Paris, the city of love and lights, offers a plethora of activities to keep you entertained well into the night. From admiring the Eiffel Tower illuminated against the dark sky, to sipping wine at a cozy bistro, to dancing the night away at a nightclub, the City of Light never disappoints.
Here are some of the best things to do in Paris at night:
1. Admire the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks in the world and a symbol of Paris. At night, the tower is a sight to behold as it sparkles against the dark sky. You can watch the tower light show every hour on the hour until 1 a.m. It’s a mesmerizing sight and an experience you won’t forget.
2. Take a Seine River Cruise
Parisian nights become even more idyllic when you’re aboard a boat gliding down the Seine River. You’ll get a different perspective of the city as you pass by some of Paris’ most beautiful monuments all lit up, including the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and the Musée d’Orsay. There are a variety of companies offering evening cruises, some with dinner and drinks included.
3. Visit the Louvre Museum
While visiting the Louvre during the day is always an impressive experience, the crowds can be overwhelming. However, visiting the museum at night offers a quieter and more atmospheric experience. The museum is open until 9:45 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays. You can see the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and other treasures without jostling with the daytime crowds.
4. Dine at a Bistro
Paris has no shortage of restaurants and cafes, and many stay open late into the night. You can indulge in traditional French cuisine, from the famous steak frites to the classic escargots, all while enjoying some of the best French wines. Some of the top late-night bistros in Paris include Chez Casimir, L’Ami Jean, and Le Bistrot Paul Bert.
5. Stroll through Montmartre
Montmartre, with its small streets and charming shops, restaurants, and cafes, oozes Parisian charm and is a must-visit destination for any traveler. It’s especially enchanting at night, with the city’s lights casting a warm glow on the streets. Make sure to visit the Sacré-Cœur basilica that offers panoramic views of the Parisian skyline.
6. Experience the Parisian Nightlife
Paris is synonymous with its bustling nightlife scene. With endless bars, clubs, and music venues, you’ll have no shortage of options to keep you entertained until the early hours of the morning. Some popular venues include Le Baron, Le Carmen, and La Machine du Moulin Rouge. However, always check the dress code before you head out, as Parisian clubs can be notoriously strict.
7. Attend a Cabaret Show
If you’re looking for a unique and fun night out, why not head to one of Paris’s legendary cabarets? The most famous is the Moulin Rouge, where you can expect a glitzy, high-energy show filled with sequins and feathers. Other popular cabarets include Lido and Crazy Horse.
8. Watch a Movie at Le Grand Rex
Le Grand Rex is a historic movie theater in Paris that was built in the 1930s and is known for its impressive Art Deco decor. The theater hosts everything from live shows to movie screenings and is open until late at night. It’s a unique and atmospheric experience to watch a movie in such an iconic venue.
9. Shop on the Champs-Élysées
While the Champs-Élysées is a popular daytime destination, it transforms into a beautiful, illuminated boulevard at night. The shops, ranging from haute couture to souvenir stores, stay open late and offer a unique shopping experience.
10. Experience the Parisian Jazz Scene
Paris has a rich jazz history and is home to several famous jazz clubs, continuing its legacy as a hub for great music. One of the most renowned jazz clubs is the Duc des Lombards, which hosts performances from international artists. Le Caveau de la Huchette, which opened in the 1940s, is another well-known jazz club, and it retains its retro charm and offers jazz aficionados an intimate and authentic experience.
In conclusion, Paris at night offers endless possibilities and is just as enchanting as it is during the day. Whether you’re admiring the Eiffel Tower, exploring Montmartre, or dancing at a nightclub until the early hours, Parisian nights are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
