Shuttle transportation from CDG airport to Palais Garnier

History and Visit of the Garnier Palace in Paris

The Garnier Palace, also known as the Opera Garnier, stands as an iconic structure in the 9th arrondissement of Paris. Located at 8 rue Scribe, at the end of Avenue de l’Opera, it was designed by architect Charles Garnier in a baroque style inspired by Italian palaces. Since October 16, 1923, it has been classified as a historical monument in the French capital. The construction of the Opera was initiated by Napoleon III following an attack on January 14, 1858, by Italian anarchists. In response to this tragedy, Napoleon III decided to establish a new venue dedicated to Parisian high society. An imperial decree on September 29, 1860, declared its construction a public utility.

Architect Eugène-Emmanuel Viollet-le-Duc proposed a competition for the construction of an Imperial Academy of Music and Dance, which materialized on December 29, 1860. Charles Garnier, a young architect of thirty-five years, won this competition on May 30, 1861. The chosen location by Prefect Haussmann posed challenges due to its asymmetric, ungrateful, and narrow diamond shape. Garnier and his deputy, Victor Louvet, selected various artists and craftsmen, including sculptors, painters, ironworkers, and masons, to work under challenging conditions in a modest barracks beside the construction site. The building’s first stone was laid in 1862, but the project faced numerous budgetary and interruption issues. The destruction of the Opera on Rue Le Peletier provided funds to complete the Palais Garnier, which was inaugurated on January 5, 1875, with a total cost of thirty-six million gold francs.

Architectural Splendor of the Garnier Palace

The Palais Garnier, measuring 172 meters in length, 101 meters in width, and 79 meters in height, has a seating capacity of 1,156. Its southeast main facade is adorned with numerous sculptures, paintings, and mosaics. The loggia, supported by a gallery and footboards covered with arches and flat domes, features busts of various composers. The west side entrance showcases green marble columns, some topped with large imperial bronze eagles. This side houses the Emperor’s box, the Opera library-museum, and a bust of Charles Garnier in gilded bronze. The lateral facade, visible from Halévy and Gluck streets, is decorated with female figures and hosts the restaurant L’Opera, opened on June 27, 2011. The northeastern part includes the grand entrance hall, the hall of Control, the grand foyer, lounges, and the rotunda of the glacier, among other architectural marvels.

Today, the Palais Garnier is not just an opera house but a symbol of architectural brilliance and cultural heritage. It stands as a testament to the opulence and grandeur of the Second Empire. Visitors are captivated by its lavish interiors, intricate details, and the artistic mastery evident in every corner. The Palais Garnier continues to host world-class opera and ballet performances, drawing audiences from around the globe. Its enduring beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit landmark in Paris, enchanting tourists and art enthusiasts alike with its timeless elegance.

Shuttle from Palais Garnier to Paris Airports

For a seamless and luxurious travel experience, consider using our
prestigious limousine or private shuttle service to visit the historical places of Paris, including the magnificent Palais Garnier. Conveniently located in the heart of Paris, the Palais Garnier is 22.5 kilometers away from Orly Airport, making it a comfortable 30-minute drive approximately. It is also situated 26.6 km from Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport, providing a smooth and scenic drive of around 40 minutes. For those traveling from Beauvais Airport, the journey to the Palais Garnier is about 84.6 km, translating to an hour and a half of travel time. Our shuttle service offers a stress-free way to navigate through the bustling streets of Paris, ensuring that your visit to this iconic opera house is as enjoyable as the performances it hosts.