28 Things to Do in and Around the Opera Area (Paris)

The Opéra district in Paris is lively, cultural and historic, so there’s plenty to do! I’ve gathered a list of activities of all kinds for you from department stores and museums to Japanese bakeries and outdoor escape games.

To get you started, here are the places mentioned in the article located on a map:

 

Galeries Lafayette

40 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris

galeries lafayette

The Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is an iconic store in the heart of Paris.

It spans several floors and offers a vast selection of luxury products and internationally renowned brands.

These include clothing, fashion accessories, perfumes, beauty products, homeware and a wide range of gourmet products.

The terrace on the 8th floor is a must-visit, providing an unobstructed view of Opéra and attracting many visitors.

We love:

  • The wide selection of stores
  • The terrace’s view of the Opéra

Information

 

Printemps Haussmann

64 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris

 

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Une publication partagée par Paris la douce (@paris.la.douce)

The Printemps Haussmann is a prestigious department store founded in 1865. It stands as one of the French capital’s emblematic luxury shopping venues.

The Printemps building is a true work of architectural art, showcasing an elegant façade and sophisticated decorations.

The store covers several floors, each dedicated to high-end product categories such as fashion, accessories, beauty, fragrances, home and gastronomy.

We love:

  • The store’s splendid architecture
  • The Christmas window displays

Information

 

Citadium

56 Rue de Caumartin, 75009 Paris

 

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Une publication partagée par BlackSoap (@blacksoapagency)

The Citadium Caumartin is a trendy concept store in the 9th arrondissement.

This contemporary and dynamic store is a popular destination for urban fashion and streetwear lovers.

The store offers an eclectic selection of clothing, accessories and footwear from renowned international brands, as well as emerging designers.

The modern, urban, and casual collections are particularly appealing to young people and streetwear lovers.

We love:

  • The trendy atmosphere
  • The array of trendy stores

Information (website in French)

 

Palais Garnier (Opera)

Pl. de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris

Palais Garnier

The Palais Garnier is one of the capital’s most emblematic opera houses.

Inaugurated in 1875, this magnificent building represents one of the greatest architectural achievements of its time and continues to be one of the major cultural jewels of the French capital.

The opera house hosts world-renowned artistic productions, including operas, ballets and concerts.

The auditorium, featuring an impressive ceiling painted by Marc Chagall, offers exceptional acoustics and an intimate atmosphere, providing spectators with unforgettable cultural experiences.

In addition to its stage, the Palais Garnier is also home to the Bibliothèque-Musée de l’Opéra, where collections of artworks, costumes and historical objects related to opera and dance are on display.

We love:

  • The magnificent neo-baroque architecture
  • The high-quality artistic performances

Information and Booking (Exclusive: get 15% off when bundling with a Seine cruise)

 

Musée Grévin

10 Bd Montmartre, 75009 Paris

 

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Une publication partagée par Musée Grévin Paris (@musee_grevin)

The Musée Grévin is a famous wax museum that was founded in 1882.

It is known for its collection of realistic wax statues portraying historical figures, entertainment celebrities, politicians, athletes and other iconic figures.

In addition to statues of contemporary celebrities, the Musée Grévin also offers historical reenactments that transport visitors back in time, allowing them to relive key moments in history.

We love:

  • The unique experience offered by this museum
  • The larger-than-life statues
  • It’s a favorite among children

Information and Booking (exclusive: get 15% off when bundling with a Seine cruise)

 

Musée de la Vie romantique

16 Rue Chaptal, 75009 Paris

The Musée de la Vie Romantique is a charming museum located in the Nouvelle Athènes district of Paris, in the 9th arrondissement.

It offers visitors a journey back in time into the Romantic era of the 19th century.

It is housed in the former home of the painter Ary Scheffer, which was a meeting place for many artists, writers and intellectuals of the Romantic era. It offers an intimate and well-preserved atmosphere, with a magnificent garden in the heart of Paris. This garden invites visitors to relax in peaceful surroundings.

Inside, visitors can explore paintings, sculptures, jewelry, furniture and mementos from famous writers such as George Sand, offering a captivating glimpse into this significant artistic and literary period.

