The Opéra Garnier, or the Paris Opera, is one of the city’s most iconic and significant buildings, famously known as the inspiration for the renowned theatrical work The Phantom of the Opera. The venue hosts numerous classical music and dance performances, but the palace itself stands out as a dazzling architectural masterpiece.
Located in Paris’s 9th arrondissement, the opera house was designed by the celebrated French architect Charles Garnier under the commission of Napoleon III. Visiting this grand building is a truly spectacular experience, as it showcases the opulence and grandeur of France’s storied past.
In this article, I’ll explain what you should see on the exterior and interior of the palace, along with all the information you need for your visit: schedules, tickets, and pricing.
History of the Paris Opera
Napoleon III ordered the construction of the Opéra Garnier in 1862, with oversight by Baron Haussmann, but it wasn’t completed until 1875. The delays were caused by various issues, including the discovery of the site’s unstable ground due to water seepage and the eventual collapse of the French Empire.
Alongside this impressive Paris Opera building, Napoleon envisioned a grand avenue linking it to the Palace of the Tuileries, where he resided. To make this vision a reality, numerous Parisians had to be displaced from their homes. Today, this area forms a stunning setting that is well worth a leisurely stroll to admire the surrounding architecture.
The opera house was inaugurated in 1875, and the first performances included La Juive and Les Huguenots. The most recent major renovation took place in 1994, focusing on modernizing the outdated electrical systems and reinforcing the building’s overall structure.
To fully immerse yourself in the history of this building and the events that unfolded here, we highly recommend the Mysteries and Legends Tour that we took ourselves—highly recommended!
Tickets for the Opéra Garnier
To see the interior of the opera house, you have two options: purchase an entry ticket to explore the building on your own or attend a live opera or ballet performance, which is a highly recommended experience.
Price of Individual Entry
The Paris Opera is open to the public, allowing you to explore the interior—a must if you enjoy delving into the history and culture of your travel destination. These are self-guided tours, providing the freedom to wander through most of the palace and take in the splendor at your own pace.
For those who appreciate architectural and cultural heritage, the Paris Opera offers a mesmerizing blend of art and history. Consider visiting the library-museum inside, where you can learn more about the opera’s artistic and theatrical traditions.
- Tickets for the Paris Opera for adults: €16 when booking online through this link.
- Free for anyone using the Paris Pass discount card.
- Free for children under 12, persons with disabilities and their companion, or those who are unemployed.
As one of the most visited sites in Paris, alongside the Louvre Museum and the Eiffel Tower, it’s advisable to buy your tickets in advance to avoid long lines at the palace.
If you qualify for free admission, you must present documentation at the theater’s ticket booth to verify your eligibility.
Note that the general entrance for visitors is at the corner of Rue Auber and Rue Scribe. Don’t attempt to enter through the main doors, as they are reserved for concerts and performances.
Attend an Opera at Palais Garnier
Another way to experience the building is by attending an opera, as the most renowned works of this genre are still performed there today. Therefore, buying tickets for the Opéra Garnier isn’t just for music lovers but also for anyone who wants a chance to experience the interior.
To purchase tickets for performances, visit the opera’s official website. The price of opera tickets varies based on the performance and seating area, typically ranging from €25 to €200.
Paris Opera Opening Hours
- Mid-September to mid-July: The Palais Garnier is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Mid-July to mid-September: The Palais Garnier is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (extended summer hours).
As you can see, the hours of the Opéra Garnier are quite accommodating, so you shouldn’t have any trouble visiting. The visit typically lasts between 1 and 2 hours. The Palais Garnier is a fascinating place to explore, whether or not you’re a music enthusiast.
To avoid the busiest crowds, visit during lunchtime (12:00 or 1:00 p.m.) or late in the afternoon.
NOTE: Keep in mind that hours may change if concerts or events are scheduled, so it’s best to check their official website before your visit.
How to Get to Palais Garnier in Paris
The opera house is located at 8 Rue Scribe, 75009 Paris. It’s relatively close to the Louvre Museum, Place de la Concorde, and the Perfume Museum, and there are several convenient ways to reach it:
- Opéra Station (lines 3, 7, and 8). When you exit the station, you’ll be right by the doors of the Opéra Garnier.
- Chaussée d’Antin – La Fayette Station (lines 7 and 9). From there, it’s a short walk to the opera.
Bus
Paris has an efficient bus network, making it easy to reach the opera quickly from almost anywhere in the city via these bus lines: 20, 21, 22, 27, 29, 42, 52, 53, 66, 68, 81, and 95.
You can also take one of the city’s tourist buses, such as the well-known Big Bus Paris, which stops at Opéra Garnier. This open-top bus tour is a great way to see many of the city’s main sights quickly. You can book the Big Bus at this link.
RER (Suburban Train)
RER line A will take you to the “Auber” station, which is only a few minutes’ walk from the Opéra Garnier, making it a great option if you’re coming from the outskirts of Paris.
