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. If you’re anything like me, Paris will make you not want to go to sleep and instead, stay up late watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle.

And 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 my top 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 my favorite time when the Eiffel Tower is sparkling!

Things to Do in Paris At Night: By Category

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, you’re probably overwhelmed with all there is to see in this incredible city!

While excursions like taking a day trip to Versailles or visiting the Louvre will have to wait for daylight, there are still plenty of activities to keep you busy at night.

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 is a quick guide to the different things to do before we dive into the details!

And one of the most important things to know when visiting Paris for the first time is that most attractions need to be booked in advance (or should be to avoid long lines), so I’ve noted when that’s required below!

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. Or, you can book a wine tasting experience like this one!

Rooftop Bars: Looking to see Paris from a new perspective? Check out one of the many rooftop bars in Paris for iconic nighttime views like Le Perchoir Marais, Le Kong, ROOF Paris, and the Rooftop Bar at Hôtel Dame des Arts.

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 and makes my list of 15 hidden gems in Paris to explore!

Shows To See in Paris at Night

Seeing a show is a must-do activity on your trip, especially if you have a few days in Paris. From cabaret performances to opera spectacles, there are many options to choose from depending on your interests and budget!

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.

Moulin Rouge is located a short distance outside the city in the historic Montmartre area. Tickets are a bit pricey (around $150), but most people think it’s absolutely worth the cost!

If you’re looking for something a bit more sultry, I highly highly recommend seeing the famous Crazy Horse show! Similar to Moulin Rouge, this is a cabaret show; however, it’s more adult-oriented and sexual, with frequent (but tasteful) nudity.

We weren’t sure what to expect before our visit, but the performances, lighting, and dancers truly blew us away! As expected, no photos are allowed of the performance, but you can watch a preview video here.

Crazy Horse is also a bit cheaper than Moulin Rouge (I’d skip the dinner ticket option), and it’s located right in the center of Paris, across from the Eiffel Tower.

P.S. I recommend booking your Crazy Horse tickets through GetYourGuide. It’s the same price as direct through their website, but tickets through GetYourGuide are refundable!

On the opposite end of the spectrum from cabaret shows, you can also visit some churches in Paris at night!

Sainte Chapelle is a beautiful church on the Île de la Cité known for its stained-glass windows and Gothic architecture. However, during certain times of year, the church transforms into a music venue!

In the evening, you can attend a magical classical music performance inside the church while appreciating the stunning architecture. Some ticket options include champagne, tapas, and more!

Lastly, another option in Paris at night is of course, the French opera. The Palais Garnier is a breathtaking venue for experiencing French opera and ballet. It has also been featured in many movies and hosted some events in the 2024 Olympics.

Outdoor Activities in Paris at Night

Picnic in Front of the Eiffel Tower

Being outside in Paris at night offers a magical experience, allowing you to be right underneath the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower.

Even if you do some of the activities listed above, I highly recommend making a point to at least see the Eiffel Tower at night, as it’s a completely different experience than during the day.

In fact, my favorite thing to do in Paris at night is simply sit on the Champ de Mars and watch the Eiffel Tower light up and then sparkle every hour.

You can simply pass through the Champ de Mars if you wish, but I actually recommend having a full picnic in front of the Eiffel Tower. Grab some cheese, bread, and wine from a local market and head to the Champ de Mars around sunset.

At dusk, the Eiffel Tower will light up golden, and then on the hour, it will sparkle for 5 minutes, a truly magical sight!!

On our last 4 day trip to Paris, we made a point to sit in front of the Eiffel Tower every single night, and I don’t regret it one bit!

Climb the Eiffel Tower

For a higher view of Paris illuminated at night, you can also consider climbing the Eiffel Tower while you’re in the area.

There are several different types of tickets for the Eiffel Tower, depending on how high you want to go (second floor, summit, etc.) and if you want to take the stairs or the lift.

When booking tickets, you’ll also need to choose a time slot, which is why it’s important to book in advance, especially if you are hoping to visit after dark. The latest time slot is typically 11:00pm, but this can vary by season and availability.

Or, you can grab a drink or dinner at one of the restaurants inside the Eiffel Tower. There are two restaurants, Madam Brasserie and Le Jules Verne, as well as a champagne bar.

Advanced reservations are typically required, depending on which you visit and what time of day. Both restaurants are quite pricey, but also include your ticket up the Tower, depending on which option you book.

You can browse all of the options on the official restaurant website here!

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.

We personally did this a few hours before sunset, but I think it would be even more stunning at night!

From the top of the Arc de Triomphe, you can see all of Paris illuminated, including the sparkling Eiffel Tower and the skyscrapers in La Défense.

Similar to the Eiffel Tower, I highly recommend booking tickets for the Arc de Triomphe in advance, especially if you want to visit around sunset or after dark, as those slots tend to sell out first.

However, booking your tickets through GetYourGuide allows you to enter at anytime, which is great if the time you wanted is sold out on the normal website (or if you just want to be flexible). The price is typically the same as well!

Descend the Paris Catacombs

For a unique but more creepier side to Paris at night, descend into the mysterious underground world of the Paris Catacombs.

We somehow managed to miss this until our last trip to Paris, and I am so glad we finally got to do it!

The entry to the catacombs is above ground in the Montparnasse neighborhood. After scanning your ticket, you’ll descend 131 steps underground and explore the many tunnels that run under the streets of Paris.

