Opéra Bastille
Experience world-class opera and ballet in Paris's modern Opéra Bastille, a striking architectural marvel known for its superb acoustics and clear vie...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of a live show.
Opéra Bastille
Best Time
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of a live show.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience world-class opera and ballet in Paris's modern Opéra Bastille, a striking architectural marvel known for its superb acoustics and clear views from every seat.
"A modern marvel with exceptional acoustics and views, offering an unforgettable night of opera or ballet in Paris."
🎟️ Snag Youth Tickets
If under 28, look for €10 'Jeune' tickets for an amazing deal on Opéra Bastille performances!
👓 Bring Opera Glasses
Even with good views, opera glasses enhance the experience, especially from the 'second balcon' .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Auditorium
Main Performance Hall
Experience world-class opera and ballet in this modern, acoustically superb hall, designed for optimal viewing from nearly every seat.

Modern Architecture
Exterior & Foyer
Admire the striking transparent facade and contemporary design of this 1989 building, a stark contrast to traditional opera houses.
Paris Opéra Ballet Performances
Main Stage
Witness breathtaking ballet productions, including classics like Swan Lake, performed by the renowned Paris Opéra Ballet.
Planning Your Visit
Secure Your Opéra Bastille Tickets Early
Navigating Seating & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Snag Youth Tickets
If under 28, look for €10 'Jeune' tickets for an amazing deal on Opéra Bastille performances!
👓 Bring Opera Glasses
Even with good views, opera glasses enhance the experience, especially from the 'second balcon'.
Best Value Seats & Seats to Avoid at Opera Bastille?
👗 Dress Smart Casual
No strict dress code; smart casual is perfect. Comfort is key, jeans are often seen.
📱 Check Resale Market
Explore the official 'Bourse aux billets' for potential last-minute ticket deals.
Tips for student rush tickets at Opera Bastille?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Snag Youth Tickets
If under 28, look for €10 'Jeune' tickets for an amazing deal on Opéra Bastille performances!
👓 Bring Opera Glasses
Even with good views, opera glasses enhance the experience, especially from the 'second balcon'.
👗 Dress Smart Casual
No strict dress code; smart casual is perfect. Comfort is key, jeans are often seen.
📱 Check Resale Market
Explore the official 'Bourse aux billets' for potential last-minute ticket deals.
🚶 Arrive Early
Allow time for security, finding your seat, and soaking in the pre-show atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Opéra Bastille is widely praised for its modern architecture, excellent acoustics, and clear sightlines, making it a fantastic venue for experiencing world-class opera and ballet. While some find its contemporary design less ornate than Palais Garnier, visitors consistently highlight the quality of performances and the comfortable viewing experience. The availability of affordable youth tickets is a significant draw.
"Loved the theatre and everything about the Opera.
Distance : it’s a bit far if you are located near Champs Elsyss or Eiffel Tower.
Food : think they can up their game with refreshments & snacks.
The opera shows are often quite full & the limited counters they have for drinks & refreshments ain’t enough"
Anubha Chaudhary
"Rigoletto Opera had a nice production. The best was the Soprano. However the Duke of Mantua made some mistakes.
The biggest problem was the bathrooms not working, we had to move around floors many times, around halls until finally we found one working with a long line."
Daniela Quinones
"Wonderful and modern theater suitable for all performances. Comfortable seats. Clean and organized place. Bar and snack services first class. Easy access by metro (subway),"
Marcio Eduardo Gayoso
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The best way to purchase Opéra Bastille tickets is directly through the official Opéra National de Paris website. You can also check the box office on the day of the performance for any last-minute availability.
For resold tickets, the official 'Bourse aux billets' is a reliable option.Yes, if you are under 28, you can often find 'Jeune' tickets for as low as €10, offering an incredible value.
Additionally, checking the 'Bourse aux billets' (official resale market) daily can yield cheaper tickets, though they sell out fast.Opéra Bastille's opening hours are generally tied to performance schedules. The box office typically opens a few hours before a show. It's best to check the specific performance time for the opera or ballet you wish to see on the official website.
Yes, last-minute tickets can sometimes be found at the box office just before a show, especially for student rush options if you're under 28.
The official resale platform, 'Bourse aux billets', is also a good source for tickets that become available closer to the performance date.Yes, Opéra Bastille is one of the two main venues of the Opéra National de Paris, alongside the historic Palais Garnier. It primarily hosts opera performances and large-scale ballets, while Palais Garnier often features more ballet and classical concerts.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
Opéra Bastille is renowned for hosting a diverse range of performances, including classical and modern operas, as well as spectacular ballet productions by the Paris Opéra Ballet, such as Swan Lake.
