Private tour of the Opera Garnier and the Covered Passages

Bask in the opulence of the Opéra Garnier and the Covered Passages of Paris with this 6-hour guided tour.The Opéra Garnier building is widely considered as one of the most beautiful monuments in the world, and to this day stands as a temple of opera and dance. Marvel at its lavishly-decorated interior made of marble, glass and gold; the grand staircase; and the auditorium’s large ceiling painted by the artist Chagall. Your guide will explain the rich history of the Paris Opera as you visit.After a break for lunch on your own, you'll meet back up with your guide to discover one of the best-kept secrets of the city. As a visitor to Paris, you would never know that behind many Parisian boulevards, charming hidden passageways are tucked away, waiting to be visited. Known as Les Passages Couverts, these covered shopping arcades were the fashionable, high-class shopping malls of the 19th century. Only the most affluent and high-class citizens of the time could afford to shop here, indulging in what was to become a favorite Parisian pastime: window shopping.Today, many of these beautiful architectural wonders still exist intact; some restored to their former elegant 19th-century condition and some now a little tired and faded. The boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, and cafés to be found inside are truly exquisite. Some have not changed in over 150 years! Your guide will show you their favorite passages, the most beautiful areas, and share with you the history and lifestyle of 19th-century Paris.