The entrance fee for the Palais Garnier (also known as the Opéra Garnier) is 17€ for the year 2025, with a reduced ticket price of 11€ for visitors aged 12 to 25. Children under 12 enter free of charge. Seniors and pensioners can also benefit from the 11€ reduced rate, and there are no seasonal differences in pricing. The doors usually open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., although schedules may vary on days with performances. We visited on January 5, 2025, so the information we are sharing is valid as of that date.
About Palais Garnier
We believe the Palais Garnier is one of the most remarkable architectural masterpieces in Paris, and it has a fascinating history to match its grandeur. Designed by architect Charles Garnier and inaugurated in 1875, this building is a testament to the lavish tastes of the Second Empire under Napoleon III. Stepping inside, visitors are immediately greeted by the majestic Grand Staircase—a showstopper adorned with vibrant marble, gilded ornaments, and intricate carvings that make you feel as if you’ve walked into a scene from a grand historical drama. A few steps beyond lies the Grand Foyer, often compared to the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles for its opulent mirrors, exquisite paintings, and sparkling chandeliers.
Palais Garnier (Opéra Garnier)
We think one of the most captivating features of the Palais Garnier is the auditorium’s ceiling, painted by Marc Chagall in 1964. This modern masterpiece adds a colorful contrast to the rich red velvet seats and the ornate gold balconies. The iconic chandelier at the center, which famously inspired Gaston Leroux’s novel “The Phantom of the Opera”, also draws plenty of curious onlookers. Below ground level, there’s even a water reservoir known as the “lake,” which some say helps balance the building’s weight and inspired parts of Leroux’s story as well.
We suggest setting aside at least an hour to roam freely through the different sections, though opera or ballet enthusiasts might want to stay even longer to absorb every bit of detail. After your visit, it’s easy to grab a bite around Place de l’Opéra—there are several cafés and brasseries in the area that serve everything from quick snacks to elegant French cuisine. We also appreciate how close the Opera is to other major Parisian highlights such as the Louvre, the Tuileries Garden, and the Galeries Lafayette for shopping. If you’re looking to buy souvenirs, the Opera itself has a boutique, and the nearby department stores offer an array of Paris-themed keepsakes. We find that strolling through this neighborhood can turn a simple visit into a full day of cultural immersion.