Discover the best things to do at night in Paris. From moonlit strolls to vibrant nightlife hotspots, explore Paris’s nocturnal charms.

The City of Lights truly earns its nickname when the sun sets.

As dusk descends, a different kind of magic takes hold of the Parisian streets.

From world-class museums with extended hours to lively cabarets and hidden speakeasies, things to do at night in Paris are as diverse and exciting as the city itself.

Parisian night experiences

Whether you’re a culture vulture, a foodie, or a party animal, there’s something for everyone after dark in Paris. This ultimate guide will help you navigate the vibrant Parisian nightlife scene and make the most of your evenings in the French capital.

Do a Seine River cruise

Paris at night is best experienced from the water. Go on a nighttime cruise down the Seine River and soak in the beauty of the illuminated city skyline.

Glide past iconic landmarks like the Louvre, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Eiffel Tower, all sparkling against the night sky. Many cruises offer dinner options, complete with French wine and cheese, making for a truly romantic and unforgettable Parisian experience.

While dinner cruises are a classic choice, there are also more unique options available, such as cruises with live music or jazz performances. You can even find cruises focused on specific themes, like history cruises or wine tastings. No matter your preference, a Seine River cruise is a wonderful way to start your evening in Paris.

Catch a show at a Parisian Theater

Paris boasts a thriving theater scene, and many productions take place in the evening. Whether you’re interested in a classic play, a contemporary performance, or a musical, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste. Some of the most famous theaters in Paris include the Palais Garnier, the Théâtre National de la Comédie- Française, and the Théâtre de l’Odéon.

For a truly unique experience, consider attending a performance at a smaller, more intimate theater. These hidden gems often showcase up-and-coming talent and experimental productions. You can find listings for Parisian theater shows online or at the tourist information office.

Visit a museum

Many of Paris’s world-class museums stay open late on certain evenings, allowing you to experience their collections in a special atmosphere. The Louvre, for example, stays open until 9:45 pm on Wednesdays and Fridays. This is a great opportunity to see the Mona Lisa and other famous works of art without the daytime crowds.

The Musée d’Orsay and the Centre Pompidou also offer extended evening hours on certain days. Even if you’re not a huge art buff, there’s something undeniably magical about wandering through a museum at night. The hushed atmosphere and the lack of crowds can allow you to appreciate the art in a whole new way.

Enjoy a Parisian dinner

Paris is a paradise for food lovers, and there’s no better time to experience its culinary scene than at night. From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy bistros, the city offers a wide range of dining options to suit all budgets and tastes.

For a truly special occasion, splurge on a meal at a renowned Parisian restaurant like Alain Ducasse or Guy Savoy. These establishments offer an unforgettable dining experience, with impeccable service and innovative dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.

If you’re looking for something more casual, head to a traditional Parisian bistro. These neighborhood gems typically serve classic French dishes like steak frites, coq au vin, and ratatouille. The atmosphere is usually lively and convivial, making them a great place to soak up the local culture.

No matter where you choose to dine, be sure to savor your meal and enjoy the leisurely pace of a Parisian evening. Don’t forget to pair your food with a glass of French wine – it’s the perfect way to end a perfect day (or night) in Paris.

Do a bar crawl

For those looking for a more lively experience, a bar crawl is a great way to explore Parisian nightlife. Many neighborhoods, like the Marais and the Latin Quarter, have a vibrant bar scene with something to offer everyone.

Start your evening at a cozy wine bar and sample a few different French wines. Then, move on to a trendy cocktail bar and try one of their signature creations. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even end your night at a local pub and mingle with the Parisians.

Here are some tips for planning your Parisian bar crawl:

• Do some research beforehand and choose bars in a neighborhood that interests you.
• Pace yourself – there’s no need to rush from bar to bar.
• Be sure to try some local drinks, like French wine or a kir royale.
• Most importantly, have fun and soak up the atmosphere!

