Ticket for the play Juarez or the Mexican War by Alfred Gassier at Théâtre du Château-d'Eau in 1886

Alhambra

Alhambra Paris: Visiting Hours, Tickets, History & Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Tucked into the heart of Paris’s lively 10th arrondissement, the Alhambra Paris is a celebrated concert hall and cultural venue with a rich history and a dynamic present. While its name nods to the famed Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain, the Parisian Alhambra boasts its own unique legacy—evolving from a 19th-century circus and music hall into a modern destination for concerts, comedy, theatre, and festivals. With its Moorish Revival elements, intimate setting, and eclectic programming, the Alhambra Paris remains a beacon of Parisian nightlife and creativity (Wikipedia - Alhambra (Paris)).

This detailed guide covers the Alhambra’s storied history, practical visitor information (including visiting hours, tickets, and accessibility), tips for planning your visit, and nearby attractions to enrich your Paris experience.

Illustration of Bug-Jargal play at Théâtre du Château-d'Eau from 1880 by Henri Meyer

Illustration from the 1880 Le Journal illustré depicting Bug-Jargal theatrical play scene

Vintage lithographic theatre poster for Opera Populaire, featuring medieval and 18th-century scenes with soldiers and a woman at an inn in Paris

Lithographed poster for 'La P'tiote', a 5-act drama by Maurice Drack, depicting a dramatic scene with two men fighting with a stick and chair, two women in the background, and a carriage, from 1879 Paris theatre

19th-century lithograph poster announcing the play La San Felice based on Alexandre Dumas' novel at Theatre du Chateau d'Eau, Paris

Vintage 1887 poster for the play 'Le Fiacre No 13' at Theatre du Chateâu d'Eau in Paris

Vintage French lithographic poster for Théâtre du Chateau d'Eau in Paris advertising the play Le Fiacre by Jules Dornay, showing various dramatic scenes including a woman with a weapon, a cemetery, and a coachman.

Vintage French lithographic poster for Théâtre du Chateau d'Eau in Paris depicting a dramatic battle scene related to French involvement in Tonkin, Indochina

Vintage lithographic theatre poster for 'L'Ouvrier du Faubourg Antoine' drama by Henri Currat, featuring scene vignettes such as family in cemetery and workers fighting

Vintage lithographic theatre poster for La Dame au Domino Rose drama in 5 acts at Theatre du Chateau-d'Eau Paris, featuring a woman in a pink hood and mask, duel and ball scenes

1885 lithographic theater poster showing Benito Juarez and Emperor Maximilian procession at Theatre du Chateau d'Eau, Paris

French theater poster from 1881-1882 advertising the drama 'Malheur aux Pauvres' by Alexis Bouvier at Théâtre du Château d'Eau in Paris with scenes from the play depicted in vignettes

French lithograph theatre poster for 'Pierre Vaux L'Instituteur' drama at Theatre du Chateau d'Eau featuring five acts and seven tableaux with vignettes of execution, fire, convicts, and imperial prosecutor scenes

Facade of the Alhambra Theatre with neighboring buildings at 50 to 54 rue de Malte in Paris, France, historic 1925 press photograph

Vintage lithographic poster for Théâtre du Chateau d'Eau showing sailors of the ship Jean-Bart from 1892

Vintage theater poster for Juarez drama by Gassier 1886

Théâtre du Château d'Eau poster from 1880 for Bug Jargal play by Victor Hugo

Historical Overview
Architecture and Design
Visitor Information
Programming and Performances
Nearby Attractions
Practical Tips for Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Years (1866–1904)

The Alhambra’s origins trace back to 1866, when the Cirque-Impérial opened at 50, rue de Malte, then the largest circus in Europe. Managed by Bastien Franconi and famous for its equestrian and patriotic shows, the venue underwent several transformations and management changes, mirroring the dynamism of Paris’s entertainment scene.

The Music-Hall Era (1904–1925)

In 1904, impresario Thomas Barrasford transformed the Alhambra into a modern music hall inspired by the variety theatres of the UK and US. It quickly outshone contemporaries like the Alcazar and La Scala, hosting luminaries such as Yvette Guilbert, Grock, Houdini, and Maurice Chevalier, who made his debut here in 1907. This period established the Alhambra as a cornerstone of Parisian musical and theatrical innovation (Wikipedia - Alhambra (Paris)).

Catastrophe and Art Nouveau Rebirth (1925)

A fire in 1925 destroyed the original hall, but the venue was swiftly rebuilt in opulent Art Nouveau style by architect G. Guimpel. The new hall boasted state-of-the-art amenities, including advanced ventilation and exquisite gilded stuccowork, earning it the nickname “temple doré” (golden temple).

