Opera Garnier

An evening at Opera Garnier

The Paris Opera has two performance venues: the well known Opera Garnier and the newer Opera Bastille, opened in 1989. We prefer Opera Garnier.

You will not forget a ballet or opera performance at Opera Garnier. The beauty of music and dancing resonates with the magnificent building. Make absolutely sure you get tickets in advance.

History of Opera Garnier

Commissioned by Emperor Napoleon III, built between 1862 and 1875 by Charles Garnier, the Opera Garnier is a neoclassic building.

Its facade, monumental stairs and Italian type hall with Chagall paintings on the ceiling make it one of the world most beautiful opera houses.

Maria Callas and Rudolf Noureev are among the artists who wrote its glorious artistic history.

Opera Garnier district

The Opera district is one of the most animated nightlife districts in Paris, with many theaters and restaurants. Locate Opera Garnier on Paris map.

In front of Opera Garnier, the Place de l'Opera is a superb example of 19th century urbanism. The magnificent Grand Hotel (3, place de l'Opera) is another legacy from these glorious days.

Visit Opera Garnier

Opera Garnier can be visited daily. See details and book tickets. Alternatively, join the Palais Royal to Opera walking tour, with a visit of Opera Garnier, a delicious out of the beaten track Paris tour.

Opera Garnier information

Address: at the corner of rue Scribe and rue Auber
75009 Paris. Opera or RER A Auber stations.
Seating of Opera Garnier  Opera Garnier web site

Chagall ceiling of Opera Garnier

One of the marvels of Opera Garnier is its 1964 ceiling by Marc Chagall. The ceiling represents the arts of opera and ballet. The ceiling, controversial at the time of its creation, is now widely aclaimed.

Go to Centre Pompidou in Paris or to the Chagall Museum in Nice to see other Chagall paintings.