Châtelet-les Halles, thecentral 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, right in the heart of Paris - in the immense 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 strolling through 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]
Fountain of the 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 listed as a Monument Historique, it underwent a number of architectural modifications over the course of its existence.
La Fontaine du Palmier
Through the trees of the 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]
Kiosks celebrate the Games with free events in squares and gardens around Paris
Every year, the Mairie de Paris organizes Kiosques en fête, a program of free events in the gardens of Paris. For this special year, the kiosks are getting into the spirit of the Olympic Games, with a rich program of free events. With 40 kiosks offering music, shows, readings, DJ sets and more, from May to December, you're in for a treat! [Read more]
Restaurants in the Halles district, our top addresses
Are you wandering around Châtelet and Forum des Halles in Paris, looking for the best restaurants in the area? Here are our tried and tested addresses. [Read more]
Restaurants in the 4th arrondissement of Paris: Where to eat in the district? Our best addresses
Enjoy a gourmet break at one of the finest restaurants in Paris' 4th arrondissement! Follow the guide to discover our best addresses, our latest discoveries and our favorites! [Read more]
Judy: the new gluten-free, quality brunch on the Right Bank
Sponsored - After conquering the hearts of Left Bank residents since 2016, the Judy adventure continues with the opening of a second restaurant, in the very central 1st arrondissement of Paris. Nestled between the Bourse de Commerce, the Palais Royal gardens and the Louvre Museum, this new 100% gluten-free address promises to become a must for Parisians in search of culinary well-being and indulgence. [Read more]
Brunch Time at Miami Boulevard: All-inclusive, all-you-can-eat!
Sponsored - 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! [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]
All-you-can-eat brunch and mosaic workshops for children, every Sunday at Café Beaubourg
Every Sunday at Café Beaubourg, it's brunch time with a capital "B". What's on the menu? An all-you-can-eat buffet for the whole family and - the icing on the cake - free creative workshops for kids. [Read more]
Panozzi, Italian street-food sandwiches filled with the finest ingredients
At Panozzi, panozzo sandwiches come in all shapes and sizes, in a multitude of original and tasty recipes. [Read more]
Laouz, the fine Algerian patisserie, café and tea room in Paris
Laouz is the name of this Algerian company offering fine oriental pastries, so kawaii. With no fewer than 6 boutiques in Paris today, the house continues to delight us with classic creations, as well as more original delicacies. Like little jewels, we let ourselves be seduced by sweets with flavors from here and elsewhere. Also a tea room, the house offers a full range of catering services. [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 jewel of modern and contemporary art in the heart of Paris, awaits you every day (except Tuesdays) for an unprecedented immersion in art in all its forms. Explore its fascinating history, its must-see 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]
Ae-la: exhibition and free performances by Cathy Cocat
Ae-la is more than just an exhibition. The works of art are interspersed with artists' performances and visual and sound installations. From September 26 to October 1, Cathy Cocat awaits you in the heart of Paris, at Vitrines Les Arches Citoyennes. [Read more]
Prix Utopi.e: when queer art reveals itself at the Centre Wallonie-Bruxelles - our photos
Attention contemporary art lovers! The Centre Wallonie-Bruxelles in Paris is hosting the 3rd edition of the Prix Utopi.e with a group exhibition from September 13 to October 5, 2024. Come and discover the works of 12 LGBTQIA+ artists committed to the fight for inclusion and respect for gender identities and sexual orientations. A not-to-be-missed plunge into militant and inclusive art! [Read more]
"Paris!" the free immersive exhibition at Hôtel de Ville, new slots available
Discover the many facets of Paris at an exceptional exhibition at the Hôtel de Ville? Until November 16, 2024, we're off to discover the Paris City Hall event exhibition named: "Paris!" the capital presents itself to the world! New slots are available, so it's time to (re)discover Paris, its wealth, its culture, its events, its tragedies and everything that makes it who it is. [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]
Extra! the free festival of living literature returns to the Centre Pompidou for its 8th edition
The Centre Pompidou celebrates living literature with its Extra festival! From September 12 to 22, 2024, discover books in a whole new way - and for free! [Read more]
Soft Skills, Mohamad Abdouni's exhibition at Lafayette Anticipations
New at Lafayette Anticipations! Artist Mohamad Abdouni presents his latest exhibition, entitled "Soft Skills", from October 16 to November 27, 2024. Immerse yourself in the intimate universe of this Lebanese artist, reassessing his relationship with his native Bekaa region. A unique artistic journey, combining photographs, publications and films. [Read more]
Martine Syms exhibition at Lafayette Anticipations
Attention contemporary art lovers! American artist Martine Syms takes over Lafayette Anticipations for a retrospective exhibition unique in France, from October 16, 2024 to February 9, 2025. A truly immersive experience where art and commerce meet in an innovative concept store... Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Martine Syms through her works and collaborative objects! [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]
The Forum des images unveils the themes of its 2024/2025 film season!
