The best opera houses and theatres

For culture vultures a weekend away or a long-haul vacation can be the ideal time to experience the local arts community. Opera houses, theatres and concert halls have mass appeal - and what better way to immerse yourself in a city?

If you’re going to Russia to ogle the oligarchs take in a show at the Mariinsky Opera and Ballet Theatre in St Petersburg. This venue is well known for ultra-modern as well as classical ballet. In Moscow no trip would be complete without a night at the Bolshoi Theatre - renowned for its opera or ballet shows.

If your travels take you to sunnier climes, you might visit Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona. If you prefer arias to albondigas make sure to visit this thoroughly modern venue for opera, dance and orchestral recitals. The Barcelona International Jazz Festival is currently playing here until the end of November.

One you’ve enjoyed shopping and sightseeing in New York, visit the Metropolitan Opera at the Lincoln Centre in NYC. They stage over 200 performances each year and with a translation screen set into the back of each seat you won’t struggle to understand the language.

For a classical opera experience in grand surroundings, visit the Palais Garnier (also referred to as Paris Opera) this superb building is located on the Right Bank in the heart of Paris and can seat up to 2,200 people.

Hotels in Paris:

Dolce Chantilly

Les Jardin du Marais

Hotels in Barcelona:

Hotel Barcelona Princess

Eurostars Grand Marina GL

Hotels in New York:

The Bryant Park Hotel

Jumeirah Essex House