Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Excellent classical-music concerts are staged several times a week at the Louvre Auditorium
(off the main entrance hall). Don't miss the Thursday lunchtime concerts, which cost a mere
€6 to €12. The season runs from September to April or May, depending on the concert
series.
DANCE
THÉÂTRE DE LA VILLE
It hosts theatre and music too, but this theatre is best known for its contemporary dance pro-
ductions.
OPERA
OPÉRA COMIQUE
This century-old hall has premiered many important French operas and continues to host
classic and less-known works.
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
BACKSTAGE AT THE FLICKS
bd Poissonnière, 2e; tour adult/child €11/9; tours 10am-7pm Wed-Sun; Bonne Nouvelle)
is like no
other trip to the flicks. Screenings aside, the cinema runs 50-minute behind-the-
scenes tours (English soundtracks available) during which visitors - tracked by a
sensor slung around their neck - are whisked right up (via a lift) behind the giant
screen, tour a soundstage and get to have fun in a recording studio. Whiz-bang special
effects along the way will stun adults and kids alike.
SHOPPING
The 1e and 2e
arrondissements
are mostly about fashion. Indeed the Sentier
district is something of a garment heaven, while rue Étienne Marcel, place
des Victoires and rue du Jour flaunt prominent labels and shoe shops.
Nearby rue Montmartre and rue Tiquetonne are the streets to shop for
streetwear and avant-garde designs; the easternmost part of the 1e around
Palais Royal, for fancy period and conservative label fashion.
