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!
Tour Saint-Jacques, the ancient bell tower with its sublime view over Paris, open from May to November
The Tour Saint-Jacques, with its panoramic view over the whole of Paris, is open to visitors from May 18 to November 12, 2023. 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]
History of Place de l'Hôtel de Ville
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]
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]
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 Fontaine des Innocents restored for the Olympics, soon to be unveiled
The Fontaine des Innocents, the jewel in the crown of Paris's Les Halles district, is set to unveil its restored splendor in June 2024, just before the Olympic Games. This emblematic monument, witness to Parisian history since the 16th century, has benefited from a major restoration, marking its rebirth in the heart of the capital. [Read more]
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]
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]
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]
Les Arches Citoyennes, a giant community center in the former Paris Hospitals headquarters
In the heart of the 4th arrondissement, in the former AP-HP headquarters, Plateau Urbain has opened a new third-party space: Les Arches Citoyennes. For a year and a half, a host of solidarity and cultural events await you, before the space changes vocation. [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]
A super all-you-can-eat gourmet brunch on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays in Paris
Sponsored - Rendezvous in a totally exotic setting: a genuine beach hut in the heart of Paris, offering 100% all-inclusive brunch every weekend and on public holidays, with a complimentary welcome cocktail... Choose where you'd prefer to have brunch: in a beach hut with an exotic decor, or under a covered terrace with an exotic veranda. [Read more]
An exotic Balinese culinary experience at Djakarta Bali
Sponsored - Since 1984, the Djakarta Bali restaurant has been an authentic Indonesian embassy in the heart of Paris. Offering a delicious culinary immersion in the thousand flavors of Indonesia, the archipelago of spices. Every first Friday of the month, the restaurant becomes the setting for a unique sensory experience: Bali as if you were there... where a dancer, dressed in traditional costumes, enchants guests. [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]
La Réserve du terroir, the must-try Aveyron restaurant and wine bar in Paris
Sponsored - Sponsored - The restaurant and wine bar La Réserve du terroir offers quality products sourced directly from the producer in the heart of Paris in the 4th arrondissement. Come and discover our charcuterie and cheese boards, not forgetting our famous sausage-aligot and fried Aubrac entrecôte, all accompanied by fine wines served by the glass, ideal for warming up! [Read more]
Mousse, influencer Natoo's coffee shop x hair salon in the Marais district of Paris
Influencer Natoo has opened a unique coffee shop and hair salon in the Marais district of Paris! [Read more]
Läderach, discover the Swiss chocolatier's first boutique in Paris
Swiss chocolatier Läderach opened its first Paris boutique at 132 rue de Rivoli on December 7, 2023. Founded in 1962, Läderach's world-renowned chocolates are now available in the heart of Paris. [Read more]
Bombance, the Marais' finest bistronomic discovery
Bombance, a bistronomic restaurant in the Marais district of Paris, is a delightful discovery, with well-thought-out, well-crafted dishes! [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. Come and enjoy a unique and educational family 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]
L'enfance du design: an exhibition of nostalgia and design at the Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou looks at furniture and objects created for children in the 20th century, in a design exhibition to be discovered from April 25 to August 12, 2024. [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]
Free nocturne at the Bourse de Commerce this Saturday, May 4, 2024
Would you like to visit the collections at the Bourse de Commerce? Take advantage of the free nocturne, this Saturday May 4, 2024, to discover this must-see art venue in Paris. [Read more]
Brancusi at the Centre Pompidou: the exhibition about the father of contemporary sculpture, our photos
He left his mark on art history with his original and fascinating sculptures. From March 27 to July 1, 2024, the Centre Pompidou is dedicating a rich and beautiful exhibition to the artist Constantin Brancusi. It's an opportunity to (re)discover the diversity of his work, with his sculptures of course, but also his photographs, drawings and films. [Read more]
Le monde comme il va: the contemporary art exhibition at the Bourse de Commerce, our photos
The Bourse de Commerce unveils a monumental exhibition, a true love letter to contemporary art, with "Le monde comme il va", to be discovered from March 20 to September 2, 2024. [Read more]
Coming Soon: our photos from the group show at Lafayette Anticipations
Lafayette Anticipations invites you to discover its new exhibition, Coming Soon, from February 28 to May 12, 2024. Immerse yourself in an artistic reflection on confirmed and probable futures, combining contemporary and historical works! [Read more]
Réflex 2024: the photo exhibition on sport in Parisian swimming pools in the run-up to the Olympic Games
In the run-up to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, sports-related exhibitions are multiplying in the capital. Five Parisian swimming pools welcome you to discover an unusual photo exhibition, starting January 26! [Read more]
The Musée de l'Illusion, one of the best family outings on vacation in Paris
The famous Musée de l'Illusion awaits you during the Christmas vacations for a unique and exciting experience, with family or friends! You'll plunge into a fascinating world, where all your senses will be turned upside down thanks to 70 illusions, each more intriguing and amusing than the last... A multi-sensory visit that's a must! [Read more]
The Luminiscence show with immersive concert for a musical immersion in the monumental Saint-Eustache building
The immersive Luminiscence show continues in May with a series of exceptional concerts in the monumental Saint-Eustache church! [Read more]
NewImages Festival 2024: a free festival of immersive films at the Forum des Images!
