The Louvre-Rivoli district is a little Parisian gem. Located right in the heart of the capital, it's an architectural masterpiece, a living postcard of which we never tire. It represents the Paris of all fantasies, with its long Rue de Rivoli with its famous columns running alongside the Musée du Louvre, its majestic churches, its many museums and its large parks and gardens that invite you to relax and unwind right in the center of Paris.
To make the most of this central, must-see area of the capital, follow the guide! We'll tell you all about the must-see monuments, the museums you can visit to learn more about the area, the lush gardens around the Palais-Royal for a bucolic break, as well as anecdotes about the history and heritage of these streets.
Here's how to get the most out of Louvre-Rivoli!
The Conciergerie in Paris: a monument symbolic of the French Revolution
The Conciergerie is a historic building on the Ile de la Cité in Paris. Since its construction in the 10th century, this monument has been the seat of the Palais de Justice and a prison in turn. It was here that Marie-Antoinette was imprisoned. [Read more]
La Conciergerie, the former royal residence and revolutionary prison on the Île de la Cité
Right in the heart of Paris, not far from Notre-Dame Cathedral or the Sainte-Chapelle with its magnificent stained glass windows, the Conciergerie is an imposing building with a rich history: this palace, which was also a prison, is one of our national monuments and a must-see if you want to find out more about the history of Paris. [Read more]
The Sainte-Chapelle and its 1113 stained-glass windows, a true Gothic jewel in Paris
The Sainte-Chapelle is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful buildings in Paris, with its 1113 colorful stained-glass windows depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments. This 800-year-old Gothic gem becomes a magical place under the sun. [Read more]
Eglise Saint-Roch, a rich church in the 1st arrondissement
During the French Revolution, the Church of Saint-Roch was caught in the crossfire. Centuries later, it has once again become a beautiful, imposing church, containing real treasures, such as the divinely painted choir vault and the relief-like Chapelle de la Vierge. A must-see in Paris's 1st arrondissement! [Read more]
Eglise Saint-Germain-l'Auxerrois, opposite the Louvre
Just outside the Louvre, why not take a look at the Eglise Saint-Germain-l'Auxerrois, a beautiful church in the 1st arrondissement of Paris? [Read more]
Did you know? What is the history of the Magnolias in the Jardin du Palais Royal?
It's magnolia season in the gardens of the Palais Royal! Over the past few days, the majestic trees have been decked out in beautiful shades of pink and purple, much to the delight of walkers, tourists and photographers alike. But do you know why there are magnolias in this garden? Back in history... [Read more]
Did you know? The Statue of Joan of Arc in Paris has been secretly replaced
The equestrian statue of Joan of Arc, which stands proudly on the Place des Pyramides in the 1st arrondissement, is one of Paris's most emblematic monuments. Since its creation in the 19th century, it has never ceased to be a political issue, although its history remains little-known. Did you know that the statue we admire today is not the original, but a replica secretly substituted by the artist himself? [Read more]
Did you know? This is the oldest clock in Paris, discover its history
Do you know the oldest public clock in Paris, still in operation? Fixed to the walls of the Conciergerie in the heart of the Ïle de la Cité, this clock has been telling the time since 1371. Commissioned by Charles V, the clock marks the king's time. [Read more]
History of Paris: the Cemetery of the Innocents and what remains of it today
Did you know? In the Halles district of Paris, there was once a well-known cemetery in the capital: the Cimetière des Innocents (or Saint Innocents' Cemetery). Discover its fascinating history and the few remaining vestiges. [Read more]
Did you know? Discover 3 anecdotes about the Pont Neuf
Did you know? The Pont Neuf is the oldest bridge in Paris. But that's not all... [Read more]
Did you know? Where does the name Seine come from?
Have you ever wondered about the origins of the Seine's name? Originating from the commune of Sources-Seine in Burgundy, this river is named after a Celtic goddess, Sequana. We tell you all about its history and legend. [Read more]
Did you know? Châtelet-Les Halles is the world's largest underground station.
Who hasn't got lost in the Châtelet-Les Halles metro station? You've got a good excuse, because this underground station is the biggest in Europe, and even in the world - a real labyrinth! [Read more]
Did you know? 4 anecdotes about the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris
Do you know the Théâtre du Châtelet? Here are 4 anecdotes about this iconic Parisian theater! [Read more]
The Molière Fountain
At the corner of rue Molière and rue Richelieu stands the imposing Molière Fountain, built as a tribute to the famous French playwright. Louis Visconti was commissioned to create the fountain. The bronze statue of Molière was designed by Bernard-Gabriel Seurre. Two female marble allegories, entitled Comédie Légère and Comédie Sérieuse, hold scrolls engraved with Molière's works.
