Paris is famous for its nightlife, offering cabaret shows, dinner theater, jazz clubs, dance floors, cocktail bars, and more. Ranging from the romantic to the risqué, there’s something to fit any taste or opportunity to venture outside your comfort zone. Whatever you end up deciding when the sun goes down, you won’t want to miss out on the City of Lights after dark. 

The Moulin Rouge, an Iconic Paris Must-See

You can’t imagine Paris nightlife without immediately thinking of the notorious and delightful Moulin Rouge, a must-see for visitors to the City of Lights. With the signature red windmill on its roof, you can’t miss it. Not far removed from Montmartre, the Moulin Rouge was historically loved by artists, including the iconic Toulouse-Lautrec whose paintings and posters are entwined with the ambiance of the place. Founded in 1889, the same year the Eiffel Tower was built, this spiritual birthplace of the Cancan was and still is synonymous with decadence and entertainment. Today you can enjoy the glitz and glamor of the cabaret via a number of exciting options, whether you choose to catch a show by itself or combine it with dinner and complimentary champagne. Some packages offer hotel pick-up and drop-off, or an evening itinerary in combination with a river cruise or visit to the Eiffel Tower.

Life is a Cabaret at Le Paradis Latin

Beyond Moulin Rouge, fans of cabaret will also want to consider a show or dinner combo at Paradis Latin located in Paris’ Latin Quarter. Following the destruction of the original building (previously Théâtre Latin) in a fire, Paradis Latin was rebuilt in 1889 by none other than Gustave Eiffel and went on to become one of Paris’ legendary cabaret experiences. With a show that is half French and half English, visitors can expect an experience to span the gamut of comedy and drama, as well as a vivid assortment of dancers, singers, magicians, and acrobats. And the night wouldn’t be complete without the Cancan.

Dance the Night Away at Le Caveau de la Huchette

There’s more to Paris nightlife than cabaret. Look no further than Le Caveau de la Huchette, a famous jazz club situated in a 16th-century building. Opened in 1946, the venue was popular with many American jazz greats such as Count Basie, Lionel Hampton, Art Blakey, and others. Comprised of well-worn walls, low vaulted ceilings and wooden benches, the atmosphere in this small venue is both intimate and authentic, playing host to excellent live bands. A great spot for both professionals and amateurs to dance, our advice is to arrive early, as the dance floor fills up fast.

Clubbing & Restaurant Cabaret at Palais Maillot

Those with a preference for the contemporary will enjoy the hip new Palais Maillot known for booking big international names, with past performance alumni including Usher, Britney Spears, Lil Kim, Timbaland and the Pussycat Dolls, as well as high-energy DJs to keep the club night momentum on course. On Thursdays, you can enjoy a buffet dinner and drinks, and Friday/Saturday the venue transforms into a giant dancefloor. Also on Saturday nights, the Palais Maillot dons its feathers and sequins to present its new restaurant concept “Alive Dinner Show”, conjuring a sultry cabaret atmosphere alongside a tasty dinner menu. Don’t feel like sharing? The restaurant can be booked for private parties and events.

Some of the Best Techno in Paris at Le Rex Club

While Paris may not have quite the reputation of cities like Berlin or Amsterdam when it comes to electronic music, there does exist a pulsing and accessible underground scene. Popular with the locals, Le Rex is the place to go for quality house and techno in Paris. Originally associated with the iconic techno pioneer Laurent Garnier, the club features a superior sound system and quality DJs, which means an unforgettable night of excellent electronic music and dancing in an unpretentious crowd.

Club RaYe, an American Cocktail Bar in Paris

The cool and quirky Club RaYe, opened in 2012, is a relative newcomer on the scene. Located in a 13^th century nunnery, this stylish cocktail bar/ jazz club features two levels, including a dining area with an excellent food menu and bar on the ground floor, and a renovated cellar space, the Kafka Lounge named after Franz Kafka, with décor inspired by The Metamorphosis. Evening performances often consist of live jazz musicians or performances of classic jazz tunes of greats like Cole Porter, Miles Davis, Frank Sinatra, and more. Occasionally there’s an open mic at the grand piano where patrons are welcome to indulge in a little crooning of their own. And on some nights talented resident DJs present a jazz/electro soundclash you won’t want to miss.