In the heart of Paris, the Galerie Vivienne stands as a living testament to the elegance and refinement of the 19th century. Opened in 1826, it was designed by architect François-Jacques Delannoy and financed by the notary Marchoux. This gallery, shaped like an L between rue des Petits-Champs and rue Vivienne, near the Palais-Royal, offers a captivating snapshot of neoclassical architecture with its arcades, mosaic floors, and lavish decorations.
From the outset, the Galerie Vivienne quickly became a sought-after hub, housing high-end shops: bootmakers, tailors, booksellers, and confectioners. It bore witness to innovations such as the Cosmorama and the Uranorama, popular attractions of the era. Yet the passage of time and the relocation of luxury boutiques to other Parisian districts left it in a semi-forgotten state, until the partial collapse of its dome in 1961.
Renaissance and renewal followed its designation as a Historic Monument in 1974. Today, the Galerie Vivienne is a must-visit to feel the mood of the Belle Époque. Here you can still find historic shops such as the Jousseaume bookshop, founded in 1826, whose patrons included figures like Colette and Aragon. The place’s unique character is heightened by its famous inhabitants, such as Vidocq, the former convict turned police inspector.
La Galerie Vivienne is also a treasure trove of architecture. The mosaic floors, crafted by the renowned mosaicist Facchina, create an extraordinary setting that celebrates the hallmarks of commerce and triumph. Its strategic location between the Palais-Royal and the Bourse helped fuel its early success during the Restoration, and after a spell of neglect it has enjoyed a revival since the 1960s.
Anecdotes and curiosities
Galerie Vivienne remains an emblematic, must-see spot in Paris where people love to stroll and step back into a historic, elegant Paris. A walk through its corridors invites a journey through time, offering a charming, indulgent, and cultural pause in the heart of the city. Come discover this hidden treasure, a genuine tribute to Parisian history and architecture. During the festive season, the gallery dresses itself in holiday lights for an extra touch of enchantment.



Si tu veux (jouer), the historic toy store in a Parisian gallery
Tucked away in the Galerie Vivienne, in the heart of Paris's 2nd arrondissement, Si tu veux jouer is a charming little toy store, but above all, a must for finding great toy gift ideas in Paris. [Read more]



Paris to unveil commemorative plaque in tribute to fashion designer Kenzo Takada
Paris is set to honor the legendary Kenzo Takada with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque at the Galerie Vivienne during Fashion Week. Anne Hidalgo, Mayor of Paris, will unveil this tribute to the legacy of the Japanese designer who passed away in 2020. [Read more]
Paris’s most beautiful covered passages, for a historic stroll sheltered from the elements
You may not know it, but Paris is home to numerous covered passages, some of them built centuries ago. Discover the most beautiful covered passages in Paris, their history, and their secrets! [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
Next days
Tuesday:
from 08:30 a.m. to 08:00 p.m.
Wednesday:
from 08:30 a.m. to 08:00 p.m.
Thursday:
from 08:30 a.m. to 08:00 p.m.
Friday:
from 08:30 a.m. to 08:00 p.m.
Saturday:
from 08:30 a.m. to 08:00 p.m.
Sunday:
from 08:30 a.m. to 08:00 p.m.
Monday:
from 08:30 a.m. to 08:00 p.m.
Location
Galerie Vivienne
4 Rue des Petits Champs
75002 Paris 2
Route planner
Accessibility info
Official website
www.galerie-vivienne.com
Booking
Check the prices of this ticketing service
More information
Open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.















Paris’s most beautiful covered passages, for a historic stroll sheltered from the elements














