Palais Garnier
The Palais Garnier – more commonly referred to as the Paris Opera – is one of the city's leading venues for ballet, opera and classical music performances. The 1,900-seat venue houses the Paris Opera Ballet and the Opéra National de Paris, a privilege it shares with the nearby Opéra Bastille. Each season also brings an array of internationally renowned companies and performers, including the New York City Ballet, the National Ballet of China, and the Moscow Bolshoi Theatre.
Inaugurated on January 15, 1875, the opera house was designed by Charles Garnier as part of a city-wide refurbishment effort ordered by Napoleon III. Generally classified as Neo-baroque, the lavish façade was restored to its original grandeur during an extensive renovation in 2000. Within the building, guests find rich foyers reminiscent of a grand chateau and a sweeping, 30-meter-high Grand Staircase. The main auditorium is highlighted by an eight-ton chandelier, which hangs from a brightly colored mural by Marc Chagall.
Schedules and ticket prices vary based on performance. Group ticket sales are available. Special behind-the-scenes tours may also be arranged. For more information: +33 17 229 3535
