WHAT TO DO IN PARIS AT NIGHT?
As night falls, Paris reveals a completely different side of itself, a city alive with energy where evenings become the perfect excuse to celebrate and experience something truly unforgettable. Renowned for its iconic nightlife, the French capital boasts a rich and often unexpected lineup of events, especially on weekends, from buzzing clubs and cocktail bars to live shows and festivals. And the excitement doesn’t stop there. During the week, cinemas, museums, and theaters offer more laid-back yet equally captivating ways to spend the night.
Whether you’re a local, visiting as a couple, traveling with family, or simply passing through, Paris enchants with its many moods and the distinct rhythm of each arrondissement. From the historic streets of the Marais to the heights of Montmartre, via Saint-Germain and the electric buzz of Pigalle, the city invites you to celebrate, wander, and dream your way through a night that never truly sleeps.
What are the best things to do in Paris in the evening?
The best spots for drinks
Having a drink in Paris is an art form in itself. As evening settles in, the city gently comes to life. Terraces, rooftops, cocktail bars, and wine cellars open their doors, offering a sparkling, unexpected, and unforgettable escape.
For a truly unique experience, head to Bar à Bulles, a leafy terrace tucked away at the foot of the legendary Moulin Rouge. Intimate and full of charm, it boasts sweeping views over Place Blanche and the cabaret’s iconic red windmill. It’s the perfect setting for a relaxed apéritif or a romantic evening in the heart of the 18th arrondissement.
Looking for more places to enjoy a drink in Paris? Le Marais stands out with its cinematic decor and stylish bars, such as Bisou, a one-of-a-kind spot where cocktails are crafted entirely to your taste. For something more classic and timeless, Harry’s New York Bar, a Parisian institution since 1911, immerses you in the refined atmosphere of a grand cocktail bar.
Where to party until the early hours?
When it’s time to head out, Paris reveals a distinctive energy through its clubs and late night venues. Among them, La Machine du Moulin Rouge stands out as a true must and ranks among the best nightclubs in the city. Located on Place Blanche at the foot of Montmartre, it offers a diverse lineup of themed parties, live concerts, and electro sets where artists and DJs follow one another to create a fully immersive experience. Its multiple spaces perfectly capture the diversity of Parisian nightlife.
Yet every arrondissement has its own way of celebrating, with a unique atmosphere and venues to match. In the 2nd arrondissement, the legendary Rex Club draws techno and electronic music lovers with a benchmark program featuring internationally renowned DJs. Further east, in the 11th arrondissement, Badaboum combines a club, cocktail bar, and concert venue, delivering a complete night out in an intimate and eclectic setting.
Where to eat in Paris at night?
Paris is undeniably a gastronomic capital, but it’s especially in the evening that the city’s culinary scene truly shines. From Michelin-starred restaurants to lively bistros, and even more unusual spots tucked into historic buildings or converted train carriages, every meal becomes a captivating experience. Here, dining is much more than just eating; it’s about immersing yourself in an atmosphere, a story, and a full sensory journey.
Our picks for fine dining restaurants
If you’re looking to treat yourself to an exceptional experience, start with Omar Dhiab. Just steps from Place des Victoires, this young and daring chef offers refined cuisine inspired by his roots and a love for seasonal ingredients. In a minimalist setting with a white marble counter, you can enjoy dishes like fresh sea urchin, roasted venison, or house-made condiments with subtle Eastern influences. The experience is complete, combining exquisite food, elegant surroundings, and warm service.
Another standout is Auguste, the discreet gem of chef Gaël Orieux. Tucked away in the 7th arrondissement, this intimate restaurant serves modern, responsible cuisine. The chef works exclusively with sustainably sourced fish, carefully selected meats, and fresh market produce. Calm, elegance, and creativity come together for a refined dining experience.
These two addresses perfectly capture what dining in Paris at night is all about: a suspended moment in a timeless setting, a celebration of flavors, and a tribute to French culinary values.