We love:

  • The feeling of traveling back in time
  • The museum’s charming, bucolic setting

Information and Booking

 

Musée Gustave Moreau

14 Rue Catherine de la Rochefoucauld, 75009 Paris

The museum contains an impressive collection of works by Gustave Moreau, who was known for his refined style and symbolic, allegorical compositions.

The paintings on display illustrate a wide variety of subjects, ranging from mythology and religion to literary and historical themes.

In addition to the paintings, the museum also exhibits drawings, sketches, watercolors and personal objects by the artist, offering a unique insight into his creative process and artistic vision.

The museum’s building itself is an architectural treasure, with its magnificently decorated staircases and sumptuous interiors.

Visitors can explore the artist’s studios and apartments that is preserved in their original state, adding to the immersive atmosphere of the experience.

We love:

  • Discovering the unique world of Gustave Moreau
  • Experiencing the studios and apartments in their original state

Information and Booking

 

FlyView Paris

30 Rue du 4 septembre, 75002 Paris

Flyview

FlyView Paris is a unique immersive and interactive experience located in the middle of Paris.

Opened in 2018, this innovative tourist attraction allows visitors to fly virtually over the City of Light, offering a breathtaking aerial perspective of some of Paris’s most iconic sites.

Visitors are equipped with a virtual reality headset and a suspension harness for a more realistic experience.

Once equipped, you can virtually fly over famous monuments such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre-Dame and many more.

We love:

  • The unique experience of flying over Paris in virtual reality
  • The sensation of real flight

Information and Booking

 

Le Grand Rex

1 Bd Poissonnière, 75002 Paris

 

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The Grand Rex stands as one of the capital’s most emblematic movie theaters.

Inaugurated in 1932, it is one of Europe’s largest movie theaters and holds historical significance as a venue for French cinema.

The Grand Rex building is impressive, with a striking art deco façade and a majestic interior reminiscent of the great movie theaters of the 1930s.

The main auditorium can accommodate over 2,800 people and is equipped with a giant screen, offering an unforgettable cinematic experience.

The Grand Rex is famous for its prestigious movie previews, 3D screenings and cinema-related special events.

It has also hosted numerous concerts, shows and cultural events over the years, making it a versatile and popular destination for Parisians and tourists alike.

We love:

  • The venue’s historical significance
  • The movie previews

Information and Booking

 

Notre-Dame de Lorette church

8bis Rue Choron, 75009 Paris

 

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Une publication partagée par Juan Sánchez (@juans83)

Built in the 19th century, this Catholic church is a great example of neoclassical and neo-Byzantine architecture.

The church’s elegant façade features a triangular pediment and Doric columns, while the interior is richly decorated with paintings, sculptures and mosaics.

The colorful frescoes and artistic details infuse the church’s sacred ambiance with beauty and spirituality.

We love:

  • The church’s unique architecture
  • The rich decorations make it a wonderful place to visit
  • The free tour (please note, however, that mass times must be respected)

Information (website in French)

 

Grand Synagogue of Paris

44 Rue de la Victoire, 75009 Paris

 

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Une publication partagée par Art-is-all-around (@artsegment.de)

Built in the 19th century, this synagogue is a symbol of the Parisian Jewish community and the historical significance of Judaism in France.

The exterior of the Grande Synagogue de Paris offers an elegant architectural blend of neo-Byzantine and Moorish elements, with a large central dome and detailed ornamentation.

Inside, the synagogue offers a majestic and solemn space for prayers and ceremonies. The main sanctuary is richly decorated with frescoes, colorful stained glass, and artistic elements inspired by traditional Jewish art.

We love:

  • The impressive architecture
  • The rich decorations make this a wonderful place to visit.
  • Free tours

Information (website in French)

 

Sainte Trinité church

Pl. d’Estienne d’Orves, 75009 Paris

Constructed in the 19th century, the Sainte Trinité church is a remarkable example of neo-Byzantine architecture in the French capital.

The church’s facade features an elegant and majestic design, with columns and arches inspired by Byzantine art.

The interior of the church is also richly decorated, featuring frescoes, mosaics and colorful stained glass windows adding a touch of beauty and spirituality to the sacred atmosphere of the church.