Discover Paris' most beautiful covered passageways
Maybe you didn't know it, but Paris is home to many covered passageways. Discover the 12 most beautiful covered passageways in Paris! [Read more]
JEMA 2024 in Paris: the Louvre Museum opens the doors to its art studios
For the 18th edition of the Journées européennes des métiers d'art, the Musée du Louvre is opening its doors to visitors free of charge, to discover the many craftsmen and craftswomen who bring the museum to life. To be experienced on April 6 and 7, 2024. [Read more]
Ephemeris of October 21 in Paris: The birth of the Comédie-Française
On October 21, 1680, the Comédie-Française was founded by order of King Louis XIV, the result of a merger between Molière's troupe and that of the Hôtel de Bourgogne. The sovereign's idea was simple: to put an end to the quarrels between the two rival troupes, while reaffirming royalty by promoting classical French theater, at a time when the Comédie-Italienne was very much in vogue. [Read more]
Ephemeris of September 2 in Paris: The September Massacres
On September 2, 1792, the Sans-Culottes broke into Paris prisons and massacred a thousand inmates suspected of being counter-revolutionaries and in favor of the King's return. [Read more]
Ephemeris of August 28 in Paris: The Black Death epidemic
In August 1348, Paris faced a terrible disease that spared neither women, children, nobles nor the poor. Within 4 years, the Black Death epidemic would decimate a third of the Parisian population. [Read more]
Ephemeris of August 24 in Paris: The St Bartholomew's Day Massacre
On August 24, 1572, 4,000 Huguenots were brutally murdered in Paris during the St. Bartholomew's Day massacre, the culmination of the Wars of Religion between Catholics and Protestants. [Read more]
History fact, it happened on August 22 in Paris: Mona Lisa is stolen from the Louvre
On August 22, 1911, Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa disappear from the Louvre right under the watchmen’s noses. People are stunned. Two years later, Mona Lisa’s smile is found in the sun of Florence. [Read more]
Ephemeris of August 10 in Paris: Sans-Culottes seize the Tuileries Palace
On August 10, 1792, the Sans-Culottes stormed the Tuileries Palace in a bloody day that sounded the death knell for royalty and monarchy in France. [Read more]
Pont-Neuf restoration nears completion
When it was built, the Pont-Neuf was the bridge of innovations. After several months of renovation, the Pont-Neuf enters its final stage! [Read more]
The Palais-Royal gardens in Paris, a Parisian favorite
The gardens of the Palais-Royal are one of the most popular spots for Parisians when the sun shines on the capital. We explain why. [Read more]
The Tuileries Gardens, the ideal place in Paris to go green
The Tuileries Gardens are a must-see in Paris! This 23-hectare green space runs alongside the Rue de Rivoli and the Seine, linking the Louvre Museum and the Place de la Concorde. Classified as a historic monument in 1914, it has also been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991. It features magnificent historical statues, accompanied by works of art. [Read more]
The Louvois Fountain
Located in the middle of the tranquil Square Louvois, the Louvois Fountain is the work of Louis Visconti, the sculptor behind the Saint-Sulpice Fountain, to designs by Gabriel Davioud. It was Louis-Philippe 1st who wished to erect a fountain on this site, and in 1844 it was done. The Louvois fountain pays allegorical tribute to four great French rivers: the Seine, Garonne, Loire and Saône.
The Molière Fountain
At the corner of rue Molière and rue Richelieu stands the imposing Molière Fountain, built as a tribute to the famous French playwright. Louis Visconti was commissioned to create the fountain. The bronze statue of Molière was designed by Bernard-Gabriel Seurre. Two female marble allegories, entitled la Comédie Légère and la Comédie Sérieuse, hold scrolls engraved with Molière's works.
