Galerie Vivienne

Of Paris's remaining covered passages from the 19th century, Galerie Vivienne is the most perfectly preserved. Built in 1823, its soaring glass-and-iron vaulted ceiling floods the interior with natural light while protecting visitors from rain. The floor is covered in intricate mosaic patterns of vines and sphinxes. The shops lining the passage sell antiquarian books, wine, fashion and artisanal goods.

The passage connects Rue des Petits Champs and Rue de la Banque near the Palais-Royal, and was a precursor to modern shopping malls. Visit on a rainy day when the light through the glass ceiling creates a diffuse, golden quality. Morning is best for photography before the boutiques open and foot traffic increases. The adjacent Galerie Colbert is also worth a visit.