7 stunning Parisian shopping arcades to explore

Make a detour to one of these beautiful covered walkways next time you’re in the City of Light.

Galerie Véro-Dodat, 1st arrondissement

One of the few arcades in the premier, this pretty neoclassical passage was built in 1826 and links Rue de Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Rue de Croix-des-Petits Champs. With its striking black-and-white tiled floor and marble columns, it’s one of the capital’s most elegant spots, home to antique and art shops aplenty.

Passage des Panoramas, 2nd arrondissement

Possibly the first covered walkway in Paris, this quaint passageway was built all the way back in 1799. If you’re a philatelist, you’re in for a treat – you’ll find some gorgeous stamp shops here. There are also plenty of restaurants, including the traditional French Bistrot des Panoramas, L’Ami Marco and Bar des Variétés.

Passage Jouffroy, 9th arrondissement

The attractive diagonal-tiled floor of this popular passageway lures in passersby strolling along the Boulevard Montmartre. There aren’t as many cafés here as in the nearby Passage des Panoramas, but the quirky attractions include the wax museum Musée Grévin. If you fancy a taste of the UK, there’s even a Marks & Spencer offshoot down here!

Passage Verdeau, 3rd arrondissement

Continuing on from Passage Jouffroy, straight across from the latter’s north entrance on Rue de la Grange-Batelière, is the Passage Verdeau. It is another charming example of 19th-century architecture and is home to many antiques dealers where you might happen upon a bargain.

Galérie Vivienne, 2nd arrondissement

One of the longest passageways in Paris, this 1823 creation is an architectural treat. As you walk through it – all 176 metres – you can marvel at gorgeous mosaics underfoot, while the beautiful glass roof bathes the walkway in light.

Passage des Princes, 2nd arrondissement

This passageway, located near the Palais Garnier opera house, has had a turbulent history! Originally built in 1860, it was pulled down during construction work in 1985, before being rebuilt to the same specifications a decade later. Now it’s particularly renowned for its toy shops, attracting kids and big kids alike.

Passage du Grand-Cerf, 2nd arrondissement

With its lofty 12m-high glass ceiling, this is one of the tallest arcades in Paris and also feels like one of the narrowest. Highlights include the Lil Weasel knitting shop brimming with colourful yarn. Film buffs might be intrigued to know that a scene from the 1960 film Zazie was shot here.

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