We dive into the history of the Opéra district, a project initiated by Napoleon III. This district, designed by the famous Baron Haussmann, is home to theParis Opera, whose construction began in 1862 and was completed in 1875. At the heart of this transformation, the Grand Hôtel was built even before the first stone of the Opéra was laid.
The Pereire brothers, Isaac and Emile, visionaries of the time, designed this luxurious hotel in anticipation of the1867 Universal Exhibition. Located on the block between boulevard des Capucines, rue Scribe, rue Auber and place de l'Opéra, it initially boasted 800 rooms and 45 salons. The building made history when it was inaugurated byEmpress Eugénie and Emile Pereire on May 5, 1862.
It's easy to become captivated by the history of the Grand Hôtel. The building has witnessed so many major events since its foundation in the 19th century. From its inauguration on May 5, 1862, the hotel has been a symbol of prestige and excellence, a place where one had to be to see and be seen. But beyond the salons and suites, two rooms stand out: the Salon Opéra and the glass roof.
The splendor of the Salon Opéra leaves no one indifferent. Considered the centerpiece of the hotel, this sumptuous ballroom, listed as a historical monument, has remained untouched by time. Its spectacular 14-meter-high dome reveals a fairytale world of gilding, arcades, caryatids and candelabras. These marvels are the work of Aimé Millet, a renowned 19th-century sculptor. Standing in the middle of this room, you're carried away by the atmosphere of the Second Empire, transported to a bygone era when art and elegance were the order of the day.
One floor up, the Club Lounge is a space dedicated to the hotel's premium members. Here, you'll enjoy personalized service in a restored Napoleon III-style setting. The major advantage of this club is its unobstructed view of the Verrière, offering visitors a unique perspective on this other treasure of the establishment.
Indeed, the Verrière is another masterpiece. As you enter the lobby, you're instantly captivated by the Winter Garden and its majestic glass roof. This 800 m² central winter garden is a luminous haven of serenity. The combination of slender palm trees and refined lampposts under the glass canopy offers a spectacle both soothing and grandiose.
In the early days, the main entrance was at 12 Boulevard des Capucines, where carriages could park in the courtyard. However, in 1905, this entrance was moved to no. 2 rue Scribe, a position it still occupies today. The original courtyard was then redesigned by architect Paul-Henri Nénot, who installed a glass roof, transforming the space into a "Wintergarten" (tea room).
The hotel has always been a witness to Parisian effervescence, welcoming celebrities from all over the world and becoming an artistic crossroads. Victor Hugo held banquets here, Emile Zola set the sad fate of his character Nana in its rooms, and figures such as Josephine Baker have left their mark on its history.
Anecdote: When it was inaugurated on May 5, 1862,Empress Eugénie exclaimed on discovering the establishment: " It's exactly like home! I thought I was in Compiègne or Fontainebleau."
Today, the Intercontinental Paris le Grand is more than just a hotel. It's a plunge into Parisian history, a journey through time. We invite you to discover this hidden treasure and enjoy a timeless experience with a cup of tea and a fine pastry from the Café de la Paix, and even a brand-new tea time.
Divine tea time at the Intercontinental Paris Le Grand
L'Intercontinental Paris Le Grand unveils its so British made in Paris Afternoon Tea, now available every weekend under the legendary glass roof of the Grand Hotel's Jardin d'Hiver. We invite you to discover a moment of pure delight in the heart of Paris. [Read more]
The Café de la Paix, this world-famous restaurant classified as a historical monument, is without a doubt one of the most beautiful restaurants in Paris. The emblematic Parisian restaurant, ideally located on the magnificent Place de l'Opéra, welcomes you since its renovation in its two bright and airy spaces, entirely redesigned by the architect Pierre-Yves Rochon in 2021. [Read more]
Looking for one of the best brunches in Paris in an exceptional setting? Then head for the Café de la Paix and its beautiful historic restaurant. Ideally located right in front of the Opéra de Paris, this Sunday brunch is sure to delight even the most discerning palate. [Read more]
Location
Hotel Intercontinental Paris Le Grand
2 Rue Scribe
75009 Paris 9
Recommended age
For all
Divine tea time at the Intercontinental Paris Le Grand
Le Café de la Paix: the sublime historic restaurant in Paris with a renovated setting
The incredible Café de la Paix brunch