We love:

  • The church’s singular architecture
  • The rich decorations make it a wonderful place to visit

Information (website in French)

 

Fashion show at the Galeries Lafayette

40 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris

défilé

When staying in Paris, there’s nothing more exciting than attending a fashion show!

The Galeries Lafayette Haussmann invites you to an exclusive experience, where you’ll have the chance to discover the season’s must-haves as imagined by the biggest names in fashion.

It’s the perfect opportunity to get inspired by trendy looks to give yourself a makeover.

We love:

  • The unique experience of attending a fashion show at the Galeries Lafayette.
  • Discovering new collections live

Information and Booking (website in French)

 

Macaron workshop with a pastry chef at the Galeries Lafayette

40 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris

atelier macaron

Learn how to make macarons worthy of France’s greatest pastry chefs!

That’s what Galeries Lafayette is offering you with this workshop, where you’ll be accompanied by the best pastry chefs in France!

We love:

  • Making macarons aligned to our own taste
  • Being guided by professionals

Information and Booking (website in French)

 

Hat workshop with a fashion designer

Métro Saint-George, 75009 Paris

atelier chapeau

Discover the world of hats with Karin, a passionate fashion designer who will help you make your own hat!

We love:

  • Creating our hats with our own hands
  • Karin’s expert guidance

Information and Booking (website in French)

 

Behind-the-scenes guided tour of Printemps Haussmann

64 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris

visite printemps

By visiting the Printemps Haussmann, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the fascinating backgroundof this historical building, which remains one of the most striking witnesses to the technical and aesthetic changes that have shaped Paris since the Second Empire.

We love:

  • Visiting behind-the-scenes at Printemps
  • Learning more about this historic department store

Information and Booking (website in French)

 

Street-art workshop

5 rue Fromentin, 75009 Paris

atelier street art

Immerse yourself in the world of street art, a form of urban art that’s flourishing all over the world.

This workshop will introduce you to the basics of the various disciplines involved in street art, from traditional graffiti and stencil techniques to collage, mosaic and contemporary mural painting.

Each workshop will focus on different artists and their styles, offering the opportunity to discover the full variety of techniques and methodologies specific to urban art.

This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in this dynamic art form and develop your creative skills.

We love:

  • Discovering the world of street art
  • The workshop’s different artists and their unique styles

Information and Booking (website in French)

 

Arsène Lupin and the Secret of the Opéra investigative tour

Pl. de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris

enquête opéra

Enjoy a unique adventure in the heart of the Palais Garnier with this immersive treasure hunt!

Immerse yourself in this exceptionally playful experience as you follow in the footsteps of the famous Arsène Lupin, and take up the challenge of unraveling the ultimate mystery that has resisted all others: the secret of the Count of Cagliostro.

It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a thrilling investigation and discover the most secretive corners of this iconic location.

We love:

  • The unusual idea of a treasure hunt in the heart of the Palais Garnier.
  • A unique and fun way to visit the Palais Garnier

Information and Booking (website in French)

 

Private treasure hunt around New Athens

Métro Saint-Georges, 75009 Paris

jeu de piste nouvelle athènes

During this activity, you’ll be immersed in a solidarity-based treasure hunt through Paris’s 9th arrondissement, exploring the Pigalle and Saint-Georges districts.

Participants will need to be observant along the way, looking for specific elements and asking questions to passers-by, shopkeepers and people they meet to solve the various enigmas.

You’ll get to discover street-art in the streets, observe animals and even dare to interact with the people you meet.

This fun activity will allow you to have fun while discovering the richness of these Parisian neighborhoods in a supportive and interactive way.

We love:

  • Getting out of our comfort zone
  • Visiting the 9th arrondissement in a fun and original way

Information and Booking (website in French)

 

Escape Game in the covered passages

31 bis rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 75009 Paris

escape game passages couverts

Enjoy an adventure with family and friends as you discover the covered passages and explore their architectural gems in a thrilling escape game!

Wander through the passageways and galleries until you reach the arcades of the Palais Royal, solving riddles at every step – a total of almost 20!

