Paris: Covered passages

The architecture tour through Paris’s covered passages offers a charming escape from traffic, weather, and the fast-paced rhythm of the modern city. These sheltered walkways transport us back to the 19th century, a time when Paris reigned as both the world capital and the vibrant center of entertainment and luxury. Originally created to meet growing commercial needs, the passages were designed to connect major business areas while offering a calm, refined environment for shopping and strolling. Their glass roofs, elegant façades, and intimate scale created an entirely new urban experience—one that blended practicality with architectural beauty.

This historical and architectural walk leads us from forgotten, timeworn passages tucked away behind the Grands Boulevards—where the scents and atmosphere of old Paris still linger—to the glamorous galleries surrounding the Palais Royal, now a hotspot for designers and fashion lovers. Along the route, we will explore some of the most iconic passages in the city, such as Galerie Véro-Dodat, Galerie Vivienne, Galerie Colbert, Passage des Deux Pavillons, Passage du Choiseul, Passage des Panoramas, Passage Jouffroy, Passage Verdeau, and Passage des Princes. Together, they form a rare architectural network that captures the evolution of Parisian commerce, culture, and elegance.