The most notable part of the Catacombs is the Ossuary, where the remains and bones of six million people are stacked neatly along the tunnels.

It takes around an hour to walk through the entire publicly-accessible portion of the Catacombs. To access the Catacombs, you’ll need to book a ticket in advance and choose a time slot. They run in 15 minute increments, and the last entry is typically around 7:00pm!

Dinner Cruise Along the Seine

One of my favorite things that we’ve done on our last 2 trips to Paris is a dinner cruise along the Seine!

The first time we booked it, I was worried it was going to be super touristy, but it ended up being amazing. So amazing, in fact, that we booked it again on our next trip with our group of 8!

On this 2.5 hour dinner cruise, you get to eat a delicious meal and drink French wine as you cruise along the Seine and see iconic Parisian sites, like the Louvre and Notre Dame, illuminated at night.

As the sun starts to set, the boat makes its way back down the Seine towards the Eiffel Tower. It’s normally timed so you are arriving right at the first sparkle of the evening – so magical!

I highly recommend taking your champagne to the outdoor rooftop deck so you can see this clearly (not through the glass!).

Overall, this is one of my favorite things to do in Paris at night, and something I recommend to everyone visiting Paris!

MY TOP PICK

Paris Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Music by Bateaux Mouches

• Price: €128-€165 per person
• Departure Time: 8:30pm
• Duration: 2.25 hours
• TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5 stars ⭐
• Includes: Glass of champagne, 3 course dinner, bottle of red or white wine

book it here!

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!

First off, the Louvre! 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).

Make sure to book your ticket in advance to get the time slot you want!

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. 

P.S. Make sure to pack a pair of good walking shoes if you plan to hit up the museums! Read more packing tips in my guide on What to Pack for Paris!

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.

And lastly, 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!

Where to Stay in Paris

Now that you know all of the incredible 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!

The Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is one of Paris’ liveliest neighborhoods, making it an ideal choice for travelers who love nightlife! Known for its student energy and historic charm, this area is packed with bustling bars, cozy cafes, and vibrant restaurants.

Rue Mouffetard is a must-visit for its lively atmosphere and endless options for dining and drinks.

• Hôtel Marignan: A budget-friendly, family-run hotel that’s simple but comfortable. Perfect for travelers who value a great location over frills.
• Hotel Monge: A beautifully designed boutique hotel with luxurious touches like a library lounge and complimentary tea service.
• Hotel Les Dames du Panthéon: Overlooking the Pantheon, this boutique hotel combines bold, stylish interiors with incredible views. Located near Cardinal Lemoine Metro (Line 10).

Le Marais

Le Marais is one of Paris’ most vibrant and trendy neighborhoods, making it a fantastic choice for nightlife lovers. Known for its mix of historic charm and modern flair, this area is packed with lively bars, stylish cocktail lounges, and cozy wine spots.

The streets around Rue de Bretagne and Rue des Archives come alive in the evening, offering everything from chic rooftop bars to laid-back local hangouts.

Le Marais is also a hub for LGBTQ+ nightlife, with some of Paris’ most iconic clubs and bars found in this neighborhood.

• 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

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is perfect for those who enjoy a more refined and classic Parisian nightlife experience. This historic neighborhood is home to legendary cafes like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, where you can sip wine or cocktails while soaking up its intellectual and artistic history.

For a more modern vibe, Saint-Germain also offers chic cocktail bars and upscale lounges tucked along its cobblestone streets. The area’s jazz clubs, such as the iconic Le Caveau de la Huchette, add a timeless charm, making it an ideal spot for music lovers.

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. 

Pigalle/Montmartre

Pigalle and Montmartre are the go-to neighborhoods for eclectic and energetic nightlife in Paris. Pigalle, known as the city’s red-light district, offers a mix of iconic cabarets like the Moulin Rouge, trendy cocktail bars, and lively clubs.

Its vibrant energy draws both locals and tourists looking for a night to remember. Just up the hill in Montmartre, the vibe is more bohemian, with cozy wine bars, live music venues, and intimate bistros that capture the neighborhood’s artistic spirit.

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.

P.S. For more information on the different areas of Paris, make sure to check out my full guide on Where to Stay in Paris!

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!

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.

If you only do one thing on this list, make sure it’s seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night. I truly don’t know how anyone can hate Paris after seeing this!

For more details on the best way to experience this, check out my full guide on having a picnic at the Eiffel Tower!

Or, check out my other Paris blog posts below! ⬇️ 🇫🇷
Visiting Paris For The First Time: 10 Things To Know!
Where To Stay In Paris For First Time Visitors: Detailed Guide
3 Days In Paris: The Perfect Paris Itinerary
Day Trip From Paris To Versailles: A Complete Guide
19 AMAZING Things To Do In Paris At Night!
5 BEST Dinner Cruises In Paris: Prices, Duration, & More
The 7 Best Day Trips From Paris By Train: A Complete Guide
How To Spend 4 Days In Paris: The Ultimate 4 Day Paris Itinerary
A Perfect Packing List For Paris For Every Season!
15 Hidden Gems In Paris You HAVE To Visit!
How To Have A PERFECT Picnic At The Eiffel Tower In Paris
London Vs Paris: Which European City Should YOU Visit?
The BEST 7 Day London And Paris Itinerary!

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