While Paris has its fair share of tourist traps, a well-planned bar crawl can be a great way to experience the city’s authentic nightlife scene.

Watch a cabaret show

Paris is synonymous with cabarets, and no trip to the City of Lights would be complete without experiencing one. These iconic venues offer a dazzling combination of music, dance, and acrobatics, all with a healthy dose of Parisian flair.

The most famous cabarets, like the Moulin Rouge and the Crazy Horse, are known for their extravagant costumes, can-can dancing, and bubbly champagne. These shows are a great choice if you’re looking for a night of glitz and glamour.

For a more intimate experience, consider attending a show at a smaller cabaret like Le Lido or Paradis Latin. These venues often showcase more contemporary performances, while still retaining the charm and tradition of Parisian cabaret.

Whichever cabaret you choose, be sure to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season.

Dance at a Parisian club

Paris has a thriving club scene that caters to all musical tastes. Whether you’re into electronic music, hip-hop, or live bands, you’re sure to find a club that gets your heart racing. Some of the most popular clubs in Paris include Rex Club, Silencio, and La Machine du Moulin Rouge.

Parisian clubs typically stay open late, so you can dance the night away until the early hours of the morning. However, it’s important to note that many clubs have a dress code, so be sure to check before you go.

Catch a live performance

Paris boasts a vibrant music scene, with everything from intimate jazz bars to large concert halls. If you’re a music lover, be sure to check the listings for live performances during your stay.

Some of the most famous music venues in Paris include Le Bataclan, L’Olympia, and La Cigale. These venues have hosted legendary musicians over the years, and they continue to showcase up-and-coming talent today.

For a more intimate experience, head to a jazz bar in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood. These cozy venues are the perfect place to relax and enjoy some great music.

No matter your musical taste, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in the Parisian music scene.

Join a themed tour

If you’re looking for a more unique way to experience things to do at night in Paris, consider taking a themed tour. These tours offer a chance to see the city from a different perspective and learn about its hidden secrets.

• Ghost Tours: Paris has a long and fascinating history, and there are plenty of ghost tours available that will take you to some of the city’s most haunted spots. These tours are a great way to learn about the city’s folklore and legends, and they’re sure to send shivers down your spine!
• Food Tours: For the foodies out there, there are evening food tours that will take you to some of the best off-the-beaten-path restaurants and shops in Paris. These tours are a great way to sample local specialties and learn about French cuisine.
• Wine Tasting Tours: If you’re a wine lover, consider taking a wine tasting tour in one of Paris’s many wine bars or cellars. These tours will teach you about the different regions of France and how to appreciate French wine.
• Street Art Tours: Paris has a thriving street art scene, and there are tours available that will take you to see some of the best murals and graffiti in the city. These tours are a great way to see a different side of Paris and learn about the city’s contemporary art scene.

No matter your interests, there’s sure to be a themed tour in Paris that’s perfect for you.

Experience nightlife like a local

One of the best ways to experience things to do at night in Paris is to wander around and explore the city simply. Here are a few tips for having a local Parisian night:

• Head to a Neighborhood Bar: Instead of tourist traps, find a cozy bar in a local neighborhood. These bars are typically frequented by Parisians and offer a more authentic experience.
• Enjoy a Late-Night Picnic: Pack some bread, cheese, wine, and fruit and find a spot along the Seine River to enjoy a late-night picnic. This is a great way to soak up the Parisian atmosphere and enjoy the beautiful city lights.
• People-Watch at a Café Terrace: Grab a seat at a café terrace and watch the world go by. This is a quintessential Parisian experience and a great way to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

With its endless possibilities for after-dark adventures, Paris truly transforms into a playground for night owls. Whether you crave a night of high-octane entertainment at a cabaret show or a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, this ultimate guide has equipped you with the knowledge to craft an unforgettable Parisian evening.

So, go forth, explore the City of Lights under the starry Parisian sky, and discover the magic that awaits you after dark.