VISIT THE OPÉRA GARNIER

An essential symbol of Paris

With its majestic façade and imposing staircase, the Opéra Garnier is one of Paris's architectural gems. Built under Napoleon III, it embodies the splendour of the Second Empire and remains a mecca for French opera and choreography.

Why visit?

Even without seeing a show, a visit to the Opera House is an unforgettable experience. Its grand marble staircase, gilding, painted ceilings and famous chandelier on the ceiling of the auditorium fill visitors with wonder. It is also a place of exhibitions and living history.

A brief history and anecdotes

Commissioned by Napoleon III after a failed attempt on his life, the building was designed by architect Charles Garnier. Inaugurated in 1875, it inspired the famous novel   The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux. Beneath the building is a real artificial lake, used to regulate humidity - and keep the legends alive.

What can you do there?

- Admire the grand staircase and richly decorated galleries
- Discover the auditorium and the ceiling painted by Marc Chagall
- Visit the Opera Library-Museum
- Take advantage of temporary exhibitions and areas usually closed to the public

Where is it?

📍 8 Rue Scribe, 75009 Paris
👉 See on Google Maps

Practical advice

- Allow around 1 hour for the self-guided tour
- Free admission for EU citizens under 26 (excluding shows)
- Check in advance any partial closures for rehearsals or performances

To discover around

- Galeries Lafayette
- Church of la Madeleine
- Boulevard Haussmann
- Place de l'Opéra

Audioguide

🎧 Listen to our immersive description of the Opéra Garnier on History Guide City Paris!
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