A Secret but Not-So-Hidden Gem

For most visitors who come to Paris, the list of places to see include the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Versailles, and Notre Dame. On the other hand, although the Opéra Garnier sits right in the midst of other “high-profile” attractions such as the Tuileries Gardens, Palais Royale and Galeries Lafayette, the majority of visitors rush right past it, never stopping to take a look inside. While the Opéra Garnier is technically not listed as one of Paris’ famous palaces or museums, the opulent interiors combined with collection of paintings and sculptures can stand up to many European chateaux and because of that, should not be missed.

Designed by architect Charles Garnier during the Belle Époque period, although classified as neoclassical architecture, the Opéra Garnier is one of the world’s grandest and most beautiful theatres. It was the setting for the renowned masterpiece, Phantom of the Opera and later served as an inspiration for other notable sites abroad including the Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building in Washington DC. It’s lavish interiors include the grand staircase constructed of Italian marble, 7-ton chandelier in bronze, exquisite works by Chagall, and hallways that remind me of ones at Chateau of Versailles.

At the end of your visit, you can peruse around Paris’ Opera Library Museum attached to the theatre, then stop by Opéra Garnier Martini Bar and restaurant for a cocktail or bite to eat.

Opéra Garnier
8 Rue Scribe, 75009 Paris, France