Châtelet-les Halles,the central district of Paris, is the place to be for groups of friends. It's impossible to get bored for a single second! Restaurants, cafés and bars are there to satisfy both small and large appetites, and to host your wildest parties.
But in Châtelet-les Halles, it's also possible to cultivate yourself in one of the many museums in the area, such as Beaubourg, or even relax - yes, in the heart of Paris - in the huge Nelson-Mandela garden, a stone's throw from the Forum des Halles.
The Halles district is also steeped inhistory, and although its face has changed over the decades, some of its churches and fountains still bear witness to the capital's past. It's a great place to stroll, shop and learn!
So if you're wandering around Châtelet-Les Halles, follow the guide!
Did you know? Why is it called the Fountain of the Innocents?
The Fontaine des Innocents, the jewel in the crown of Paris's Les Halles district, is back in full view and freshly restored, just ahead of the Olympic Games. Do you know the history of this emblematic monument, witness to Parisian history since the 16th century, and why it bears its name? We tell you. [Read more]
Place de l'Hôtel de Ville: one of Paris's most historic squares
The Place de l'Hôtel de Ville hasn't always been the lively, cheerful spot in the heart of Paris. Indeed, it was here that many public executions took place over the centuries. You'll never see the Place de l'Hôtel de Ville in the same light again! [Read more]
Tour Saint-Jacques, the ancient bell tower with its sublime view over Paris, open from May to November
The Tour Saint-Jacques and its panoramic view over the whole of Paris is open to visitors from May 17 to November 10, 2024. Located just a stone's throw from the Hôtel de Ville, this historic monument is a sight to behold, with its 62 meters and 300 steps. Tours are available in small groups. [Read more]
History of the Pont Notre-Dame
The Pont Notre-Dame has undergone many architectural changes. At the end of the 18th century, the bridge was considered so dangerous that it was renamed Pont du Diable (Devil's Bridge)! [Read more]
History of Paris City Hall
The Hôtel de Ville is one of the symbols of Paris, and an essential part of your visit. But if you're not lucky enough to get in during the Heritage Days, or if you haven't thought of booking your guided tour in advance, discover its eventful history here. [Read more]
The Saint-Eustache Church, at Les Halles
It is impossible to walk around Les Halles without visiting the Saint-Eustache church, which overlooks the district. [Read more]
Ephemeris of September 4 in Paris: Gambetta proclaims the Third Republic
On September 4, 1870, Léon Gambetta proclaimed the Third Republic in the Place de l'Hôtel de Ville, following the fall of the Second Empire after Napoleon III's defeat at Sedan, and in the face of the obstinacy of the Parisian people. [Read more]
Ephemeris of August 25 in Paris: General de Gaulle's speech at the Hôtel de Ville
On August 25, 1944, back in Paris, Charles de Gaulle gave his famous speech "Paris outragé! Paris brisé! Paris martyrisé! mais Paris libéré!" at the Hôtel de Ville. An impromptu speech celebrating the city's liberation and calling for national unity. [Read more]
Did you know? A historic beehive adorns the corner of rue Pierre Lescot and rue Rambuteau.
Right in the heart of the Halles district, the corner of rue Pierre Lescot and rue Rambuteau hides a singular historical treasure. A fascinating sculpted beehive dating from the late 19th century adorns the building at 9 rue Lescot, formerly a honey merchant's stall. [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]
La Fontaine des Innocents
Originally, this fountain in the heart of Les Halles was called the Fountain of the Nymphs, and stood some forty meters from its current location. Commissioned by King Henri II, it was built in 1548 by Pierre Lescot. The sculptor Jean Goujon was responsible for the decoration and sculptures. Now a listed monument, it underwent a number of architectural modifications over the course of its existence.
The Palm Fountain
Through the trees of Place du Châtelet, it's sometimes hard to make out. But there it is, the Palm Fountain! It was built in 1808 at the instigation of Napoleon 1st to commemorate his victories and provide Parisians with free water. François-Jean Bralle was in charge of the project. Topped by a gilded bronze Victory, sculpted by Louis-Simon Boizot, the fountain was moved and enlarged in 1855.
