Boulevard Haussmann Sightseeing: Cultural Attractions & Historic Landmarks

Religious & Historic Architecture

L'Église Saint-Augustin

A Hidden Architectural Marvel: This remarkable 19th-century Byzantine-styled church dedicated to Saint Augustine represents a fascinating fusion of traditional and modern construction techniques. Built using the same revolutionary steel technology from the same factory as the Eiffel Tower, the church's exterior stone and glass facade conceals a cutting-edge steel framework that was considered "modern" engineering in its time.

Artistic Features: The facade showcases intricate religious imagery with the four evangelists prominently displayed, crowned by the twelve apostles above. Inside, visitors are treated to stunning stained glass windows depicting first-century Christian scenes, while colorful angels adorning the columns create a celestial atmosphere that transforms this space into a peaceful sanctuary.

Garden & Monuments: The church's rear faces Boulevard Haussmann, surrounded by a tranquil garden featuring several notable statues, including a dramatic equestrian statue of Joan of Arc and a monument to Paul Déroulède, the French poet and politician.

Visit Information:
Address: 46 Boulevard Malesherbes, 75008 Paris
Opening Hours: Daily 8:00-19:00
Admission: Free
Website: paroisse-saint-augustin.com

Chapelle Expiatoire - Memorial to French Royalty

Historical Significance: This poignant small chapel stands as a memorial to Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, though the royal couple was never actually interred here. Located within the peaceful Square Louis XVI, this neoclassical architectural gem represents a rare and moving example of late neoclassical design and serves as a place of remembrance for France's tumultuous revolutionary period.

Architectural Style: The chapel exemplifies late neoclassical architecture with its solemn yet elegant proportions, creating a contemplative atmosphere perfect for reflection on French history.

Visit Information:
Address: 29 Rue Pasquier, 75008 Paris
Metro: Saint-Augustin (Line 9) - 3-minute walk
Opening Hours: Thursday-Saturday 13:00-17:00
Admission: €6 adults, free under 18
Website: paris.fr/equipements/chapelle-expiatoire

World-Class Museums & Cultural Institutions

Musée Jacquemart-André - Intimate Art Collection

Private Mansion Experience: This exceptional private mansion, now dedicated to public enjoyment, offers an unparalleled intimate art experience. Unlike larger museums where masterpieces are viewed from a distance, the original residential setting allows visitors to experience rare paintings and art from around the world in the personal, domestic environment for which they were originally intended.

Haussmann Architecture: The museum building itself represents a perfect example of 19th-century Parisian luxury, featuring many of the architectural elements that make Boulevard Haussmann famous. For those interested in understanding the interior design principles that shaped these magnificent spaces, explore our comprehensive Haussmann Style Interior Design Guide to learn about the herringbone floors, ornate moldings, and period details that create the distinctive Parisian atmosphere.

Collection Highlights: The museum houses an impressive collection spanning Italian Renaissance art, French 18th-century paintings, and decorative arts, all displayed within the beautifully preserved mansion setting.

Digital Experience: Enhance your visit by downloading the museum's free app, which provides detailed commentary and hidden stories about the collection and the mansion's fascinating history.

Visit Information:
Address: 158 Boulevard Haussmann, 75008 Paris
Opening Hours: Daily 10:00-18:00
Admission: €17 adults, €10 students
Website: musee-jacquemart-andre.com

Iconic Performance Venues

Palais Garnier - Opéra National de Paris

Architectural Masterpiece: Completed in 1875, this magnificent building was purpose-built for opera and represents one of the world's most beautiful opera houses. Named after its architect Charles Garnier, the Palais Garnier embodies the opulent Second Empire architectural style and continues to influence cultural institutions worldwide.

Tours & Performances: Experience the building's historic grandeur through guided tours available in English at 11:30 daily, or attend world-class performances throughout the season. Self-guided visits are available with an audio guide for €14.

Dining Experience: After your tour, consider dining at L'Opéra Restaurant, located within the venue, offering fine cuisine in an appropriately theatrical setting.

Visit Information:
Address: Place de l'Opéra, 75009 Paris
Tour Hours: Daily 10:00-17:00 (subject to performance schedule)
Tour Admission: €14 adults, €10 students and seniors
Website: operadeparis.fr

Shopping as Cultural Experience

Galeries Lafayette - Architectural Wonder

More Than Shopping: While world-renowned for luxury shopping, Galeries Lafayette stands as an architectural and cultural destination in its own right. The stunning Art Nouveau dome and the building's historic significance make it essential viewing for any cultural enthusiast visiting Boulevard Haussmann.

Free Cultural Experiences:
• Rooftop Terrace: Free access to the 8th-floor public terrace offering panoramic views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower
• Dome Architecture: Marvel at the 43-meter-high Art Nouveau stained glass dome
• Fashion Shows: Free Friday afternoon fashion shows (15:00) beneath the iconic dome

Visit Information:
Address: 40 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris
Cultural Access: Free (shopping optional)
Website: galerieslafayette.com

Historic Monuments & Memorials

Statue de Georges Eugène Haussmann

Tribute to Urban Vision: Located at the corner of Boulevard Haussmann and Rue de Laborde, this statue honoring Baron Haussmann wasn't erected until 1991—over a century after his transformative work on Paris. Today, it serves as a rare public reminder of the visionary city planner who, despite ultimately resigning his position, set in motion the urban planning initiatives that created modern Paris as we know it today.

