Last Updated on September 10, 2023 by April | Dreaming in French
Paris at Night
Let me let you in on a little secret: there is nothing more beautiful than Paris at night! A wonderful element of visiting the French city at night is to explore Paris. The City of Light, Paris, is the ideal place for a promenade at night when its magnificent buildings and monuments truly glow!
If you are visiting Paris, you should think about spending one or more nights exploring the city and soaking in the vibrant ambiance of some of its neighborhoods. Enjoy the city during the day, but reserve some of your energy for the nights when you can experience the Paris nightlife.
What should I do at night in Paris? Where can I have fun in Paris? Continue reading for the best things to do at night in Paris and a quick guide to the city’s nightlife for travelers.
If you are in a hurry, here’s a summary of what to do at night in Paris:
What to Do in Paris at Night
Are you interested in learning more about Paris’s nightlife and what to do tonight? Here is a list of entertaining things to do in Paris at night, including both tourist-friendly areas and residents’ favorite hangouts:
Take a Night Cruise along the River Seine
A Seine river cruise is perhaps one of the most consistently popular nighttime activities in Paris with tourists. While it may be touristy, it’s also a ton of fun and a great way to spend the evening.
A Seine river tour is best just before sunset. Compared to during the day, the views are far more stunning to take in when darkness falls over Paris and the cityscape lights begin to illuminate.
There are many various pricing ranges for cruises, but this well-liked dinner cruise is a fantastic choice for anyone searching for an amazing evening on the Seine!
Check prices & availability for your Seine dinner cruise today!
Enjoy a Parisian Cabaret with Music, CanCan Dance, and Bubbles
Looking for cheeky, enjoyable night activity to do in Paris? Then, make your way to a Parisian Cabaret, one of the top nighttime attractions in Paris.
Today, tourists like visiting to cabarets in Paris as a pleasant and exciting element of the city’s nightlife, but locals also want to do so sometimes. The crazy French cancan is a staple of cabaret performances, and it’s also common to see singing, dancing, and juggling.
There are other cabarets in Paris, but the Moulin Rouge show is the most well-known. You are set for the entire night because the majority of cabarets also provide dinner or a drink of champagne. There is something for everyone, from the Moulin Rouge to the Crazy Horse to the Paradis Latin on the Left Bank.
TIP: don’t miss this exclusive offer by Get Your Guide Crazy Horse show + pre-dinner show at (the classy and refined) Ginger restaurant (South Asian food) for a top soirée in Paris!
Experience the Louvre Museum by night
I’ve been to the Louvre numerous times at this point, including twice at night, and I think going at night is far better than visiting during the day. It is without a doubt one of my top things to do in Paris at night!
The world’s most visited museum stays open until 9:45 PM on Fridays, giving visitors plenty of time to explore after dark.
On top of that, you can visit it for free between 6:00 pm to 9:45 pm every first Friday of the month (except in July and August) and on 14 July!
You may also visit it at night if you go during La Nuit des Musées (Museums Night in Paris), a popular time of the year when most Parisian museums remain open to the public until late at night.
Finally, visitors under the age of 18 and EU citizens under the age of 26 are always admitted free of charge, as are all visitors under the age of 26 on Friday nights. You should buy your tickets in advance if you intend to attend a normal late-night opening of the museum. Check out this page for pricing and other details. If not, check out my list of the best advice for visiting the Louvre.
Watch an Opera
Touring the gorgeous Opera Garnier in Paris is wonderful during the day, but if you want an evening to remember in Paris, purchase tickets to a show (and don’t forget to dress up!).
During the intermission, are you thirsty? Then take a glass of champagne to the Grand Foyer and take in this magnificent gallery. Its style was influenced by the Versailles Palace’s Hall of Mirrors!
Opera Bastille is the venue to visit for opera performances, whereas Opéra Garnier is mostly devoted to ballet performances. Take the self-guided Opera Garnier tour (until 5 pm) if opera or ballet aren’t your thing but you don’t want to miss one of Paris’ most stunning sights. Visit the Phantom of the Opera’s exclusive balcony#5 and learn about the history of the Palais Garnier (option available on just select tours.
Ride a Bicycle at Night to Explore Paris
When bicycling in Paris, bike tours are a terrific way to find the city’s attractions or undiscovered wonders. Enjoy your guide’s commentary on Parisian history and city life as you pause at noteworthy or interesting locations. On this popular guided tour, pedal an electric bike across Paris at night. Listen to historical tales about Paris and let your guide to snap your photo at locations like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Palace.
There are a few self-guided tours in my quick guide to biking in Paris if you want to travel solo.