The Galerie Véro-Dodat, a little-known covered passage with the charm of Paris 1826
Discover the Galerie Véro-Dodat in Paris, a jewel of the XIXᵉ century, one of the most beautiful yet little-known covered passageways, nestled between rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau and rue du Bouloi. We tell you all about its history and what you can find there... [Read more]
The Jardin des combattants de la Nueve, a secret spot a stone's throw from the Hôtel de Ville
Did you know? Just a stone's throw from the Hôtel de Ville, near the quays of the Seine, lies a green setting that few Parisians know about. This is the Jardin des combattants de la Nueve, a secret spot that's just waiting to be discovered. [Read more]
Restaurants in the Châtelet-Les Halles and Beaubourg districts, our best addresses
Are you wandering around Châtelet, Forum des Halles or Beaubourg and looking for the best restaurants in the area? Here are our tried and tested addresses. [Read more]
GrandCœur, the Paris address of Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco and his bourgeois cuisine
GrandCœur, the Parisian address of Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco, is the perfect place to curl up in historic surroundings and savor the very best in bourgeois cuisine. [Read more]
Pizi, crispy Roman pizzas from the Zapi team
The Zapi team opens a second Italian restaurant, Pizi, where Roman pizzas and fresh pasta twirl in a friendly atmosphere. [Read more]
Brunch Time at Miami Boulevard: All-inclusive, all-you-can-eat!
Le Miami Boulevard is the ultimate brunch paradise: an XXL 180° buffet in a setting that will propel you into a whole new ambience. A gourmet formula with an incredible choice of dishes and desserts: brunch fans beware! Come and brunch on New Year's Day, Friday December 1: Book now! [Read more]
A dinner in Bali for an exotic escape at the Djakarta Bali restaurant
Sponsored - Djakarta Bali is the place to go for a culinary trip to Indonesia, offering delicious dishes prepared in the purest tradition. For total immersion, on the first Friday evening of each month, a dancer in traditional dress transports you to Bali with her royal and warrior dances, then to the island of Java with more noble and slower dances. [Read more]
An exotic brunch at Djakarta Bali
Fancy a tasty brunch in the heart of Paris? Djakarta Bali offers a new brunch formula for 35 euros. To be discovered every Sunday lunchtime, this offer is sure to awaken your taste buds with dishes featuring Indonesian flavors. [Read more]
Maurice Sfez Café, Moïse Sfez's sweet and savoury coffee shop
A new year and a new address for Moïse Sfez, who opens Maurice Sfez Café in the Marais district, a sweet and savory coffee shop where you can wolf down Liège waffles and indecent egg and cheese. [Read more]
Pâtisserie Nèulo, the temple of flan by Pierre-Jean Quinonero
Nèulo is the name of the Provencal patisserie-concept store imagined by Gauthier Rosario and Pierre-Jean Quinonero, French Dessert Champion. Originally dedicated to waffles, the 5th arrondissement Paris venue has changed its tune to become a paradise for all types of flan. From marble flan to lemon flan and the famous vanilla flan, this is the spot for fans of the iconic Parisian pastry. [Read more]
Yamato Grill, the Japanese barbecue that honors Wagyu beef at Les Halles
Yamato Grill is the name of the Japanese restaurant that opened its doors in the Halles district of Paris, a stone's throw from the Bourse du Commerce - Fondation Pinault. A Japanese barbecue that honors Wagyu beef with delicious Japanese dishes. [Read more]
Christophe Michalak's bakery, patisserie and chocolate shop Étienne Marcel, Paris 1er
Gourmet alert, Christophe Michalak has just opened his new boutique in the 1ᵉʳ arrondissement of Paris. Head to rue Etienne Marcel to discover this new gourmet spot, which for the first time brings together pastry, bakery and chocolate all in one place. [Read more]
Madame Sarfati's brunch: the superb brunch at Fary's comedy club
Madame Sarfati's brunch is held at 49 rue Berger in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. In a magnificent room designed by JR and in collaboration with artists Takao and Dirby, we discover new flavors. [Read more]
Where to stay in Paris's 1st arrondissement? Hotels, inns and accommodation in the district
Looking for a place to stay in Paris's 1st arrondissement? Here are the addresses of hotels, youth hostels and accommodation in the district. [Read more]
Where to sleep in Paris's 4th arrondissement? Hotels, inns and accommodation in the district
Looking for a hotel in Paris' 4th arrondissement? Here are the best addresses for hotels, youth hostels and accommodation in the area. [Read more]
Maison Albar - Le Pont-Neuf, the chic hotel in the heart of Paris
In the heart of Paris, Maison Albar - Le Pont-Neuf has only recently opened its doors, but has already won over many tourists and Parisians with its Rostang-designed urban inn, Cinq Monde spa and sometimes surprising rooms. [Read more]
Le Crayon Rouge, a colorful pop hotel in Palais-Royal
3 years after the opening of Le Crayon, the 1st arrondissement is getting more colorful with the arrival of this new hotel: Crayon Rouge. A sparkling, retro-chic ambience for this boutique hotel that also celebrates wine. We present it to you... [Read more]
Bourse de Commerce in Paris: discover this contemporary art center and the Pinault collection
Located in the heart of the capital, in the Halles district, the Bourse de Commerce and the Pinault Collection offer a wonderful stroll through contemporary works of art. Here's everything you need to know before visiting this art center. [Read more]
The Musée de l'Illusion in Paris: a multi-sensory journey that will make you lose your head!
