If you haven’t been to the Opéra Garnier (Palais Garnier) yet, it’s definitely worth the visit. As you know, it’s one of the most iconic buildings in Paris, a true jewel of Beaux-Arts architecture. The first time you walk up those grand steps, you’re immediately struck by the extravagance-gold leaf, marble, and those striking chandeliers. It’s no wonder the place feels like stepping into a different era, right?
But what I really love about the Opéra is the history behind it. This is the heart of Parisian culture – the place where legendary performances have been staged for over a century. You know the names – Gounod, Bizet – and the place still hosts incredible opera and ballet, so the spirit of all those past performances lingers in the air. It’s such a unique experience to just sit there, whether in the grand foyer or the auditorium, and feel the weight of the history around you.
And of course, we can’t forget the Phantom of the Opera connection. That underground lake? It adds a certain mystique to the whole building. You can almost imagine the phantom moving in the shadows, can’t you? That air of mystery is what gives the Opéra its charm. It’s not just a stunning building but also a place with a bit of magic and intrigue.
Honestly, whether you’re catching a show or just touring it, there’s a timeless quality to the place that always impresses. It’s one of those experiences that leaves you feeling connected to Paris’s artistic soul.
Basic Information
Opening Hours
- Guided Tours:
- Opening Hours: The Opéra Garnier is open to visitors for self-guided tours and guided tours from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily (6:00 PM during summer time).
- Closed Days: It’s typically closed on January 1st and May 1st, and occasionally for special events.
- Tour Duration: A standard guided tour takes around 1.5 hours.
- Performance Hours
- Evening Performances: The Opéra Garnier hosts ballet and opera performances, typically starting at 7:30 PM or 8:00 PM.
- Matinee Performances: For certain shows, especially during weekends or holidays, there are afternoon performances which usually begin at 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM.
- Ticket Office Hours
- The ticket office for performance bookings is open from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours on performance nights.
- Online Booking: For convenience, it’s highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance.
Ticket Informaiton
- Self-Guided Tours
- Standard Ticket: €15 (for adults)
- Reduced Ticket: €10 (for students, visitors aged 12-25, and job seekers)
- Audio Guide: €5
- Free Entry: For children under 12 years old, and also for residents of the Paris region on the first Sunday of each month (except during the summer months)
- Guided Tours
- Guided Tour (In French or English): €23 per person.
- Performances
- Top-tier seating (Orchestra and Front Balcony): €150 to €250
- Middle-tier seating: €50 to €150
- Upper-tier seating (Upper Balcony and Rooftop): €10 to €60
How to Get to Opéra Garnier
The Opéra Garnier, also known as the Paris Opera House, is located in the 9th arrondissement of Paris, right in the heart of the city. The official address is 8 Rue Scribe, 75009 Paris, situated at Place de l’Opéra, a large and vibrant square that serves as a central hub for several major boulevards in the city.
- Getting There by Metro
- The nearest metro station is Opéra Station on Line 3 (Yellow), Line 7 (Pink), and Line 8 (Purple). Once you exit the tation, you’ll find yourself just steps away from the entrance of the opera house.
- Getting There by Bus
- Bus 20, 21, 22, 27, 29, 32, 53, 66, 68, 81, 95 all stop near the Opéra Garnier, with stops at Opéra, Sainte-Anne, or Palais Garnier.
- Getting There by RER (Regional Express Train)
- If you’re coming from outside central Paris, you can take the RER A and get off at Auber Station. From there, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the Opéra Garnier,
- Getting There on Foot
- From the Louvre: It’s about a 15-minute walk (1.2 km), heading north through the Rue de Rivoli or Place Vendôme.
- From Galeries Lafayette: It’s just a 5-minute walk (300 meters) up Boulevard Haussmann.
Top Things to See and Do at Opéra Garnier
The Grand Entrance: The Façade
I’m sure you’re familiar with the Façade, which, honestly, could take hours to truly appreciate if you’re in the mood to get into the details. The building itself is an eclectic mix of styles – a combination of Baroque Revival, Renaissance Revival, and even touches of Classicism. That central portico? It’s held up by 12 massive Corinthian columns, supporting a grand pediment that features reliefs of the goddesses of music, dance, and poetry. And above them, on the roof, are two striking bronze statues – one of Ludwig van Beethoven, the other of Richard Wagner – perched like sentinels over the city. Don’t forget the golden embellishments that catch the light beautifully, especially at sunset.
The Grand Staircase (Escalier d’Honneur)
Once inside, the Grand Staircase (Escalier d’Honneur) is your first real introduction to the opulence that defines the building. The entire staircase is crafted from white marble, and it’s flanked by columns that are topped with golden caryatids. The effect is breathtaking. The way it curves upwards toward the first-floor foyers, along with the intricate design of the golden balustrades, almost feels like you’re stepping into a different era. But it’s that huge chandelier, weighing over 7 tons, that really steals the show. You know how it dominates the room – 340 light bulbs illuminating the space in a warm, golden glow.
