Theatre Holidays in Paris
Paris has one of Europe's great theatre and opera scenes — from the gold and red of the Opéra Garnier to the experimental stages of the Left Bank. A theatre trip to Paris is unlike any other city.
Takes about 2 minutes · No account needed
Paris's great theatres
The Opéra Garnier is the most beautiful opera house in Europe — its own visit regardless of what's playing. The Opéra Bastille handles the larger productions. The Comédie-Française is the world's oldest active theatre company. For contemporary work, the Théâtre de la Ville and the MC93 lead the field. The Moulin Rouge is not opera but worth one night — a different kind of theatre.
When to visit
Paris theatre runs September to June. July and August see the main houses close or reduce programming — the summer festival circuit takes over, with events at open-air venues and smaller halls. October to May is the main season.
Common questions
Do I need to speak French?
For opera and ballet, no — the music speaks universally. For French plays at the Comédie-Française, basic French helps but many productions have surtitles.
Which airport is closest?
Charles de Gaulle (CDG) is the main hub. Eurostar from London St Pancras is 2h20 and delivers you to the Gare du Nord — often the most convenient option from the UK.
What else is worth combining with theatre?
A Garnier visit pairs perfectly with the Louvre, the Palais Royal, and the 1st arrondissement. South Bank theatre suits a Left Bank weekend with Montparnasse and Saint-Germain.
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