Paris is a paradise for people like me, who love classical music (to be honest, Paris is a paradise, period, but that's a topic for another article).
There is nothing more enjoyable, at least to me, than sitting in an ancient church and listening to organ music, or a chamber concert, being held there. Imagine how your gaze floats among the stained glass windows and statues while the sights your eyes see and the sounds your ears hear, merge into a harmonious whole greater than the sum of its parts.
And we haven't even talked about the opera yet. Paris, where some of today's greatest singers and dancers have performed in the past and perform today. And what about the magnificent concert halls and symphony orchestras? You will also find wonderful music there at a wide range of prices.
In short, if you love music, you should not miss the pleasure of hearing even one concert in Paris. In the article before you, I have compiled information about churches, opera houses, and concert halls, where musical events are held almost daily that you simply cannot miss.
Before we dive in, let me let you in on a little secret. There are “tourist” concerts (like the Four Seasons at Sainte-Chapelle) that are great because of the location, and there are “well-traveled” concerts in lesser-known venues with top-notch performances.
My recommendation? Start by checking out the full board at the link below, choose what excites you, and then come back to read about the place itself.
Concerts in Paris churches
Sainte Chapelle
One of the most beautiful churches in Paris (and some say in the world), thanks to its magnificent stained glass windows. The acoustics here are great for vocal and instrumental concerts.
True, the program is mostly touristy, but the combination of music and the beauty of the place is simply unique.
La Madeleine Church
A Greek-style temple built in honor of Napoleon's army, with a famous organ played by great composers such as Saint-Saëns and Foret.
Today it is one of the most popular venues in Paris for organ recitals and vocal music in a historic atmosphere.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
One of the oldest churches in the city, in the heart of the picturesque quarter. After a massive renovation, the star-studded blue ceiling looks simply magical.
The acoustics here are excellent, and there's no better way to end a day of wandering the district than with heavenly music.
St. Eustace Church
My favorite church in Paris. A rare combination of grandeur, history (Mozart's mother's funeral was held here) and an organ considered the best in the city.
Organ competitions and wonderful recitals are held here. A must for fans of the genre.
Saint-Ephrem
A hidden gem in the Latin Quarter. A church belonging to the Syrian Catholic sect, offering an intimate and unique experience.
The gimmick here is candlelight performances that create a romantic and unforgettable atmosphere.
Saint-Julien-le-Pouvret
One of the oldest churches in the city (12th century), right across from Notre Dame. The church belongs to the Melchizedek movement, so the music here is different and special.
Here you can hear Middle Eastern liturgical works and chamber concerts in a historical atmosphere.
Saint Sulpice
A huge church containing the organ of Aristide Cavier-Cole, considered the splendor of 19th-century organ work.
Alongside organ recitals, impressive instrumental concerts are held here. Tip: combine with a good meal in the district afterwards.
Opera, theaters and symphony orchestra
Palais Garnier
More than just a concert hall, this is one of the most magnificent (and extravagant) buildings in Paris. A visit here is an aesthetic must.
Today, it mainly hosts ballet performances, but also occasionally operas. It is a first-class cultural experience.
Opera Bastille
The younger (and less beautiful, if I may say so) sister of Garnier, but true opera lovers cannot ignore her.
The largest and most important productions of the Paris National Opera are presented here, with excellent modern acoustics.
Opéra Comique
A historical gem from 1714 that is less well-known to the Israeli public, which is a shame. The place recently underwent extensive renovation.
Every year, about 6-7 quality opera productions are performed here in a more intimate hall than the Garnier, but with a lot of character.
The Chatela Theater
A magnificent theater built on the ruins of a notorious prison. Best remembered from the movie “The Concert” (see video).
Over the years, music giants have performed here, and the venue continues to present diverse and fascinating musical productions.
Champs-Elysees Theater
An iconic Art Deco building remembered for the scandal of Stravinsky's "Rite of Spring." Today, everything is calmer.
You'll find a series of vocal concerts, arias, and operettas here at generally reasonable prices. A great option.
Paris Philharmonic
A modern and impressive building in the 19th arrondissement, which is an architectural experience in itself.
For sound enthusiasts – the acoustics here are considered one of the best in the world, and the musical experience is first-rate.
Additional and special places
Concert at the Eiffel Tower
Yes, you heard that right. On the first floor of The Eiffel Tower Popular concerts are held (Vivaldi, Schubert) with breathtaking views.
The bonus? The concert ticket includes a climb to the tower, so you get it twice – both an experience and an observation deck.
Palace of Versailles
Louis XIV He knew how to live, and the opera house and church in the palace are evidence of this.
Baroque operas and religious works are performed here at the highest level. It's not cheap, but ladies and gentlemen – it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Grévin Theater
Do you know the wax museum? In the same complex is a small, magnificent concert hall from 1900.
A great place for chamber music in an intimate atmosphere that is less familiar to the average tourist.
Dance Cafe
Located near the Bastille, this venue offers something a little different. Not just classical, but a wide variety of performances.
Recommended for those who have exhausted the large venues and are looking for a more up-to-date and rough Parisian vibe.
Haven't found your concert yet?
In this article, I chose my favorite places, but Paris offers many more options that I couldn't include here.
If you feel like exploring further and finding the perfect event for your dates, click the button below for the complete and updated list.
Love music? Here are some more articles that might interest you.
Carmen's story
The most popular opera in the world – a fascinating lecture by Shlomi Keinan.
The Marseillaise
A musical journey following the anthem France – History, blood and tears.
French Baroque
Music that will make you think its creators have gone crazy (in a completely good way).
Jazz in Paris
Warm recommendations and a little history about the jazz scene of the City of Lights.
Even if we don't go to Paris, just from your article it's as if we've visited it. How beautiful and how comprehensive and instructive. Thank you very much.
Thank you very much 🙂
I am delighted by your tips in all areas, and even though I have been to Paris many times and my husband was born and raised there, you still never stop informing us.
But there's one thing I'm looking for in Paris and maybe you can help us: Are there any cafes or restaurants with a singer performing in them? Something pleasant without topless dancers in the style of Yves Montaigne in his early days. 🙂
Thanks.
What about Au Lapin Agile?