Walking
If you’re already in central Paris, walking is the best option. The opera is in the 9th arrondissement, near tourist attractions like the Louvre Museum and Galeries Lafayette (a great place for shopping), so taking a stroll in this area is highly recommended.
Exteriors of the Opéra Garnier
The Facade
The main facade of the Opéra Garnier, facing the Place de l’Opéra, is a masterpiece of marble and opulence. At first glance, you’ll notice the Corinthian columns and statues representing Poetry, Music, Drama, and Dance (along with other less prominent ones).
Above the entrance, you’ll find sculptures by the artist Aimé Millet. Look up to admire the distinctive copper-green domes, which contribute to the grandeur of the building. At the very top, the golden statue of Apollo crowns the opera house’s roof.
Throughout the facade, you can spot gilded inscriptions of Beethoven, Mozart, and Rossini, along with numerous muses and cherubs. Be sure to take in the detailed bas-reliefs adorning the column bases and outer walls.
The side facades are equally impressive, reminiscent of Greek temples and reinforcing the classical elegance of the structure.
The Staircase
The exterior staircase of the Opéra Garnier is magnificent, grand in scale, and gives the building an air of majestic importance. From the top of the stairs, you can enjoy a splendid view down the Avenue de l’Opéra, but remember, this is not the entrance for the general public wishing to see the interior.
From the staircase, you can also see the “Rotonde des Abonnés” (Subscribers’ Rotunda), so named because it was designed to receive the opera’s subscribers. This isn’t just any ordinary roundabout; its design and decoration reflect the opulence of the building.
What to See Inside the Opéra Garnier
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5fJDslITV34
The Opéra Garnier boasts a lavishly ornate interior, with gilded surfaces and marble throughout. The interior is a marvel, featuring massive staircases, wide corridors, and luxurious boxes for spectators to enjoy performances in style.
It becomes evident that the opera’s patrons were primarily nobility and the wealthy, who came not only to enjoy performances but also to be seen in this splendid venue.
Entrance Hall and Grand Staircase
Upon entering the Opéra Garnier, you’ll find a circular hall adorned with colorful marble, statues, and columns. Everything reflects the wealth and nobility of its patrons, from the gilded bronze doors to the intricate details everywhere you look.
The highlight here is the central staircase (known as the “Escalier d’Honneur”), constructed from white marble with balustrades in green and red hues. It’s one of the building’s most photographed features. The staircase splits into two directions, each side adorned with mythological figures in the form of statues.
Grand Foyer
The Grand Foyer, essentially an opulent and elongated hall, is richly decorated. Everywhere you look, there are mirrors, paintings, golden reliefs, and antique chandeliers, with intricately hand-painted ceilings. This area serves as a luxurious space where theatergoers can take a break during intermissions to get fresh air.
Auditorium and Chagall’s Fresco
One of the most captivating features is the auditorium, renowned for its grand scale and ability to accommodate 2,000 people. In the center, you’ll find an enormous crystal chandelier, underscoring the significance of this magnificent hall.
The ceiling, designed by Chagall, is a famous feature with its distinct horseshoe shape. The seats are made of wood and upholstered in luxurious red velvet, contributing to the auditorium’s elegance.
Museum – Library
You can also explore the Paris Opera Museum, which offers a fascinating collection of artifacts from the many productions staged here over the centuries. The displays include costumes, stage props, and even sections of past set designs.
The library houses a diverse collection of musical scores, manuscripts, and books detailing the history of performing arts in Paris. It offers a glimpse into the heritage and artistry that have shaped some of the most celebrated performances over the years.
Tips for Visiting the Opéra Garnier
To make the most of your visit, here are some practical tips:
1. Purchase Tickets in Advance: Since the Opéra Garnier is one of the most popular attractions in Paris, the most desired time slots can fill up quickly. Another advantage of buying your tickets online is that you can skip the long lines at the entrance.
2. Check Opening Hours: While we’ve mentioned the general hours, they can change due to performances and special events. Be sure to check the official website for the latest, most accurate information.
3. Clothing and Footwear: There is no strict dress code for touring the Opéra Garnier, but it’s always a good idea to dress comfortably and appropriately if you’re doing a self-guided visit. On the other hand, if you’re attending a concert or performance, consider dressing a bit more formally to match the elegant atmosphere.
4. Photography: You’re allowed to take photos in most areas of the building, but flash photography is prohibited to help preserve the artwork and interior decor.
5. Gift Shop and Café: Don’t miss the gift shop inside, where you can pick up unique souvenirs such as books, postcards, keychains, or even toys. If you need a break or want a drink, the building’s café offers a serene and pleasant spot to relax.
6. Accessibility: The opera house is equipped with facilities for visitors with reduced mobility. If you or your companion require special assistance, let the staff know, and they’ll do their best to accommodate your needs.
These tips can help make your visit seamless and enjoyable. Remember to take your time exploring the details of this magnificent architectural gem, from the grandeur of its facade to the splendor of the interior rooms. Even if you’re not a fan of opera, the Opéra Garnier’s rich history and stunning design make it a memorable stop on your Paris itinerary.