Discover The Covered Walkways of Paris
Off the Beaten Path Experience #1
Visiting Paris? When you have exhausted the obvious, dig a little deeper and take an afternoon to discover the uniquely beautiful covered walkways that are dotted throughout the city. Each passageway holds its own unique charm and it’s a truly wonderful way to uncover a few hidden gems.
A 19th-century adaptation of the Arab souk or market, le passage parisien was more than just a forerunner to our modern shopping mall, it was a vision of the ideal city: beautiful, productive, refined – and protected from the elements!
Make your way to the Cadet metro stop in the 9th Arrondissement. Walking south towards the river Seine, the first passage along your route is the Passage Verdeau. Built in 1847, it is an antique lover’s paradise. Enjoy lunch at Le Bouillon Chartier, a classic 120-year-old Brasserie, with a great atmosphere and even better food! You may have to wait, but you won’t be disappointed.
Carrying on walking southwards to one of the more famous Parisian passages, the Passage Jouffroy. Unique window displays, a museum and even a nightclub are housed within. Take the time to admire the striking iron and glass architecture. Situated on the Grands Boulevards in the 2nd Arrondissement, it is actually a continuation of Passage des Panoramas. Considered to be the oldest of the passages, it has retained its old-fashioned charm and merchant spirit.
Galérie Colbert has limited hours because it is a part of the National Library. This sumptuous space is definitely a quieter experience that takes you away from the bustle of the city, either for a few minutes or a lengthier meditation.
A gracious walkway dating back to 1873, the Galérie Vivienne is all polished wood, glass and wrought iron. Its mosaic-inlaid corridors are lined with plants. Soak up the restrained elegance and window shop in the chic boutiques, or even stop for a drink at charming Bistrot Vivienne.
A bit smaller than the other passages, Galérie Véro-Dodat provides surprising serenity amidst the very hectic Les Halles neighborhood.
Also on the smaller side is Passage du Bourg l’Abbé which houses several art galleries. The Passage du Grand Cerf is close by and boasts interesting little boutiques—you may have to hunt for the entrance, as the smaller passageways are more difficult to spot. With its jewelry and fashion designers, it’s a genuine oasis of craftsmanship.
As your afternoon turns into evening, treat yourself to dinner at the cleverly named “Pas Sage” restaurant: in French, when splitting the word “passage” in two, you get a phrase that means “misbehaving”.
By Vinceloo - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=21258886
