Treasure Hunt in Paris: “Under the Covered Passages”

Thinking about something different for your next visit to Paris? This treasure hunt experience, focusing on the city’s charming covered passages, offers a playful way to explore while solving puzzles and uncovering stories. It’s a guided adventure that appeals to those who love a bit of mystery mixed with sightseeing, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines heritage discovery with interactive fun. It’s not just about looking at buildings or reading plaques; you get to actively piece together clues, which makes the history come alive in a more memorable way. Plus, the itinerary covers some of Paris’ most beautiful passageways and iconic spots in a manageable and engaging walk.

A potential consideration? If you’re not keen on participating in puzzles or if walking for a couple of hours sounds tiring, this might not be the perfect fit. Also, since the activity is conducted in French, some language skills will definitely help you get the most out of it.

All in all, this tour feels best suited for people who enjoy a bit of adventure, don’t mind a bit of walking, and want a different perspective on Paris beyond the usual landmarks. It’s especially good for those who appreciate a good story and puzzles woven into their sightseeing.

Key Points

• Interactive exploration: Combines treasure hunting with sightseeing of Paris’ covered passages.
• Cultural discovery: Highlights Parisian heritage and architecture in a fun way.
• Engaging for groups: Suitable for families, friends, or solo travelers who don’t mind joining a team.
• Puzzles and storytelling: Solve clues and uncover anecdotes that bring history to life.
• Accessible and flexible: Wheelchair-friendly, with options to reserve and pay later.
• Duration: About 2.5 hours, making it a lively but not overwhelming activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is the Experience Like?

This experience is crafted like a detective story set in 1825 Paris. It kicks off at Square Montholon, where a brief introduction sets the scene. From there, you’re handed a logbook, which becomes your detective tool. The goal? Catch a killer by following clues across the city’s covered passages, gardens, and street corners.

The journey takes you through Passage Verdeau, Passage Jouffroy, Galerie Vivienne, and the Palais-Royal Garden, with each location adding a layer of intrigue and beauty. Each stop is designed to be about 15 to 25 minutes, where you’ll explore, observe, and answer puzzles. These passages are some of Paris’ most charming covered malls, often less crowded but filled with unique shops, cafes, and historic charm.

The tour culminates at the famous Colonnes de Buren/Les Deux Plateaux, a striking modern art installation that contrasts nicely with the historic passages. The mix of old and new adds depth to the experience, making it feel like you’re walking through a living museum.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Square Montholon
The adventure begins here, where the guide will set the scene and explain the story. This initial briefing helps you get into the detective mindset and understand how each location connects to the story.

Visit and Sightseeing at Passage Verdeau
This passage, less touristy than others, offers a cozy atmosphere and a sense of stepping back in time. You’ll get a quick 15-minute visit, enough to appreciate its architecture and shopfronts.

Passage Jouffroy
Spanning 20 minutes, this passage is a real highlight for its vintage charm. It’s home to some quirky shops and a small museum, making it a perfect puzzle location. Your team will need to observe details and decipher clues related to the passage’s history.

Galerie Vivienne
Arguably Paris’ most famous covered passage, Galerie Vivienne is a visual treat. With its ornate mosaic floors, elegant shops, and historic ambiance, it’s an ideal place for puzzles and stories.

Palais-Royal Garden
Spending about 25 minutes here, you’ll enjoy a more outdoor experience, famous for its colonnes de Buren installation and lush greenery. It’s a peaceful spot that offers a different vibe from the enclosed passages.

Finish at Les Deux Plateaux
This modern art piece by Buren provides a memorable ending, tying the historic and contemporary together. It’s a great place for a photo and to wrap up the detective story.

What Travelers Say

The only review available so far is glowing: “Activité très sympa en famille ou avec des amis. Notre guide Alexis a été super !” (Very nice activity with family or friends. Our guide Alexis was great!). This highlights the activity’s appeal for social groups and the importance of a good guide to enhance the experience.

We also appreciate the flexibility—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind when booking. The live guide in French ensures authentic storytelling, though some language skills might help if you want to fully engage with the clues.

Practical Details That Matter

The activity lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a perfect afternoon escape without it taking up your whole day. It’s wheelchair accessible, which is a big plus for inclusivity. You’ll meet your guide at Square Montholon, with coordinates provided, so getting there is straightforward.

You don’t have to worry about the size of your group; if you’re alone or with one other person, you’ll be assigned to a team. Groups of three or more are guaranteed their own team, so there’s no risk of being stuck with strangers if you prefer some privacy.

The activity is primarily conducted in French. While this is good to know, the puzzles and clues are visual and interactive enough that even some non-fluent speakers can enjoy it, especially if they have some familiarity with Paris.

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Is It Worth the Price?

Considering the 2.5-hour duration, the inclusion of a guide, and the engaging nature of the activity, the cost seems reasonable. It offers a different way to see parts of Paris that many travelers overlook, with the added bonus of a fun, challenge-based format. It’s especially good value if you’re looking to combine sightseeing with entertainment in a manageable timeframe.

Who Would Love This?

This activity is best for travelers who enjoy interactive experiences, puzzle-solving, and exploring lesser-known parts of Paris. It’s perfect for groups of friends, families with teens (15+), or anyone who appreciates a touch of mystery and storytelling. If you’re after a typical walking tour or museum visit, this might not be your first pick. But if you want something lively, fun, and a little different, it’s a great choice.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking to add a layer of mystery and adventure to your Paris trip, this treasure hunt focusing on covered passages offers a delightful blend of history, puzzles, and beautiful architecture. It’s a chance to experience Paris in a playful way, making the city’s hidden corners come alive through stories and clues.

The activity’s flexible booking, wheelchair accessibility, and engaging format mean it’s accessible for many travelers—especially those who enjoy a bit of brain-teasing fun. The guide’s storytelling and the mix of indoor and outdoor stops makes it a well-rounded, memorable experience.

While it might not be ideal for those who prefer a relaxed, purely sightseeing approach or don’t speak French fluently, it’s a solid option for those wanting a more interactive, story-driven way to explore Paris. Whether with friends, family, or solo (in a team), you’ll likely walk away with a new appreciation for the city’s hidden gems—and maybe even a few new detective skills.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
The tour is recommended for ages 15 and up, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. It’s best suited for teenagers and older, especially since it involves puzzles and some walking.

Do I need to speak French to enjoy this tour?
While the guide speaks French, the puzzles and clues are designed to be visually engaging. Basic understanding of French or some familiarity will help, but non-fluent speakers can still enjoy the activity.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is about 2.5 hours, making it a manageable activity without it feeling too rushed.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Square Montholon in the 9th arrondissement. The guide will meet you there, and coordinates are provided for easy navigation.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, ensuring it’s inclusive for all guests.

What’s included in the activity?
A live guide in French, a logbook for puzzles, and visits to several picturesque passages and gardens.

Will I be part of a team?
If you’re alone or bring only one other person, you will join an existing team or be part of a small team. Groups of three or more are guaranteed their own team.

Is it worth the price?
Considering the unique experience, the beautiful locations, and the guided storytelling, many will find it a good value—especially if they enjoy puzzles and discovering hidden city corners.

If you’re after a fun, lively way to see some of Paris’ most beautiful passages and enjoy a storytelling adventure, this treasure hunt could be just the ticket. Happy hunting!

You can check availability for your dates here: