Nearby places

Planning a musical walk across Paris

The places listed above are scattered across the city, but they group together surprisingly well if you plan by neighbourhood rather than by venue. The Philharmonie de Paris and the Cité de la Musique share the same address in the Parc de la Villette, in the north-east of the city, so a single trip can cover a concert, the Musée de la Musique and a stroll along the Canal de l'Ourcq. From there, Père Lachaise Cemetery in the 20th arrondissement is a reasonable next stop. Many visitors come to find the graves of musicians such as Frédéric Chopin, Édith Piaf and Jim Morrison. The cemetery is large and hilly, so pick up a map at the entrance or download one before you go.

On the western side of the Right Bank, L'Olympia on the Boulevard des Capucines and La Cigale at the foot of Montmartre represent two sides of Parisian live music. L'Olympia is the historic music hall tied to the chanson tradition. La Cigale is a former theatre that now hosts rock, pop and touring acts in a more intimate room. Both often sell out, so check the official listings early and buy tickets only through authorised sellers.

Opéra Bastille brings a modern stage to opera and ballet. The surrounding Bastille area is also known for bars and small venues if you want to stay out after a performance.

For collectors and browsers

If you are hunting for records, books or scores, mix big retail with the unexpected. The Fnac at Forum des Halles is a central, practical stop for new releases. The bouquinistes along the Seine sell second-hand books, old magazines, posters and sometimes vintage sheet music from their green riverside boxes. Their stock changes constantly, so browsing slowly pays off. Many stalls take cash only, and opening depends on the weather.

• Use the Métro to link areas. Distances between La Villette and the Seine are longer than they look on a map.
• Confirm opening hours and event dates on each venue's official website before setting out.
• Arrive early for standing-room concerts. Queues can form well before the doors open.

For more background on the artists you might catch at these venues, browse our features or check recent reviews before you book.