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.

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