Paris Boat Club, a tailor-made private cruise on the Seine in Paris
How about a private cruise on the Seine? Are you looking for an exceptional experience, a way to visit Paris without the crowds, to see the capital's most beautiful monuments and bridges in a privileged way? We've tested the Paris Boat Club and its tailor-made cruises for an enchanted interlude. [Read more]
Restaurants in the 1st arrondissement of Paris: Where to eat in the district? Our best addresses
Looking for a good restaurant in Paris' 1st arrondissement? Follow the guide to discover our best addresses, our latest discoveries and our favorites! [Read more]
Restaurants in Paris's covered passageways, our best addresses
A restaurant in a covered passage is the perfect place to be when the weather's bad. Paris's magnificent covered passageways offer a wealth of confidential restaurants, bars and coffee shops. Here are the best addresses! [Read more]
Le Tout-Paris at Cheval Blanc Paris wins its 1st Michelin star
Le Tout-Paris, the sublime restaurant that rules the capital, wins its first Michelin star. Located on the 7ᵉ floor of the Cheval Blanc Paris, with a terrace boasting breathtaking views of the Seine and the capital's iconic monuments, you'll discover William Bequin's beautiful contemporary French cuisine, generous and well mastered. [Read more]
Hakuba Paris, the new Japanese restaurant at Cheval Blanc has opened its doors
Cheval Blanc Paris opens its Japanese restaurant. Hakuba has taken the place of the long-established Limbar. On the first floor of the palace, you can now discover the creations of sushi master Takuya Watanabe, in association with chefs Arnaud Donckele and Maxime Frédéric. [Read more]
Au Piment de Sichuan, Opéra's spicy Chinese restaurant
Au Piment du Sichuan is the name of this new Chinese canteen that has opened on Avenue de l'Opéra, serving up delicately spiced dishes from the Sichuan region of China. How about waking up our sleeping taste buds? [Read more]
LV Dream: the Café "Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton" unveils its savoury menu
Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton, the Café at the heart of LV Dream, has added a new savory menu, emblazoned with the Maison's famous monogram. After discovering the free exhibition of emblematic and innovative Louis Vuitton creations, continue the experience upstairs by savoring a variety of dishes imagined by the Pastry Chef, not forgetting a visit to the chocolate shop and boutique! [Read more]
Langosteria at Cheval Blanc Paris: Italy invites itself with treasures from the sea
A Langosteria restaurant is set to open at Cheval Blanc Paris in September 2021, with the desire to offer the best of Italian fish, seafood and shellfish in one of Paris's finest hotels. [Read more]
L'Aube, chef Thibault Nizard's first gourmet restaurant
Chef Thibault Nizard has opened his first Paris restaurant, L'Aube. We're not getting ahead of ourselves in announcing that the latter could well be in the running for the stars. [Read more]
Tracé, chef Clément Vergeat's deeply moving gourmet table
Once again, chef Clément Vergeat touches our hearts with his new gourmet table, Tracé, opened in place of his previous restaurant Tamara. [Read more]
César y Georgette, the La Dépendance hotel café in tribute to Peruvian poet César Vallejo
Hotel La Dépendance unveils its new coffee shop, César y Georgette, in homage to the Peruvian poet César Vallejo, who lived at this address. [Read more]
Maslow, comforting vegetarian cuisine on the banks of the Seine
On the banks of the Seine, Maslow makes vegetarian cuisine mouth-watering with melted cheese. [Read more]
Buckwheat, the gourmet crêperie at Hôtel Normandy Le Chantier
Calling all pancake lovers! Head for Buckwheat, a restaurant located in the Hôtel Normandy Le Chantier, offering a tasty menu with a West Coast flavour! Wheat or buckwheat pancakes... Take your pick! [Read more]
Musée du Louvre: discover the artistic and tourist heart of the capital
The Musée du Louvre, one of the capital's must-see museums, promotes French and European culture through its many masterpieces on display, as evidenced by the 8 million visitors a year who come to contemplate the smile of the Mona Lisa or the fervor of Liberty Guiding the People. A place steeped in history, where art has been flourishing for two centuries already, to discover if you're staying in Paris! [Read more]
Musée de l'Orangerie in Paris: programming, opening hours, history... All you need to know
The Musée de l'Orangerie is famous for Monet's Water Lilies. But the museum holds many other treasures... Here's everything you need to know to visit. [Read more]
The Musée des Arts Décoratifs, the must-see Parisian museum dedicated to design and fashion
Just a stone's throw from the Jardin des Tuileries and the Louvre Pyramid, the Musée des Arts Décoratifs occupies the Rohan and Marsan wings of the Palais du Louvre, with permanent collections and temporary exhibitions that are a must-see for all Paris design enthusiasts. [Read more]
The Musée en Herbe, a child-sized cultural venue in the Marais district of Paris
In the Marais district of Paris, the Musée en Herbe offers the youngest visitors a chance to discover art, through fun, interactive exhibitions for young and old alike, aged 3 to 103. [Read more]