Check the Opéra National de Paris schedule for current listings like 'Carmen Bastille Opera' or 'Lucia di Lammermoor Opera Bastille'.The atmosphere at Opéra Bastille is modern and welcoming, contrasting with the more traditional feel of Palais Garnier. It's a grand, yet accessible, venue where the focus is truly on the performance. The acoustics are widely praised, contributing to an immersive experience.
Most opera and ballet performances at Opéra Bastille include at least one intermission. This is a good opportunity to stretch your legs, visit the restrooms, or grab a drink. Some Reddit users advise being mindful of second-hand smoke filtering back into the auditorium during intermissions.
Generally, photography and videography are not permitted during performances to avoid disturbing artists and other audience members. However, you may be able to take photos of the Opéra Bastille architecture and interior before the show begins or during intermission, without flash.
Opéra Bastille is a modern venue designed with accessibility in mind. It offers facilities for visitors with reduced mobility, including elevators and designated seating areas. It's always recommended to contact the Opéra National de Paris directly when booking to ensure your specific needs can be accommodated.
🎫 👗 Dress Code & Etiquette
No, there is no strict dress code for Opéra Bastille.
While some attendees choose to dress up, smart casual attire is perfectly acceptable and common. Many visitors wear nice jeans, a dress shirt, or a knit sweater with sneakers and feel completely comfortable.For Opéra Bastille, aim for smart casual. Think elegant but comfortable. A little black dress, nice trousers with a blazer, or a stylish top are all appropriate. The key is to wear something you feel good in, rather than adhering to a rigid formal standard.
While regular performances have a relaxed dress code, premiere nights at Opéra Bastille often see a more formal attire, with some attendees opting for more elegant evening wear. However, even then, it's not strictly enforced, and you'll see a range of styles.
Yes, you can absolutely wear jeans to Opéra Bastille.
Many travelers and locals opt for comfortable yet stylish outfits, including dark jeans paired with a nice top or sweater. The focus is on enjoying the performance, not on strict fashion rules.During a performance, it's customary to remain quiet, turn off cell phones, and avoid talking. Applaud at the end of acts or significant arias, and avoid taking photos or videos. If you need to leave your seat, try to do so during an intermission to minimize disruption.
🎫 🪑 Seating & Views
For the best views at Opéra Bastille, many recommend seats directly facing the stage, particularly in the orchestra or parterre sections, far enough back to avoid neck craning but not under overhanging balconies.
'Second balcon' seats are also highly rated for clear stage visibility.Reddit users advise avoiding seats on the far sides of the auditorium, as they can offer limited or obstructed views of the stage.
While Opéra Bastille generally has good sightlines, extreme side seats might not provide the full visual experience.While Opéra Bastille offers excellent views from most seats, bringing opera glasses is highly recommended, especially if you're seated in the 'second balcon' or further back.
They allow you to appreciate the intricate details of costumes, expressions, and stage design.Opéra Bastille is known for its modern design, great acoustics, and generally unobstructed views from most seats.
In contrast, Palais Garnier, while stunningly ornate, can have tighter seating and more restricted views from certain areas. Bastille prioritizes clear sightlines for the audience.Opéra Bastille is a large modern opera house with a seating capacity of approximately 2,703. This makes it one of the largest opera houses in the world, designed to accommodate grand productions and a significant audience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
💸 Budget Travelers & Young Adults
🎭 First-Time Opera Goers
💖 Couples & Date Nights
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Ticketing Strategies for Opéra Bastille
Another excellent resource for finding more affordable or last-minute tickets is the official 'Bourse aux billets', which is the Opéra's authorized resale platform. Here, tickets are sold at face value, preventing scalping. Reddit users frequently recommend checking this site daily, as tickets can appear and disappear rapidly. For popular shows like 'Carmen Bastille Opera' or 'Swan Lake', combining early booking with checking the resale market can maximize your chances of attending.
Seating and Acoustics: A Modern Marvel
While many seats offer a great perspective, seasoned opera-goers often suggest the 'second balcon' as a good value option, providing a clear view of the stage. However, for the most immersive experience, seats in the center of the orchestra or parterre are ideal, ensuring you're not craning your neck or missing any action from the sides. Regardless of your seat, bringing a pair of opera glasses is a common recommendation to fully appreciate the intricate details of the costumes and stage production.
Dress Code: Elegance Meets Comfort
Travelers on Reddit confirm that wearing nice jeans, a knit sweater, and comfortable sneakers is perfectly acceptable, especially if you've been exploring Paris all day. The key is to feel comfortable and elegant in what you choose to wear. This flexibility allows visitors to enjoy the cultural experience without the added stress of needing a specific outfit, making a night at Opéra Bastille an accessible and enjoyable event for everyone.
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