Palais Garnier, also known as Opéra Garnier, is one of the most magnificent and iconic opera houses in the world, located in the heart of Paris, France. Designed by Charles Garnier, a French architect and alumnus of the École des Beaux-Arts, the building was constructed between 1861 and 1875 under the patronage of Emperor Napoleon III. This grand project was part of Baron Haussmann’s ambitious renovation of Paris, which transformed the French capital into a modern metropolis. The Palais Garnier stands as a symbol of the Second Empire’s cultural prosperity, blending traditional artistic grandeur with contemporary innovation of its time.

The building’s exterior is adorned with sculptures, carvings, and exquisite ornamental details that reflect the richness of Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance architectural styles. One of its most striking features is the grand marble staircase at the entrance, accompanied by elaborately designed bronze balustrades and opulent chandeliers, including a central crystal chandelier weighing over six tons. The interior is lavishly decorated with multicolored marble, gilded surfaces, and frescoed ceilings, including a dramatic ceiling of the auditorium repainted in 1964 by Marc Chagall, who used bold colors to depict scenes inspired by renowned composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Wagner.

The main auditorium of Palais Garnier seats more than 2,000 spectators and is celebrated for its exceptional acoustics. Its stage is equipped with advanced theatrical technologies, hosting countless performances of opera, ballet, and concerts over the decades. It also serves as the home of the Paris Opera Ballet, one of the oldest and most prestigious ballet companies in the world, which has nurtured generations of distinguished dancers and choreographers.

Visiting the Palais Garnier offers not only an encounter with breathtaking architectural beauty but also a deep immersion into the cultural and historical soul of Paris. It has long been a hub of social and artistic life in the city and continues to inspire audiences worldwide. The opera house famously inspired the classic novel The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux, which later evolved into a globally acclaimed musical and film. Today, the Palais Garnier remains a living testament to the grandeur of 19th-century French art and continues to enchant visitors with its timeless elegance and artistic spirit.

• Metro: Lines 3, 7, 8 to Opéra station

• Bus: Lines 21, 27, 29, 42, 52, 66, 68, 81, 95 to Opéra stop

• Walking: Centrally located near Boulevard Haussmann, Printemps, and Galeries Lafayette

• Book tickets in advance for performances

• Guided tours are ideal for history and architecture enthusiasts

• Bring a camera to capture the stunning interiors

• Wear comfortable shoes as the building is large with many stairs

• Visit during off-peak hours for a quieter experience 

Admission Fee

• Self-guided visit: €15–€17 for adults

• Guided tours: From €20 and up

• Free for children under 12

• Special offers or discounts may apply seasonally

Opening Time

• Open daily: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM)

• Closed on: January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th