Charm and Secrets of Paris Passages: Private Tour
At a glance
Charm and Secrets of Paris Passages: Private Tour is a 1h – 2h private experience in Paris, France, operated by Tours Truly. Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 17 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $275 per person, and free cancellation is available. Included: Private guide, Adventure, Charm and Secrets!, Coffee and/or Tea.
Highlights
- Private experience — just you and your group
- Free cancellation for flexible planning
- 5 stops in one well-planned itinerary
Quick facts
- Duration
- 1h – 2h
- Group
- Private tour — only your group
- Languages
- English
- Pickup
- Meet at the start point
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (see policy)
Overview
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.
What's included
What's included
- Private guide
- Adventure, Charm and Secrets!
- Coffee and/or Tea
Not included
- Gratuity, Umbrellas
Itinerary
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Stop 1 · 20m
We will stop to see the columns of Buren, one of the most Instagrammed spots in Paris!
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Stop 2 · 25m
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.
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Stop 3 · 25m
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!
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Stop 4 · 25m
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.
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Stop 5 · 15m
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!
Meeting point
We will begin the adventure by meeting across the street from the Comédie Française
Good to know
- 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
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Charm and Secrets of Paris Passages: Private Tour take?
The experience lasts about 1h – 2h.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from $275 per person. The final price depends on the date, time and number of travellers, and is confirmed on Viator before you pay.
What's included?
Private guide; Adventure, Charm and Secrets!; Coffee and/or Tea.
Where does it start?
We will begin the adventure by meeting across the street from the Comédie Française
Can I cancel?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is guided in English.
Is it worth it?
Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 17 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, which places it among the top-rated experiences in Paris.
