Interested in attending a performance—an opera, ballet, recital, or concert—at the Palais Garnier in Paris? This article will comprehensively provide advice and tips on all aspects of your visit to the Opera Garnier such as when to arrive, what to wear, and what to expect so you can make the most out of your visit to this beautiful and historic venue.
I really love the Palais Garnier and have attended two ballets and one opera here—our most recent visit was in June. While you can also see performances at the other Paris Opera location—the Opera Bastille—there is nothing quite like seeing a performance in this opulent venue. The Palais Garnier is arguably the most famous opera house in the world and for many it’s a once in a lifetime experience to attend a ballet or opera here during their travels.
Now, if you have not yet booked your tickets or have any questions about seating, please review this article on tips on booking tickets to the Paris Opera. Once you have your tickets booked, read on and we’ll provide tips on making the most of attending a performance at the Opera Garnier based on our own experiences.
Basic Information about the Palais Garnier
• Built and named after architect Charles Garnier. It was built over a period of 15 years and the first performance took place at the Palais Garnier in 1875.
• The Italian-style horseshoe-shaped auditorium has 1,900 seats.
• Official website for the Opera de Paris is here.
• Primary telephone line from outside France: + 33 (0)1 71 25 24 23
• Primary telephone line from within France: 0 892 89 90 90
• Address: 8 rue Scribe, Place de l’Opera, 75009 Paris, France (located in the 9th arrondissement, at the corner of rue Scribe and rue Auber)
• Metro: Opéra stop right across the street from Palais Garnier, use lines 3, 7, or 8
• RER: line A, station Auber
• Bus lines: 20, 21, 22, 27, 29, 42, 52, 53, 66, 6 8, 81, 95
• Nearest Car park: Place Vendôme
Before the Performance Tips
• Note that almost all performances are performed in their original language, so very few performances will be in English and most are also not in French. We saw a performance in Italian for example with French surtitles provided on a screen during the performance. Some performances have both French and English surtitles and this information should be noted in the performance information provided on the website. If the performance is not in a language you know (and there are no surtitles in your language), this is a good reason to read about the performance beforehand. If this bothers you, consider choosing a recital or ballet over an opera where language is not as important.
• Read the “More about the Production” links on the specific production’s Paris Opera webpage before you attend to learn more about the composer and performers, history of the production, and see video clips of the performance. I also generally do an Internet search as well to get a fuller description of the performance so I can read it beforehand.
• If you have a physical handicap or a sight or visual impairment, you should contact the theatre to inquire about special accommodations and special seating. Ideally, you should check on this prior to booking your ticket as some seats are definitely not handicap accessible. You can call: + 33 (0)1 40 01 18 50
• What should you wear to a performance at the Palais Garnier? This is probably the most common question from visitors. In the three times I was there, almost everyone was dressed in business dress clothing (many people are in fact just getting off work). Unless you are going to a gala evening event, almost no one will be in gowns or tuxedos. Even full suits are not that common although you won’t be out of place if you wear one. For women, a dress, blouse/skirt, or blouse/nice pants is fine. For men, a dress shirt, nice pants, and nice shoes are fine. Many people were in business casual style clothing during all three of my visits. The two French men sitting in front of me during my last visit were both just wearing sweaters and khaki pants. So don’t overdress (e.g., show up in an evening gown) or underdress (e.g., no tennis shoes, shorts, jeans, tank tops, tee-shirts, etc.) and you should be fine.
• It can be helpful to think about the shoes, socks, and hosiery you might need when packing as you might not want to wear white hiking socks under your black pants. Ethan for example just wore the same black leather Merrill shoes throughout our entire trip, but changed into black socks for the opera. Below are pictures of what we have worn to the opera, and note we were actually more dressed up compared to some of the other attendees.
• Now, if you are going to a gala evening event, the dress code is more formal. The dress code for a gala events is generally black tie. So for men, this means a tuxedo (traditional black or midnight blue) and for women a cocktail or evening dress. However, women can also get away with a formal pant or skirt suit with jacket if you don’t want to wear a dress. People tend to dress more conservatively in Paris than in the U.S. so keep bare flesh to a minimum, avoid bright colors, and choose a hemline that fall below the knee. A simple black evening dress and black heels are always a good option.