It’s not just the chandelier, though. The ceiling above the staircase has this fabulous fresco, painted by Gustave Doré in the 1860s. It’s filled with scenes of classical mythology, with dramatic figures and vivid colors.
The Auditorium
Ah, the Auditorium. This is where things get real. The first thing that hits you when you enter is that grand chandelier, but more than that, it’s the acoustics. Even if you’re not a musician, you can feel it. The design of the horseshoe-shaped hall and the 5 levels of seating means that no matter where you sit, the acoustics are perfectly calibrated. You can hear every note, every whisper from the stage. It’s a marvel of acoustical engineering.
The seats themselves are upholstered in rich red velvet, complementing the rest of the space, where gilded moldings and plasterwork create a visual feast. The box seats feel like royalty, don’t they? Overhead, the Chagall-painted ceiling is an explosion of color, depicting scenes from operas, such as “La Bohème” and “The Barber of Seville”. I know it’s a more recent addition (1964, if we’re being precise), but it gives the whole room this wonderful contrast between classical and modern. If you look closely, you’ll spot little nods to French composers, but it’s the burst of color that makes it pop, especially under the light of the chandelier.
But let’s not forget the stage, with its complex mechanisms that allow for the most elaborate productions. It’s hard to believe it’s all still functional, but it is. And if you’re lucky enough to be in the audience for a ballet or opera performance, the feeling is indescribable. The lighting, the sound, and the space – it’s all part of the magic.
The Foyer de la Danse
Now, if you’re familiar with the Foyer de la Danse, you know it’s an absolute gem. It’s one of those places where you can feel the history of the dancers who rehearsed and prepared there. Baroque mirrors, marble columns, and a painted ceiling all give it this air of quiet elegance. But you also can’t miss the golden detail, especially the delicate gold leafing on the cornices. It’s the kind of space that feels as much a part of the performance as the stage itself.
For those who’ve studied the building’s history, you’ll know that this space used to be a crucial element for the dancers. It’s where they would come to rest, rehearse, and even socialize. It’s this quiet but essential part of the building that makes it feel so alive with movement, even when there’s no show happening.
The Museum of the Opéra Garnier (Musée de l’Opéra)
Now, I know we both love a good museum visit, and the Musée de l’Opéra Garnier is one of the best ways to learn about the building’s rich history. Inside, there are some fascinating items, including the original models of the building, designed by Charles Garnier himself. There are also portraits of the major composers and dancers who have contributed to the legacy of the opera house. You get to see the evolution of the Opera Garnier, with photographs and paintings from its early years. Don’t miss the collection of original costumes from famous performances – they give you a sense of the scale and the precision that went into the productions here.
But what really makes the museum worthwhile is how it ties the physical architecture of the building to the stories of the artists who helped it become the icon it is today. It’s a space that encourages you to sit and reflect on the operatic history, especially when you get to the section dedicated to the Famous Ballets staged here over the years. Of course, you know the story of the “Phantom of the Opera”, which many visitors are drawn to. The subterranean lake mentioned in the novel? It’s still there, though access is limited. It’s a quirky and mysterious element that adds to the building’s mystique.
The Library and Art Gallery
The Bibliothèque-Musée de l’Opéra is a real treat for those of us who love the archival side of things. This library houses documents and musical scores that detail the history of performances at the Opéra. It’s like a peek into the creative process, with everything from old production sketches to the personal correspondence of composers. The library even holds a collection of works from the Romantic period, showcasing how pivotal this building was in shaping the future of opera and ballet.
The Art Gallery, on the other hand, houses several paintings, sculptures, and artifacts related to the world of opera and ballet. From the famous portraits of past performers to costume designs for iconic roles, it’s a must-see for anyone interested in the artistry behind the scenes.
Experiencing a Performance
While touring the building is an extraordinary experience, nothing compares to attending a live performance at the Opéra Garnier. The opera house hosts world-class ballet performances, operas, and concerts, offering visitors the chance to see some of the world’s greatest artists perform on stage. The programming includes both traditional works, such as ballets by Tchaikovsky and operas by Verdi, as well as modern pieces from contemporary composers and choreographers.
A Brief History of Opéra Garnier
The Opéra Garnier (also known as the Palais Garnier) – you know, every time I walk past it, I can’t help but admire how Charles Garnier’s vision came to life so spectacularly. It’s not just another opera house; it’s a masterpiece of Second Empire architecture, commissioned by Napoleon III in 1860 as part of Baron Haussmann’s grand renovation of Paris. The funny thing is, when Garnier won the design competition, he wasn’t a household name – just a 35-year-old architect with a bold idea. But what an idea it was!
