19 AMAZING Things to Do in Paris at Night!
Are you planning a trip to Paris and wondering what there is to do at night in the City of Love?
Paris is a magical city, and even more so when the sun goes down. Whether you want to sip wine by the Seine, enjoy a show, or go out on the town, the list of fun things to do in Paris at night is never-ending.
In this guide, I will provide a list of the top 19 things to do in Paris at night, including different bars, shows, museums, and more! In addition, I’ll cover the best places to stay in Paris if nighttime adventures are your priority and answer some frequently asked questions about exploring Paris by moonlight.
So get ready to explore Paris at a time when the Eiffel Tower becomes a beacon of romance and the culture of the city can be seen all around you! It truly is magical.
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Where to Stay in Paris
Before we begin our list of the best things to do in Paris at night, let’s make sure you have somewhere to go when the night is over. Paris has a ton of different accommodations to choose from, ranging from budget to luxury.
However, some places in the city may be better than others, depending on how you want to enjoy your evenings in Paris and based on your personal preferences!
While you can stay in any neighborhood in Paris of your choice, these are the top areas to experience the nightlife and will make the journey back to your hotel at night a lot shorter and simpler. Here are my top hotel suggestions!
Le Marais
Hotel de la Bretonnerie: This cozy and affordable option is located in Le Marais. It offers comfortable rooms and easy access to many nightlife hotspots.
Pavillon de la Reine: The Pavillon de la Reine is a boutique hotel in a historic building boasting elegant rooms, a spa, and a courtyard garden. It’s perfect for enjoying the Parisian nightlife in style!
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Hôtel Atlantis Saint-Germain-des-Prés: A budget hotel with simple yet comfortable rooms, situated in a neighborhood known for its cafes and jazz clubs.
Hotel Lutetia—This luxury hotel has a rich history, lavish rooms, Michelin-starred dining, and a jazz bar. Here, you can see the sophisticated side of nightlife in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. For those looking for luxury, this is the place to be.
P.S. For more information about where to stay in Paris, make sure to check out my Ultimate 3 Day Paris Itinerary!
Pigalle/Montmartre
Le Village Montmartre by Hiphophostels: A hostel located in the heart of Montmartre, perfect for budget travelers looking to experience the bohemian charm and nightlife of the neighborhood.
Hotel Montmartre: A boutique hotel with panoramic views of Paris featuring elegant rooms and a rooftop bar. It’s perfect if you want to experience the artistic and eclectic nightlife of Montmartre.
Things to Do in Paris At Night: Complete Guide
Paris nightlife is truly something to see. While excursions like taking a day trip to Versailles will have to wait for daylight, there are still plenty of activities to keep you busy. Plus, the magic of the city really comes alive once the sun sets, with the Eiffel Tower sparkling in the distance.
Whether you prefer a local pub, sophisticated wine bar, or vibrant nightclubs, Paris has it all! Below, I’ll cover all of the different things you can do in Paris at night!
Bars to Hit in Paris at Night
Bars in Paris offer a multifaceted experience for enjoying the city’s nightlife. They serve as hubs for socializing, providing a relaxed atmosphere where locals and travelers can mingle.
Some of the best bars in Paris include Le Comptoir Général, Experimental Cocktail Club, Dirty Dick, and Le Perchoir. Here are some specific different bars types to choose from!
Wine Tasting: Wine tasting in Paris at night offers a unique experience that perfectly complements the city’s romantic ambiance and nightlife. Plus, French wine is some of the best in the world! Some of the best places to go wine tasting in Paris at night include O Chateau, La Dernière Goutte, and the neighborhood of Montmartre.
Rooftop Bars: Looking to see Paris from a new perspective? Check out one of the many rooftop bars in Paris for iconic nighttime views. Consider places like Le Perchoir Marais, Nüba, and Le Kong.
Clubbing and Dancing: Obviously, the city of love is going to have plenty of places to go dancing and let loose. For clubbing opportunities in Paris, head to Wanderlust or Rex Club.
Latin Quarter: From romantic strolls along the Seine to jazz clubs and historic landmarks, the Latin Quarter comes alive after dark. You can attend a jazz concert, visit Notre Dame Cathedral, and stroll through the streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Fondue Bar: For something really unique to do in Paris at night, visit Refuge des Fondues. This small and cozy cafe has some of the best cheese fondue in the city and serves homemade wine in glass baby bottles. This is one of my personal favorite spots!
Shows To See in Paris at Night
In Paris, seeing a show is a quintessential part of the city’s nightlife. From cabaret performances to opera spectacles, Parisian shows will be sure to captivate you.
Moulin Rouge: As the birthplace of the modern cabaret, Moulin Rouge is a legendary institution in Paris. From the can-can dancers to lavish sets and costumes, a visit to Moulin Rouge is a journey into the world of Belle Époque Paris.
Crazy Horse Cabaret: Renowned for its sultry cabaret performances, Crazy Horse offers a blend of music, dance, and visual artistry. It’s a little more adult-oriented than Moulin Rouge.
Palais Garnier (Opera): Steeped in history, Palais Garnier is a breathtaking venue for experiencing French opera and ballet. It has also been featured in many movies!
Concert at Sainte Chapelle: Sainte Chapelle is a church turned music venue known for its stained-glass windows and Gothic architecture. Attending a concert in this setting allows you to appreciate the beauty of the church while enjoying live music.