Maurice Chevalier Era and Later Decline (1956–1967)

Renamed Alhambra Maurice-Chevalier in the 1950s, the venue became synonymous with France’s beloved entertainer and a vibrant mix of jazz, chanson, and evolving musical styles. Despite its popularity, the original Alhambra closed and was demolished in 1967, a casualty of modern urban redevelopment (Wikipedia - Alhambra (Paris)).

Revival and Modern Era (2008–Present)

The modern Alhambra opened in 2008 at 21, rue Yves-Toudic, just 300 meters from the original site. Spearheaded by Jean-Claude Auclair, the new venue occupies a historic Art Deco building, extensively renovated for superior acoustics and contemporary comfort. With a flexible capacity (up to 800 standing or 600 seated), it quickly became one of Paris’s premier spaces for live performance (EUTouring - Alhambra Venue).

Architecture and Design

The Alhambra’s distinctive Moorish Revival style draws inspiration from the original Alhambra Palace in Granada, featuring horseshoe and scalloped arches, intricate tilework, and stylized stucco motifs (Victoria and Albert Museum). The new venue’s layout is modular, supporting a wide range of event formats, while accessibility and modern amenities are seamlessly integrated. Notable remnants of the original Art Deco heritage remain, such as the grand staircase to the balcony.

Visitor Information

Address: 21, rue Yves-Toudic, 75010 Paris, France
Nearest Metro: République (Lines 3, 5, 8, 9, 11), Jacques Bonsergent (Line 5)
Bus Access: Lines 56, 65, and others

Opening Hours

The Alhambra opens its doors 30–60 minutes before each performance.
Performances are usually scheduled Tuesday to Saturday evenings, but the schedule can vary.
For up-to-date visiting hours and event schedules, consult the official website.

Ticketing

Tickets can be purchased online via the official website, at the box office, or through authorized resellers (such as Fnac and Ticketmaster).
Advance booking is strongly advised due to limited capacity.
Ticket prices typically range from €20–€60, with student, senior, and group discounts available for select events.

Accessibility

The venue is wheelchair accessible with reserved spaces and accessible restrooms.
Visitors requiring assistance should contact the venue in advance (Alhambra Paris Contact).
Assistive listening devices may be available for hearing-impaired guests.

Facilities and Services

Cloakroom: Available for coats and small bags (fee applies).
Bar: Offers drinks and light snacks before and during performances.
Restrooms: Clean and accessible.
Wi-Fi: Limited free Wi-Fi; mobile coverage is reliable.

Dress Code & Visitor Conduct

No formal dress code; casual attire is acceptable unless specified otherwise for special events.
Photography and video recording during performances are generally prohibited.
Please silence mobile devices and respect fellow guests.

Programming and Performances

The Alhambra’s programming is intentionally eclectic, reflecting Paris’s cosmopolitan energy. Visitors can expect:

Concerts: Indie, jazz, rock, world music, pop, and more.
Comedy: Stand-up and one-person shows.
Theatre and Festivals: Plays, themed nights, and special events.
Family Events: Youth-friendly performances (JDS Paris).

Notable recent and upcoming acts include Sara’h, Kat Von D, Ledisi, Wanda Sykes, and ANAVITÓRIA (Bandsintown - Alhambra Paris, AllEvents.in - Alhambra Paris).

Nearby Attractions

Canal Saint-Martin: Charming for walks and picnics.
Place de la République: A major square with vibrant cafes and shops.
Marais District: Known for boutique shopping and historic architecture.
Dining and Nightlife: Dozens of restaurants and bars within walking distance.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Check the event calendar in advance, as shows often sell out.
Arrive early for general admission events to secure the best spots.
Use public transport; parking is limited.
Combine your visit with local sightseeing, meals, or a stroll along the canal.
Stay updated on health protocols and venue policies via the official website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Alhambra Paris opening hours?
A: Doors open 30–60 minutes before scheduled events; times vary by performance.

Q: How can I buy tickets for Alhambra Paris?
A: Purchase online, via the box office, or through authorized ticketing outlets. Advance booking is recommended.

Q: Is the venue accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, with reserved spaces and accessible restrooms. Notify the venue in advance if assistance is needed.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, guided tours are offered—check the website for availability.

Q: Are there age restrictions for events?
A: Some performances may have age limits; consult event details before booking.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Limited metered street parking and nearby garages; public transit is recommended.

Conclusion

The Alhambra Paris is a living testament to the city’s ongoing love affair with live entertainment, bridging a dramatic past with a vibrant present. From its Moorish Revival architecture and storied history to its eclectic programming and welcoming atmosphere, the Alhambra invites visitors to experience Parisian culture in an intimate and unforgettable setting. Plan ahead, book your tickets early, and let the Alhambra Paris become a highlight of your visit to the City of Light.