Historical Context: The statue's inscription reads "Baron G.E. Haussmann, 1809-1891, Préfet de la Seine de 1853 à 1870," commemorating his pivotal 17-year tenure reshaping Paris under Napoleon III.

Visit Information:
Location: Corner of Boulevard Haussmann and Rue de Laborde
Access: Always accessible, best viewed during daylight hours
Learn More: Complete guide to the Haussmann statue

📸 Instagram & Photography Spots: Boulevard Haussmann's Most Photogenic Locations

Iconic Architecture Photography

Galeries Lafayette Art Nouveau Dome: The crown jewel of Boulevard Haussmann photography, this stunning 1912 dome offers multiple shooting angles. Capture the intricate stained glass from below during afternoon light (14:00-16:00) for the most dramatic effect, or photograph the exterior dome from the rooftop terrace for architectural context against the Paris skyline.

Haussmannian Building Facades: The cream-colored limestone buildings with their characteristic wrought-iron balconies create perfect symmetrical compositions. Best shots: early morning golden hour (7:00-9:00) when soft light highlights the architectural details, or late afternoon when shadows add depth and dimension to the uniform facades.

Luxury Shopping Photography

Printemps Rooftop Terrace: The 360-degree panoramic views from Printemps 7ème Ciel rooftop provide spectacular backdrops for portrait photography and cityscape shots. The terrace offers unobstructed views of Sacré-Cœur, the Eiffel Tower, and the Opera district. Visit during sunset for the most dramatic lighting.

Department Store Interiors: Both Galeries Lafayette and Printemps welcome photography for personal use. The Art Deco details in Printemps and the Art Nouveau elements in Galeries Lafayette create stunning architectural photography opportunities. Ask permission before photographing specific brand displays.

Street Photography Opportunities

Boulevard Life in Motion: Capture the elegant rhythm of Parisian life along the tree-lined boulevard. The wide sidewalks and regular spacing of trees create natural framing opportunities for candid street photography. Best times: morning rush (8:00-9:30) for business elegance, or evening shopping hours (17:00-19:00) for luxury lifestyle shots.

Seasonal Photography: Christmas illuminations (November-January) transform Boulevard Haussmann into a photography wonderland. The department stores' elaborate window displays and street decorations create magical scenes perfect for holiday photography. Arrive early evening (17:00-18:00) to capture the transition from daylight to illuminated night scenes.

Social Media Photography Strategy

Instagram-Ready Compositions: The geometric patterns of Haussmannian architecture create naturally Instagram-friendly content. Focus on symmetry, leading lines (use the boulevard's perspective), and the interplay between classical architecture and contemporary luxury retail. The contrast between historical buildings and modern window displays tells the story of Paris's evolution.

Best Hashtags for Discovery: #BoulevardHaussmann #GaleriesLafayette #PrintempsHaussmann #ParisArchitecture #HaussmannStyle #ParisLuxury #OperaDistrict #ParisianStyle #LuxuryShopping #ParisPhotography

Photography Etiquette and Guidelines

Respectful Photography: While Boulevard Haussmann is public space, be mindful of shoppers and residents. Department stores welcome photography for personal use but request discretion around specific brand displays and customer privacy. Street photography should always respect individual privacy and French photography laws.

Professional Photography: For commercial or professional shoots, contact individual venues for permission. Both Galeries Lafayette and Printemps offer photography services and can facilitate professional access during appropriate hours.

🎭 Seasonal Events & Special Attractions

Paris Fashion Week Events (2025)

Spring/Summer Fashion Week (September 25 - October 3, 2025): Boulevard Haussmann becomes the epicenter of Paris fashion during Fashion Week. Galeries Lafayette and Printemps host exclusive designer presentations, trunk shows, and VIP shopping events. For comprehensive Fashion Week coverage including exclusive department store events and insider access opportunities, see our detailed Paris Fashion Week Boulevard Haussmann Events Guide.

Fall/Winter Fashion Week (February 26 - March 6, 2026): Early bird planning for next year's fashion events, featuring emerging designer showcases and established brand presentations along the boulevard.

Summer Terrace Season (May-September 2025)

Le Picnic by Veuve Clicquot (May 5 - September 30): The ultimate rooftop dining experience transforms Printemps 7th Heaven terrace into a chic outdoor paradise. This seasonal collaboration offers exclusive champagne pairings with panoramic Paris views.

Summer Pop-up Events: Various temporary exhibitions and brand activations appear throughout the summer months in department store spaces and along the boulevard. Check individual store websites for current special events.

Holiday Season Magic (November-January)

Christmas Illuminations: Boulevard Haussmann's famous Christmas lights and elaborate department store window displays create one of Paris's most magical seasonal experiences. The coordinated lighting ceremony typically occurs in mid-November.

New Year Shopping Events: Both major department stores offer special New Year shopping experiences including extended hours, exclusive collections, and champagne shopping services during the final week of December.