Meet your private guide at your central Paris hotel and begin your journey into 19th-century Parisian life. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you by metro or comfortable minivan to Opera Garnier, a grand old opera house that was the setting for The Phantom of the Opera. Finished in 1875, this 1,979-seat structure is now home to the Paris Opera Ballet.

Delight in the gold, glass and marble interior of this majestic building filled with paintings and sculptures as your guide shares its history. Marvel at the grand staircase and the auditorium's ceiling, which was painted by Marc Chagall in 1964. Being on a private tour makes for a more relaxed, friendly experience, so feel free to ask your guide as many questions as you like.

Next, your guide will lead you to an area near the Louvre to discover the passages couverts, covered shopping arcades tucked behind many of the city’s wide boulevards. Some of these architecturally impressive arcades are faded now but others have been restored to their 19th-century glory.

As you wander through these arcades, hear stories of how Parisian life used to be and imagine upper-class women dressed in lavish gowns window shopping in these very same passageways. Have your camera ready to capture photos of the remarkable old boutiques, cafes and art galleries in these arcades, some of which have barely changed through the years.

Your tour culminates near Grands Boulevards. From here, it’s easy to continue sightseeing in Paris on your own.