• Need a quick caffeine break before the performance? The Starbucks located within walking distance on 3 Boulevard des Capucines is one of the most opulently decorated Starbucks we’ve ever been in with velvet chairs, chandeliers, and a gilt-leaf ceiling depicting cherubs aloft in a blue sky. While the product is definitely American, the setting may help get you in the mood for the Palais Garnier.
• Inside the Opera Garnier, a little bar sells champagne and other refreshments. It opens about 45 minutes before the start of the performance and will also be open during the intermissions.
• Arrive 30 to 45 minutes early so that you can walk around this beautiful building. The opulence of this building—the grand marble staircase, the gilded statues, and ornate foyers—are certainly worth taking the time to appreciate. Not to mention the giant crystal chandelier, red velvet covered seats, and Chagall-painted ceiling of the actual auditorium. There were also past ballet and opera costumes on display during our visit. You’ll also have short intermission breaks during performances, but it’s better to explore before the performance if you can.
• Feel free to bring along opera glasses or small discreet binoculars. These can be very useful if you have a seat that is far from the stage.
• The printed performance programs are not free, but are quite well-designed and can serve as a nice memento. They generally cost around 12 euros and can be purchased inside the building near the main staircase. However, they may or may not have them available in English.
• A quite loud (and somewhat obnoxious in my opinion) bell rings to denote that it is time to start heading to your seats at the beginning of the performance and during intermissions. Remember if you show up late to either the beginning of the performance or following an intermission, the ushers may refuse entry if they feel you will disturb other patrons.
• You can take your coat inside the auditorium with you or have it checked. We’ve always taken them into the auditorium with us.
• It’s good to make note of the nearest restroom location before going into the auditorium as there are generally long waits during intermissions, particularly for women.
• After you go up the staircase, you’ll see signs above the auditorium door entrances on each floor regarding the seating section. However, if you have any trouble figuring out the location of your seat, just show your ticket to the nearest usher and he or she can help you.
• Tipping the ushers is not expected at the Opera Garner and I have not actually seen anyone tipping them. Another opera goer told us that tipping is prohibited in the state theaters such as Palais Garnier, but it is expected in private theaters.
During the Performance Tips
• If the performance is not in French, French surtitles will be displayed on a monitor above the stage. English surtitles may also be displayed as well.
• Don’t forget to look up at the colorful Chagall ceiling inside the auditorium. If you don’t have a good view of the ceiling from your seat, make your way to the orchestra area at some point. I’ve done this both before performances and during intermissions, but just remember that other people are trying to get in and out of their seats so please be courteous.
• This is an old theatre and the seats and temperature are not always the most comfortable for a long performance. For instance, we had very little leg space and it was quite warm and stuffy in our Amphitheatre seats in June. Others have complained of being cold. So come prepared if you know this is likely going to be an issue—dress in layers, bring something you can lightly fan yourself with, bring small binoculars if you know your seat is far away, etc. While you can’t mitigate everything, it is good to go in with the attitude that not everything has to be perfect as there is bound to some minor annoyance, whether it’s the temperature, sightline, or the movement of the guest next to you. It’s best to take it in stride and enjoy the performance.
• No smoking or using cell phones allowed in the auditorium. Obviously there is also no eating or drinking.
• No photos or videotaping during performances in the auditorium. Take any pictures before or after the performance.
• Given that lines for the restroom can be quite long during intermissions, it is best to head there as soon as you exit the auditorium. I’ve had to wait in line for over 10 minutes before with the bell already ringing.
• If you want a drink at intermission, head to the little bar. A glass of champagne costs about 12 euros.
After the Performance Tips
• The Opera metro stop is right across the street across from the entrance to the Palais Garnier. The Paris Metro stops running at 1:15am (later on Saturdays).
• If you are looking for a convenient dinner option after an opera performance, you can try the recently opened L’Opera Restaurant which is located at the Palais Garnier. It should be open before and after most performances, and you can make reservations online.
