Galerie Vivienne

Among the capital's covered passages, the Galerie Vivienne is undoubtedly the best known, but also the most emblematic of these hidden itineraries. An expression of the charm and elegance of Paris.

A showcase for haute couture shows

To discover the Galerie Vivienne, the best route is undoubtedly up the rue de Richelieu, alongside the Comédie Française, then through the jardin du Palais Royal and its famous colonnes de Buren. At the very end, there are 3 possible entrances via rue des Petits Champs, rue de la Banque or rue Vivienne. In all cases, you will first notice the admirable façades of the buildings that frame the gates before entering the most beautiful covered gallery in Paris.

It is probably the richness of the mosaic floor and its arabesques that first strikes the visitor. But they soon notice other details that are just as luxurious: the wrought iron staircase, the glass rotunda, the pilasters and cornices adorning the walls, the monumental glass roof, and so on.

An intact historic setting**, and a source of inspiration for many designers who have staged their fashion shows.

Good taste through and through

The range of shops reflects the image of the gallery: either with an eye to the past or resolutely contemporary, but always elegant and refined! Fashion boutiques rub shoulders with home design collections, the large Jousseaume bookshop reconciles new and old books, a watchmaker helps you find your bearings, while a number of cafés and restaurants invite you to take a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Gourmets will not hesitate to visit Legrand, a wine, grocery and chocolate merchant since 1919! Parents looking for a fun way to get their children interested in learning can head for a real treasure chest: the Si tu veux (jouer) shop, which specialises in educational toys.

On your way out of the Galerie Vivienne, take some time to visit the spectacular reading room of the Bibliothèque nationale de France Richelieu, reopened after 10 years of restoration.