and a true will to protect these peculiar spots appeared. Only 25 of them survived on 150 in the French capital. The fight is not over.

 

These old-fashioned passages now embody the French elegance. 

Standard duration: 1.5 hrs to 2 hrs

Price: 250€ (up to 30 people)                             The location of hearing system is recommended beyond 10 people

Flat price.                                                            Location: 2€/person for a half day

 

We will see together: Palais-Royal, Bourse, many galleries (Vivienne, Colbert, Jouffroy, Véro-Dodat, Verdeau...)

 

Other tours in the same area: Louvre Museum, Right Bank Landmarks, Opera House, Opera Quarter


© Caroline Weber


From what age is the tour recommended?

This tour is about: fashion, lifestyle evolution, urbanism and luxury. Your children might be interested by this unusual tour of Paris in spite of their young age if they like shopping and secret atmospheres. Otherwise I recommend this tour from 10 years old.

 

How long is the tour?

If you need a short version (family tours or just because you prefer), 1.5 hours is enough to see the most famous covered passages. If you are in no hurry, we can start at a different meeting point and see extra passages, which makes the tour a bit longer. In this case, 2 hours are perfect.

 

Is there a day we cannot make this tour?

No, the tour happens rain or shine. Some covered passages close at night, generally from 8pm.

 

Is there a lot of walk?

The tour is between 1.5 and 2 miles long. Breaks are possible on the way. 

 

Is this visit wheelchair accesible ?

Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible. A readaptation is necessary for some covered passages but nothing impossible.

 

Good to know

There are not many free toilets on the way, it is better to keep small change (50 cts, 1€ or 2€) just in case.

Dress apropriately for the weather.

There are drinking fountains on the way to fill a bottle in case of heat.