Paris by day is charming, but let me tell you, Paris at night comes alive! The “City of Lights” lives up to its name – as soon as the sun sets, the whole place starts buzzing with energy.
Whether you’re in the mood for something fancy or something chill, Paris has you covered. There are chic rooftop bars with insane views of the city, perfect for sipping cocktails and feeling glamorous. Or you can duck into a cosy little wine bar tucked away on a charming side street – a great place to relax with a glass of French wine and soak up the local vibes.
On one trip to Paris, I decided to ditch the museums and explore the city’s glitzier side. It was amazing! I saw a dazzling cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge (think can-can dancers and feathers!), danced the night away at a trendy club in Rue de Presbourg, and ended up at various bars, chatting with locals and enjoying the Parisian nightlife scene. Basically, I fully embraced my inner night owl, and Paris did not disappoint!
Paris by Night
Visit A Cabaret
Cabarets in Paris are known for their extravagant productions, including elaborate costumes, dazzling stage sets, and stunning visual effects, creating a feast for the senses and a truly memorable spectacle. Choosing the best cabaret in Paris can be subjective, as each venue offers a unique experience and atmosphere.
However, some of the most prominent and famed cabarets in Paris include:
Moulin Rouge
Location: 82 Bd de Clichy, 75018
One of the most famous cabarets in the world, Moulin Rouge has been dazzling audiences since 1889 with its extravagant shows, spectacular costumes, and high-energy performances.
Lido de Paris
Location: 116 Av. des Champs-Élysées, 75008
Situated on the Champs-Élysées, Lido de Paris is known for its glamorous productions, including breathtaking dancers, elaborate sets, and state-of-the-art special effects.
Crazy Horse
Location: 12 Av. George V, 75008
Renowned for its avant-garde performances and sensual choreography, Crazy Horse provides a sophisticated and artistic take on the traditional cabaret experience.
Go Clubbing
If there’s one thing I know, it’s that Parisians know how to party. In fact, it is quite known that the French can be wild. I have seen it for myself, not only in France, but across the world! So, being in their turf, you must not miss partying the Paris way.
Rex Club
Location: 5 Bd Poissonnière, 75002
Located in the heart of Paris, Rex Club is one of the city’s oldest and most iconic nightclubs. The Rex is a club without deceit — what you see is what you get. If you want a guaranteed old-school fun in the city of love, Rex is the safest choice. They have Myd and Traumer as residents, and that says it all.
L’Arc
Location: 12 Rue de Presbourg, 75116
The most exclusive nights out are by the Arc de Triomphe. This legendary world-famous club emits a luxurious vibe. Needless to say, to gain entrance you should dress smartly, and I think that speaks volumes.
YOYO
Location: Palais De Tokyo, 13 Av. du Président Wilson, 75016
Located within the Palais de Tokyo museum, YOYO is a hip nightclub and concert venue known for its eclectic lineup of electronic, hip-hop, and indie music events, as well as its sleek, minimalist design and avant-garde atmosphere. Its minimalist décor and neon lights make it one of the trendiest and most popular venues among young clubbers.
Sip Cocktails In Bars
Paris is now home to some of the world’s most innovative and lauded cocktail bars, which stay open well into the early hours. In this city, you are spoilt for choice, as there are bars every 5 minute-walk, wherever you are in the city. It can be daunting having to decide where to go, so I’ve narrowed down the options for you based on personal experience and locals’ suggestions.
Dirty Lemon
Location: 24 rue de la Folie Méricourt, 75011
Hands down, the best cocktail bar in Paris. It’s a great hangout space for everyone, no matter what your vibe is. I have been here alone, with a friend, and with my mum — the atmosphere is warm, appealing, sweet, and delectable. I am guaranteed to be found here every time I am in Paris, and I apologise for nothing.
Bisou
Location: 15 boulevard du Temple, 75003
Probably a biased favourite, as a girl whose favourite colour is pink, but Bisou is my next best bar. It’s snug, eclectic, and pink-fuelled. It’s a high-end bar that actually won’t burn your wallet. The concept is different; you select a base spirit and decide whether you want it to be fruity, herbal, or flowery.
Le Syndicate
Location: 51 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, 75010
If you’re looking to taste France in a glass, head over to Le Syndicate. It’s one of the few bars in Paris that showcases French spitits and ingredients in their cocktails. The feel is retro-esque with a touch of French charm. The place looks exactly like how you would imagine a speakeasy would be.