Sponsored - Lovers of cinema and innovation, the Forum des Images invites you to the 7th edition of the NewImages Festival from April 24 to 28, 2024. This unique event promises a fascinating immersion in immersive art, with works in virtual, augmented and mixed reality from the four corners of the globe. [Read more]
Europe Day 2024 in Paris: concerts, entertainment and debates on the Hôtel de Ville forecourt
The Fête de l'Europe returns to the forecourt of the Hôtel de Ville in Paris for an exclusive day on Saturday, May 4, 2024. Come and enjoy free concerts by Pépite, freekind. and Love'n'Joy, then take part in a wide range of activities, including games, sports and debates. Click here for the program! [Read more]
Jonathan O'Donnell's new show has a nice atmosphere
"Sympa l'ambiance" is the new one-man show by Jonathan O'Donnell, radio commentator and fan of the Parisian stand-up scene. The comedian will be appearing at The Joke comedy club for 3 dates: April 24, May 1 and May 22, 2024. [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]
Le syndrome d'Hercule, a family show at the Théâtre de l'Essaïon, from March 30
From March 23, the Théâtre de l'Essaïon brings the Twelve Labors of Hercules up to date, and invites you to join the team of actors for a family show for children and adults, to be seen from age 6! [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]
Luminiscence: the incredible immersive show at Saint-Eustache church, our photos
This winter and spring, get ready to discover Saint-Eustache church as you've never seen it before! From February 16 to May 25, 2024, the famous edifice nestled in the capital's 1st arrondissement opens its doors to the incredible "Luminiscence" experience. On the program? An immersive theatrical tour followed by a magnificent 360-degree sound and light show recounting the history of this famous Parisian landmark, which celebrates its 800th anniversary this year. [Read more]
BHV Marais: have your treasures appraised free of charge before an exceptional auction
BHV Marais and Maison de vente Tajan invite you to come and have your treasures appraised by a team of experts from April 4 to 6, then on April 23, 24 and 27, 2024. Come to the Rue de Rivoli department store with your nuggets, which could be the stars of the auction on May 16, 2024! [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]
My Jolie Candle in Paris: jewels hidden in candles
My Jolie Candle is the address to note. In this cocooning boutique, you'll be surprised by candles or bath bombs containing a pretty jewel! [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]
Klep’s: the new store to spoil your dog
To give the best to your dog, head to Kelp’s, the brand-new store entirely devoted to our loyal companions. Meet in Paris 1st arrondissement to discover a selection of quality products from all over the world. [Read more]
Playin'Paris 2024: 3×3 basketball tournament, DJ, graffiti and breaking under the Canopée des Halles
Playin'Paris is back for a third edition! This sport, dance and music event, which combines 3x3 basketball, DJ and hip-hop competitions, takes place this summer under the Canopée des Halles. [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]
Les trois petits cochons, a family show at the Essaïon theater
From March 30 to July 24, 2024, the Three Little Pigs await you at the Théâtre l'Essaïon, in the 14th arrondissement, to help them face the Big Bad Wolf. With the whole family and toddlers aged 1 and over, come and join us for a great, fun-filled adventure! [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]
La Planque: a nightclub nestled in the legendary cellars of Paris
Sponsored - Secret Parisian night bar, DJ sets until dawn, signature cocktails...
Celebrate the night in all its splendor in the legendary cellars along the Seine at 130 rue de Rivoli. Much more than a nightclub, LA PLANQUE is a place where ephemeral or lasting encounters take place... [Read more]
Tiki Playa: guaranteed escape for your afterwork and evening events
Sponsored - Inspired by faraway destinations, Tiki Playa is a place that rhymes with escape and decompression, and it feels good! A festive atmosphere rules in this out-of-the-ordinary place: a typical decor you'll love and a Tiki-Club for a fiesta... a break from the city. [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]
Drag Me Up: the drag queen contest every Sunday at Who's bar - Pictures and report
Now a staple of Sunday evenings, Drag Me Up, the Who's bar drag queen and kings competition, is back for its fourth season, with shows to be discovered every week. [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 !
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
