Located north of the Seine River and the Tuileries Quarter, the Opera Quarter is one of Paris’s most chic and romantic areas. It is a menagerie of shops, boutiques, movie houses, cafes, banks and home to the world-famous Opera de Paris Garnier. By day, visitors can tour the Musee de L’Opera, indulge in a vast selection of food along the Place de la Madeleine or shop along the elegant Place de L’Opera. After dark, the streets are filled with theater patrons and others out to enjoy the nightlife. Learn best enjoy the Opera Quarter in Paris.
Instructions
Enjoy Paris' Opera Quarter
1. Tour La Madeleine.Consecrated in 1845, this church is one of the most recognized buildings in Paris. Corinthian columns encircle the massive structure and support a sculptured frieze that highlights this prominent structure, which is dedicated to Mary Magdalene. The church is open daily from 9 am to 7 pm and offers frequent concerts to the public.
2. Explore the Musee de l’Opera. Offering a history of the opera, this large collection of musical scores, photographs and memorabilia is a opera lovers paradise. There are also several exhibits dedicated to models of stage sets. Visitors can peruse the museum library which contains a large collection of books and manuscripts on the theater. The museum is open to the public from 10 am – 5 pm daily.
3. Visit the Opera de Paris Garnier. This magnificent 19th-century building has often been described as a massive wedding cake, because of its many layers and design elements. Built for Napoleon III, it took nearly 13 years to complete and finally opened in 1875. Although it once presented operas, most are now performed in the Opera Bastille. Some highlights of this building include the stunning marble Grand Staircase, the Grand Foyer and the five-tiered auditorium. Admission to the Opera is available from 11am to 6:30 pm daily.
4. Enjoy dinner or a drink at a local establishment. With the large theater crowds, you will also find many cafes, bars and restaurants. For simple, inexpensive fare check out the Café de la Paix on Blvd des Capucines or the famous Harry’s New York Bar on Rue Daunou. For something more formal and much more expensive, go to Senderans on Place de la Madeleine. Senderans offers an impressive menu of traditional French fare, but be prepared to spend a lot of money for the privilege. Entrees can often run as much as 50 Euros per person.
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