The Musée de l'Illusion awaits you in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, in the Châtelet les Halles district. Come with friends or family for a unique and exciting experience! Immerse yourself in a fascinating world, where all your senses will be turned upside down... A multi-sensory visit that's a must. [Read more]
Center Pompidou: prices, opening hours, access... All you need to know about the Musée d'Art Moderne
The Centre Pompidou, a museum of modern and contemporary art in the heart of Paris, awaits you every day (except Tuesdays) for a plunge into art in all its forms. Explore its history and exhibitions, and immerse yourself in the artistic universe of one of the world's most visited museums! [Read more]
Lafayette Anticipations: opening hours, prices... everything you need to know about the contemporary art foundation
For art lovers, the Lafayette Anticipations Foundation awaits you every day of the week to show you its exhibitions and space. Opening times, prices, practical information... we've got it all! [Read more]
Free nocturne at the Bourse de Commerce this Saturday, January 4, 2025
Would you like to visit the collections at the Bourse de Commerce? Take advantage of the free nocturne, this Saturday January 4, 2025, to discover this must-see art venue in Paris. [Read more]
Total: Martine Syms' supermarket-style exhibition at Lafayette Anticipations
When an exhibition turns into an art supermarket to raise questions about consumer societies... Lafayette Anticipations is devoting an exhibition to American artist Martine Syms, entitled Total, from October 16, 2024 to February 9, 2025. A truly immersive experience where art and commerce meet in an innovative concept store. [Read more]
Arte Povera: the exhibition dedicated to the Italian art movement at the Bourse de Commerce, our photos
Arte Povera is on show at the Bourse de Commerce in Paris from October 9, 2024 to January 20, 2025. An opportunity to learn more about this Italian artistic movement, thanks to an impressive collection of works by thirteen leading Arte Povera figures. [Read more]
Marcel Duchamp Prize 2024: the winners' exhibition at the Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou is hosting an exhibition of the winners of the Prix Marcel Duchamp 2024, from October 2, 2024 to January 6, 2025. We popped in for a look during a visit to the museum. [Read more]
Center Pompidou: Apichatpong Weerasethakul at the heart of a focus at the Pavillon Brancusi
As part of the Festival d'Automne, the Centre Pompidou is devoting a special focus to Thai filmmaker Apichatpong Weerasethakul, from October 2, 2024 to January 6, 2025. The program includes a performance, an exhibition and a retrospective. We take stock! [Read more]
Surrealism: the exceptional 100th anniversary exhibition at the Centre Pompidou takes shape
A very special anniversary is being celebrated at the Centre Pompidou, from September 4, 2024 to January 13, 2025: a major exhibition paying tribute to Surrealism. [Read more]
The Paris Museum of Illusion, a must-see family outing!
Sponsored - The Musée de l'illusion, located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris in the Châtelet les Halles district, welcomes families and friends all year round. Come and cool off in its air-conditioned space, and get ready for a unique and exciting experience as you plunge into the fascinating world of illusion, where all your senses will be turned upside down... [Read more]
Tenir tête, the immersive exhibition in the Galerie des Enfants at the Centre Georges Pompidou
Until January 6, 2025, the Galerie des Enfants is transformed in the colors of Tenir tête, the exhibition by illustrator Marion Fayolle that takes you on a journey of discovery through nomadic encampments. [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]
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]
Cartel Comedy Club: the new comedy club in the heart of Paris
The Cartel Comedy Club is one of the new addresses to discover in Paris. Nestled in the heart of the capital, a stone's throw from Hôtel de Ville, Cartel Comedy Club is also a bar and restaurant. [Read more]
Escape Game Awards: Mission Galactique at Majestic, best new product 2024 - our test
Calling all escape game and space adventure fans... Head for Majestic Escape Game, located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, to discover its "Mission Galactique" room. Blending scenarios from all the best science-fiction films and series (Star Wars, Star Trek, Dune, Guardians of the Galaxy to name but a few...), this adventure should appeal to all lovers of stellar travel and space opera... A room voted best new feature 2024 at the Escape Game Awards! Ready to save the galaxy? [Read more]
Marco Polo comedy club: one of the best comedy clubs in Paris, right in the center of Châtelet!