For a more surprising experience
For an unforgettable evening, why not opt for a dinner show at the Moulin Rouge? The experience begins in a lively dining room, where the clinking of champagne glasses mingles with the first bursts of laughter. In the kitchen, the chef and their team create a gastronomic menu featuring artfully presented dishes, seasonal ingredients, and high-quality products sourced from trusted producers. Each plate celebrates French flavor and elegance.
Then comes the Féerie revue, the Moulin Rouge show, with its feathers, sequins, precise choreography, and spectacular sets. It’s a must-see Parisian spectacle where fine dining and the art of celebration come together to create a truly timeless experience.
Another extraordinary spot is Le Wagon Bleu in the 17th arrondissement. Housed inside an authentic carriage from the old Paris-Nice train, it offers a retro atmosphere, Corsican and Mediterranean cuisine, and a carefully curated wine list. It’s the perfect place for a unique and cozy evening.
Our picks for lively restaurants
Looking for a restaurant where refined cuisine meets a lively musical atmosphere? Head to OUISTITI Paris. Nestled in the 8th arrondissement between Gare Saint-Lazare and Boulevard Haussmann, this festive spot is a true hub of energy. Bistronomic dishes are paired with signature cocktails, a curated wine list, and DJ sets on weekends, making it perfect for a girls’ night out or a fun afterwork.
Another must-try is Paillettes, a Levantine restaurant in central Paris that is chic, welcoming, and unabashedly festive. Shareable mezzés, soft lighting, and live performances every weekend set the scene for a flavorful and animated evening. It promises a rare night to savor to the fullest.
Paris at night: unusual activities to try
Beyond its restaurants, bars, and clubs, Paris also offers plenty of unusual activities to enjoy in the evening. From guided tours and unique performances to night cruises, late-night museum openings, and festivals, the city is full of surprises waiting to be discovered once the sun goes down.
Why choose a Seine cruise to discover Paris at night?
Seeing Paris from the Seine is an unmissable experience. The iconic bateaux-mouches offer spectacular views of illuminated landmarks: Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum, and Pont Alexandre III. As night falls, the city reflects in the water, creating a magical atmosphere. It’s a perfect setting for a suspended, almost dreamlike moment.
For a more intimate evening, consider a private cruise. Whether with friends or as a couple, you can book a boat complete with drinks, dinner, or even live music, making for an exceptional night in the heart of the capital.
And why not go see a cabaret?
A true pillar of Parisian cultural heritage, the cabaret embodies the spirit of French nightlife. The must-see is, of course, the Moulin Rouge. With its Féerie revue, lavish costumes, precise choreography, and dazzling set design, the show is a celebration of the magic of music-hall. From the first sparkle to the last thrill, every moment is pure festivity.
But it’s far from the only option. Crazy Horse, Le Paradis Latin, Madame Arthur, and smaller intimate venues like La Nouvelle Ève each offer a unique take on Parisian nightlife.
Where to find live music nights and night festivals in Paris?
Looking for a festival in Paris and its surroundings? All year round, the city hosts a wide variety of events: We Love Green, Peacock Society, Jazz à La Villette, Fnac Live, and Rock en Seine. From parks to historic châteaux or along the Seine’s banks, each festival invites you to experience music in a new way. Just let yourself be carried away by the rhythm.
Every week, venues like the Philharmonie de Paris, Cabaret Sauvage, and Rex Club keep the city alive with a variety of musical evenings, from jazz and electronic to rap, funk, and world music. There’s something for every taste and every mood.
Family-friendly evenings: what to do in Paris at night?
Paris isn’t just about wild nights and trendy clubs, it’s also a fantastic city for families, with cultural programs designed for both kids and adults. Every Friday evening, the Louvre Museum opens its doors for a nocturnal visit, offering a chance to admire its masterpieces in a calmer, almost intimate atmosphere.
Other museums, such as the Musée national d’Histoire naturelle, Musée en Herbe, and the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, also offer evening visits, often paired with fun or interactive activities. In terms of parks, Parc de la Villette and the Jardin d’Acclimatation sometimes host shows, free screenings, or outdoor experiences, perfect for enjoying long summer nights.
For a lighter outing, why not try an open-air cinema or a stroll at twilight through the historic streets of the capital? By day or by night, Paris is a city full of surprises to explore as a family.
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