Olympism, a modern invention: the exhibition between art and sport at the Musée du Louvre, our photos
The Musée du Louvre is gearing up for the Olympic Games, with a brand-new, sporting exhibition. From April 24 to September 16, 2024, discover "Olympism, a modern invention, an ancient heritage". [Read more]
The birth of department stores, a double exhibition at the heart of these mythical Parisian landmarks
The Musée des Arts Décoratifs and the Cité de l'Architecture take us to the heart of the legendary addresses of Parisian art de vivre with "The Birth of Department Stores", a two-part exhibition. Visit the MAD from April 10 to October 13, 2024, then from October 16, 2024 to March 16, 2025, to discover the history of these temples to fashion right up to the present day. [Read more]
Musée du Louvre: a free nocturne on May 3, the first Friday of the month
It's the perfect opportunity to take advantage of every month, without exception: the Musée du Louvre opens its doors free of charge to all visitors, on the first Friday of each month, after 6pm. Next date to remember: May 3, 2024 . [Read more]
Fashion, design and jewelry: the exhibition for fashion lovers at the Musée des Arts Déco
The Musée des Arts Décoratifs pays tribute to couturiers and designers, and unveils several masterpieces from its collections, in a never-before-seen exhibition. From April 3 to November 10, 2024, come and admire Parcours mode, design, bijoux. [Read more]
The tree of a thousand voices: an original sculpture installed on the Carrousel bridge
Spring has brought a curious tree to life in front of the Carrousel bridge on Quai Voltaire. From March 21 to May 21, 2024, come and admire this outdoor sculpture by Daniel Hourdé. [Read more]
The Van Eyck exhibition at the Louvre unveils: (re)discover La Vierge du chancelier Rolin (The Virgin of Chancellor Rolin)
To mark the restoration of Van Eyck's masterpiece The Virgin of Chancellor Rolin, the Musée du Louvre is unveiling an exceptional exhibition featuring the largest number of Van Eyck's works ever presented in France. From March 20 to June 17, 2024, we're off to the second floor of the Salle de la Chapelle to discover some sixty works that allow us to delve into the ins and outs of this creation. [Read more]
Henry Cros, Sculpteur et Dessinateur exhibition at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, photos
Henry Cros, 1840-1907 exhibition: discover the work of the visionary sculptor, ceramist, glassmaker and draughtsman at the Musée des Arts décoratifs in Paris, from March 6 to May 26, 2024. An unprecedented plunge into 19th-century art. From wax modelling to the invention of pâte de verre sculpture, we plunge into the artist's evolution through time, discovering works never before shown. [Read more]
A journey through stone and light: the Conciergerie's magnificent photo exhibition unveiled
Photographer Ahmet Ertuğ lets us admire exceptional monuments through his photographs, presented in the exhibition "Voyage dans les pierres et la lumière", to be discovered at the Conciergerie from February 9 to May 20, 2024. [Read more]
UGC Ciné Cité Les Halles: the biggest movie theater in Paris
With 37 rooms and forty movies played, UGC Ciné Cité Les Halles is the biggest movie theater in the heart of Paris, and the biggest movie theater when it comes to rooms in France. [Read more]
Urban Pulse Uprising: French and Korean street dance meet at the Théâtre du Châtelet
Sponsored - The Korean Cultural Center welcomes two crack breaking teams for an unprecedented encounter: the French Pockemon Crew and the Koreans from 1MILLION, a famous dance studio founded in Seoul and renowned for its performances on social networks. On the program: a friendly battle in the presence of a DJ at the Théâtre du Châtelet! [Read more]
The Turing Machine, the play about Alan Turing's true story, at the Théâtre du Palais-Royal
"Turing's Machine" is on at the Théâtre du Palais-Royal until April 27, 2024. Based on the true story of mathematician Alan Turing, the play has been a great success since its presentation at the Festival Off d'Avignon. [Read more]
Macbeth, Shakespeare's tragedy at the Comédie-Française
"Macbeth" is performed at the Comédie-Francaise until July 20, 2024. Scheduled in the magnificent Salle Richelieu, the tragedy is an adaptation of Shakespeare's text. [Read more]
The Palais-Royal, a historic theater in the heart of Paris
The Palais-Royal theater, located opposite the Palais-Royal gardens, has been in existence since the 17th century. Today, the magnificent hall, all velvet and gilding, is the setting for successful plays. [Read more]
The Comédie-Française, a theatrical institution in Paris
The Comédie Francaise, founded over three centuries ago, is a French cultural institution. Since 1799, it has been located in the heart of Paris, at the Palais-Royal station in the 1st arrondissement. [Read more]
A night at the Louvre: stroll and intimate concert with Birds on a wire
Come and spend two special nights at the Louvre with Rosemary Standley and Dom La Nena, aka Birds on a wire. On Monday May 13 and Tuesday May 14, 2024, the two artists are offering two exclusive musical evenings at the famous Paris museum to coincide with the "Revoir Van Eyck. La Vierge du chancelier Rolin" exhibition. [Read more]