Sponsored - Located right in the heart of Paris, in the Châtelet district, the Marco Polo Comedy Club welcomes both big-name comedy stars testing out their new jokes before setting off on tour, and the next generation of French stand-up. You're guaranteed an hour of laughter as you enjoy your drink during the show, with the option of eating before or after the show at the Bistrot du Jardin restaurant, which will be delighted to welcome you. [Read more]
Madame Sarfati, comedian Fary's comedy club
Since its opening in 2019, Madame Sarfati has become one of the must-see stand-up venues in Paris. Created by comedian Fary, from Wednesday to Sunday you can attend professional stand-ups in an exceptional venue. [Read more]
The Joke: a comedy club created by Baptiste Lecaplain in central Paris
The Joke, opened in 2022, is a comedy club created by comedian Baptiste Lecaplain . In an elegant, intimate setting, stand-up professionals and new faces alike can be discovered in Paris's 4th arrondissement. [Read more]
Lock Academy: Professor Lock's detective-style escape game at Les Halles
Lovers of escape games and Sherlock Holmes at heart, Lock Academy, located in the Châtelet and Les Halles districts of Paris, needs you! This escape game store, which hides a private detective school, faces mysteries that even the most gifted can't solve, and invites you to lead your own investigation to become the best detective... Ready to solve Professor Lock's riddles? [Read more]
Escape game: we tested Le Casse du Siècle, the Ocean's Eleven-style room at Lock Academy
La Lock Academy, an escape game in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, awaits you for a most surprising investigation with Le Casse du Siècle... And with good reason: in this room, you'll have to investigate the disappearance of a detective's manual from a museum under heavy guard, and prevent the perfect crime from taking place. Are you ready to solve this mystery? [Read more]
Escape game: our test of L'Examen, the 2.0 adventure by Lock Academy
La Lock Academy, a Parisian escape game in the center of Paris, is offering a brand new 2.0 adventure. Entitled L'Examen, it challenges you to outwit an Artificial Intelligence... The room is also available in English. We've tested it, and we'll tell you all about it! [Read more]
Majestic Escape Game: the immersive escape game inspired by cinema
Do you love movies and escape games? Majestic Escape Game has just what you're looking for, with three rooms worthy of the greatest films, set in a charming Art Deco cinema. A plunge into the past of the 7th art (and cartoons) just a stone's throw from Les Halles, in the capital's 1st arrondissement. [Read more]
Panik Room: the terrifying immersive game that will make you poop your pants
Fancy a scare with your mates? Visit Panik Room, the blood-curdling immersive game just a stone's throw from the Louvre. The principle: you take it in turns to enter a haunted establishment, guided by your group in a panic room. Thrills guaranteed! [Read more]
Modeling: a giant casting session in Paris to flush out tomorrow's top models
The Claw Models is launching a giant casting session for supermodels in Paris on Saturday, December 14, 2024. Come to the modeling agency's offices to try your luck at becoming the new face of a major fashion house or the cover model of a famous fashion magazine! [Read more]
Looking for a unique gift? Dr. Martens offers you its Boots Service Premium free of charge.