This 1.5-hour Segway Night Tour departing from Paris’s center and passing through the city’s well-known landmarks is another enjoyable experience on two wheels. What makes Paris the “real city of lights” will be revealed throughout this journey.
Take a Night Swim in an Art Déco Pool
What should you do in Paris after a long day of sightseeing? For some night laps, visit the Piscine Pontoise in the 5th Arrondissement of Paris.
The unappealing exterior of 19 rue de Pontoise, which was constructed in the 1930s, conceals a listed structure with a vintage feel, separate changing rooms, a massive glass ceiling, and mosaic frescoes.
You won’t have trouble finding a more inviting location for a late-night swim as the pool is open until midnight Monday through Friday!
Visit a Bar to Meet Locals and Other Expats
Meeting the locals is one of the most effective ways to get a feel for their way of life. While in a city as bustling as Paris, that would seem difficult, the Meetup App makes it surprisingly simple.
When you’re traveling alone and want to have a drink but have no one to go with you, this is ideal. You may participate in a variety of evening events in Paris.
They may be as simple as simply enjoying a few drinks with locals and expats from various countries, language practice, occasionally dancing, or even games.
Thanks to Meet Up, I’ve attended a ton of enjoyable events in Paris, but “Apero with Internationals” is one that I frequently attend. To find out where and when their next event is, check out Meet Up or download their app, Socializus.
Listen to a Concert at Sainte Chapelle at Night
The Sainte-Chapelle is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with stained glass windows that is situated on the Île de la Cité in the center of Medieval Paris.
Over 100 night concerts are held at the Sainte Chapelle each year following the daytime crowds. Favorite classical music pieces from the canon are played during the performances by top soloists and groups.
La Sainte Chapelle’s classical concerts are just memorable! In order to have enough time to explore this special Parisian monument and take in the stained glass windows, we recommend arriving 45 minutes before the performance starts. For the complete schedule, see the Sainte Chapelle website.
Locate the Eiffel Tower light show at night
The Eiffel Tower is the hallmark of France and one of the world’s most famous sights, with approximately 7 million visits in 2018. The Eiffel Tower can be seen from virtually every area of the city due to its massive size, and it is generally prominent among Paris’s iconic roofs.
The Eiffel Tower views, especially when lit up, is one of the most beautiful sights to view in Paris at night. It’s just so lovely to see the Eiffel Tower sparkle, and it’s much more picturesque!
From a picnic on the Champs de Mars to a night river boat on the Seine, there are several ways to see the Eiffel Tower at night. During the summer, the Eiffel Tower light show is illuminated hourly from sunset to 1 or 2 a.m. Each lighting lasts around 5 minutes, so don’t miss it!
Additionally, many of Paris’ top 5-star hotels, renowned for their outstanding amenities and gorgeous decor, also provide some of the greatest views of the Eiffel Tower. So, if you have the money and are taking a short trip to Paris, why not treat yourself to a hotel with views of the Eiffel Tower so you can take in the sight from your room?
Discover the Best of French Cuisine
There is no better way to begin a night out in Paris than by sampling some of the greatest cuisine available. Paris is the ideal location for food enthusiasts because it has more than 100 restaurants with Michelin stars. The Parisian bistros can accommodate you if you want something more informal.
Parisians love to eat at restaurants in Montmartre. There are several restaurants and classic eateries around, as well as casual eats and outdoor sitting. The top restaurants in Montmartre may be found here.
In this guide to Paris food, you can find out where to dine, what to eat for dessert, and more. You may discover restaurant recommendations in the blog organized by neighborhood.
Go for Drinks at a Rooftop Bar
When the weather in Paris is nice and the sun begins to set, there are few better ways to enjoy the city’s nightlife than from above, with a cocktail in hand and a view of the city’s lights and monuments.
Rooftop bars, trendy venues to grab a drink, and finally some cheese and cold cuts abound in Paris. There’s something for everyone on the great rooftop bars in Paris. The challenge is always deciding which one to pick!
Or if you’re a wine lover….
Discover more about French wines, schedule a wine tasting with an experienced sommelier. On a fun and educational wine-tasting adventure, virtually visit the major wine regions of France and learn how to taste and identify wine.
The most well-liked and consistently top-rated wine tasting events are hosted by Ô Château.
Go Clubbing or Dancing in Paris
The most popular nighttime pastime for most people, especially on weekends, will always be clubbing or going out dancing!
When the night falls, the City of Light offers some legitimate clubs and pubs where you can dance and party to various types of music. The following is a list of local favorites:
Les Bains: Its dance floor and (near) swimming pool welcomed each guest by name, making it Paris’ counterpart to Studio 54 in New York City.
