This splendid building was listed as an Historic Monument in 1923. The Palais Garnier, which was long known as 'the Paris Opera House', took the name of its founder when the more contemporary opera house was opened at Place de la Bastille. The Hôtel Mansart invites you to go behind the scenes of the opera. Anyone who loves 19th-century design, arts and culture, and lots of shiny things should add this to their dance card.A symbol of the dance and opera, the Palais Garnier is at the heart of the Haussmann district and is a remarkable example of theatrical architecture.

So when you get down to it, who do you think it's best for?

The 14 euro admission fee draws only one type of person: tourists.Īnything we should know before planning a visit?īe warned: Experiencing the gilt and glamour of a bygone Paris might make you want to consider a move to the City of Lights-or at least get opera tickets. If you prefer to move at your own pace, there's also a good self-guided audio tour. So what is the best way to see the whole of the Palais Garnier?Įven if you aren't committing to a show here-which we highly recommend-the public tours are an unmissable experience and worth every penny. The building's opulence is a humbling, stunning testament to this city's centuries-long commitment to the arts. Admission costs about 14 euros, but it's well worth it-walking through these public spaces is like walking into the Paris of the past. Inside, make sure to channel your best 'Phantom of the Opera' moment on the iconic lobby's Grand Staircase, a triumph of decadent Parisian design. The facade is covered with ornamentation and busts, as well as l'Harmonie and La Poésie, the two gilded copper statues flanking the entrance from on high. The pinnacle of Napoleon III architecture, the resplendent Palais Garnier opera house is opulent from every angle. What's the history behind the Paris opera house?

Paris opera house facade