Will you be able to solve the mysteries and crack the code to succeed in this exciting adventure?

We love:

  • Discovering the covered passages in a fun way
  • Spending time with family and friends in an original way

Information and Booking (website in French)

 

Mangez et cassez-vous

39 Rue Taitbout, 75009 Paris

Specializing in homemade burgers, this restaurant with its catchy name [eat and get out of here] will not disappoint you.

With its low prices, you can enjoy original burgers for just €3.60! Their famous soup is also worth a detour.

We love:

  • The original menu
  • The excellent value for money

Instagram

 

Harry’s Bar

5 Rue Daunou, 75002 Paris

Founded in 1911, this bar is famous for being the birthplace of classic cocktails such as the Bloody Mary, Sidecar and Blue Lagoon.

Its drink menu also offers an exquisite selection of cocktails, wines and spirits from all around the world.

In addition to its refined drinks, Harry’s Bar also offers American and international cuisine, from hamburgers to pasta dishes to the famous hot dogs.

We love:

  • The bar’s elegant, friendly atmosphere
  • Tasting the authentic Bloody Mary and Sidecar

Instagram

 

Musée du Parfum

9 Rue Scribe, 75009 Paris

The Musée du Parfum is a veritable perfumery gem, offering a fascinating immersion in the captivating world of perfume.

Housed in an elegant 19th-century building, the museum traces the history and evolution of perfumery through the ages.

The Musée du Parfum’s collections include unique pieces, rare creations, and vintage flasks, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the complex art of perfumery.

We love:

  • Discovering the secrets of perfume-making
  • Admiring the evolution of perfumery
  • The free access to the museum

Information

 

La Tête dans les nuages

5 Bd des Italiens, 75002 Paris

Looking for fun? La Tête dans les nuages is an arcade full of installations of all kinds of activities, from retro video games on arcade terminals to table field hockey, bowling and even a 4D cinema!

The interior is richly decorated and colorful and transports us into a retro atmosphere.

We love:

  • The wide variety of games
  • The retro decor and friendly atmosphere

Information

 

BAM karaoké box

4 Rue de Caumartin, 75009 Paris

 

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Une publication partagée par @clarisseruffie

BAM Karaoke is a trendy, lively venue located in the Madeleine district.

This modern and friendly establishment offers a private, high-end karaoke experience, perfect for evenings out with friends, birthdays or special events.

Each room is spacious and beautifully decorated, and comes with a quality audio and video system, so you can sing and dance freely.

We love:

  • The private box concept
  • The catalog of songs available in several languages and styles

Information and Booking

 

Sur Un Arbre Perché

1 Rue du 4 septembre, 75002 Paris

As its name [on a perched tree] suggests, the establishment offers a unique experience, allowing diners to enjoy their meal as if perched in the trees.

The restaurant offers tables with suspended chairs, creating a magical and rustic atmosphere.

Guests feel as if they are sitting in the trees in a peaceful wooded setting, offering an unexpected escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The menu is both creative and gourmet, featuring dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.

We love:

  • This moment of escape in an unusual setting
  • The relaxed, peaceful atmosphere

Information and Booking (website in French)

 

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    Hoppy Corner

    34 Rue des Petits Carreaux, 75002 Paris

     

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    Une publication partagée par Hoppy Corner (@hoppycorner)

    Hoppy Corner is a charming beer bar dedicated to the discovery and appreciation of high-quality craft beers.

    Inside, the atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, with modern decor and industrial-style touches.

    Tastings are offered so you can familiarize yourself with the impressive selection of craft beers from local and international breweries.

    Pub food is also on the menu for snacking.

    We love:

    • The bar’s friendly atmosphere
    • Craft beers from around the world

    Instagram

     

    Aki Boulangerie

    16 Rue Sainte-Anne, 75001 Paris

    Specializing in Japanese creations, this bakery offers a unique experience where French tradition meets Japanese culinary art.

    The Franco-Japanese fusion translates into unique creations such as yuzu choux buns, green tea-filled brioches and sakura buns.

    We love:

    • The unique creations
    • The many new items that freshen up the menu

    Information (website in French)