Passage des Panoramas: a hidden gem at the heart of Paris
The Passage des Panoramas is located in the 2nd arrondissement of Paris. It is close to the Opéra Garnier and Boulevard Haussmann. It is one of the oldest covered passages in the City of Light and in Europe. Originally, it housed more than sixty habitable shops.
With its picturesque shops, fascinating history, and timeless charm, the Passage des Panoramas offers a unique experience, captivating visitors and transporting them to 19th-century Paris.
Note: photos related to this article can be found in the gallery at the end of the text.
A Architectural Gem
It was inaugurated in 1799 and was one of the first covered passages built in Paris. It was designed to accommodate various shops under an elegant glass roof.
The architecture of the passage blends neoclassical aesthetics with modern elements of the era, creating a distinctive atmosphere that appeals to history and architecture enthusiasts.
More information: 19 Covered Passages of Paris, a Refined 19th-Century Atmosphere
The Glass Roof and Decoration
The glass roof of the Passage des Panoramas allows natural light to filter through, illuminating the walkways and creating a warm and welcoming ambiance. Architectural details, such as Corinthian columns and delicate ornaments, add an elegant touch to the ensemble.
A Journey Through Commercial History
It was once the heart of Parisian commercial activity, attracting customers with its diverse shops and unique attractions. Over the years, it has evolved while preserving its original character.
Today, visitors can stroll along this 133-meter passage buzzing with activity. Food shops alternate with artisans’ boutiques.
They share the space with collectors of postcards, coins, autographs, and vintage stamps. Also found here are antique bookshops and artisanal souvenir stores.
You can admire preserved period decor, such as that of the former chocolatier Marquis and the Stern printing house, symbolizing the ambitious urban planning of the late 18th century.
Antique lovers will also find their happiness among the many specialized shops.
The Théâtre des Variétés
Inaugurated in 1807, the Théâtre des Variétés is still in operation today. It hosts shows and comedies, with celebrities performing there for two centuries.
Gastronomy takes center stage
In addition to its wide range of shops, it is also renowned for its varied culinary scene. Michelin-starred restaurants rub shoulders with traditional bistros, offering visitors an enticing array of flavors.
Whether it’s enjoying a coffee in one of the historic brasseries or savoring refined cuisine in one of the starred restaurants, the Passage des Panoramas offers a memorable culinary experience for all tastes.
Events and entertainment
This Passage is not just a historic site, but also a dynamic space that regularly hosts cultural events and exhibitions.
From contemporary art exhibitions to artistic performances, the Passage remains a vibrant place that adapts to modern trends while preserving its heritage.
The Passage des Panoramas and the American steam engine inventor Robert Fulton
On April 26, 1799 (5 Floréal, Year VII), the American engineer and inventor Robert Fulton (also a painter) obtained a ten-year patent to import the panorama invented by Robert Barker in England.
To this end, he had a rotunda built in Paris along the Boulevard des Capucines, where the first French panoramic view, "View of Paris from the Tuileries", painted by Pierre Prévost and Delafontaine, was displayed.
Fulton then sold the patent to another Parisian, James William Thayer (1763–1835), who had just acquired the Hôtel de Montmorency-Luxembourg. He had the future Passage des Panoramas built there, topped with a double rotunda to house the attraction.
Note on Fulton, American businessman and inventor
In reality, Fulton was in France to try to sell his submarine project, which he had named the "Nautilus" (a name later reused by Jules Verne seventy years later). The construction of the rotunda on the Boulevard des Capucines helped fund the studies and trials of his submarine.
Ultimately, although his prototype was far superior to the competition, it was not selected by Bonaparte (apparently due to his Minister of the Navy, Decrès, who opposed all innovation).
Fulton took this rejection philosophically and was then approached by the British, who saw the advantages of the Nautilus.
He then emigrated to the United Kingdom. But fortunately for France, the British failed to capitalize on Fulton’s expertise. They merely offered to buy his “secrets” on the condition that he never put them into practice. The American refused the offer.
The Passage des Panoramas: its American builder James William Thayer
James William Thayer was an American shipowner.
On Boulevard Montmartre, he had two towers constructed (two rotundas, 17 metres in diameter and 7 metres high) in which he installed his panoramas. These were painted frescoes covering the walls of a rotunda and very fashionable at the time.
To see nearby
Musée de l'Hôtel de la Marine - Book tickets for the Hôtel de la Marine – Intendants’ Apartments - Book tickets for the Hôtel de la Marine – Salons and Loggia - Book tickets for the Hôtel de la Marine – Al Thani Collection
Musée des Arts et Métiers - Book Musée des Arts et Métiers tickets
Conciergerie – Book Conciergerie tickets (Combined Sainte-Chapelle)
Notre-Dame de Paris – Book Notre-Dame de Paris tickets (Free entry but reservation recommended to avoid queues)
Bonus: 5 essential tips for organizing and enjoying your stay in Paris
Have you noticed that our site provides you with tools to easily plan your trip to Paris so your stay is a stress-free success?
1. Phrasebook Translator for those who don’t speak French fluently
Having trouble finding the right word or phrase in French? Click here on PHRASEBOOK – or at the top right of your screen. It’s a glossary of 100 useful words and/or expressions for a tourist visiting Paris (At the restaurant, Hotel, Shopping, Metro, Greetings, Asking for directions, etc.). Eight languages are available. And guess what? Each word and phrase can also be heard in real French.
2. VPBY’s Trip Generator
There are many interesting and educational things to see in Paris. A well-organized trip is highly recommended. To help you, we offer you, FREE OF CHARGE, our Trip Generator.
In 5 minutes and 5 clicks, you’ll get your half-day-by-half-day visit schedule, with all reservations—if you want, no obligation—for the sites you wish to visit. Reservations for your transport (plane, train, or car) and your accommodation are also included. Even suggestions for valuable gift souvenirs for you, your friends, and your family.
How does it work?
Click on "Paris stay organizer"—completely free—which will save you the hassle of trying to see as much as possible in the shortest time. Then you’ll need to choose:
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Note: Want to know what users of the VPBY Stay Generator think of their experience? Click on "They planned their trip with VPBY"
3. List of Reservations to Make
To avoid wasting time queuing, we recommend making your reservations online a few days in advance. All official reservations are useful and available on our website:
Reservations to enter museums, monuments, shows, and Seine River cruises
Reservations for your arrival in France: flights, trains, and cars
Reservations for your accommodation: hotels, apartments, guesthouses – in Paris or nearby
You’ll find links to all these reservations directly in the articles about the attractions that interest you or in the self-guided itineraries of our walks. By clicking on "Reservations" in the header bar, you’ll have access to all the reservations you’ll need during your stay. For example:
Notre-Dame de Paris entry reservation (Free entry but reservation recommended to avoid queues)
Book tickets for Château de Versailles: Entry + Gardens Access + Trianon Estate
4. Collectible Photo Souvenirs of Paris
These are collectible HD photos available in digital format or as long-lasting prints (75 to 100 years). Their size ranges from postcard to large format (1 m or more on one side). A lifetime keepsake to decorate your home. High-quality souvenirs (unlike typical plastic Eiffel Towers or snow globes). At very affordable prices. Click on:
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Professional photographers will capture Paris at the spots you choose or we recommend. Ideal for families, weddings, and other special events. Sessions last from 1 hour to a full day. The best quality-to-price ratio. Click here: