What to Do in the Opéra District of Paris
The Opera district (also known as the 9th arrondissement) is located in the heart of Paris, on the right bank of the River Seine. It is centered around the Palais Garnier, the renowned opera house, and extends outward to include surrounding streets and avenues such as Boulevard Haussmann, Rue de la Chaussée d’Antin, and Rue Saint-Lazare. This district is easily accessible by public transportation, with several metro stations serving the area, including Opera, Havre-Caumartin, and Saint-Lazare.
Things to Do in the Opéra District
The Opéra district in Paris is a vibrant and upscale neighborhood located around the iconic Palais Garnier, the stunning 19th-century opera house. Here are some highlights to enjoy in the area:
The Palais Garnier
Palais Garnier is a grand opera house, designed by Charles Garnier in an exuberant Baroque style. It’s the centerpiece of the district! Its exterior features ornate stone carvings and statues, while the interior is breathtakingly opulent with chandeliers, paintings, and marble everywhere you look. Try to get tickets for a performance or at least take a guided tour to see the lavish auditorium and grand staircase up close.
Shopping
There are plenty of world-class shops and boutiques to explore in the Opera area of Paris. The Cedric Grolet Opera store is a favorite pastry shop that attracts a crowd all day. The biggest department stores in Paris are also located in the neighborhood. If you love the Paris fashion scene, be sure to visit Galeries Lafayette and Le Printemps nearby.
The Grand Boulevards
Radiating out from the opera house are the grand, tree-lined boulevards like Boulevard des Italiens and Boulevard des Capucines. These were influential shopping and entertainment streets during the 19th century and remain wonderful for strolling, people-watching from cafés, and browsing boutiques.
Galeries and Passages
The district has several covered passages and galeries dating back to the 1800s with glass-roofed arcades sheltering chic shops, restaurants and art galleries. The Galerie Vivienne and Passage Verdeau are two elegant examples.
Admire the Architecture
Beyond the opera house itself, admire the impressive Haussmannian apartment buildings lining the boulevards with their ornate stone facades, mansard roofs and intricate ironwork details.
Dining and Cafés in the Opéra District
The area abounds with classic Parisian cafés with sidewalk terraces like Café de la Paix on the opera house plaza. But you’ll also find innovative contemporary French cuisine and stylish cocktail bars frequented by locals.
The Opéra quarter charms visitors with its grand 19th century architecture, iconic monuments, elegant galleries, shopping and people-watching opportunities all centered around one of Europe’s most famous opera venues. It encapsulates the sophistication and history that draws millions to Paris.
