Paris is packed with sites and monuments, each more spectacular than the other. Between the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe, there's a real architectural gem: the Palais Garnier.
The Palais Garnier, or Opéra Garnier for some people, is an emblematic site in the 9th arrondissement where the Opéra National de Paris is based. Classified as a historic monument since 1923, there are several ways to visit this exceptional building, and we're here to tell you how!
What is the Palais Garnier?
Built between 1861 and 1875, the Palais Garnier is one of the architectural jewels of the French capital and one of the largest opera houses in Europe. Initiated by Napoleon III after an assassination attempt, the Palais Garnier was the project of a completely unknown architect at this time, Charles Garnier, from whom it takes its name.
Covering an area of 11,000 m², this eclectic building blends several architectural styles, influenced by Parisian buildings such as the Louvre and the Palace of Versailles. With its gilding, onyx balconies and Grand Escalier made from over 30 different types of marble, the Palais Garnier is undoubtedly one of the capital's most beautiful monuments.
Apart from its spectacular architecture, the Palais Garnier is also well known as the home of the Opéra national de Paris. It hosts performances of operas, ballets and other major artistic events. Many world-renowned artists have performed on its prestigious stage, making the Palais Garnier one of the world's leading centers for opera culture and art.
Finally, it's hard to miss the famous link between the Palais Garnier and Gaston Leroux's novel ‘Le Fantôme de l'Opéra’. This famous tale popularised the Opéra Garnier by introducing the story of a mysterious ghost haunting the backstage area of the opera house. This legend has helped to make this magnificent building famous and mysterious..
Visit the Palais Garnier: 4 guided tours of the opera house
There are two ways to visit the Palais Garnier. The first is the individual, self-guided tour, which you can book via the Opéra National de Paris website. The second is a guided group tour, which you can book on the Manatour website!
We are offering you 4 exclusive guided tours to discover all the facets of France's largest opera house:
For architecture buffs, the ‘Intermezzo at the Palais Garnier’ guided tour:
Who was Charles Garnier? How was the Palais Garnier built? What makes its architecture unique? How is a show organised at the Opéra Garnier? Find out all about the history of the Palais Garnier in 1.30-hour minutes, thanks to our guided tour ‘Intermezzo at the Palais Garnier’. All accompanied by magnificent musical extracts such as Mozart's Symphony 40 and Berlioz's The Damnation of Faust! This tour takes place every day at a different time from the Belle Époque and Saut de Chat tours.
Take a trip back in time to old Paris with the guided tour ‘The Palais Garnier in the Belle Époque’:
Have you ever dreamt of going back in time? Our guided tour ‘The Palais Garnier in the Belle Époque’ makes it possible! Immerse yourself in 19th-century Paris, and more precisely in Parisian high society and the “petite bourgeoisie”! What was an event looks like at the opera in those days? What were the hidden issues for high society? Discover every detail, accompanied by musical extracts that will transport you into the glamorous atmosphere of this period in history. This 1.30-hour guided tour takes place every day, usually between 11.30am and 3.30pm.
The most intimate, the ‘Mysteries of the Palais Garnier’ guided tour:
Give yourself a unique and privileged experience to go backstage and into the secrets of the most emblematic opera house in Paris. Discover the Palais Garnier on a semi-privatised tour outside opening hours. Enter in the intimate atmosphere of a completely empty Palais Garnier and discover a timeless place for 1.15-hour (after 5pm). Please note that this tour is not accessible to people with reduced mobility.
For young and old alike, the ‘Saut de Chat à l'Opéra’ guided tour:
Children and adults are invited to join our ‘Saut de Chat à l'Opéra’ tour, specially created for families with children aged 6 to 12. The ‘Saut de Chat à l'Opéra’ tour offers an opportunity to discover the Palais Garnier from every angle through different areas designed to stimulate the curiosity of young visitors. History, mythology, architecture, art, music, ballet — this tour of the Palais Garnier will appeal to both young and grown-ups for 1.30 hour (usually at 11am at weekends and every day during school holidays)!
All our guided tours pass through the emblematic areas of the Palais Garnier, such as the Bassin de la Pythie, the Grand Escalier à double révolution, the Rotonde des Abonnées and the Salle de Spectacle. Please note, that the Salle de Spectacle is only accessible if it is not being used by Opéra National de Paris staff, for technical and/or artistic reasons.
Our advice: get ready for your visit to the Palais Garnier
Once you've chosen the tour of your dreams, it's time to get ready to visit the Palais Garnier.
Doors open at 10am, but due to Vigipirate controls, you are advised to arrive 30 minutes before the start of your guided tour, which is limited to groups of 30 people maximum.
Luggages are not accepted in the Palais Garnier and there are no baggage rooms available for security reasons. However, small backpacks are accepted! Scooters, rollerblades, skateboards and electric scooters are strictly forbidden in the Palais Garnier. It is strictly forbidden to eat inside the Palais Garnier, although you may bring a bottle of water. If you visit the Palais Garnier in summer, we recommend that you wear light clothing and, if necessary, carry a fan.
We advise you to bring your smartphone or your camera to capture this magical moment in one of the capital's most prestigious monuments. And don't forget to bring an external battery so you don't run out of power.
For aspiring influencers, here are the most Instagrammable places at the Opéra Garnier (with a sneak preview from our social media channels):
La Rotonde des Abonnés
Le Grand Escalier
Les Balcons
L’Avant Foyer
La Salle de Spectacle
Don't hesitate to take note, so you don't miss any of them and keep your social networks entertained 😉
The Opéra Garnier: discover the most beautiful opera house in France:
As you can see, the Palais Garnier is much more than just a monument. It is an architectural masterpiece that has been a symbol of the Parisian cultural scene for almost 3 centuries. For all lovers of art and history, a visit to the Palais Garnier is a must. So if you're planning a visit to Paris, don't miss the chance to discover France's most majestic opera house, on your own or accompanied by our experienced guides!
For more information on our guided tours, prices and practical details, visit our dedicated page below:
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