• Other restaurants within walking distance include the famous Café de la Paix (12, Boulevard des Capucines), Le Grand Cafe Capucines (4 Boulevard des Capucines), Café Drouant (18 Rue Gaillon), La Fontaine Gaillon (1 rue Gaillon), Lucas Carton (9 Place de la Madeleine), New Balal (25 Rue Taitbout), and l’Absinthe (24 Place du Marche Saint-Honore).
• We normally use LaFourchette to make restaurant reservations in France.
• Just note that Paris is not New York City and many restaurants in Paris are not open super late. Many restaurants don’t accept reservations for seatings after 9pm or 9:30pm, so it’s good to figure out when your performance ends (generally between 9:30pm and 11:00pm) so you can choose a restaurant and make reservations accordingly.
Find this article helpful? Still have questions related to attending a performance at the Palais Garnier? Have additional tips of your own to share? We’d love to hear from you!
Leona Post author
This information is just what I needed. I’m actually going to the opening night of the ballet season in September – the famous Défilé du ballet, so frocking up a little is on the menu!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Leona, Thanks for taking the time to comment. So happy you found our article helpful and yes you should definitely dress up a bit for the opening night performances. A bit jealous that you are going to a ballet at the Palais Garnier – haven’t been in a few years 😉 Enjoy your time in Paris and the ballet! Best, Jessica
Jami Andrews Post author
What a great article and your writing makes me want to go! It sounds inviting and charming. We will be in Paris in September, 2018. Taking in all that you have written, I am a little concerned about the seating. My family is tall with my older sons being 6’4 and 6’3. Where would you suggest a better seat would be based on this being the case?
Thank you!
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Jami, Going to the Opera Garnier is a great experience if you like the theatre or opera, especially if you like grand Old World settings 😉 But yes, the seats are smaller than you may be used to in newer theaters and there is less legroom – you can see one of my photos above from sitting in the amphitheatre seats and I am only 5′ 4″. So booking a better seat category is probably a good idea. I would recommend checking out the prices of the seats in the boxes (Loges and Baignoires), Balcon, Orchestra, and Optima seats. Generally, the more expensive the seat, the better the location. You can see more on seat types and ordering in this post. Enjoy your time in Paris! Jessica
Carrie Post author
This post is fantastic! Thank you for taking the time to spell everything out in detail for those of us who are going to the Paris Opera for the first time and eager to learn more.
I’m trying to calculate what time to make my post-ballet dinner reservation. How long do the intermissions at Palais Garnier last? This ballet is 2 hours and 20 minutes long, with 2 intervals. Do you think I’m safe to make a reservation at Café de la Paix 3 hours after the ballet starts?
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Carrie, The intervals (or intermissions) are normally about 20 minutes. Normally in a production of 2 hours or so, there is only 1 interval, but the production may require more longer set changes than usual. So I think that 3 hours should be fine, maybe make it for 3 hours and 15 minutes after the start time to be safe as it may take a bit of time to get out of the auditorium, get your coat, exit, etc. At least you have only a short walk to the restaurant! Enjoy the ballet and post-ballet dinner! Best, Jessica
Laura Post author
Thanks so much for this article! I will be attending a ballet at the Palais Garnier with my sister in May, and I had exactly the questions you answered in this post – what to wear, how early to arrive, etc. Thanks for answering them. 🙂
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Laura, Yeah, glad you found all the answers to your questions. Enjoy the ballet at the Palais Garnier with your sister. Best, Jessica
Jacqueline Martin Post author
We have tickets to a premier night at Paris Bastille Opera. we have often attended, as we visit every year. This year it is “black tie” and my husband doesn’t even have a jacket – just a black sweater and pants. Will he get thrown out? I have appropriate clothing.
travelcats Post author
Hi Jacqueline, I am envious that you get to attend one of the premier gala evenings. Since you know it is black tie I would recommend getting at least a jacket and tie for the evening for your husband. I am not sure if he would be allowed to attend or not but they may insist on at least a jacket to a formal event. But even if not, he may feel quite out of place if everyone else is dressed up. Black tie normally means a tuxedo (dinner jacket), bow tie, dress shirt, black pants, and dress shoes. The French rarely wear black tie compared to the British and Americans, so being a bit lax should be fine but I would at least recommend a jacket and regular neck tie. If you are not able to travel with these items, you can always rent them for just the day of the event either before you leave or during your stay in Paris. Just note that in France tuxedos are generally referred to in English as smoking jackets. If you are U.S. based, Men’s Warehouse has reasonably priced tuxedos and suits for rent. Best of luck and hope you enjoy the Paris Opera! Best, Jessica
Rachel Post author
Thank you for the very helpful tips! We’re going in the beginning of December and can’t wait!
