Exploring the charming 19th-century covered passages of Paris is a delight for any traveler seeking a unique and immersive experience. On this private 2-hour tour, visitors will uncover the hidden gems of these enchanting shopping arcades, discovering artisan workshops, antique shops, and specialty boutiques along the way. The tour culminates in the serene Palais Royal Gardens, a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, participants can expect to be enchanted by the intricacies of Parisian architecture and the rich history that lingers within these captivating spaces. There’s more to discover about this captivating tour.
Quick Points
- A private 2-hour walking tour of Paris’s historic covered passages, offering a chance to explore 19th-century shopping arcades and Grands Boulevards.
- Led by a professional guide who provides personalized attention and customizable itineraries, allowing visitors to discover artisan workshops, antique shops, and specialty boutiques.
- Flexible scheduling with multiple departure times throughout the day, accommodating various travel plans.
- Opportunity to explore the serene Palais Royal Gardens, with its classical architecture, sculptures, and fountains, as a complementary experience.
- Accessibility features such as wheelchair access, stroller and service animal accommodations, and a focus on health and safety protocols.
👉 Check out our guide to the 2 Best Guided Tours In Musee D Orsay
Contents
- Quick Points
- Tour Overview
- Highlights
- Meeting and Pickup
- Accessibility and Additional Info
- Pricing and Reviews
- Health and Safety
- Exploring 19th-Century Passages
- Discovering Palais Royal Gardens
- Since You Asked
- Can I Take Pictures During the Tour?
- Will the Tour Be Conducted in English?
- Is There a Bathroom Break Scheduled During the Tour?
- What Happens if the Weather Is Bad on the Tour Day?
- Can I Purchase Additional Items During the Tour?
- The Final Verdict
- Our Top Picks in Paris
- More 2-Hour Experiences in Paris
- More Tours in Paris
- More Tour Reviews in Paris
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Paris we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview
The private 2-hour walking tour of Paris’s historic covered passages offers visitors the chance to explore the charming 19th-century shopping arcades and Grands Boulevards.
Led by a professional guide, the tour provides personalized attention and a customizable itinerary based on personal interests. Guests can discover artisan workshops, antique shops, and specialty boutiques, as well as browse delicatessens and souvenirs.
With a choice of several departures throughout the day, the tour’s flexible schedule accommodates different travel plans.
Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, or simply soaking up the Parisian ambiance, this guided walk through the city’s covered passages promises an engaging and memorable experience.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Paris
Highlights
Discover artisan workshops, antique shops, and specialty boutiques as you explore the covered passages on this guided tour.
Browse through delicatessens and find unique souvenirs to take home. The tour offers the opportunity to wander through these 19th-century shopping arcades and marvel at the architectural details.
Guests can choose from several departure times throughout the day, allowing for flexibility in scheduling.
Whether you’re interested in antiques, specialty foods, or just taking in the historic ambiance, this tour provides a personalized experience catered to your interests.
Meeting and Pickup
Guests meet at Le Peletier, 75009 Paris, just outside the metro station.
From there, the 2-hour walking tour through the city’s historic covered passages begins. The tour ends at the Palais-Royal, 75001 Paris. The start time is 9:30 am.
This personalized tour allows guests to explore the 19th-century shopping arcades and Grands Boulevards at their own pace, guided by a professional who tailors the itinerary to their interests.
The tour is wheelchair accessible with some modifications, and strollers and service animals are welcome. Guests should advise the tour operator of any accessibility needs when booking.
Public transportation is nearby, making the meeting and pickup points convenient for travelers.
Accessibility and Additional Info
The covered passages tour is wheelchair accessible with some modifications, and guests can advise the tour operator of any accessibility needs when booking.
Strollers and service animals are also allowed on the tour. The meeting point is located near public transportation, making it convenient for visitors to reach.
It’s important to note that a minimum of two people per booking is required for this private tour.
The tour explores the historic covered passages and Grands Boulevards of Paris, offering a personalized experience with a professional guide who can customize the itinerary based on individual interests.
Pricing and Reviews
The private covered passages tour is priced from $67.78, with a lowest price guarantee.
As this is a non-refundable tour, there are no refunds for cancellations.