Construction started in 1861, but it was anything but smooth. First, they hit an underground lake – well, more like a water table – forcing engineers to build a massive concrete foundation to stabilize the structure. That little issue later fueled the legend of the Phantom of the Opera, thanks to Gaston Leroux’s novel in 1910. Then came the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871) and the fall of the Second Empire, which put everything on hold. By the time the Opéra was inaugurated on January 5, 1875, Napoleon III was long gone, and the Third Republic was in charge. Still, they went ahead with an extravagant opening night featuring works by Meyerbeer, Auber, and Halévy.
Even though the Opéra Bastille took over as the main opera venue in 1989, Garnier still reigns supreme when it comes to ballet and its sheer historical and architectural weight. It’s not just a building—it’s a living, breathing piece of art.
Ten Fun Facts about Opéra Garnier
A Fatal Chandelier Accident Inspired “The Phantom of the Opera”: In 1896, one of the counterweights from the 7-ton chandelier fell into the audience during a performance, killing a spectator. This eerie event made its way into Gaston Leroux’s novel, where the Phantom causes the chandelier to crash.
There’s a Bee Apiary on the Roof: Yes, bees live atop the Opéra Garnier! Hidden on the roof, several beehives produce honey, which is harvested and sold in limited quantities. The opera’s honey is said to have a unique floral taste, thanks to the variety of flowers in nearby Parisian gardens.
It Was Once a Car Showroom: During World War II, when performances were disrupted, parts of the Opéra Garnier were repurposed. At one point, the main entrance was even used as a luxury car showroom! Imagine Rolls-Royces displayed where opera-goers once gathered.
The Building is Asymmetrical on Purpose: Garnier’s design is intentionally uneven – if you look closely, the right side is slightly larger. This is because a planned imperial entrance for Napoleon III was never fully realized due to his exile, leaving the structure forever unbalanced.
Charles Garnier Had to Prove His Own Style to the Empress: When Charles Garnier was presenting his design to Empress Eugénie, she reportedly asked, “What style is this?” Expecting a more classical answer, she was surprised when Garnier boldly replied, “It’s Napoleon III style, madame!” – a mix of Baroque, Renaissance, and neoclassical influences. His confidence sealed the deal.
There’s a Secret Door for Latecomers: Ever wondered how high-society guests arrived fashionably late without disturbing the show? The Opéra Garnier has a hidden door that leads directly to certain balcony seats, allowing VIPs to slip in unnoticed.
A Real Labyrinth of Hidden Corridors: Beneath the auditorium, the opera house has a maze of passageways, secret staircases, and hidden rooms for performers, stagehands, and staff. Some of these corridors were designed for the quick movement of set pieces and even horses for certain productions.
The Grand Staircase Has a ‘Mistake’: The famous Grand Staircase, made of marble from Seravezza, Italy, is breathtaking, but if you look closely, one of the balusters is slightly different from the others. Legend says it was an intentional design detail, a signature left behind by a craftsman.
It Has Its Own Signature Scent: In the past, the opera house was infused with perfume to mask the smell of gas lamps and crowds. Today, the Opéra Garnier has a special fragrance developed to enhance the experience—a blend of wood, wax, and velvet designed to transport visitors back in time.
There’s a Hidden Ballroom Underneath: Beneath the main stage lies a private ballroom, which was originally used for gala events and VIP receptions. It’s rarely seen by the public today.
Four Attractions near Opéra Garnier to Enrich Your Day
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
- Distance: 280m (4-minute walk)
Address: 40 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris, France
Opening Hours:- Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Ticket Price: Free entry
- Highlights:
- The glass-domed ceiling is an architectural marvel.
- A rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Paris.
- A luxury shopping paradise featuring brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Dior.
- A gourmet food hall offering high-end French delicacies.
Fragonard Perfume Museum
- Distance: 190m (2-minute walk)
- Address: 9 Rue Scribe, 75009 Paris, France
- Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Ticket Price: Free entry (Guided tours available)
- Highlights:
- Discover the history of French perfume-making.
- See rare antique perfume bottles and production tools.
- A sensory experience where visitors can test different scents.
- Perfume-making workshops (paid experience).
Place Vendôme
- Distance: 850m (10-minute walk)
- Address: Place Vendôme, 75001 Paris, France
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7
- Ticket Price: Free
- Highlights:
- One of the most elegant squares in Paris, surrounded by luxury brands like Cartier and Rolex.
- The Vendôme Column, inspired by Trajan’s Column in Rome, was erected by Napoleon in 1810.
- The Ritz Paris, where Coco Chanel lived for over 30 years.