travelcats Post author
Hi Rachel, You’re very welcome and I hope you enjoy your trip to Paris and performance at the Paris Opera! ~ Jessica
MEvans Post author
We went last night to a German opera. They had both English and French subtitles.
travelcats Post author
That is great! It is nice to have surtitles or subtitles or at least a program that describes the opera or play in one’s native language by each act to help follow along. Both the Opera Garnier and Bastille have equipment to project both French and English surtitles and it should be listed in each performance description if surtitles will be used during the performance. I have not been to a performance with surtitles in the Opera Garnier but I think they are now quite common. ~ Jessica
Steven Post author
Thank you for this page! I found it in a Web search, trying to find as much info as we can before our scheduled visit. This will be our second trip to Paris but our first to Opera Garnier in June. Your page gave me all the information I needed and then some.. We had thought about doing the tour during the day, but we finally couldn’t resist seeing an actual performance (we shall probably end up doing both). Thank you for the valuable guide to seeing a performance there. We are so excited!
travelcats Post author
Hi Steven, Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment. We actually just did the tour of the Opera for the first time this year and we thought that it was worth it as well, but you’ll get to see most (although not all) of the areas if you just show up a little early for the performance and wander around. The problem is that sometimes the actual theater part is closed (rehearsals, lighting checks, performances) during the day or completely dark. So a performance is the best way to see the main theater seating area with its beautiful Chagall ceiling. Enjoy! ~ Jessica
Girlcat7 Post author
Thank you so much for information! I will be in Paris this May and have never been to the Palais Garnier, (we are going to the ballet) I was wondering what to wear and now I feel much more comfortable making that decision!
Thank you!
travelcats Post author
Hi Kristin, glad that this article make you feel more comfortable in choosing what to wear to the ballet in Paris! Enjoy the ballet at the Palais Garnier and your time in Paris! ~ Jessica
pepamint01 Post author
Hi there!
I just wanted to thank you for this article and your other article about purchasing tickets. This has taken a lot off my mind. I’ve never been to Paris and I’ve never seen an opera and/or ballet overseas so I am incredibly excited and overwhelmed.
Thank you for taking the time to write about your experiences it has been incredibly helpful!
Best Wishes
Renae
travelcats Post author
Glad you found the two articles on going to the Paris Opera helpful! I hope you have a wonderful trip to Paris and please feel free to email us if you have general Paris travel questions! ~ Jessica
Kelley Post author
Thanks for the great article. My mother-in-law and I will be attending a ballet this May. It is on a Thursday night, but is the 1st night (premiere) of that ballet. Does this warrant dressing up more? Also, have you eaten at any of the places that you mention for after-ballet dining? Of so, do you have a favorite? Thanks so much.
travelcats Post author
Hi Kelley, I think the dress would be the same as regular evenings as we’ve gone on a premiere evening as well and didn’t notice any big differences. It is really only the gala evenings (more expensive and specially organized) that you would be expected to be more dressed up (in 2015 it looks like there will be one gala evening in March and one in September at Palais Garnier). I have not gone to any of the listed nearby restaurants (only had coffee at the recommended Starbucks – the decor is very nice) but I am sure there are reviews on Tripadvisor for them that could be helpful. I would recommend choosing a restaurant nearby for evening performances as once we made a reservation about 20 min. away by metro and we had to rush to make the reservation. Enjoy the performance, it is a treat to attend performances in such a beautiful setting:)
Jules Post author
Hi, I just found this post and appreciate the great information! We will be attending an opera performance, and it will be our first time in the Opera Garnier. I read that you cannot of course take pictures during the actual performance, but do you think it would be okay to bring our Nikon camera to take pictures of the beautiful building before the show? Since we will already be in the building, I would prefer to take pictures with our real camera to get better quality than on our cell phones. I’m not sure if this is too “tacky” to have our big bulky camera during the performance night?