Lido de Paris: Similar to Moulin Rouge, Lido de Paris is another iconic cabaret venue known for its extravagant productions and international performers. It is located on the Champs-Élysées, giving you fantastic views on the way as well!
Outdoor Activities in Paris at Night
Exploring the outdoors in Paris at night offers a magical experience, allowing you to be right underneath the twinkling lights. Here’s an overview of some of the best outdoor activities to enjoy in Paris at night!
Picnic in Front of the Eiffel Tower: Gather some French bread and a bottle of wine, then head to the Champ de Mars for a picnic in front of the Eiffel Tower. As the tower lights up and sparkles every hour, you can enjoy one of the world’s most iconic landmarks under the stars.
Climb the Eiffel Tower: For a higher view of Paris illuminated at night, consider climbing the Eiffel Tower. Since the tower itself closes at sunset, it must be one of the first things you do. Or, you can grab a drink or dinner at one of the restaurants at the top! Also, the nearby Champ de Mars and Trocadéro offer viewpoints where you can admire the city skyline and watch the tower light up.
Stroll Along the Seine: After a filling French dinner, take a stroll along the banks of the Seine River and soak in the romantic atmosphere of Paris. Admire the illuminated bridges, landmarks, and riverside cafes as you wander along one of the most picturesque waterfronts in the world.
Climb the Arc de Triomphe: For another iconic view of Paris at night, ascend to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for panoramic views of Paris under the night sky. From this iconic monument, you can see the grand boulevards and twinkling lights stretching out in every direction. I highly recommend doing this if you are visiting Paris for the first time!
See the Catacombs: For a unique but more creepier side to Paris at night, descend into the mysterious underground world of the Catacombs. As you explore the underground tunnels lined with ancient bones and skulls, you’ll gain insight into the city’s history and darker side, especially if you book a night tour!
Dinner Cruise Along the Seine: One of my favorite things we did in Paris was go on a dinner cruise along the Seine! I was worried it was going to be touristy, but it was so romantic! Sip champagne as you cruise along the river and see iconic sites. Most seine river cruises arrive at the Eiffel Tower right as it sparks for the first time!
Museums to Visit in Paris at Night
Lastly, this section is for the history buffs and art lovers. If you enjoy immersing yourself in historical art works and cultural artifacts, visiting one of the many museums in the city is one of the best things to do in Paris at night.
While there are various museums in the city to choose from, the following have a little something special about them at nighttime and are some of my personal favorites!
Louvre at Night: Visiting the Louvre Museum in Paris at night is a magical experience that you won’t want to miss! With fewer people around, you can enjoy the artwork and sculptures without feeling crowded.
Plus, the museum takes on a special ambiance in the evening, making it even more special. Entry fees for night visits are the same as during the day (€17). Each Friday, the Louvre extends its hours to 9:45 pm, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore. In addition, the museum often stays open late for special occasions.
Some of the highlights you won’t want to miss include seeing the Mona Lisa up close, admiring the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the ancient Egyptian artifacts.
Musee d’Orsay: Another great museum to visit at night is the Musée d’Orsay. With fewer visitors, you can take your time to admire paintings and sculptures without feeling rushed. On Thursdays, the Museum has special “Nocturne nights”, where the museum stays open until 9:45pm. Entry fees for visiting the Musee d’Orsay at night are €12-15.
Some of the best highlights include works by Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Auguste Rodin. Plus, the museum’s architecture, housed in a former railway station, adds to the charm of the nighttime visit.
Palais de Tokyo: The Palais de Toyko is a contemporary art museum that often hosts evening events. Inside, there’s also a cantina and basement club! The museum is located across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower. There are few better spots to see the glistening Eiffel Tower at nighttime than this!
FAQs About Things to Do in Paris at Night
Do you still have questions about experiencing Paris at night? Here is a list of some of the most frequently asked questions that will hopefully clear things up!
Are there any nighttime tours available in Paris?
Yes, there are various nighttime tours available in Paris, such as guided walking tours, boat cruises along the Seine, and bus tours that showcase the city’s illuminated side!
What are some romantic activities you can do in Paris at night?
Romantic activities in Paris at night include having a candlelit dinner at a cozy bistro, watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle, enjoying a sunset picnic by the Seine River, or taking an evening walk through the streets of Montmartre!
Are there any safety tips for exploring Paris at night?
While Paris is generally safe at night, it’s always advisable to stay in well-lit areas, avoid isolated streets, and keep an eye on your belongings, especially on public transportation.
Are there any late-night dining options available in Paris?
Yes, Paris is known for its dining scene, with many restaurants, cafes, and brasseries open late into the night. When we were visiting in the summer, most restaurants we passed at 10pm were extremely lively!
What transportation options are available for getting around Paris at night?
Paris has a reliable public transportation system, including buses, metro, and RER trains, which operate until late at night. Taxis and ride share services are also available.
Final Thoughts
As the City of Lights truly comes alive after dark, Paris offers endless experiences to explore under the stars. Whether you’re strolling along the Seine, admiring the illuminated landmarks, or tasting a late-night meal in a cozy bistro, there’s something around every corner in Paris to do at night.
So, embrace the magic and let this French capital captivate you with its nocturnal charms! After all, the adventures never end in the city that never sleeps.
Don’t forget to check out my 7 Day France itinerary for even more information about this incredible country!
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