CINÉ K7: rediscover cult films from the VHS era on Sunday evenings at UGC des Halles
Nostalgic for the years when VHS still existed? Every Sunday evening from March 24 to June 16, 2024, UGC Ciné Cité Les Halles invites you to watch 11 cult films again on the big screen, with masterclasses also on the program. [Read more]
Paris Sainte-Chapelle Opera Festival 2024: opera in a historic monument
This spring, lyrical music returns to the capital for the second edition of the Paris Sainte Chapelle Opera festival. From Thursday, March 28 to Monday, May 1, 2024. In the sumptuous setting of the Sainte-Chapelle, this musical event invites the biggest names in opera to take to the stage! [Read more]
Alexis Michalik's "Edmond", the play that won 5 Molières, returns to the Théâtre du Palais Royal
"Edmond", Alexis Michalik's third play, premiered at the Théâtre du Palais Royal in 2016, is still running at the theater in the 1st arrondissement. After more than 5 Molières awards, the play continues to play in 2024, until June 15. [Read more]
An Irish Story at La Scala Paris
From February 11 to June 19, 2024, La Scala Paris presents "An Irish Story", a play by Kelly Rivière that takes us into the mysteries of her family. [Read more]
Mystery Game: a thrilling, immersive investigation at the Conciergerie
Strange phenomena have been observed at the Conciergerie... Ghost hunters, it's up to you! Come and investigate in the most gothic of atmospheres, with the Conciergerie Mystery Game. An adventure that plunges you into the monument's dark dungeons... [Read more]
Samaritaine Paris: the historic store's shopping and dining areas and events
La Samaritaine reopened its doors in 2021 after 16 years of renovation. Discover its shopping, beauty and restaurant areas. You'll love strolling around, enjoying the tea rooms and discovering the majestic staircase and window displays. [Read more]
Comptoir Sud Pacifique, the independent French perfume house that invites you to travel
Comptoir Sud Pacifique is an independent French niche perfumery. Its two Paris boutiques - located in the 1st and 6th arrondissements - bring together perfumes, scented candles and fashion accessories. [Read more]
Breaking battle between Korea and France at the Théâtre du Châtelet
On May 2, 2024, the Théâtre du Châtelet will host a friendly breaking battle between France and Korea, during a great evening of dance, where choreography workshops will also be on the program! [Read more]
Run to the Louvre: sports tours with cardio, yoga and dancehall in the museum
In April and May, the Musée du Louvre invites you to an unusual visit, early in the morning, before the monument opens. On the program: exercise your muscles as you wander through the sculpture collection! [Read more]
Mind Runs: free sessions combining sport and well-being to stay healthy
Paris, bouge ton esprit is a program launched in the capital to encourage Parisians to take part in sports, to look after their bodies as well as their mental health. Every Thursday, take part in workshops to get you started! [Read more]
La fête du muscle, a weekend of sports activities for children, at the Louvre Museum
At the end of April, on Saturday 27th and 28th 2024, the Musée du Louvre is organizing the Fête du Muscle, a cultural and sporting event for the whole family! [Read more]
Les p'tits fauteuils, children's shows at the Théâtre du Châtelet to see in 2023-2024
Throughout the 2023-2024 school year, from September 2023 to June 2024, Les P'tits fauteuils will offer one show a month, always on a Sunday, for the whole family to enjoy. Concerts, plays, storytelling... your children will finally have the opportunity to come to the theater like grown-ups, with shows adapted to their needs. [Read more]
Stop the thief of the Orangery Museum: investigate with your family at the museum!
The Musée de l'Orangerie is easy to visit with the whole family: not only do children enjoy the young visitors' trail, with 15 short stories in the permanent collections, but families can now solve a real investigation on audioguide, with the brand new Musée de l'Orangerie game! [Read more]
Le Dernier Bar Avant la Fin du Monde : geek and pop culture immersion in the heart of Paris
Discover Le Dernier Bar Avant la Fin du Monde, a unique place in Paris where fans of pop culture, board games and fictional universes meet. Dive into this unusual space offering cultural events, eclectic decoration and a cocktail and restaurant menu that reflects its inspirations. [Read more]
Discover all these great addresses on the map below!
What to do in Paris's 1st arrondissement? Ideas for outings and good addresses
Located right in the historic heart of the capital, the 1st arrondissement of Paris brings together some of the finest jewels of the City of Light. Between the Louvre Museum, the banks of the Seine, Place Vendôme, the Halles district, the Samaritaine and the emblematic Tuileries Gardens bordered by the Rue de Rivoli, it's time to conquer the best addresses and superb ideas for outings in this sublime district of Paris. [Read more]
Enjoy your visit to Louvre Rivoli!