Sponsored - Has your pair seen better days? Have you just bought the latest boots for a Christmas present? Dr. Martens is offering its Boots Service Premium on November 15 and December 13 at its Paris Les Halles boutique. On the program: advice on leather care, refurbishment and personalization of your pair, free of charge! [Read more]
NAKED Copenhagen, the premium women's sneaker brand, finally opens its first store in Paris
NAKED Copenhagen has finally set up shop in Paris, much to the delight of streetwear aficionados! The benchmark brand of premium sneakers, dedicated exclusively to women, has chosen to set down its soles in the Marais district, opening its very first store outside Denmark. [Read more]
Book Off, the best second-hand bookshop in Paris: photos and report
With its three stores dotted around Paris, the Japanese brand Book Off is well established in the capital. And with good reason: it's one of the best second-hand bookshops, with its vast selection and ultra-affordable prices. [Read more]
Besides Kimchi, a 100% Korean concept store in Paris
Besides Kimchi is this Parisian concept store that makes you travel to South Korea. Clothes, decoration or even cosmetics, here you can make great finds! [Read more]
The eNeNe concept store arrives in Paris
Since February 8th, eNeNe is to be discovered in the heart of the Marais. This new concept store focuses on premium, luxury and Portuguese fashion designers with no less than 7 different spaces spread over 120m². [Read more]
The Louvre Post Office unveiled in photos and video
La Poste du Louvre, the historic building just a stone's throw from Les Halles in Paris, opened its doors on January 18, 2022. In addition to the famous post office which is back in service, this 5-story place now offers stores and restaurants, a 5-star hotel, a rooftop bar and a green terrace to come. [Read more]
Decibel, the brand-new dance studio and club a stone's throw from Beaubourg
Just 200 meters from the Centre Georges Pompidou, on rue Quincampoix, Decibel recently opened with its dance workout classes, for a different kind of gym experience. [Read more]
Guided tours and workshops to discover the Bourse de Commerce's collections with the whole family
The Bourse de Commerce welcomes young and old alike to its exhibition space with a variety of activities. The program includes workshops, guided tours for young audiences and games to help families discover the works in the collection. [Read more]
The Children's Gallery, HQ of the little ones at the Centre Georges Pompidou
Want to go to the museum but with your family, things get complicated: the kids get bored, you can't run around or let off steam, the exhibition doesn't interest your youngest ones...So, don't worry, the Centre Georges Pompidou has created an exhibition space specially designed for the little ones, so they can discover modern and contemporary art with activities just for them! [Read more]
Tiki Playa is a guaranteed escape in Paris: Afterwork / Evening / Terrace
Sponsored - Inspired by faraway destinations, Tiki Playa is a place that rhymes with escape and decompression, and it feels good! Typical decor, a beach hut-style veranda, a bamboo bar, a giant terrace and a club in the basement. And it's open every day! [Read more]
A unique, festive venue: a pub/disco and even a spekeasy bar (in the same place)
Sponsored - Go to the Hide: it's a huge pub, a discotheque under the vaults and even a spekeasy bar (a hidden bar at the 500 shooters). Reserve your evenings - you'll love the festive atmosphere! [Read more]
Potions & Co: the "escape bar" for an unusual outing in Paris
Do you like cocktails and puzzles? Escape game fans can now discover Potions & Co, Paris' first escape bar offering an immersive cocktail experience. [Read more]
A unique venue: the Miami Boulevard ( Terrace / Bar-club & Karaoke )
A completely new venue: bar/club/resto and even Karoke! Miami Boulevard is big, it's beautiful, there's plenty of room and we love to party, so you can come for a drink, celebrate an occasion, eat, sing and even privatize a room for you and your friends! [Read more]
La Distillerie de l'Arbre Sec: our photos of the gin creation workshop a stone's throw from the Louvre
Calling all mixology workshop enthusiasts... Head for La Distillerie de l'Arbre Sec, just a stone's throw from the Louvre, where you'll find gin distillation workshops, as well as tours to learn all about the making of this spirit. [Read more]
Paris Latino, the free salsa night every Thursday at Café Oz
Qué bueno, qué rico, qué lindo... Welcome to Paris Latino, Café Oz's weekly salsa night, held every Thursday evening from 8pm. What's on? Dance classes for all levels and a Latino party that goes on all night! [Read more]
Ostrea & Perdition: Sea Bar and Hidden Cocktail Bar in Paris
A friendly oyster bar on the ground floor and a cocktail bar hidden underground? Sea Bar Ostrea and Perdition cocktail bar have come to Paris 1st arrondissement with a very cool concept to be discovered as soon as possible! [Read more]
Discover all these great addresses on the map below!
What to do in Paris's 1st arrondissement? Good places to go and what's on!
Located right in the historic heart of the capital, the 1st arrondissement of Paris is home to some of the finest jewels of the City of Light. Between the Louvre Museum, the banks of the Seine, the Place Vendôme, the Halles district, the Samaritaine and the emblematic Tuileries Gardens bordered by the Rue de Rivoli, it's time to conquer the good addresses and superb ideas for outings that currently await us in this sublime district of Paris. [Read more]
The 4th arrondissement, often referred to as the Marais, is one of the capital's hippest spots! Here, you'll find yourself in the historic Jewish quarter, the stronghold of the LGBTQIA+ community and the temple of fashion lovers. We take you on a tour of the latest outing ideas and the best addresses in this festive, multicultural district! [Read more]
Enjoy your visit to Châtelet-Les Halles !
Location
Châtelet-Les Halles metro station
Châtelet
75001 Paris 1
Access
Metro Châtelet (lines 1, 4, 7, 11, 14)
What to do in Paris's 1st arrondissement? Good places to go and what's on!
What to do in Paris' 4th arrondissement? Here are the latest addresses and ideas for outings!
