Private Tour

Charm and Secrets of Paris Passages: Private Tour

Overview

Available languages

English

Mobile ticket

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.

Additional Info

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.

What‘s Included

Private guide

Adventure, Charm and Secrets!

Coffee and/or Tea

Gratuity, Umbrellas

What To Expect

Palais-Royal

We will stop to see the columns of Buren, one of the most Instagrammed spots in Paris!

20 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Galerie Vivienne

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.

25 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Options

Charm and Secrets of Paris Passages

Reviews

5.00

13 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Enchanting
Q2975OCcatherined,
Aug 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Discovery of really unusual places For a bike novice it is very easy and our guide very attentive and he shares his passion and know about Paris
A life enhancing experience
Theresa D,
Mar 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We were looking for something unique and unusual to do while in Paris. This was an eye-opening experience. Our good vibe guide took us to passageways that we would not have been able to discover on our own, even though they were hidden in plain sight. I would highly recommend for a life enhancing experience in Paris.
amazing experience
248jenng,
Nov 6, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
an unexpected incredibly charming tour showing us a side of Paris that we would have never discovered without allyson and her expertise. so much fun and easy to navigate.
Fun tour!
Ann S,
Oct 26, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00
This was so fun! We would not have seen these passages without this tour. We loved exploring the various places and learning their history.
A must book!
Flavia B,
Jun 19, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00
Allison was friendly, knowledgeable, answered all our questions and took her time without rushing us. She surprised us with a little French dessert at the beginning of the tour and we ended the tour at a coffee shop where we enjoyed a cup of coffee together. This gave us a chance to talk further about French culture and habits. I would give this 10 stars if I could!! We would not have known about the passages had it not been for this tour - so this gave us a starting point for more exploration!
Paris Passage Tour was a delight
Stacy T,
Apr 5, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00
Allison was a wonderful guide, full of knowledge and tidbits of Paris in addition to the history of the passages.
Amazing
eduardopX1024DB,
Feb 29, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
My daughter and I booked this tour with our wonderful guide Allison. We got to see so many beautiful buildings and learn more about these hidden historical gems of Paris. Highly recommend!
Made our Paris trip even better!
giovannapD6519QW,
Feb 28, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Allison was amazing! A kind, welcoming, and knowledgeable guide who was well versed on the history of Paris. Cannot wait to book again with her!
Fantastic fresh farm-to-table authentic Bistro in the 5th!
jd92660,
Jun 23, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Alison's Paris Passages tour rocks! Always reminds Rebecca and I that we need to flauner with a local professional guide who has studied with passion all of the details. We loved everything about it discovering nuances of the great passages of Paris!
Lovely experience discovering the gems of Paris!
ctsiang,
Jan 21, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Lovely tour by Pierre! Would definitely recommend it to those who are interested in learning more about the history of paris and exploring local hidden charms!