The R.E.R. (or commuter-rail system): Station: "Châtelet-les-Halles" (lines A, B and C)

A short introduction to the Grands Boulevards

• The Grands Boulevards: a brief history
  Since their creation, the Grands Boulevards have always been one of the most fashionable walks in the city. In 1670, Louis XIV decided to replace the fortifications built by Charles V and Louis XIII with a large wooded area ideal for walking. In the nineteenth century, it became the "Boulevards", one of the most fashionable and bustling places for Parisians to stroll, visit cafés, restaurants and theatres.  
• The Grands Boulevards and its passageways
  The building of covered passageways made this area even more
  pleasant as they sheltered Parisians from bad weather and noise. Built in 1800, the Passage des Panoramas is one of the oldest passageways and makes it easy to go from the Palais Royal to Boulevard Montmartre. It is home to the "Théâtre des Variétés" where Offenbach created the operettas "La Belle Hélène" and the "Grande Duchesse de Gerolstein" for Napoleon III.

• The Grands Boulevards and the Rex
  The end of the 19th century sees the birth of cinema and the world's first cinematographic presentation was held by the Lumière brothers at 14 Boulevard des Capucines on the 28th December 1895. The first cinemas were built on the Grands Boulevards in the thirties and the Grand Rex, the most legendary cinema in Paris, opened in 1932 at number 1 Boulevard Poissonnière.
• The Grands Boulevards today
  The Grands Boulevards have remained as busy today as they were back
  then. There are many cinemas and theatres as well as a wide choice of
  typically Parisian cafés and restaurants to suit all pockets and all tastes. There are also many café terraces for you to watch Parisian life go by whilst having a drink or after a long afternoon shopping in the nearby “Grands Magasins”.
• Transport in Paris
  In Paris, it’s always better to use public transport rather than the car. The underground (Métro and RER) and bus systems are excellent, fast and inexpensive. There are many passes available (daily, weekly; monthly, etc.) with which you can use any type of public transport. Please note that the Métro does not operate between 1:00 a.m. and 5:30 a.m., and the main bus service stops between 9:00 p.m. and 6:30 a.m.

• Bars and restaurants
  
  On the Grands Boulevards, there is a huge choice of restaurants, bars and cafés, from typically Parisian brasseries to small, family run restaurants. For those in a hurry, there are plenty of places to drop in for a quick snack.
  For breakfast, take the time to order a café-croissant at one of the many cafés before starting your day.

• Contact us
• Call back
• Register Now