Tous à l'Opéra 2026: Free tours of the Palais Garnier in Paris, reservations open

Each year, the operation "Tous à l’Opéra !" invites the general public to step through the doors of the lyric temples. L’Opéra national de Paris is part of this momentum with a standout day at the Palais Garnier, the capital’s iconic monument. On this Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., visitors are invited to discover free of charge the public spaces of this architectural masterpiece. But beware: to have a chance to step inside the sublime Parisian monument, advance booking is essential. Get ready—the reservations go live on the Opéra de Paris site on May 5 starting at 2:30 p.m.

Once you’ve got your ticket, you’ll be free to stroll under the dome, whose ceiling was painted by Marc Chagall, wander through the richly adorned galleries, or admire the iconic and breathtaking grand staircase, a true emblem of 19th-century opulence. This special opening, part of the Tous à l'Opéra initiative, offers a rare chance to explore the Palais Garnier freely, typically paywalled or accessible only during performances or guided tours.

• To be read
• The Opéra Garnier in Paris, one of the capital's most beautiful monuments
• Restaurants in Opéra and Grands Boulevards: Where to eat in these neighborhoods in Paris?
• Everyone to the Opera 2026: Free tours this weekend in Paris and Île-de-France, the program

We recall that the Palais Garnier celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2025. Inaugurated on January 5, 1875, the Palais Garnier was conceived by architect Charles Garnier as part of a sweeping project launched by Napoleon III. This masterpiece of Second Empire style hosts, throughout the year, operas, ballets and concerts.

As proof of its renown, more than a million visitors and nearly 350,000 spectators flock there every year. A mythical venue in Paris that captivates both architecture buffs and curious minds, as well as music lovers and tourists alike. This spring, the Palais Garnier is opening its doors for free as part of the event "Tous à l'Opéra". No doubt this day will offer a striking glimpse into the history and prestige of the Opéra de Paris. To take part, join us on May 9, 2026, from 10:00 to 17:00. Please note that the last tour slot is scheduled for 15:30, and the final entry is announced for 16:00. Entry will be via the ticket office, located at the corner of Scribe and Auber streets. And don’t forget to reserve your visiting slot for free starting May 5.

Everyone to the Opera 2026: Free tours this weekend in Paris and Île-de-France, the program
Attention opera lovers and the curious! The event "Tous à l'Opéra" returns this weekend with a new, 19th edition. On Friday, May 8; Saturday, May 9; and Sunday, May 10, 2026, a host of prestigious Parisian and Île-de-France institutions will throw open their doors for free, inviting you to discover the grandeur and beauty of these exceptional cultural venues. Workshops, exhibitions, tours... here’s the program ahead! [Read more]

This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.