L'Olympia

History, Atmosphere and Practical Tips for a Night at L'Olympia

L'Olympia's story stretches back to the late nineteenth century, when the site on the Boulevard des Capucines opened as a music hall. Its modern reputation, however, was shaped in the 1950s, when the impresario Bruno Coquatrix took over and turned it into the stage every French singer wanted to conquer. Édith Piaf gave some of her most celebrated performances there, and over the following decades the hall welcomed everyone from Jacques Brel and Dalida to international acts such as The Beatles and countless rock, pop and jazz artists. Playing L'Olympia became a rite of passage, and many live albums recorded there carry the venue's name like a badge of honour.

The famous red façade with its glowing lettering is one of the most photographed sights in the 9th arrondissement. Inside, the hall feels surprisingly close for a venue of its stature: the seating and the standing floor slope towards the stage, so sightlines are generally good and the bond between performer and audience is part of what people remember. Depending on the show, the floor may be seated or standing, so it pays to read the event details carefully before you buy.

Planning your visit

• Tickets: popular concerts sell out quickly. Buy through the venue's official website or authorised sellers, and be wary of resale offers at inflated prices.
• Getting there: the hall sits close to Opéra and Madeleine, both well served by the Métro, and the RER at Auber is a short walk away. Public transport is usually easier than driving in this busy district.
• Timing: arrive early for standing shows if you want a spot near the stage, and allow time for security checks at the entrance.
• Before or after: the surrounding Grands Boulevards are full of cafés and brasseries, and the Palais Garnier is only minutes away, making it easy to build an evening around the concert.

For more stages with a story, browse our other Paris places, or dig into concert write-ups in our reviews section.