Description: These two passages right across each other are probably the most well-preserved of the covered Parisian arcades. Bookstores, toy stores, and antique shops fill the shopping spaces. Novelty stores are probably the ones that make these arcades unique – collectors’ items from cameras, to books and stationery – the antiquity in the ambience is apparent. The glass roofs rendered translucent by the wear from their old age gives these alleys that throwback sepia lighting. A wax museum (Musée Grevin) is also located in Passage Jouffroy as well as Hotel Chopin. (Bonus Tip: You can start your day in Le Valentin in Passage Jouffroy for your sweet tooth and tea cravings with its delectable selection of French pastries.)

Description: Crossing Boulevard Montmarte from Passage Jouffroy, the front gate of Passage des Panoramas is difficult to miss. This covered arcade is known for its many restaurants. The hanging and swinging restaurant signs dotting the upper walls of the alley, above outdoor diners smoking as they wait for their meal, give a snapshot of the late 1800’s. Today, Indian, Japanese, and Italian restaurants have already invaded the passage giving it an international feel and variety. You can, however, still enjoy traditional French cuisine from restaurants like Canard & Champagne offering scrumptious duck dishes and, as you can guess from the name, a selection of champagne.

Description: Fresh from your lunch at the Passage des Panoramas, you can saunter slowly to another covered passage which is a bit isolated from the previous three. This passage looks more opulent than the other passages with its neoclassical, well-renovated interiors. The golden walls and the ornate tiled floors are still there radiating that sophisticated Belle Epoque atmosphere. Where else would you enjoy a glass of wine than under its glass roofs? The famous Caves Legrand has always been there with its wide-range of classy wine selection and elegant service if you are willing to splurge for a formal wine tasting, but you can also simply enjoy a glass or two from the Bistrot Vivienne for a quick sip whilst enjoying the passage interiors.

Description: A stone’s throw away from Galerie Vivienne is the famous Palais-Royal gardens with its own perimeter of shopping arcades. It’s a good way to end your tour with its lavish courtyard and well-trimmed garden. It’s normally not as crowded because people opt for the more touristic Louvre Museum just nearby and then, barely have the energy and time to discover its equally picturesque neighbor. It’s here where you can open a book you bought from your passage tour or enjoy the pastries you grabbed along the way, as you admire the manicured trees and the surrounding royal apartments.