Les Arènes Lyriques de Montmartre

Les Arènes Lyriques de Montmartre is one of Paris's loveliest summer secrets: a series of open-air lyric and classical concerts staged in the hidden garden amphitheatre of the Arènes de Montmartre, at 25 rue Chappe, just below the Sacré-Cœur. For sixteen or so evenings across late July and mid-August, opera arias, art song and chamber music drift out under the Paris sky in one of the city's most romantic corners.

What to expect

The setting is intimate, a leafy stone amphitheatre tucked away from the tourist crush of the Butte, so you feel like you've stumbled on something the locals keep to themselves. Programmes lean toward accessible operatic favourites and beloved classical pieces, sung and played by professional musicians, with the golden evening light and the dome of Sacré-Cœur nearby adding to the atmosphere.

A few tips. Seating is limited in this small venue, so book ahead, especially for weekend dates. It is open-air, so check the forecast and bring a light layer for the evening cool. Arrive early to climb Montmartre's stairs at a relaxed pace and settle in before the music begins, and pair the concert with a wander through the village-like streets and a drink on the Butte beforehand.

Fly into Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY); from CDG the RER B reaches central Paris in about 35 minutes. The concerts are held at the Arènes de Montmartre garden, 25 rue Chappe, in the 18th arrondissement. The nearest Métro stations are Anvers (line 2) and Abbesses (line 12), both a short but steep walk uphill, or take the Montmartre funicular from Place Saint-Pierre to save the climb. From CDG, take the RER B to Gare du Nord and change to Métro line 2 for Anvers.

• Before you go, read the UK government's FCDO travel advice for France (entry requirements, safety and local laws).
• Flight delayed or cancelled on the way? See our Travel Disruption guide for your rights and live alerts.