A Unique Way to Explore Paris By Bike
Paris is full of hidden treasures, and its covered passages are among the most charming and historic. These elegant arcades, built mostly in the 19th century, offer a glimpse into the past with their glass roofs, mosaic floors, and boutique-lined corridors. Exploring them by bike is the perfect way to experience their beauty while seamlessly moving between locations.
The Passage du Grand Cerf is just 2 minutes away from our bike rental and guided tour service, making it an excellent starting point for your adventure!
Here are some of the most stunning covered passages to discover by bike:
Must-Visit Covered Passages in Paris
Galerie Véro-Dodat (1st Arr.)
📍 19, Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau / 2, Rue du Bouloi
A refined passage with black-and-white marble flooring, elegant boutiques, and antique stores. Once frequented by Alfred de Musset, this passage retains its old-world charm, making it a must-see.
Galeries du Palais Royal (Paris Centre)
📍 Surrounding the Palais Royal Gardens
Once a hotspot for Parisian nightlife, these galleries were home to shops, cafés, and even gambling halls in the 18th century. Today, you’ll find high-end fashion, art galleries, and tranquil gardens perfect for a short break.
Galerie Vivienne (2nd Arr.)
📍 4, Rue des Petits Champs / 6, Rue Vivienne
One of Paris’ most luxurious passages, with stunning neoclassical architecture, a beautiful mosaic floor, and historic bookshops. Don’t miss the A Priori Thé salon for a cozy tea break!
Passage des Panoramas (2nd Arr.)
📍 11-13, Boulevard Montmartre / 38, Rue Vivienne
Dating back to 1799, this is the oldest covered passage in Paris. It’s known for its vintage shops, stamp collectors, and the iconic Théâtre des Variétés. A paradise for history lovers!
Passage Choiseul (2nd Arr.)
📍 40, Rue des Petits Champs / 23, Rue Saint-Augustin
At 190 meters long, this is one of Paris' longest passages. It was once home to Paul Verlaine and still houses independent bookstores, fashion boutiques, and cozy cafés.
Passage Jouffroy (9th Arr.)
📍 10-12, Boulevard Montmartre / 9, Rue de la Grange Batelière
Home to the famous Musée Grévin (wax museum), this passage was one of the first to be built with an iron-and-glass structure. Expect antique bookstores, old-world charm, and unique Parisian souvenirs.
Passage du Grand Cerf (2nd Arr.)
📍 145, Rue Saint-Denis / 10, Rue Dussoubs
With 12-meter-high ceilings, this is one of the tallest passages in Paris. It is known for artisan workshops, jewelry designers, and concept stores—a great place to find unique handmade goods!
Passage du Bourg l’Abbé (2nd Arr.)
📍 120, Rue Saint-Denis / 3, Rue de Palestro
A hidden gem with stunning 19th-century ironwork and sculptures. The entrance is guarded by statues representing Industry and Commerce, a nod to the passage’s historical role in trade.
Passage du Caire (2nd Arr.)
📍 2, Place du Caire / 16-34-44, Rue du Caire
The longest passage in Paris (370m), named after Napoleon’s fascination with Egypt. It’s now the hub of textile and fashion wholesalers, giving it a lively, commercial atmosphere.
Passage Brady (10th Arr.)
📍 46, Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis / 33, Boulevard de Strasbourg
Nicknamed "Little India", this passage is a paradise for Indian, Pakistani, and Mauritian cuisine. A perfect spot to end your ride with flavorful curries, spices, and exotic teas.
How to Connect These Passages by Bike?
One of the best things about cycling in Paris is how effortlessly you can navigate from one charming spot to another. Most of these covered passages are located in the 1st, 2nd, and 10th arrondissements, making it easy to create your own self-guided cycling tour.
Suggested Route:
1️⃣ Start at Passage du Grand Cerf (2 min from our bike rental)
2️⃣ Ride along Rue Saint-Denis to Galerie Véro-Dodat
3️⃣ Follow Rue des Petits Champs to reach Galerie Vivienne & Galerie Colbert
4️⃣ From there, a short pedal to Passage des Panoramas & Passage Choiseul
5️⃣ Take Rue Saint-Denis north to explore Passage du Caire
6️⃣ End your ride at Passage Brady, where you can enjoy a delicious Indian meal
This route avoids major roads, prioritizing quiet streets and bike-friendly lanes, so you can enjoy a smooth, relaxed ride while soaking in the Parisian charm! 🚴✨
➡️ Want to rent a bike or join a guided cycling tour? Check out our services here!
