The Palais Garnier, or Opera Garnier, is one of the most famous opera houses in the world. The impressive opera house nearly seats 2,000 patrons and dates back to the 19th century. Its architecture is profound and has inspired countless opera houses across the globe. Learn how you can get your Opera Garnier tickets and tour this special venue with friends and family.

Here's what you need to know about visiting Opera Garnier, one of the most famous attractions in Paris.

How much do Opera Garnier guided tours cost?

There are different ways to experience the genuine beauty of Opera Garnier. The opera house hosts a variety of programs each year and tickets vary based on the event.

On the other hand, you should consider taking a tour of the grounds. Opera Garnier tickets are sold for self-guided and guided tours:

Self-guided Opera Garnier tours

Discover the treasures of the public access areas in Opera Garnier. This also presents access to the current exhibitions (when available). However, access to the auditorium is sometimes restricted or forbidden.

Adult full rate: €14
Children under 12: Free

Opera Garnier day tours

The personal guided tour takes you through Members’ Rotunda and Grand Staircase, offering a more intimate experience compared to the self-guided tour.

Adult full rate: €18.50
Children aged 4-9: €10
Children under 4: Free

Opera Garnier after hours

The after hours tour takes visitors into the opera house once it is closed to the public. The intimate tour is a one of a kind experience that lasts approximately an hour and a half.

Adult full rate: €22

How do you book Opera Garnier tours online?

If you are looking to schedule a self-guided or guided tour we recommend booking in advance. There are many travel agencies selling online Opera Garnier guided tours, such as Viator or Getyourguide.

Use our search engine to find your ideal tour at the best price.

Are Opera Garnier guided tours worth it?

Absolutely! There are several reasons to book a guided tour:

You get a guide: Your guide will answer all your questions and will enrich the experience by telling the history of this stunning Opera. You will be sure that you will not miss anything important.

Access to exclusive areas: the Opera Garnier has private areas that can only be visited as a part of a guided tour. Visit privileged areas of the theater and learn more about this stunning monument.

Guaranteed access: the Opera Garnier can only accommodate a limited number of people per day. Therefore, onsite tickets can be sold out.

What will you experience at Opera Garnier?

Opera Garnier is one of the most impressive concert venues that is still standing. The opera house recently celebrated its 250th anniversary which is amazing. Visitors are awe-struck by the outstanding condition the venue remains in after all these years.

The nearly 2,000-seat opera house was constructed over a 14-year period in the mid-19th century. The company regularly hosts ballet along with operas, concerts, and recitals. Opera Garnier is most commonly connected to Gaston Leroux’s monumental 1910 novel “The Phantom of the Opera”, and subsequent films.

Are Opera Garnier tickets included in any attractions city passes?

It is possible to enjoy a Opera Garnier guided tour through the Paris Pass. The pass offers admission to many of the primary museums and monuments in Paris. It also includes unlimited travel on public transportation, which is a really good deal.

When is the best time to visit the Opera Garnier? How do you avoid the crowd?

We recommend that you plan for at least an hour to visit the Opera Garnier. Guided tours last closer to an hour and a half.

Weekends and holidays are traditionally the busiest times at the Opera Garnier.

We recommend beating the crowds by arriving early, and preferably on a weekday if possible.

What are the Opera Garnier opening hours?

The Opera Garnier is open everyday from 10 AM to 5 PM.

The venue is not open during Christmas Day or New Year’s Day or May 1. The opera house closes to the public for performances unless you have tickets to the show. The final admission of the day is sold 30 minutes before the venue closes.

Top tips

Book early and compare deals: our search engine can help you find the best deal and beat the waiting lines at the venue. Guided tours sell out fast due to the popularity of the famous opera house. You can save time and reduce hassle by booking in advance.
Use the Metro to get there: Opéra station (lines 3, 7 and 8)
Arrive early: Because of new security measures, it is requested to all the visitors to arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of the tour.

Which other attractions should you visit in Paris?

Opera Garnier: Tickets and Tours