travelcats Post author
Hi Jules, I am glad you found our Paris Opera blog posts to be informative. We just had a small point-and-shoot camera that fit in my purse with us and took photos prior to the performance and also one time during the interval. If you have a compact camera or phone camera that will be easier to take and hold, but I don’t think a DSLR camera would be a problem (I would use one of your less bulky lens). You’ll need to place it under your seat or on your lap during the performance or check it at the coat check. Good luck and don’t worry about it too much, it is a great place for photos. I hope you enjoy the performance!
fojap Post author
Great information.
I just went to a premiere at the Palais Garnier last night. For reference, I’m from New York, so most of my comparisons are with that city. Also, I’ve been much more of a theater and dance goer, so this was my first premiere for an opera anywhere. As far as dress goes, it seemed to me that people were less dressy than in New York, on average, for a premiere. However, there were some people in black tie and evening gowns, so if you like to dress up, this is a good occasion for it. Most women were in cocktail dresses, many in fairly fancy ones. I did see a few women in elegant pantsuits, but these were mostly older women who appeared to have mobility issues, and they did look lovely, not casual at all. Some younger women did wear above the knee dresses, but generally not super sexy. Dress as you might for an evening wedding reception. Men were all in suits, some in black tie. There was champagne and hors d’ouevres during intermission. I really felt I was splurging to get tickets for the premiere, but I have to say it was very much worth it. The building itself lends a pagentry to the event. Although I didn’t see anyone turned away, there were people at the doors.
There was one little thing that confused me as a New Yorker, which was where to pick up tickets I’d bought on-line. Inside the theater, in the lobby, just up the first flight of interior stairs, there are two wooden desks, one on the left and one on the right. At one of them, there was a person that had all the tickets that were being picked up. You can’t pick them up early. You have to pick them up on your way in, starting about a half an hour before the performance. I’d brought my reference number with me, but he was able to find my tickets with just my name. It was very easy, but I felt a little insecure not having been to that theater before.
Everyone working there was extremely helpful and polite. If you’re unsure of where to go or the right thing to do, just ask.
As far as comfort issues go, I grew up going to Broadway theaters which are also nineteenth centruy buildings and am used to small seats, stairs and so on, so I didn’t really notice, but other people might. I did hear some people about me complaining about the temperature, so your advice about layers is very sound.
travelcats Post author
Thanks so much for providing all this excellent information about your own personal experience to the Paris Opera at the Palais Garnier! I really appreciate it and I am sure this will be really useful for future readers in addition to the info I shared. Just to clarify, I think you are specifically referring to an opening night premiere, correct? Not a regular night which is generally more office wear dress from my three experiences. This is really useful as I’ve never gone to one of the gala openings or premieres where people obviously dress up a bit more. Sounds like an amazing experience!
Garnier Post author
Thank for all this info. Even in french, it’s difficult to find such useful information.
travelcats Post author
Thanks for taking the time to view our article and we are happy that you found our article on the Opera Garnier so useful! The information provided on the Paris Opera website has vastly approved since we initially booked a ticket a few years ago.
David Cartwright Post author
Thanks for a very useful article. When I went to the Garnier my comparisons tended to with the opera in London.
However there were two things that worried me a little. First, when a seat became vacant during the performance ( someone didn’t like Pina Bausch !) there was an immediate scramble from the seats behind to climb over them to get closer to the action. Second, as the theatre filled up before the start, they let down collapsable seats at the end of the rows which eventually filled the aisle up! Fire regulations? Still, we enjoyed the evening.
travelcats Post author
Ah, yes, the folding seats at the ends of some of the aisles. These are often not sold so are just available and are good if you arrive late or need to leave early (we’ve used them for the latter once). But you are right, it is really difficult to get around when you need to get out quickly. We haven’t had the issue with the scrambling for seats as I can’t remember anyone leaving very early during any of our performances. Glad you still enjoyed your evening at the Paris Opera!
