Built mainly in the 19th century, Covered Passages are glass-roofed arcades offered Parisians a stylish refuge for shopping, dining, and strolling, shielded from the elements. Today, these passages are sprinkled across the city, primarily in the Right Bank around the Grands Boulevards. Galerie Vivienne, Passage Jouffroy, and Passage des Panoramas are the important ones.
Each passage has its own unique ambiance. Galerie Vivienne, near Palais Royal, is one of the most iconic, with stunning mosaics, boutiques, and wine cellars. Passage Jouffroy is known for its charming vintage shops, traditional toy stores, and the historic Musée Grévin (wax museum). Passage des Panoramas, the oldest, dating back to 1799, is famous for its cozy bistros and antique stamp shops.