Hidden Passages of Paris: The Arcades of the 1800s

Glass roofs, mosaic floors and old shopfronts: the Paris that hides in plain sight.

Quick Overview

• Your group only (up to 10 people)
• Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how much we linger
• What we see: The Palais-Royal, Galerie Vivienne, Galerie Colbert, Passage des Panoramas, Passage Jouffroy, Passage Verdeau
• What's special: Mostly under glass roofs: the perfect tour for a rainy day, and a photographer's dream on any day
• Pace: Unhurried, and shaped around what you love
• Languages: English; ask if you need another language
• Best for: Architecture lovers, photographers, returning visitors who want a quieter side of Paris
• Your guide: Me, a state-licensed guide-conférencier with a background in French art history

The Experience

Everyone knows the big landmarks, but I think the best parts of Paris are tucked away in plain sight. We start at the Palais-Royal, then slip away from the noise into the covered passages built in the 1800s.

These were the city's first shopping arcades, where Parisians came to see and be seen. I'll show you the mosaic floors and glass roof of Galerie Vivienne, the rotunda of Galerie Colbert, the stamp dealers of the Passage des Panoramas, and the toy and cane shops of the Passage Jouffroy.

Since it's just your group, we go at your pace: stopping for photographs, stepping into the shops that tempt you, or lingering where you like it most.

Route & Walking Info

• Distance: Approximately 2–3 km, depending on the exact route
• Terrain: Mostly flat, but Paris pavements can be uneven, with some cobblestones or small steps
• Pace: Whatever feels good to you. We take breaks when we need them.
• Accessibility: If you need to avoid stairs or long walks, tell me before booking and I'll adapt the route.

Good to Know

• Meeting Point: Palais-Royal, place Colette (metro Palais-Royal–Musée du Louvre). I'll send a map link and very clear instructions once you book.
• Timing: Try to be there 10 minutes early so we can start smoothly.
• Weather: Most of the route is covered. Bring a small umbrella or rain jacket for the bits in between.
• Restrooms: They can be limited along the route, so I recommend using facilities before we begin.
• Shoes: Wear your most comfortable ones. Really.
• Bags: Keep them small; many sites have security checks.
• Late Arrivals: If you're late, it cuts into our time, but I'll make sure you still see the essentials.

Optional Add-Ons

• Food or pastry tasting stops (in one of the passages)
• Photo Focus (the best windows and light)
• Other Languages (Ask me about availability)
• Afternoon Planning (I can help you map out the rest of your day nearby)

After You Book

• A personal confirmation once I've checked the date. I confirm every booking myself.
• My meeting instructions, clear and simple.
• I'll ask what you're most curious about (or what you'd rather skip), and shape the visit around it.
• Mobility needs or children in the group? Tell me early and I'll plan for it.
• Want lunch or dinner afterwards? I'll suggest a table I'd book myself nearby.

FAQ

Is it really private? Yes. Just you, your group, and me.

Do we need tickets? No. The tour goes through public streets and passages.

What happens if it rains? The tour normally continues in light rain; several of the historic passages are covered.

Can we stop in the shops? Of course. Because this is a private tour, we can stop in shops that interest you, while keeping an eye on the time.

Send me your dates and what you love most, and I'll shape the day around you.