Sponsored - This year, the Forum des Images has chosen to use its programming to its "passeur-ses" duty. From cinema to comics, video games and immersive works, the Forum des Images will be showing us love, history and science in all their visual forms! [Read more]
Pascal Amoyel, Le Pianiste Aux 50 Doigts: exceptional performance in the Salons de l'Hôtel de Ville for cancer research
This Monday, October 14, 2024, piano virtuoso Pascal Amoyel is mobilizing to benefit the Paris Committee of the Ligue contre le cancer, with a unique performance of "Le Pianiste Aux 50 Doigts" in the Salon de l'Hôtel de Ville [Read more]
Mission Galactique: we tested Majestic Escape Game's space opera-style escape game
Attention escape game and space opera fans... We're off to 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... Ready to save the galaxy? [Read more]
Echelle Humaine: the performance festival returns to Lafayette Anticipations
The Lafayette Anticipation Foundation is organizing a new edition of the Échelle Humaine performance festival from September 20 to 22, 2024. An intense weekend of polymorphous artistic interaction awaits you, with performances by Léa Vinette, Catol Teixeira, a non-academic lecture by Rabih Mroué, and much more. Ready to be amazed? [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. An hour of laughter guaranteed as you enjoy your drink during the show, and the chance to eat before or after the show at the Bistrot du Jardin restaurant, which will be delighted to welcome you. [Read more]
Press Start 2024: the free festival about fear in video games at the Centre Pompidou
The festival dedicated to video games Press Start returns to the BPI at the Centre Pompidou, for its 12th edition, from September 25 to 30, 2024. This year, the free festival takes a look at fear in video games. On the program: workshops, encounters and wild games, of course! [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]
Paris 2024 Olympic Games: closing dates for each official Olympic Games store in Paris
For the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the committee has opened a myriad of official boutiques entirely dedicated to the Olympics in strategic locations around the capital. If you still haven't bought the famous Phryge or the collector's pins, hurry up, because they're closing their doors! Discover the closing dates for each boutique. [Read more]
Menart Fair 2024, the international fair dedicated to art from the Middle East and North Africa
The countries of the Middle East and North Africa are teeming with talented contemporary artists: come and discover them from September 20 to 22, 2024 at the Menart Fair, the international art fair organized at Galerie Joseph, in the 4th arrondissement. [Read more]
A pop-up of vintage & second-hand jewelry, where everything is €5, sets up in Paris!
Traveling thrift store, Adjace Paris, is organizing a pop-up of vintage and second-hand jewelry for just €5 in Paris! Until October 6, 2024, head to the Halles district to get your hands on jewelry and accessories for men and women, without breaking your PEL! [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]
A real beach hut in Paris: Afterwork, Resto & Party!
Sponsored - Take off for the beach and the sun: the only beach hut in Paris open all year round. For those who like to party, the Cabana Beach has a SUMMER Party every night! [Read more]
A unique venue: the Miami Boulevard ( Terrace / Bar-club & Karaoke )
Sponsored - 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]
Terraza Mikuna: the South American tapas bar on the rooftop terrace of BHV Marais
La Terraza Mikuna, the new festive summer terrace orchestrated by the specialist in South American cuisine in Paris, is set to set the BHV Marais alight! From the end of May 2024, head to the 6th floor of the Parisian store to discover this hot spot combining tapas, original cocktails and breathtaking panoramas! [Read more]
Tiki Playa is a guaranteed escape at Patris: 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]
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]
Potions & Co: the escape-bar organizes an original and fun Valentine's workshop
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]
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? 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]
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 best places to go out in this festive, multicultural district! [Read more]
Enjoy your visit to Châtelet-Les Halles !
Dates and Opening Time
From January 20, 2024 to December 31, 2027
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? Ideas for outings and good addresses
What to do in Paris's 4th arrondissement? Ideas for outings and good addresses