L’Heritage: This location guarantees a distinctive partying experience that is simultaneously chic and elegant.
Le Baron: an upscale club that presents some of the greatest DJs in the city as well as live musical performances.
Le Bus Palladium: This is the go-to spot for rock fans, and it’s located in the center of Pigalle.
Explore Paris by Citroën 2 CV
Nothing could be more romantic than taking in the famous Paris landmarks and amazing scenery at night while seated in a classic French automobile.
Enjoy it even more by taking in all the iconic Parisian sights while sipping champagne! This is the best that Paris has to offer!
This well-known tour may be scheduled for an hour, or you can choose to make it a two-hour outing. Check here for pricing and availability. Alternatively, this exclusive nighttime Paris tour includes champagne!
Stroll along the Seine
It’s likely that you’ve seen at least a few pictures of someone strolling along the Seine at night or if you’ve ever watched any film about Paris.
I suggest beginning around Il de la Cite, where there will be a good number of people around (not too many, but also not completely alone), taking in the views of Notre Dame Cathedral, and maybe continuing all the way down to the Louvre while crossing the Pont Neuf.
Stroll Down the Popular Rue Montorgueil
The well-known Rue Montorgueil (found in both the 1e and 2e) is the ideal location to explore a variety of nightlife options in Paris because it is jam-packed with bars, restaurants, cafés, and boutiques.
Start out with a pastry from Stohrer, the city’s oldest bakery, and then go to a café nearby for a bottle of wine.
After that, go to a restaurant for dinner while taking in the vibrant atmosphere created by Parisians and tourists alike who are out for a great night in Paris.
Hit a Movie at a Classic Parisian Theater
Many of the early 20th century cinema theaters that are still in operation and can be seen all across Paris. They have gorgeous interiors and lavish decor.
In all honesty, you can see a movie anywhere (UGC has several locations across Paris), but if you want to experience it in a “special” or opulent setting, head to Grand Rex in the 2nd arrondissement. You should visit this theater since it is the most recognizable in all of Paris.
Additionally, a lot of the theaters screen great films in their original languages, so even if you don’t know French, you can still experience a little touch of old Hollywood glitz while spending the evening in Paris.
Enjoy a Comedy Show
If watching a movie is not your preferred way to spend an evening in Paris, then you might like this comedy show at Theatre des Nouveautes.
This comedy show especially teaches you how to become a Parisian in a fun and entertaining manner, unlike the typical comedy show you could imagine.
If you wish to fit in with the locals while you are visiting Paris, you will learn about the cultural variations that Parisians have from the rest of the world and how to adapt to them.
You’ll laugh nonstop during the performance, and comic Olivier is really delightful! A piece of Paris you didn’t know you needed will be brought to you by every aspect of the show.
Take In The Incredible Night Views Of Paris
When viewed from below, Paris is a lovely city, but the higher you go, the more mystifying it appears.
Climbing some of the notable monuments will provide you with breathtaking views of the city, allowing you to see other notable sights and take in the city as a whole.
The Arc de Triomphe, Montparnasse Tower, Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Coeur, and several more locations are some of the top locations to climb for the best views of Paris.
And if you climb those places in the evening or even at night, you’ll be able to view the sun setting over the iconic landmarks or even the dazzling lights of Paris, which will serve as more evidence that the French capital is in fact the city of lights.
View the Beautiful Sunsets in Paris
Of course, there are several stunning locations to take in the view of the setting sun over Paris, including the tops of the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, as well as charming rooftop bars and the rooftop of the Galeries Lafayette.
However, if you’re looking for a cost-free, visually gorgeous, and guaranteed choice, it’s difficult to top an evening spent sitting in front of Sacre Coeur in Montmartre and watching the sun go down.
Other places to see a beautiful sunset in Paris:
- Seine’s Docks
- The Montparnasse Tower
- Printemps’ Rooftop
- Trocadéro’s Esplanade
- Bridge Alexandre III
GOOD TO KNOW: your after-dark Paris adventures will start earlier in winter. Sunset in Paris in winter is before 5.00 pm for the shortest days of the year!
Where to Go in Paris at Night
This guide will be useful if you’re unsure about where to go at night in Paris. There are venues to experience Paris’ afterhours atmosphere across the city, even if the right bank of the Seine now dominates the city’s real nightlife scene.
There are no right or wrong choices when it comes to the best nightlife in Paris. A wonderful evening out is certain, whether you like a low-key night out in Paris, an unconventional Parisian nightlife, or hip pubs and late-night clubs!
The top nighttime places in Paris are listed below, featuring something for everyone:
Belleville (Paris 20):
Paris is a beautiful city with a lot of character and traditions. In France things are different — people drive less, smoke more, air-kiss and just enjoy food. There’s a long list of cultural discrepancies, so do your work ahead of time to prevent faux pas.
