You can buy standing only tickets on the day for around two euros. A really cheap way to join in the atmosphere of one of the world's most famous opera houses.

Standing tickets are a good option at around two or three euros, and it is not too uncomfortable to stand for three hours or so. There is a downside though, you may have to queue for up to four hours and when the tickets go on sale there is a mad rush to the ticket windows. I dread to think what getting out would be like in an emergency. I'm glad I did it once but never again.

I've done it dozens of times, and the only mad rush I've experienced is when they finally let you into the auditorium. You're let in with less than an hour to go; if you want to pop out and grab a bite to eat before the performance, you'll need something like a scarf to tie round the railing to reserve your place.

The tickets in the gods (Galerie) are cheaper, and, though the view may be distant (opera glasses can be hired), the sound is glorious. And, when you get tired of leaning on the railing (equipped nowadays with individual subtitle screens that you can switch on or off), you can sit down for a rest. Better still, if you're in the front row (they're tiered), you can sit down and still see the stage. You'll have as good a view as the people in front of you for a fraction of the cost, and at least as much leg room.