The secret places of the 9th arrondissement of Paris

Located on Rue de Milan in Paris's 9th arrondissement, the LAZ' Hotel Spa Urbain sits at the crossroads of shopping temples, theatres, and business centres. But that's not all: the 9th arrondissement is also home to many other hidden gems that often remain unknown to the general public. While shopping enthusiasts are familiar with the contemporary brands housed in Galeries Lafayette and Le Printemps on the Grands Boulevards, few are aware of the covered passages hidden between them, which are home to many unusual shops.

THE SECRETS OF THE GALLERIES OF THE 9TH ARRONDISSEMENT OF PARIS

The 9th arrondissement of Paris is undoubtedly synonymous with shopping, and it would be remiss of us not to pay tribute to the department stores, which are iconic landmarks in this part of the city. This time, however, we have chosen to reveal them to you from a different angle.

A symbol of French elegance, Galeries Lafayette is famous in Parisian history and a must-see in the 9th arrondissement. If you're feeling curious, you can learn more about its history and discover its secrets by taking a guided tour of the building, which will transport you back in time and reveal the secrets of this iconic Parisian monument. The Secrets of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann.

Just a stone's throw away is Le Printemps, another major French fashion retailer and a must-see shopping destination. It is worth a visit if only for the breathtaking view from the top-floor restaurant terrace. Take a seat at one of the tables and admire the views of the Opéra Garnier and the Eiffel Tower!

THE SECRET PASSAGES OF THE 9TH ARRONDISSEMENT OF PARIS

The Grands Boulevards offer a glimpse into the past, with shops from another era lining the streets. Just a few streets away from the department stores, a series of intertwined covered passages dating back to the 19th century begin. These passages were once used to navigate Paris when the city was an overwhelming maze of buildings.

Cut off from the noise and crowds, these passages are the ancestors of today's shopping centres and will immediately transport you back to the 19th century with their unique charm. The most famous of these passages is undoubtedly the Passage Jouffroy, located at 10-12 Boulevard Montmartre in the 9th arrondissement of Paris. Built in 1836, it owes its charm to its beautiful iron and glass architecture and marble flooring. Another distinctive feature is the variety and originality of the establishments it houses. Here you will find the Musée Grévin, the Salon des Miroirs, and numerous shops, each more original than the last.

To learn more about the secrets of the 9th arrondissement and further immerse yourself in the maze of covered passages, take a walk starting at Passage Verdeau (31 bis Rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 75009 Paris) and continuing through the 9th and 2nd arrondissements.