If you want a quick introduction to the 2nd arrondissement of Paris check out the video above which is one of Jay Swanson's 20 in 20 days series - hope you enjoy it!
The 2nd arrondissement of Paris is the smallest but it is also the main business district of the city. Here you will find the headquarters of many large companies as well as the former Paris ‘Bourse’ Stock Exchange,now an events centre,but is there more than meets the eye?
Although not rich in tourist attractions it is home to probably the best surviving examples of 19th century commercial arcades in the city. The first of these the ‘Passage des Panoramas’, still maintains many of it original features and is, along with a few other examples in the area well worth a visit. Another, 'Galerie Vivienne' hosts some quirky boutiques. The 2nd also contains what is considered the main Japanese quarter of the city, along Rue Sainte-Anne. It has a good market on Rue Montorgueil and you will also find the Opéra Comique theater which showcases operettas - quite the eclectic mix!