According to the 5-star reviews from 3 previous participants, the overall rating for this tour is 5.0 out of 5.
Customers have praised the personalized attention from the professional guide, the opportunity to explore the 19th-century shopping arcades and Grands Boulevards, and the ability to customize the itinerary based on their interests.
With wheelchair accessibility, stroller and service animal allowance, and proximity to public transportation, this tour caters to a range of needs and preferences.
Health and Safety
Confirmation for the private covered passages tour is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
During COVID-19 restrictions, masks or face shields are required for all participants. The tour operator prioritizes the health and safety of guests. Sanitation procedures are in place, and social distancing is encouraged throughout the experience. Guests should follow all local guidelines and regulations related to the pandemic.
The tour is wheelchair accessible with some modifications, and strollers and service animals are permitted. Advance notice is required when booking to accommodate any accessibility needs.
The tour operator is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Exploring 19th-Century Passages
Exploring the 19th-century covered passages of Paris offers visitors a charming glimpse into the city’s past. These elegant shopping arcades, known as the "Passages Couverts", were constructed between 1800-1850 and once housed a vibrant marketplace. Visitors can stroll through these architectural gems, admiring the intricate glass ceilings, marble floors, and ornate storefronts.
| Passage | Architect | Architectural Style |
|---|---|---|
| Passage Jouffroy | François Lefuel | Neoclassical |
| Passage des Panoramas | François Delannoy | Empire Style |
| Galerie Vivienne | Jacques-Marie Huvé | Eclectic |
| Passage du Grand-Cerf | Jacques-Ignace Hittorff | Baroque Revival |
These historic passages offer a unique shopping experience, with artisan workshops, antique stores, and specialty boutiques lining the covered walkways.
Discovering Palais Royal Gardens
Strolling through the lush Palais Royal Gardens offers visitors a peaceful respite from the bustling streets of Paris.
This hidden gem, located just steps from the Louvre Museum, features serene pathways flanked by rows of linden trees and manicured flowerbeds. Guests can admire the classical architecture of the surrounding buildings, including the iconic arcaded Galerie d’Orléans.
The gardens also house several unique sculptures and fountains, providing endless photo opportunities. Whether wandering aimlessly or sitting on one of the many benches, travelers can simply soak up the tranquil atmosphere and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
The Palais Royal Gardens are the perfect complement to the historic covered passages explored earlier on the tour.
Since You Asked
Can I Take Pictures During the Tour?
Yes, guests are generally permitted to take photos during the tour. However, it’s best to check with the guide beforehand, as there may be restrictions in certain areas or situations for privacy or preservation purposes.
Will the Tour Be Conducted in English?
The tour will be conducted in English. The overview states that the tour is led by a "professional guide," indicating the tour is provided in English to accommodate English-speaking travelers on the private walking tour of Paris’s historic covered passages.
Is There a Bathroom Break Scheduled During the Tour?
The tour does not specifically mention a scheduled bathroom break. However, the guide would likely accommodate requests for restroom stops during the 2-hour walking tour, as needed, to ensure the comfort of participants.
What Happens if the Weather Is Bad on the Tour Day?
If the weather is bad on the tour day, the tour will generally proceed as scheduled. The guide will adjust the itinerary as needed to ensure participants stay comfortable and have an enjoyable experience despite the inclement weather.
Can I Purchase Additional Items During the Tour?
Yes, participants can purchase items during the tour. The covered passages offer a variety of artisan workshops, antique shops, and specialty boutiques where visitors can browse and make purchases as desired throughout the experience.
Private Covered Passages & Palais Royal Gardens 2-Hour Tour
“Visite formidable effectuée avec Laurent WITTVERT, notre guide préféré (guideapolis). S’il avait été Prof, il aurait été un super bon pé…”
The Final Verdict
This private tour takes visitors on an enchanting journey through the charming 19th-century covered passages of Paris, where they’ll discover artisan workshops, antique shops, and specialty boutiques. The tour culminates in the serene Palais Royal Gardens, offering a peaceful retreat filled with stunning sculptures and manicured flowerbeds, perfect for a leisurely stroll and memorable photographs.
