Opéra Grand Avignon - The old facade of the Opera in Lille, France on a sunny summer evening.
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Opéra Grand Avignon

4.5
·511 reviews·Avignon, France

A historic 19th-century opera house in Avignon's vibrant main square, offering intimate performances with excellent acoustics.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evening performances

Experience the magic of opera

CrowdMedium
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Opéra Grand Avignon - The old facade of the Opera in Lille, France on a sunny summer evening.

Opéra Grand Avignon

Best Time

Evening performances

Experience the magic of opera

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic 19th-century opera house in Avignon's vibrant main square, offering intimate performances with excellent acoustics.

4.5
(511 reviews)

"Seats are not expensive. Go see something here. Anything."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Seats Wisely

For best subtitle viewing, avoid the very back rows in the 3rd tier. Middle section seats offer good views of both stage and screen.

🥂 Wine Choice

While foyers offer drinks, the champagne is standard and red wine can be served cold, even in winter.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Italian-Style Auditorium

Historic Italian-Style Auditorium

Main Auditorium

Experience the intimate, elegant 850-seat theater with excellent acoustics and classic Italian design.

Central Location in Place de l'Horloge

Central Location in Place de l'Horloge

Exterior

Admire the impressive 19th-century facade situated in Avignon's vibrant main square, surrounded by cafes and performers.

Diverse Performance Schedule

Diverse Performance Schedule

Various Stages

Enjoy a range of operas, ballets, and concerts, often featuring international artists and unique productions.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Shows

While Avignon Opera offers a range of performances, popular shows can sell out quickly. Booking tickets in advance ensures you don't miss out on must-see performances, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider checking the schedule and securing your seats early to avoid disappointment.

Understand Subtitle Availability

Performances at Opéra Grand Avignon may be in various languages. While some shows offer French and English subtitles, their visibility can vary. Review seating charts and performance details to ensure a good view of the subtitle screens, especially if you rely on them for enjoyment.

Best Times

When
Evening performances
Why
Experience the magic of opera
Crowd
Medium
When
Matinee shows
Why
Enjoy daytime culture
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

France trip Avignon attractions?

🎯 Book Seats Wisely

For best subtitle viewing, avoid the very back rows in the 3rd tier. Middle section seats offer good views of both stage and screen. Reddit

🥂 Wine Choice

While foyers offer drinks, the champagne is standard and red wine can be served cold, even in winter. Reddit

reddit.com

Questions about Avignon France!

reddit.com

Avignon help

🚻 Be Prepared for Tiny Toilets

The restrooms are quite small, and queues can form quickly during intermissions. Reddit

🎶 Enjoy the Atmosphere

Even with minor inconveniences, the opera house offers a charming, old-school experience with potential for delightful surprises. Reddit

reddit.com

I’m staying in Avignon for the summer. I’m from Florida, any tips?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Seats Wisely

For best subtitle viewing, avoid the very back rows in the 3rd tier. Middle section seats offer good views of both stage and screen. Reddit

🥂 Wine Choice

While foyers offer drinks, the champagne is standard and red wine can be served cold, even in winter. Reddit

🚻 Be Prepared for Tiny Toilets

The restrooms are quite small, and queues can form quickly during intermissions. Reddit

🎶 Enjoy the Atmosphere

Even with minor inconveniences, the opera house offers a charming, old-school experience with potential for delightful surprises. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(511 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Opéra Grand Avignon for its historic charm, intimate Italian-style auditorium, and excellent acoustics. The central location in Place de l'Horloge adds to its appeal. However, some find the wine selection and serving temperature unusual, and the restrooms are noted as being quite small.

"This is an opera house located in the main square in Avignon. Originally constructed in 1824, it has been operating for almost two centuries. Well-constructed and impressive building. In the main square are buskers, street performers, restaurants, cafes shops and other beautiful buildings. Worth a visit."

CK Cheong

"We saw a matinee opera here. 2.5 hours and it was all in Russian, with French and English subtitles. OMG. I was shocked that I really really liked it.

In any case, if you're visiting, go see something here. Anything. Seats are not expensive.

If you need to read English subs however, pass on the 3rd tier seats at the back, as you have to duck to see the subtitle screen, which is above the stage's upper frame.

It's an 850 person theater; so not big. Any seats in the middle section are pretty good. Seats on the sides are also hard to see the stage."

