Paris: Opera Garnier & Seine River Cruise Tickets
Highlights
- Be amazed by the largest opera house in Europe at the Palais Garnier.
- Explore the magnificent Opera building in Paris.
- Enjoy a sightseeing cruise tour on the Seine River with oppurtunity to see all the famous landmarks in Paris in just 1 hour.
- Hear about the famous sights of Paris from an audio guide or app in 14 languages.
With this combo tour, you will have the oppurtunity to explore the biggest opera structure in Paris and one of the biggest Opera theatre in Europe. Afterwards, be amazed with a 1 hour sightseeing cruise boat tour on the Seine River.
The Opéra Garnier, also known as the Palais Garnier, is one of the most iconic cultural landmarks in Paris. Located in the city center, this historic opera house can seat nearly 2,000 people. It is considered one of the largest and most impressive opera houses in Europe. Since 1923, it has been officially classified as a French historical monument.
The Palais Garnier was commissioned by Emperor Napoleon III in 1858 during a major transformation of Paris. The project was part of Baron Haussmann’s ambitious urban redevelopment plan. In 1861, an architectural competition was held to select the designer. Charles Garnier won the competition and introduced a bold vision that combined elegance, grandeur, and theatrical flair. Although construction took several years, the final result became a lasting symbol of Parisian refinement.
Today, the Opéra Garnier is primarily used for ballet performances. This change followed the opening of the Opéra Bastille, which now hosts most large-scale opera productions. Despite this shift, the Palais Garnier remains an essential stop for visitors. Its architectural beauty and historical significance continue to attract millions each year.
The exterior of the building is richly decorated with statues, columns, and sculptural details. Inside, visitors are greeted by an atmosphere of luxury and drama. The Grand Staircase, made of marble and designed as a social centerpiece, is one of the most striking features. The Grand Foyer is equally impressive, with gilded decorations, mirrors, and elaborate ceiling paintings that reflect the artistic spirit of the 19th century.
Beneath the opera house lies one of its most mysterious elements. During construction, a small underground lake was created to manage groundwater. Over time, this unusual feature inspired the legend behind The Phantom of the Opera, adding an air of mystery to the building’s history.
After your visit to the Opéra Garnier, continue discovering Paris with a relaxing one-hour cruise on the Seine River. Board a modern panoramic boat designed for comfort and sightseeing. Large windows and exterior viewing platforms allow you to enjoy unobstructed views of the city.
As the boat glides along the river, you will admire the UNESCO-listed riverbanks and many of Paris’s most famous landmarks. Highlights include the Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, the Louvre Museum, the Musée d’Orsay, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Along the way, you will also pass under historic bridges and see houseboats and floating restaurants that contribute to the city’s unique charm.
During the cruise, a pre-recorded audio guide is available onboard in 14 languages. The commentary provides valuable historical and cultural insights into each monument you pass. Together, the Opéra Garnier visit and Seine River cruise create a well-rounded experience that combines architecture, history, and scenic beauty for an unforgettable Parisian journey.