Just around the corner from the lively rue de Buci, in the 6th arrondissement, the Passage Dauphine is not really secret anymore. It was actually opened up to public passage in 1825, but it isn’t flooded with a thousand jabbering tourists YET either. And they will arrive eventually, so before they do, I am sharing this charming spot of old-Paris-charm with you.

Along this quiet cobblestone path (vertiginous heeled ladies beware!), among other white-washed sleepy façades you’ll find a cozy café L’Heure Gourmande, where you can rest your tired feet, a language institute and an annexe of the Ministry of Culture.

If you can gain access to the language institute you’ll see remnants of an old wall, that you can see photographed in detail on this website HERE. Be aware that the institute (Eurocentres) is not open to the public and therefore may refuse entry. You might need to sign up for classes! and learn how to say, “Puis-je avoir accès à votre établissement s’il vous plait pour voir la muraille?”

Enjoy your moment of bliss in the heart of Paris!