Opera Bastille

Opéra Bastille is a striking contemporary opera house located on Place de la Bastille in Paris's 12th arrondissement. Inaugurated in 1989, it was designed by architect Carlos Ott as part of President François Mitterrand's Grands Projets. The building's sleek glass and steel facade contrasts with the historic neighborhood. Inside, the main auditorium seats over 2,700 and features state-of-the-art acoustics. The repertoire includes opera, ballet, and symphonic concerts, often with innovative staging. Visitors can attend performances or take guided tours to explore backstage areas, the main stage, and the costume workshops. The opera house is also a symbol of making high culture accessible to the public.

Don't miss

• Attend a world-class opera or ballet performance in the modern auditorium
• Take a guided backstage tour to see the stage, dressing rooms, and workshops
• Admire the building's contemporary architecture and glass curtain wall
• Explore the nearby Place de la Bastille and the July Column
• Enjoy a pre-show drink at the opera house's bar with views of the square

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Opera Bastille

Cheapest way inRude Bastards Tour of Paris4.9★ · 61 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →Most bookedBateaux Mouches® Dinner Cruise on the Seine River in Paris4.4★ · 5,061 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$144 per personSee dates →Top ratedFrench Wine and Champagne Tasting in Paris4.9★ · 665 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$87 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Check the program in advance; performances are in original language with French subtitles.
• Dress code is smart casual; for opening nights, formal attire is common.
• Silence your phone; photography is prohibited during performances.
• Arrive at least 30 minutes early; latecomers may not be seated until intermission.

A bit of history

Opéra Bastille was built to relieve the Palais Garnier and democratize opera. Construction began in 1984 and it opened on July 13, 1989, the eve of the French Revolution bicentennial. Its design sparked debate for its modernism.