Opera Garnier Accessibility Guide

Overview

The Opera Garnier (Palais Garnier) is one of the most ornate buildings in Paris, designed by Charles Garnier in the 19th century. Visitors can take self-guided tours through the Grand Foyer, view the Grand Staircase from accessible vantage points, and see the auditorium with its Chagall ceiling painting. An elevator provides access to most tour areas. For performances, wheelchair spaces can be booked in advance.

Getting There

• Metro: Opera (Lines 3, 7, 8). Line 7 and 8 at Opera do not have elevators. Use the bus instead.
• Bus: Routes 20, 21, 22, 27, 29, 42, 52, 53, 66, 68, 81, 95. The Opera bus hub has multiple accessible stops.
• Visitor entrance: The main visitor entrance for self-guided tours is on Rue Scribe (west side of the building). There is a dedicated accessible entrance to the left of the main steps.

Wheelchair Accessibility

• Dedicated accessible entrance on Rue Scribe, to the left of the main steps. Ring the bell for staff assistance.
• An elevator inside serves most tour floors, including the Grand Foyer level and the auditorium level.
• The Grand Staircase itself is not wheelchair accessible (it is a monumental staircase), but you can view it from the elevator-accessible landing.
• The Grand Foyer, with its painted ceilings and chandeliers, is fully accessible on the main level.
• The auditorium can be entered at the main level to see the Chagall ceiling.
• Some backstage areas on guided tours have steps and are not accessible.
• For performances: wheelchair spaces in the auditorium can be booked by phone or email. Contact the box office at least one week in advance.

Accessible Toilets

Accessible toilets are available near the main entrance on the ground floor. There are also accessible facilities on the Grand Foyer level.

Tips for Visitors with Disabilities

• Free entry for self-guided tours for disabled visitors and one companion. Bring your disability card. Otherwise the ticket costs 15 EUR.
• Self-guided tours run daily 10:00am to 5:00pm, except during matinee performances. Check the schedule online before visiting.
• The gift shop on the ground floor is accessible and has a good selection of books and souvenirs.
• Audio guides for self-guided tours are 5 EUR and include detailed descriptions of the architecture and artwork.
• The building is extremely ornate. Allow time to look up at the ceilings and details.