Paris Palais Garnier and Covered Passages Private Walking Tour
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5h
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About this experience
Visit one of the most famous and beautiful opera houses in the world, Opera Garnier (Palais Garnier), and discover the hidden old shopping arcades of Paris on this private tour. Marvel at the marble and gold interior of Opera Garnier, the setting for The Phantom of the Opera, and admire its grand staircase. Then, with the help of your expert guide, finish your tour by discovering the 'passages couverts', hidden, covered shopping arcades built in the 19th century.
This private tour is limited to five people for a more intimate, in-depth experience.
Available options
Tour with Transport
Private tour of Opera Garnier and Passages Couverts with private transport from your hotel to the Opera Garnier (zip codes 75001-75020 only)<br/>Pickup included
Tour Only
Private tour of Opera Garnier and Passages Couverts (excluding transport)<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private one-way transport from your hotel (only if option selected)
Professional guide
6-hour Private tour (Maximum 5 people)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Meet your private guide at your central Paris hotel and begin your journey into 19th-century Parisian life. Your knowledgeable guide will take you to the Opera Garnier, a grand old opera house that was the setting for The Phantom of the Opera. Finished in 1875, this 1,979-seat structure is now home to the Paris Opera Ballet.
Delight in the gold, glass and marble interior of this majestic building filled with paintings and sculptures as your guide shares its history. Marvel at the grand staircase and the auditorium's ceiling, which was painted by Marc Chagall in 1964. Being on a private tour makes for a more relaxed, friendly experience, so feel free to ask your guide as many questions as you like.
2
Next, your guide will lead you to an area near the Louvre to discover the passages couverts, covered shopping arcades tucked behind many of the city’s wide boulevards. Some of these architecturally impressive arcades are faded now but others have been restored to their 19th-century glory.
As you wander through these arcades, hear stories of how Parisian life used to be and imagine upper-class women dressed in lavish gowns window shopping in these very same passageways. Have your camera ready to capture photos of the remarkable old boutiques, cafes and art galleries in these arcades, some of which have barely changed through the years.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Transport to the Opera Garnier (unless option selected)
Transport back to your hotel
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
PT
JA
EN
IT
FR
ES
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
If you do not select the private transport option, your guide will accompany you by public transport (usually metro) from your hotel to the Opera Garnier
Important notes
Please note: If you are staying outside of central Paris (arrondissements 1 to 20) you will need to meet your guide at a central meeting point (usually a metro station). You can arrange this by contacting us at contact@meetingthefrench.com.
About Paris
Paris, the capital of France, is a city steeped in history, art, and romance. Known for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and charming neighborhoods, Paris offers a unique blend of timeless elegance and modern vibrancy. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, the city is a treasure trove of cultural and historical gems.
Top Attractions
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is Paris's most iconic landmark and a symbol of France. Built in 1889 for the World's Fair, it offers breathtaking views of the city.
Architecture
2-3 hours
€17.10-€26.80 (depending on the level)
Louvre Museum
The Louvre is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris. It houses thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
Museum
3-4 hours
€17 (full price), free for under 18s and EU residents under 26
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture and one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. It has been undergoing restoration since the 2019 fire.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free (towers and crypts may have reopening fees in the future)
Montmartre
Montmartre is a historic and artistic district known for its bohemian past, charming streets, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
Cultural
Half-day
Free to explore (Sacré-Cœur dome visit €6)
Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790.
Historical
Full day
€18-€28 (depending on the pass)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Croissant
A buttery, flaky pastry made from laminated dough. Best enjoyed fresh from a local bakery.
Breakfast
Contains gluten and dairy
Baguette
A long, thin loaf of French bread with a crispy crust and soft interior. Often served with cheese or ham.
Breakfast/Lunch
Contains gluten
Steak Frites
A classic French dish consisting of steak and French fries, usually served with a side of salad and béarnaise sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains gluten (if served with fries) and meat
Crêpes
Thin pancakes that can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients, such as Nutella, cheese, or ham.
Snack/Dessert
Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian/vegan options available
Popular Activities
Hot air balloon rides
Rock climbing in Fontainebleau forest
Kayaking on the Seine
Picnicking in the Luxembourg Garden
Boat tours on the Seine
Spa day at a luxury hotel
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending a cabaret show
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in Paris, with warm weather and long daylight hours. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: French
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Paris is generally safe for travelers, but pickpocketing and petty theft can be a problem in tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Charles de Gaulle Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center
- Orly Airport • 14 km (8.7 miles) from city center
By train
Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon
By bus
Bercy Seine, Porte Maillot
Getting around
Public transport
The Paris Metro is one of the most efficient and extensive subway systems in the world, covering all major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, G7
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Le Marais
Montmartre
Latin Quarter
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Champs-Élysées
Day trips
Versailles
17 km (10.5 miles) from Paris • Full day
The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790 and is famous for its opulent interiors and vast gardens.
Giverny
75 km (47 miles) from Paris • Half day to full day
Giverny is a charming village known as the home of the famous impressionist painter Claude Monet. The village is home to Monet's House and Gardens, which inspired many of his most famous works.
Château de Fontainebleau
55 km (34 miles) from Paris • Full day
The Château de Fontainebleau is a grand royal château and park located just outside of Paris. It was a residence of the French monarchs from Louis VII to Napoleon III and is known for its beautiful architecture and vast forests.
Festivals
Fête de la Musique • June 21st (annual)
Paris Fashion Week • February and September (annual)
Nuit Blanche • First Saturday in October (annual)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic French phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
- Use public transport, walk, or bike to get around the city and avoid traffic and parking issues
- Consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass or a multi-day public transport pass to save money on attractions and transport
- Explore the city's many neighborhoods and hidden gems, not just the major tourist attractions
- Try local specialties and enjoy the dining experience slowly and leisurely
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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