9th Arrondissement

The Basics

The 9th arrondissement—one of 20 in the city, each with its own character and charm—is best explored on foot. District walking tours tend to focus on the unique art nouveau architecture and typically involve a stop at the 19th-century Palais Garnier, one of the most famous opera houses in the world. For evening fun, catch a cabaret show in Pigalle, the former red-light district of Paris.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The 9th arrondissement is essential for lovers of art nouveau architecture, high-end shopping, and opera.

• The district boasts more hotels than any other in Paris, so it is a great basecamp for exploring the rest of the city.

• Don’t miss a tour of the Palais Garnier, home of the Paris National Opera (Opéra National de Paris).

How to Get There

Stretching from the Palais Garnier in the south to the border with Montmartre in the north, the 9th arrondissement is easily accessed by public transportation from anywhere in Paris. Take Métro line 3, 7, or 8 to the Opéra station or line 7 or 9 to the Chaussée d’Antin–La Fayette station.

When to Get There

It’s always a good time to visit Paris, one of the most visited cities in the world. In summer, consider booking admission tickets in advance to avoid long lines, and head out early in the morning to beat the crowds. With holiday markets and festivities, the winter months can be a lovely time to visit Paris—just make sure to pack several warm layers.

Visiting the Paris Opera House

The Palais Garnier is one of the largest and most beautiful opera houses in all of Europe, and was the inspiration behind the famedThe Phantom of the Opera book and musical. Enjoy a guided tour of the building with the Paris Pass, with which you’ll enjoy unlimited entry to more than 60 Paris museums and major attractions as well as free public transportation around Paris. Alternatively, book an after-hours tour to see the magnificent opera house without the crowds.

Ways to explore

Like pretty much all of Paris, the 9th arrondissement—one of 20 in the city, each with its own character and charm—is best explored on foot. Walking tours tend to focus on the district’s unique and fabulous Art Nouveau architecture, and they typically involve a stop at the 19th-century Palais Garnier, one of the most famous opera houses in the world (and the inspiration for The Phantom of the Opera). For evening fun after your tour, catch a cabaret show in Pigalle, the former red-light district of Paris.

Accessibility

Most main streets and attractions are wheelchair accessible, though some smaller streets and historic buildings will have limited accessibility.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, water bottle, a good map

What to wear

Smart-casual clothing (this is Paris, after all), comfortable walking shoes

Not allowed

Littering, disruptive behavior in public spaces

Amenities

Cafes, restaurants, department stores, theaters, boutiques, you name it

Address

Set between Place de la Concorde and Montmartre, the 9th arrondissement isn’t far from the heart of Paris. There are oodles of choices for how to get there and around, from public transit to walking tours, food tours, and more.

Driving

Navigating central Paris by car isn’t recommended—think heavy traffic, limited parking, and the city’s efforts to reduce vehicles in the area. If necessary, though, there are a few parking garages in the district.

Public transportation

The 9th arrondissement has a bunch of Metro stops—look at lines 3, 7, 8, or 9 for the Opera station, the Chaussee d’Antin-La Fayette station, or the Grands Boulevards station, just to name a few.

Best times to visit

Avoid the busiest crowds by visiting mid-morning or late afternoon.

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends, but you might want to avoid Mondays, as some businesses might be closed.

Best months to visit

April–June and September–October offer mild weather with fewer tourists than summer months. The winter holiday season is nice, too, when the district gets all lit up and festive.

Special events

Check out Fête de la Musique on June 21 (events all throughout Paris, including the 9th arrondissement), Paris Fashion Week, and the Christmas displays at Galeries Lafayette and Printemps.