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]
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]
Ephemeris for August 22 in Paris: The theft of the Mona Lisa from the Louvre Museum
On August 22, 1911, Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa disappeared from the Musée du Louvre, under the noses of the guards. It was a shock. It would be another two years before Mona Lisa's smile could be seen again in sunny 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]
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 small cannon in the garden of the Palais-Royal was used as a clock in the 18th century.
The capital really is full of little curiosities, not least in the gardens of the Palais-Royal, where a small cannon takes pride of place. Between 1786 and 1911, it was used not as a weapon, but as a clock! Find out how. [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]
80th anniversary of the Liberation of Paris: popular ball, swing initiations and concert
2024 celebrates the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Paris on August 25, 1944. To mark the occasion, Paris is organizing a large-scale free public ball, with a wide range of entertainment on the program. [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]
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.
Carousel, trampoline, playground... 3 things to do with children in the Tuileries Gardens
Planning a trip to the Tuileries Gardens? With the whole family, even young children, it's the ideal place for a stroll or, better still, some really fun activities. [Read more]
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]
Mystery Cuisine: An unusual and romantic restaurant in Paris
Sponsored - Mystery Cuisine is a secret address that you whisper to your friends... This theatrical setting is nestled in the heart of Paris, just a stone's throw from the Palais Royal gardens. Cosy, intimate decor, warm dark tones, subdued lighting, noble materials: parquet flooring and rough stone walls... The alchemy between the decor and the duo Edouard & Thu-ha is a real invitation to travel and to take a change of scenery for both the eyes and the taste buds. [Read more]
Gast, bakery and brunch during the day, bistronomy in the evening
A multi-faceted place, Gast is open non-stop, offering a choice of pastries, brunches or bistronomic toasts, depending on the time of day. [Read more]
Le Tout-Paris at Cheval Blanc Paris
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]
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]
La Broderie Chinoise: mode, couture & savoir-faire, the new free exhibition at la Samaritaine
La Samaritaine hosts the free fashion exhibition of the autumn season, dedicated to Chinese embroidery revisited by ten daring young designers. From September 24 to October 23, 2024, discover a world where ancestral tradition and modernity intertwine through unique pieces. Fashion, art and innovation come together in a tribute to Chinese know-how. [Read more]
Musée du Louvre: a free nocturne on October 4, 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 to all visitors free of charge on the first Friday of each month, after 6pm. Next date to remember: October 4, 2024. [Read more]
35 years of ANDAM: the avant-garde and audacious fashion exhibition at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs
The avant-garde of fashion is on show at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs from October 1, 2024 to March 30, 2025. To mark the anniversary of ANDAM (Association nationale pour le développement des arts de la mode), the exhibition "Mode - Nouvelles Générations: 35 ans de l'ANDAM" (Fashion - New Generations: 35 years of ANDAM) takes you on a journey of discovery of 30 silhouettes and accessories that have redrawn the boundaries of fashion, featuring Martin Margiela, Marine Serre, Y/Project and many others. [Read more]
L'Écho des Nymphéas: poetry concerts at the Musée de l'Orangerie
If you're a lover of literature and music, here's an event that's sure to please you. Right next to Monet's Water Lilies, at the Musée de l'Orangerie, you're invited to a concert-lecture, one Monday a month. [Read more]
Figures du fou, entre Moyen-Âge et Renaissance: l'exposition loufoque du musée du Louvre
Are you crazy? Yes, we are! Everyone's crazy in the Louvre Museum's new exhibition, on view from October 16, 2024 to February 3, 2025. [Read more]
Heinz Berggruen, a dealer and his collection: modern art at the Musée de l'Orangerie exhibition
The Musée de l'Orangerie invites us to discover Heinz Berggruen and his rich collection of modern art, in a new exhibition on view from October 2, 2024 to January 27, 2025. [Read more]
59 Rivoli, the free artists' squat on rue de Rivoli in Paris
As you walk up the Rue de Rivoli, one building stands out for its colorful decorations, which stand out among the ashlar buildings. Welcome to 59 Rivoli, an artistic squat with free exhibitions. [Read more]
Masterpieces from the Torlonia Collection: a magnificent sculpture exhibition at the Musée du Louvre
Come and admire the treasures of ancient Rome, with a visit to the "Masterpieces from the Torlonia Collection" exhibition, at the Musée du Louvre, from June 26 to November 11, 2024. [Read more]
Revelation! Contemporary art from Benin: the exhibition between tradition and modernity at the Conciergerie
La Conciergerie welcomes contemporary artists from Benin, from October 4 2024 to January 5 2025, for an original exhibition entitled "Révélation ! Contemporary art from Benin". [Read more]
Oh my Gods, Wenna's exhibition that plunges us into wonderful worlds at the Musée en Herbe
Chinese artist Wenna introduces us to her poetic, mythological world in a new exhibition at the Musée en Herbe from June 6, 2024 to January 5, 2025. [Read more]
Théâtre du Châtelet: a historic setting in the heart of Paris
The Théâtre du Chatelet is a historic venue in the heart of Paris, where the art of entertainment transcends the ages. We reveal its history and programming! [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]
Edmond by Alexis Michalik at the Théâtre du Palais Royal in October 2024: our review
Edmond, Alexis Michalik's third play, premiered at the Théâtre du Palais Royal in 2016, is still running at the Théâtre du Ier Arrondissement. After more than 5 Molières awards, the play returns from October 11 to December 22, 2024. [Read more]
Molière's L'Avare: the cult play at the Comédie-Française
L'Avare, one of Molière's best-known comedies, returns to the Comédie-Française for its third consecutive season. The play, directed by Lilo Baur, is a re-visited classic, set in the aftermath of the Second World War. [Read more]
The extraordinary destiny of Sarah Bernhardt, the play about the actress's life
L'extraordinaire destinée de Sarah Bernhardt plays at the Théâtre du Palais-Royal from August 27 to December 22, 2024. The play tells the wild story of the French actress, painter and sculptor. [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]
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]
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]
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!
Dates and Opening Time
From January 19, 2024 to December 31, 2027