Musée Grévin (Wax Museum)
- Distance: 900m (10-minute walk)
- Address: 10 Boulevard Montmartre, 75009 Paris, France
- Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Ticket Price: €26.50
- Highlights:
- Over 200 lifelike wax figures, including Napoleon, Marie Antoinette, and Kylian Mbappé.
- A stunning Hall of Mirrors, originally built in 1900.
- Themed rooms covering French history, cinema, and music.
Top Five Authentic French Restaurants Near Opéra Garnier
1. Café de la Paix
- Distance: Approximately 100 meters (~1-minute walk) from Opéra Garnier.
- Average Cost per Person: €50–€100.
- Address: 5 Place de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris, France.
- Features: Established in 1862, Café de la Paix is a historic Parisian café renowned for its opulent Second Empire décor and classic French cuisine. It offers a luxurious dining experience with a menu featuring traditional dishes like foie gras and escargots. The café’s terrace provides a splendid view of the Opéra Garnier.
2. Le Grand Café Capucines
- Distance: Approximately 300 meters (~4-minute walk) from Opéra Garnier.
- Average Cost per Person: €40–€80.
- Address: 4 Boulevard des Capucines, 75009 Paris, France.
- Features: Opened in 1875, Le Grand Café Capucines is celebrated for its Art Nouveau interior and round-the-clock service. The brasserie offers a diverse menu with a focus on seafood, including oysters and lobster, as well as classic French dishes.
3. La Fontaine Gaillon
- Distance: Approximately 550 meters (~7-minute walk) from Opéra Garnier.
- Average Cost per Person: €60–€120.
- Address: 1 Rue de la Michodière, 75002 Paris, France.
- Features: Situated in a charming 17th-century building, La Fontaine Gaillon offers an elegant dining atmosphere with a focus on seasonal French cuisine. The restaurant boasts a beautiful terrace overlooking the Gaillon fountain, providing a picturesque setting for patrons. The wine list is extensive, featuring selections from various French regions.
4. Le Soufflé
- Distance: Approximately 800 meters (~10-minute walk) from Opéra Garnier.
- Average Cost per Person: €35–€70.
- Address: 36 Rue du Mont Thabor, 75001 Paris, France.
- Features: A hidden gem specializing in one of France’s most iconic dishes – soufflé. Le Soufflé offers both savory and sweet variations, from cheese and mushroom to Grand Marnier and chocolate soufflés.
5. L’Entracte Opera
- Distance: Approximately 150 meters (~2-minute walk) from Opéra Garnier.
- Average Cost per Person: €35–€70.
- Address: 1 Rue Auber, 75009 Paris, France.
- Features: As its name suggests, L’Entracte Opera caters to theatergoers with a menu of classic French brasserie fare. The restaurant’s interior is adorned with theatrical memorabilia, creating a lively atmosphere. Popular dishes include steak tartare and crème brûlée.
Five Hotels Near Opéra Garnier for A Wonderful Night
1. InterContinental Paris Le Grand
- Distance: Approximately 0.1 miles (160 meters) from Opéra Garnier.
- Price Range: Rooms typically start from €450 per night.
- Address: 2 Rue Scribe, 75009 Paris, France.
- Features: This luxurious hotel boasts elegant Second Empire-style architecture and offers rooms with views of the Opéra Garnier. Guests can enjoy fine dining at the on-site Café de la Paix and relax at the spa.
2. Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opéra
- Distance: Approximately 0.1 miles (160 meters) from Opéra Garnier.
- Price Range: Rooms typically start from €400 per night.
- Address: 1 Rue Scribe, 75009 Paris, France.
- Features: Combining Parisian elegance with modern comfort, this hotel offers rooms with city views, a gourmet restaurant, and a tea lounge.
3. Hôtel Dress Code & Spa
- Distance: Approximately 0.2 miles (320 meters) from Opéra Garnier.
- Price Range: Rooms typically start from €300 per night.
- Address: 5 Rue de Caumartin, 75009 Paris, France.
- Features: This boutique hotel features stylishly decorated rooms, some with balconies offering city views. Amenities include a spa with an indoor pool and a bar.
4. Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme
- Distance: Approximately 0.2 miles (320 meters) from Opéra Garnier.
- Price Range: Rooms typically start from €900 per night.
- Address: 5 Rue de la Paix, 75002 Paris, France.
- Features: This palace hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites with views of Rue de la Paix. Guests can indulge in Michelin-starred dining, a spa, and elegant interiors.
5. Maison Albar Hotels – Le Vendome
- Distance: Approximately 0.2 miles (320 meters) from Opéra Garnier.
- Price Range: Rooms typically start from €450 per night.
- Address: 7 Rue du Helder, 75009 Paris, France.
- Features: This 5-star hotel offers contemporary rooms with city views, an indoor pool, a spa, and a restaurant serving French cuisine.