Serpent à plume
Location: 24 Place des Vosges, 75003
The bar is located underground, at the sleek cellar of the building. It’s an underground jazz cave that screams sophisticated but not overrefined.
Romanticise Paris Views On A Rooftop
Nothing beats the view of Paris city and its one and only, the Eiffel Tower. What better way than to spend the sunset and the evening ogling at the romantic view whilst having a drink or simply just hanging out?
Terrass Hotel
Location: 12-14 Rue Joseph de Maistre, 75018
This hotel dons a terrace seven storeys up on the roof where you can pretty much see all of the city, with Sacré-Coeur and the Butte Montmartre just behind you. From 5 PM until midnight, you can enjoy dinner and drinks here.
43 Cocktail Bar
Location: 4 Rue Danton, 75006
A rooftop bar on the ninth floor of eco-hotel Holiday Inn Notre-Dame. The clientele’s a diverse mix of trendy yopros, tourists staying there, and couples searching for Latin Quarter romance. It is only open during summer time between 5 PM and 11 PM. Booking is required.
Le Jardin Suspendu
Location: 0 Rue D’Oradour Sur Glaine, 75015
Paris’s biggest rooftop bar, Le Jardin Suspendu, is perched eight floors up on top of a multi-storey car parks. It’s open until 2 AM, and you can enjoy regular DJ sets, delicious drinks, and the mesmerising view of the city, obviously.
Enjoy A Night Cruise
Paris is beautiful by day, but at night, it transforms into something magical. One of my favourite ways to experience this transformation is with a nighttime cruise on the Seine River. Imagine gliding along the water, the city lights sparkling all around you. It’s seriously romantic (perfect for a date night!), but also a fun activity for friends and family.
As you cruise, you’ll get stunning views of all the iconic landmarks, all lit up against the night sky. The Eiffel Tower will twinkle like a giant disco ball, Notre Dame will look even more majestic, and you’ll get cool perspectives of the Louvre and other famous spots.
Night cruises can be popular, especially in the summer, so it’s a good idea to book yours in advance. You can do this online or through a local tour operator. There are different types of cruises to choose from, too.
Go On A Date
Okay, let’s be real. Paris is practically synonymous with romance. But don’t worry, I’m not suggesting you ditch your flight home to chase after some random stranger (although, hey, if you meet your soulmate, who am I to judge?). But Paris does have a certain vibe that makes it perfect for finding a travel connection, someone to share some special moments with.
For instance, did I come across a Parisian bachelor on a random Friday evening before getting onto the train and ended up spending the whole time together until the dawn of Saturday? I definitely did. Do I still talk to him? Not anymore! Will his memory be forever etched in my brain? Absolutely.
Even if you’re not looking for something serious, Paris sets the scene for romance everywhere you turn. Picture strolling hand-in-hand along the Seine, having a cute picnic in a park, or enjoying a cozy dinner at a little bistro. Paris just oozes romance, whether you’re at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a casual cafe.
Now, how do you meet someone in this magical city? Whilst I met my mysterious French boy at Line 4 of the Paris Metro, forget cheesy pickup lines – the best way is to mingle with the locals. Head to trendy cafes, bustling markets, or lively bars in areas where Parisians hang out. Strike up a conversation, be open to meeting new people, and who knows what connections you might make!
There are also social events happening all the time in Paris – rooftop soirees, house parties, networking mixers. These can be a fun way to meet people in a relaxed setting. So put yourself out there, embrace the Parisian spirit, and see what happens! You might just have an unforgettable experience.
Of course, there’s also the option of opening the dating apps! I do not recommend this, however, as you’re only going to be most likely finding someone who wants a quick hook-up. Whether or not you end up in bed is optional, but we’re in this for the experience! You’re probably better off going on a sex cruise for that, if what you’re looking for is a sex-crazed trip.
Remember to enjoy the process of meeting new people and exploring all that Paris has to lay out. Whether you’re seeking a casual fling, a new friend, or a long-term relationship, being open to new experiences and connections can lead to meaningful encounters and lasting relationships in Paris. So, go prosper and propagate (safely)!
Rachel is an intrepid world traveller, lifestyle connoisseuse, and Girls Who Travel’s resident beauty advisor. She is a lover of the ocean, flowers, movies, journalism, and has a penchant for medium-sized tattoos. When she is not busy with life, she writes stories of her globetrots as well as tips & tricks on how to make the best out of travelling.