Steve Haerr

"I got poisoned by beef tartare, I have a fever and feel sick for the second day"

Алена Логойда

What People Like

Historic charm
Intimate auditorium
Great acoustics

What People Dislike

Small restrooms
Wine temperature

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Opéra Grand Avignon is centrally located in Place de l'Horloge, the main square of Avignon. It's easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city center. If arriving by train at Avignon TGV station, you can take a local bus or taxi to the city center. Reddit

Parking in the immediate vicinity of Place de l'Horloge is limited. It's recommended to use one of the public parking garages in Avignon, such as Parking des Halles or Parking Palais des Papes, and then walk to the opera house. Reddit

Yes, Ouigo trains serve Avignon. Remember to check in 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time as advised. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased online through the official Opéra Grand Avignon website, or in person at the box office located at the opera house. Booking in advance is recommended for popular performances. Reddit

The box office hours typically align with performance schedules and may vary. It's best to check the official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information on box office opening times. Reddit

Discounts may be available for certain performances or for specific groups like students or seniors. Inquire directly with the box office or check the performance details online for any applicable concessions. Reddit

The Opéra Grand Avignon is a relatively intimate venue with a seating capacity of approximately 850 people. Reddit

It's advisable to arrive at least 15-20 minutes before the performance starts to allow time for seating and to avoid missing any of the show. Latecomers may not be admitted until a suitable break. Reddit

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The opera house hosts a variety of performances including operas, ballets, classical concerts, and sometimes other theatrical productions. The programming aims to offer diverse artistic experiences. Reddit

Yes, many performances offer French and English subtitles. However, the visibility of the subtitle screens can depend on your seating location. Reddit

Middle section seats generally offer good views of both the stage and the subtitle screens. Seats in the very back of the third tier might require ducking to see the screen. Reddit

Yes, there are foyers with bars where you can purchase drinks. However, some visitors have noted that the wine selection might be standard and served at unexpected temperatures. Reddit

There isn't a strict formal dress code, but smart casual attire is generally recommended. Many attendees dress up slightly for an evening at the opera to match the elegant atmosphere. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography and videography are not permitted inside the auditorium during performances to avoid disturbing the artists and audience. Check for specific policies regarding photography during rehearsals or backstage tours if available. Reddit

The exterior of Opéra Grand Avignon, especially when set against the backdrop of Place de l'Horloge with its lively atmosphere, makes for great photos. Capture it during the day or illuminated at night. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Opéra Grand Avignon is a beautiful venue, it's primarily geared towards adult audiences and classical performances. If you're considering bringing children, it's best to choose performances specifically advertised as family-friendly or suitable for younger audiences, such as certain ballets or shorter concerts. The intimate setting means that disruptive behavior can be more noticeable, so ensure your children are prepared for a quiet, seated experience. Reddit

Check the opera's schedule for any specific family matinees or children's programming. The central location in Place de l'Horloge means you can easily combine an opera visit with other family-friendly activities in Avignon, like exploring the Palais des Papes or enjoying street performers in the square. Remember to book tickets in advance, especially for any special family events. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Opéra Grand Avignon can be surprisingly accessible for budget-conscious travelers. Unlike some grander opera houses, the seats here are often noted as not being expensive, making it a feasible cultural experience. Reddit Look for performances that might be less in-demand or consider booking tickets for seats in the upper tiers, which are typically more affordable. Checking the official website for any special offers or last-minute deals can also help secure cheaper tickets. Reddit

Beyond ticket prices, consider that the opera house is centrally located, meaning you can save on transportation costs if you're staying in Avignon. Enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Place de l'Horloge before or after the show, with its street performers and cafes, is a free activity that adds to the overall experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Opéra Grand Avignon boasts a rich history, with its current structure dating back to 1824–1825. The original opera house, a testament to the city's cultural aspirations, unfortunately succumbed to a fire on January 26, 1846. Despite this setback, the resilient spirit of Avignon led to its reconstruction, preserving its legacy as a significant cultural landmark. The opera house has been a cornerstone of Avignon's artistic scene for nearly two centuries, hosting countless performances and contributing to the city's vibrant cultural tapestry. Reddit

Today, the opera house stands as an elegant, old-school venue, often described as being in the Italian style. Its intimate 850-seat auditorium is renowned for its excellent acoustic and visual conditions, making it a cherished space for both performers and audiences. The building's presence in the bustling Place de l'Horloge further enhances its charm, placing it at the heart of Avignon's social and cultural life. Reddit

Navigating Seating and Subtitles

When planning your visit to Opéra Grand Avignon, understanding the seating arrangement is key to an optimal experience, especially if you rely on subtitles. The opera house features an intimate 850-seat auditorium, designed with classic Italian aesthetics. While most seats offer good views, some patrons have noted that the third tier seats at the very back might require you to duck to see the subtitle screen, which is positioned above the stage. Reddit

For those who need clear subtitle visibility, it's recommended to opt for seats in the middle sections of the auditorium. These locations generally provide a balanced view of both the stage performance and the projected text. Side seats can also present challenges in seeing the entire stage clearly. Therefore, consulting the seating chart when booking and considering your personal viewing preferences is highly advised to ensure you fully enjoy the performance. Reddit

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