Few places in Paris can match the splendor and opulence of Opera Garnier. A monument historique and former home of the world-famous Paris Opera. The Paris Opera no longer performs there, but Opera Garnier draws visitors to marvel at one of Paris’s architectural gems.

Sumptuously decorated with all the trappings of a royal palace, the building earns comparison with Château de Versailles and is more commonly known as Palais Garnier. A grand title in a nation stacked with palatial châteaux. The backdrop to the novel, Phantom of the Opera, Opera Garnier Paris has a special place in popular culture. Yet being one of the world’s most magnificent opera houses is what puts it firmly on the tourist map.

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What is the Opera Garnier?

Sparing no expense, Opera Garnier was built to meet the demand of Emperor Napoleon III for a home worthy of the fabled Paris Opera. Billed as le nouvel Opera de Paris (the new Paris Opera) when it opened in 1875, it became the main stage for the centuries-old Paris Opera and Paris Opera Ballet company.

Built according to the eclectic Second Empire style beloved of the emperor, it is considered the finest example of a distinctive architectural style that left its mark on Paris and beyond. For opera buffs, it is also home to the Paris Opera Library-Museum. Open to visitors, the museum displays artifacts from the long history of the Paris Opera and is located in Rotonde de l’Empereur, a pavilion originally used by Napoleon III to attend the opera without fear of meeting an assassin.

Opera Garnier Admission – How to visit Opera Garnier Paris

The exterior is stunning, yet the true majesty of the building is found behind the elegant entrance. Self-guided and guided tours of Opera Garnier Paris are available. Of course, anyone with tickets to a performance can also explore the building.

Buying tickets for Opera Garnier Paris

Tickets can be purchased using automated machines and booking desks at the entrance.

• Booking in advance is not required, although it can save time during peak periods. Book online
• For the complete experience, tickets for acclaimed concerts and ballet shows can be booked through the Opera de Paris online booking office.

ENTRANCE TO VISIT THE OPERA GARNIER

Tours to the Opera Garnier

Tours of Opera Garnier Paris: The details

1. 01

   Private Tour Opera Garnier

   Admission in 9. Arrondissement
   

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   Marvel about one of the most stunning buildings of Paris while an expert guide tells you everything you need to know about the history of Opera Garnier. This 2-hours long tour is the best for everyone who wants to know a bit more about this exquisite building. Afterward, stroll through the elegant stores of Paris’ most famous department store, Galeries Lafayette, before enjoying a spectacular view of the city from the rooftop.

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2. 02

   Opera Garnier Entry Ticket

   Admission in 9. Arrondissement
   

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   This is the simple entry pass for the Opera Garnier, which opens the doors to all the areas of the largest opera hall in Europe. The only thing you’ll need for entry is your digital ticket on your smartphone!

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3. 03

   Opera Garnier and Seine Cruise Ticket

   Admission in 9. Arrondissement
   

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   Enjoy with this two in one ticket a magical visit to the Opéra Garnier and an unforgettable Seine River cruise that will show you the beauty of Paris from a new perspective.

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Is the Opera Garnier worth visiting?

You don’t need to be a fan of the fine arts to appreciate Opera Garnier Paris. It is one of the most stunning opera houses in the world. The building is a feast for the eyes: from the majestically ornate façade to the breathtaking baroque interior. Highlights include the resplendent Grand Foyer and the dazzling Rotonde du Glacier, which evokes the golden age of the Belle Époque.

The grand staircase — formed of pristine white marble — leads to a warren of corridors and alcoves designed to guide opera fans to their seats and back for intermissions. Everywhere you look there is something to catch the eye — stately chandeliers (including a 7-ton masterpiece), ornate decorations, and a magical ceiling painted by Marc Chagall. It’s easy to forget there is also a famous theatre with the largest stage in Europe. The setting for the novel (and popular musical) Phantom of the Opera. It is a place that oozes history.

ENTRANCE TO VISIT THE OPERA GARNIER

Historic facts about the Opera Garniers

Opera Garnier Paris was commissioned by Napoleon III to be one of the crowning glories of the revitalized Paris, at a time of profound architectural and social change in Paris. The architect, Jean-Louis Charles Garnier, was charged with creating a building worthy of an emperor and the world-famous Paris Opera. The resulting design was inspired by the contemporary Second Empire architectural style, also known as Napoleon III style.

14 years in the making (1861 to 1875), the new Paris Opera quickly earned fame as a building of extraordinary luxury, birthing the name Palais Garnier. By the time it was finished, Napoleon III had abdicated following France’s losses in the Franco-Prussian war. Yet despite the demise of France’s last monarchy, Napoleon’s vision was realized at a colossal cost — and some misgivings — by the Third Republic’s government. With Haussmann’s epic reconstruction having reshaped Paris, the building overlooking the newly created Place de l’Opera was considered a shining success of the new Paris. With nearly two thousand seats, the horseshoe-shaped auditorium overlooks the biggest stage in Europe. It was home to the fabled Paris Opera (already over two centuries old) and Paris Opera ballet for 114 years.

In 1989, the Paris Opera moved to the newly constructed Opera Bastille, built where the infamous Bastille prison once stood. The Paris Opera Ballet and Paris Opera Library-Museum stayed in Palais Garnier. A national historic monument since 1923, the building is one of the defining symbols of Paris. Its fame only grew upon the release of Gaston Leroux’s novel, the Phantom of the Opera, which spawned films and a much-loved musical. Painstakingly restored from 2004-2007, Palais Garnier remains a leading ballet theatre and ranks as one of the most dazzling sights in Paris.

FAQ

Where is Opera Garnier?

Overlooking Place de l’Opera, at the junction of Scribe and Auber streets, in the 9th Arrondissement (aka Opera district)

How do I get to Opera Garnier Paris?

Several streets and boulevards converge around Place de l’Opera. These include Boulevard des Capucines and Boulevard des Italiens. The rear of the building lies just off Boulevard Haussmann.

• The nearest Metro stations are: Opera (3, 7, 8), Chaussée d’Antin (7, 9) Madeleine (8, 14), Auber (RER A)
• Buses: 20, 21, 22, 27, 29, 42, 52, 66, 68, 81, 95

Do I need to book in advance?

No. Tickets can be bought at the entrance. Guided tours should be booked in advance.

How long am I allowed to visit Opera Garnier?

90 minutes. This includes time to explore the Paris Opera Museum.

Security at Opera Garnier

Security arrangements at Opera Garnier Paris are minimal. However, only small bags are allowed in the building. Scooters are also not allowed.

What is there to visit nearby?

At the heart of the great Paris arrondissement Opera, there is much to see within walking distance. Highlights include:

• The Louvre – the world’s largest museum
• Galeries Lafayette Haussmann – France’s grandest and most impressive department store
• Musée Grévin – the wonderfully eccentric wax museum
• Jardin des Tuileries – the unmissable royal gardens

Where to get refreshments

While the bar only opens for performances, Palais Garnier’s Restaurant CoCo is open for lunches.  The surrounding streets are lined with cafés, restaurants, and a full array of inner-city eateries. If you’re unsure, head to the nearby Rue Daunou for a wide choice of venues to eat and drink.