Discover Passage des Panoramas, one of Paris’s oldest covered arcades, and why Hôtel Bedford is the perfect place to stay while exploring the city’s hidden gems.
Why is Passage des Panoramas a must-visit in Paris?
Tucked away on Boulevard Montmartre in the 2nd arrondissement, Passage des Panoramas is one of the oldest covered passages in Paris, dating back to 1799. With its glass roof, vintage charm, and lively mix of shops and restaurants, it offers travelers a glimpse into the Paris of the 19th century. Unlike the grand department stores, the passage provides an intimate and atmospheric shopping and dining experience. For visitors seeking something off the beaten path, it is a true Parisian gem.
What can travelers find inside the passage?
Passage des Panoramas is a treasure trove of antique shops, stamp dealers, small boutiques, and traditional restaurants. It is particularly famous among collectors for its philatelic shops, making it a unique stop for hobbyists. Food lovers will also appreciate the cozy bistros and wine bars that line the arcade, offering an authentic taste of Paris far from tourist clichés. With its blend of history, gastronomy, and shopping, the passage appeals to a wide range of visitors.
What makes the architecture special?
As one of the earliest covered passages, the glass roof, ironwork, and narrow cobblestone walkway create a charming atmosphere reminiscent of 19th-century Paris. The passage is also linked to other nearby arcades, creating a network of hidden galleries where travelers can wander and discover local artisans. This architectural heritage offers a unique contrast to the city’s modern malls and bustling boulevards.
Why is its location convenient for tourists?
Located in the Grands Boulevards area, Passage des Panoramas is surrounded by theatres, cafés, and other covered passages such as Passage Jouffroy and Passage Verdeau. It is also close to the Opéra Garnier, Palais Royal, and the Louvre, making it easy to combine a visit to the arcade with other cultural landmarks. Its central location allows visitors to step back in time without straying far from Paris’s main attractions.
How does Hôtel Bedford make the experience even better?
For tourists exploring Paris’s cultural treasures, staying at Hôtel Bedford in the 8th arrondissement is an ideal choice. Just a short metro or taxi ride from the Grands Boulevards, the hotel offers a refined retreat after a day spent wandering through covered passages. With its Belle Époque charm, elegant rooms, and family-run hospitality, the Bedford embodies the same sense of Parisian tradition and refinement that visitors discover in the Passage des Panoramas. Its central location also makes it easy to explore both the historic arcades and the grand department stores of Boulevard Haussmann.
What practical tips should visitors know?
Take time to explore not only Passage des Panoramas but also the connected arcades for a full experience. Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy both shopping and a cozy dinner in one of the bistros. Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone floors can be uneven. And if you’re staying at Hôtel Bedford, ask the concierge for recommendations on nearby cultural activities, such as a play at one of the surrounding theatres.
Conclusion: a Parisian walk through history
Passage des Panoramas is more than just a shopping arcade—it is a journey into the atmosphere of old Paris. Its unique mix of history, boutiques, and dining makes it one of the city’s most charming hidden treasures. For travelers who want to combine this authentic experience with a stay that reflects Parisian elegance, Hôtel Bedford is the perfect choice, offering comfort, tradition, and a central base to explore the capital’s cultural gems.
