a citizen’s guide to Paris Opera

The Paris Opera neighbourhood, also known as the 9th arrondissement, is centrally located in Paris, between the popular 2nd arrondissement and Montmartre. Home to the iconic Palais Garnier and Galeries Lafayette, this district is a prime location for shopping, dining, and exploring the city's cultural attractions. So, when you're in Paris, head to the 9th arrondissement, you’ll be right where the action is.

explore the passages of Paris

In the heart of the Paris Opera neighbourhood lie hidden treasures – the covered passages. These passageways are more than just pedestrian pathways; they're portals to the past, adding a dash of vintage charm to your Parisian adventure.

Passage des Panoramas
Wander through the corridors of Paris's oldest covered passage, dating back to 1799. Originally a hotspot for the aristocracy, it was one of the first places in Paris to have gas lighting, making it quite the trendsetter in its day. Today, it’s a mix of old-world charm and modern Parisian life. You’ll find everything from cosy cafes and bistros to unique shops selling vintage postcards, rare stamps, and antique trinkets. Plus, it’s a foodie haven, with spots like Racines offering delicious bites that pair perfectly with the historic surroundings. Whether you're into history, shopping, or just soaking up the Parisian atmosphere, Passage des Panoramas is a must-see.

Galerie Vivienne
Step into a storybook setting with Galerie Vivienne. Its mosaic floors, elegant glass ceilings, and boutique shops create a shopping experience like no other. Whether you’re hunting for high-end fashion, rare books, or unique gifts, this passage blends luxury with a sense of timelessness. Take your time to wander, shop, and savour the ambience that makes this place so special.

Rue Montorgueil
While this isn’t exactly covered, this pedestrian street is a must for your Parisian rendezvous. If you’re on the hunt for the best wine bars in Paris, Rue Montorgueil is where you want to be. Located near the Paris Opera neighbourhood, Rue Montorgueil is a food and wine lover's paradise. This charming street boasts artisan bakeries, cheese shops, and inviting cafes. It’s also known for its lively street markets, offering fresh produce and local specialities. For an authentic taste of Parisian life and a culinary adventure, explore this bustling street during your Paris Opera visit. This street is walking distance from our citizenM Paris Opera hotel, so you can head straight to bed after a glass (or more) of wine.

If you're looking to explore a bit of Parisian history and enjoy a unique shopping and dining experience, don't forget to explore these covered passages in the Paris Opera neighbourhood!

Calling all shopaholics and fashion aficionados – the Paris Opera neighbourhood is your ultimate retail playground! At the heart of this shopping haven, you'll find the fabulous Galeries Lafayette. Get ready for a shopping adventure like no other, with a dazzling array of high-end fashion, gourmet delights, and more. As you explore, don't forget to look up to the magnificent glass dome above – it's like shopping under the wide-open sky, an experience that will leave you truly spellbound.

And just next door, there's Printemps, another exceptional department store. Here, you'll find a carefully curated selection of fashion, beauty treasures, and exquisite home goods. That's not all though! Right behind our citizenM Paris Opera hotel you will find the coveted boutique shop called Sezane. Known for its quintessentially French style, it attracts fashion lovers from all over. It's one of the few boutique stores in the area, so the store is always busy.

While the 9th arrondissement shines with its grand department stores, it also hides some vintage gems, especially around Pigalle. Whether you're chasing the latest trends, gourmet treats, or unique vintage finds, the 9th arrondissement has you covered, and then some. Get ready for a citizenM-approved retail therapy session—stylish, thrilling, and unforgettable!

best cafés in Paris Opera

Indulge in the essence of Parisian café culture. These iconic cafés beckon you to experience the simple joys of life, from the aroma of freshly brewed coffee to the sweetness of pastries.

La Compagnie du Café
Treat yourself to freshly roasted artisanal coffee at this fashionable café. It's famous for its specialty coffee, roasted right on-site, and its mouthwatering brunch choices. Don't miss out on their breakfast buns paired with some of the finest coffee in Paris.

Café Joyeux Opéra
Discover Café Joyeux, near Paris's famous Opera Garnier. Their friendly team serves up tasty breakfast, lunch, and snacks every day except Sundays. Enjoy classics like croque-monsieur and seasonal quiche while supporting their mission of inclusivity and empowerment.

Le Café de la Paix
Situated near the Opera House, Le Café de la Paix is an iconic café renowned for its classic French pastries and decadent coffee. Feeling hungrier? This 19th century cafe doubles as a dining room. Hard to say what’s more exquisite, the ornate design of its interior or the french onion soup.