A person who goes here finds an alternate atmosphere, diet, and living style than he is accustomed with. Distant from all the hectic routine in an open and welcoming society a person feels more peaceful. It is perhaps the most relaxing and picturesque place.
Bastille (Paris 11):
Although visitors frequently visit this vibrant and bustling area for nightlife in Paris, it is primarily populated by young adults wanting enjoyable nights in the city.
This is the type of location where you can find something for everyone, from bar-hopping down the rue de Lappe or rue Roquette to dancing to any music you can think of. For a Friday night in Paris, I really appreciate this neighborhood.
Le Marais (Paris 4):
One of the preferred areas for a night out in Paris among the locals is this one. There are rainbow flags all throughout this area of Le Marais, which is also (but not exclusively) home to a strong gay and lesbian community.
Champs Elysées (Paris 8):
Champs Elysées is where those seeking a posh night out in Paris will go. There are a few decent places to go dancing and party all night along Paris’ most well-known avenue. In this area of the city, expect prices to be higher.
Saint Germain & The Latin Quarter (Paris 5 and 6):
For anyone looking to unwind in Paris over a few drinks at quaint pubs, both neighborhoods are ideal. There are several restaurants, bars, and pubs in both neighborhoods. Since the Latin Quarter has long been a popular hangout for students, they are significantly less expensive there.
In contrast, rates in the posh Odéon or Saint Germain neighborhoods are unquestionably higher. For a Saturday night in Paris, I really enjoy these areas.
Montmartre & Pigalle (Paris 18):
In the summer, particularly during the sweltering summer nights in Paris, the upper heights of Montmartre are a fantastic area to go for an evening or night stroll. At the same time, Pigalle, Paris’ red-light district, has unique locations playing rock or hip-hop in addition to spots like the Moulin Rouge cabaret or late-night clubs.
Travel Tips For Enjoying Paris at Night
Keep Your Items Close To You
Is Paris at night safe? Paris is generally a safe city! However, like in any large city in the world, at night the majority of thugs lose that sense of shame and start preying on the defenseless.
Always be on the lookout for street thieves or you might become a victim of pickpocketing! If you intend to stay out late or do a tour, try to go out with a group of friends. You can take a look at my top Paris night tours.
Additionally, if you’re visiting a busy area, you might want to leave your pricey travel accessories at home and keep your phone or handbag close to you instead. Your travel accessories will stay secure with the aid of this neck pouch!
Try to Stay Sober While Exploring Paris at Night
Everyone is aware of the consequences of choosing to consume alcohol in excess of what is healthy for our body.
I’m not suggesting you shouldn’t take a drink or two to keep “happy,” but your night out in Paris shouldn’t include getting completely intoxicated and inebriated.
You miss out on the joy of truly experiencing Paris’ beauty, you are easily made a target for theft, and yes, if you start yelling and acting up, you may become a problem.
If those reasons aren’t enough motivation to abstain from alcohol when in Paris at night, consider the entire day you’ll lose recovering from a hangover rather than seeing more of the city’s attractions.
Stay Away From Some Paris Neighborhoods
While strolling through Paris at night may be just as romantic and enjoyable as any other pastime, not all locations are ideal for this.
Paris is not a dangerous city, but like any other city, there are some areas that locals will advise you against going at night. I don’t mention this to terrify you or paint Paris in a negative light.
The Northern 18th and 19th districts near Marx Dormoy, Porte de la Chapelle, Port de Clignancourt, Porte de la Villette, and La Chapelle are a few Paris areas I’d advise you to avoid at night. Additionally, you might wish to avoid visiting the 20th district’s Saint Blaise area at night.
Be Mindful of the Métro Hours
Fortunately for you, unlike certain cities, the Paris métro operates till late at night. Even so, it is not a guarantee that it is operational always.
So, while you take in Paris at night, remember to keep the métro hours in mind, especially if you want to take public transportation.
For your reference, the Paris métro operates from 5:30 am to 1:15 am on weekdays, but it stays open until 2:15 am on weekends, holidays, and other days in France.
More information on the general operating hours of Paris’s public transit may be found here.
But if you miss the métro, don’t worry! Uber, Bolt, Freenow, and other taxi services are still available.
The Noctilien night bus, which operates from 12:30 a.m. to 5:30 a.m., should be used if you’d like to use public transit. More information about its travels is available here.
Amazing, thanks a lot! Visiting Paris in July and hope to enjoy a beautiful city view on a rooftop bar.
Enjoy your visit, Polly!