Leo Post author
I am about to wear my white tuxedo for the 2014 premiere of of Gluck /Pina Bausch/ “Orphée et Eurydice”.
I don’t really care if I will be overdressed. 🙂
travelcats Post author
Good for you! I definitely think that if you want to dress up, this is a fun place to do it. Have a wonderful time in Paris!
Teresa Post author
Hi Ethan and Jessica,
Thank you so much for this Palais Garnier info. My best friend and I will be attending a performance at the opera house on the evening of 11 May 2014. It is not an opera or a ballet, but it does seem to be some kind of a recital (I would have preferred seeing a ballet–even a modern one–but this is my friend’s first trip to Europe so I don’t want her to feel intimidated), so I hope your advice for appropriate clothing (business style) will hold true. My husband and I have been to several operas in other European cities and I normally where black velvet pants with a black “sparkly” top, but that seems like overkill in this case. Quite frankly, I wouldn’t mind wearing something a little less formal and I suspect my friend will be relieved, too.
travelcats Post author
Hi Teresa – Except on gala evenings, most people don’t wear super formal clothing based on my three visits (2 ballets, one opera). Now I will note that business dress for Parisians may be a bit more formal than some places in the U.S., but a nice blouse/top and black pants or a skirt would be fine. The two older Frenchmen in front of us this past visit were wearing regular sweaters over khaki pants. There were men in suits and some women in nice dresses, but many folks looked like they were coming straight from the office. I think it is a great opportunity to dress up if you want, but if you are wearing clothing appropriate for an office, you should fit in fine and you’ll be comfortable. Just note that it can get quite hot (or cold) inside the theater so I would dress in layers as we were quite warm last May. Have a great trip and I would love it if you came back and reported your thoughts after you visit.
Melissa Post author
Thanks for sharing all of these great tips (I now feel like an insider)! I definitely would not be able to find all of this helpful information on my own! I love all of the beautiful photos too!
travelcats Post author
Yes, it is sooo beautiful!
Shaun Post author
Hello there! I just needed to state that this article is amazing and includes so many details about attending the Opera Garnier in Paris. I searched a long time for some of this information and found it all here in this one article. Thanks!
travelcats Post author
Thanks Shaun, we are glad you found this article helpful! It can be difficult to find much detailed English information on booking and attending performances at the Palais Garnier so we wanted to make these two posts to help those, who likes us, had searched for this information.
Angela Post author
Wow what a beautiful old theatre, a real step back in time! Loved the leg-room shot, classic. Thanks for the tips on what to wear as well, will definitely think about booking a ticket next time I’m in Paris.
travelcats Post author
Haha, yes, if you want to get real up close and personal with some strangers, choose a seat in the Amphitheatre:) The French man in the seat in front of me turned around later and complained about my knees (at least I think so with my limited French). So I kept my knees apart (very unladylike!) or moved them to the side the rest of the opera, oh my! Despite all this, it was still worth it to me to be able to watch another performance at this wonderful place.
Jill (HK) Post author
Very helpful info here, thank you very much for sharing. I’m wondering if you’ve attended during winter? I am concerned about how warm the Opera Garnier can get even then, as we had such experience in Vienna State Opera.
travelcats Post author
Hello Jill, welcome to our blog. I am glad that you found the Opera articles helpful. We have not attended during the winter, only Spring and Summer. In the three performances I have attended, twice the temperature was fine (once in Orchestra, once in Amphitheatre), but the second time in the Amphitheatre it was quite warm. The Amphitheatre tends to be hotter and the seats more uncomfortable (folding, set high, narrow) than some of the other sections. The higher up you sit in the theatre the more likely it will be hot, and the lower level seats are more likely to be cooler. Personally, we would prefer to be too cool so we can just put on our jacket as there was very little we could do about being hot. Good luck, and I hope you have a wonderful time at the Opera Garnier, it’s a beautiful venue. Feel free to ask if you have any further questions.
Jackie H Post author
Wow, another great article! Great information in both of your Paris Opera blog posts. Love the pics, you and the building are so beautiful!
travelcats Post author
Thanks for stopping by again, Jackie. I am really glad you enjoyed the post!