9th: Opera, Grands Boulevards

Paris – 9th Arrondissement One of the highlights of a trip to Paris is visiting the opulent Opéra Garnier, built in the 19th century. This is a highly photographed sight, but don’t miss the Marc Chagall ceiling inside. The 9th arrondissement is also known for its grands boulevards, designed by Haussmann, where the historic grands magasins, or department stores, are famous around the world. Step inside Printemps and Galeries Lafayette for excellent, one-stop shopping. (Galeries Lafayette has a beautiful stained-glass dome and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views.) Museums in this district include Musée Grévin, the wax museum, and Musée Gustave Moreau. The area south of Pigalle, know called SoPi, is seeing a renaissance with hip shops and bars; while the street called rue des Martyrs is a magical place for food shopping (and a bite for lunch).