These are just a glimpse into the city's rich café culture. Whether you're near Palais Royal, the Opera House, or walking along the lively avenues, there are countless more cafés waiting to be explored.

best boulangeries in Paris Opera

Still craving something sweet? The 9th arrondissement has got you covered, with dozens of boulangeries filling their windows with the most delicious pastries. Need help choosing? Here are some of the favourites:

Maison Louvard

You might recognise the name from their crookie that took the world by storm—a perfect blend of flaky croissant and decadent chocolate chip cookie. But that’s not all they’re famous for! Don’t miss their apple chausson or their rich chocolate eclair. But thats not all their famous for! Dont miss their apple chausson or their chocolaty eclair. This 100% artisinal bakery is only a 12 minute walk from our citizenM Paris Opera hotel, so you can get your crookie fix at any time.

Mamiche
Meet Café Mamiche, where every bite is crafted with love and skill by their talented artisans. From bread to pastries, they're all about using natural sourdough and top-notch ingredients. Their handmade treats are in high demand so be sure to grab yours before they're gone!

Union boulangerie
Dive into Union Boulangerie, the hotspot bakery in the 9th arrondissement. Charles and Maeva's bakery is a favorite among locals, offering tasty treats and a warm atmosphere. Be sure to try their photo-worthy pastries that look almost as good as they taste.

Boulangerie Pâtisserie Miche de Pain
Craving authentic French flavors? Look no further than Miche De Pain in Paris's 9th arrondissement! With its artisanal breads and quality pastries, it's the perfect spot for breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day.

Indulge in these tasty treats and satisfy your sweet tooth! After all, life is too short to skip dessert.

best restaurants by Paris Opera

Get ready for a tasty adventure in the heart of Paris Opera. The neighbourhood's top restaurants are calling, offering a taste of Paris you won't forget. From classic French dishes to culinary innovations, it's a feast for your senses.

Le Grand Colbert
Step into a Belle Époque brasserie where classic French cuisine takes centre stage. Indulge in dishes like escargot and steak au poivre, each a masterpiece of flavour and tradition.

Café de la Paix
An iconic brasserie celebrated for its opulent décor and traditional French fare. Here, you can savour exquisite dishes that capture the essence of Parisian gastronomy.

Le Bergerac
Welcome to Le Bergerac, a charming wine bar and bistro in Paris. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere and their selection of fine wines. It's the perfect place to savor delicious French cuisine and relax with friends. Thirsty for more? Check out our guide to Paris wine bars.

Les Saisons
Discover Les Saisons, a gem in Paris's bustling 9th arrondissement! The team here delights in adding playful touches to traditional French favorites. Get ready for a culinary adventure filled with top-quality ingredients and homemade goodness

Your journey through Paris' food scene is just beginning - there's still so much more to taste and savour. Get ready to be enchanted by the city's culinary wonders!

cabarets

The Paris Opera district is famous for its cabarets, and the most renowned of them all is the Moulin Rouge. It's a dazzling spectacle of feathers, sequins, and can-can dancers that'll transport you to the Belle Époque era. A night at the Moulin Rouge is a quintessential Parisian experience.

bars and lounges

If you're in the mood for a more relaxed evening, the neighbourhood boasts a fantastic array of bars and lounges. You can sip on cocktails in chic settings, or enjoy a glass of wine at a stylish wine bar. The atmosphere is often lively, making it ideal for mingling and unwinding.

jazz clubs

For those who appreciate the smooth sounds of jazz, there are intimate jazz clubs where you can enjoy live music. The soulful tunes and cosy ambiance create the perfect backdrop for a memorable night out.

L'Olympia

Catch a concert right in the heart of the opera district at L'Olympia, one of France's most legendary halls. Check out their agenda—you might just find one of your favourite artists on the lineup.

late-night cafes

Paris never sleeps, and neither do its cafés. Late-night cafés in the area offer a cosy setting for late-night chats or a quiet moment to reflect on the day's adventures. You can indulge in a croissant or sip on a café au lait as you watch the world go by.

So, as the stars twinkle above, the Paris Opera district beckons you to discover it after-dark.

• Spring: The city is in full bloom, making it ideal for leisurely strolls and outdoor café vibes. It’s not too crowded, and the weather is just right—cool mornings and mild afternoons

• Summer: The neighbourhood is alive with energy, perfect for soaking in the hustle and bustle. Expect warmer weather, longer days, and more tourists. It’s lively but can get a bit busy.

• Autumn: With fewer crowds and a cosy atmosphere, autumn is great for exploring without the rush. The weather is cool, and the fall colours add a charming touch, but it can get a bit chilly in the evenings.

• Winter: The festive lights make the neighbourhood feel magical, and the quieter streets mean you can explore at your own pace. Just be prepared for colder weather and shorter days, but it’s perfect for indoor attractions and holiday shopping