Summary of Things to Do in Paris at Night
Paris at Night is beautiful. We’ve had the privilege of visiting Paris a half a dozen times, and we never tire of enjoying its beauty. So we want to share its beauty with you with all of these great ideas for what to do in Paris at night!
Known as the city of lights, Paris does not disappoint. If there is one city worth strolling through once the sun goes down, Paris is it! Monuments, towers, and museums are beautifully illuminated, and the traffic transforms into a vibrant work of art.
Each time we visit Paris, we love getting lost in the streets at night. Sometimes, Dave has his camera ready to capture photographs of the city after dark; at other times, we simply enjoy the charm of the city of love.
Moulin Rouge
What says Paris at night more than a cabaret? When looking for things to do in Paris after dark, Moulin Rouge is certainly the first attraction that springs to mind. Known as the birthplace of the can-can, the Moulin Rouge has been captivating audiences since 1889. While it may not be the first choice for local Parisians, it remains a must-see attraction!
- You can pre-book a Moulin Rouge Show with Champagne.
If you’re interested in other cabarets in Paris, consider:
- Lido Cabaret – Enjoy a half bottle of Champagne while watching the Bluebell Girls and Lido Boys perform in their dazzling costumes.
- L’Oiseau Paradis Cabaret – An extravagant display of dancers, comedians, singers, and more.
- Crazy Horse – A legendary cabaret in Paris.
Visit the Louvre After Dark
The Louvre is bustling during the day, but at night, it becomes a different world. The glass pyramid designed by IM Pei stands as a magnificent work of art, more breathtaking in the evening than during the daylight hours. The museum offers late-night openings on certain days, so be sure to visit at night!
- Louvre After Hours – Join a guided tour of the Louvre once it closes, and afterwards, take a stroll around the grounds to experience the magical ambiance lit up at night.
Stroll the Seine
Walking hand in hand along the Seine River at night is a classic moment depicted in countless romantic films set in Paris. There is nothing quite as enchanting as ambling along the Seine, seeing all the stunning Paris landmarks illuminated against the night sky. Experience the shimmering lights of the Eiffel Tower and the dome of Les Invalides.
- Paris Dinner Cruise – Witness the beauty of Paris at sunset as you glide along the Seine.
Spend a Night at the Opera
If there is one place in the world to enjoy opera, it is Paris! The backdrop of The Phantom of the Opera is the Palais Garnier. Taking in a performance is the ultimate way to experience this art form in a grand atmosphere. If performances aren’t your preference, you can explore the Mysteries of the Opera Tour, where you’ll uncover the rich history of this legendary venue, including climbing the grand double stairway of the Grand Escalier.
- If you’re short on time in Paris, combine two of the best activities for an unforgettable night: a Seine cruise with an Opera Tour.
Go Up the Arc de Triomphe
Ascending the Arc de Triomphe and gazing over the city lights at night was one of the standout moments of our many visits to Paris. The view is simply breathtaking, showcasing the Eiffel Tower and the iconic Champs Elysée. You don’t need to purchase tickets in advance, and it is included in the Paris Pass.
Admire the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is a symbol of Paris, renowned worldwide. Witnessing it at night is a truly magical experience as its shimmering lights sparkle against the night sky. Our preferred locations for viewing it include Trocadéro Square and the Champs de Mars.
Yet, for the ultimate experience, consider visiting a rooftop bar in one of the nearby hotels. The Shangri-La Hotel boasts beautiful views of the Eiffel Tower, complete with an outdoor patio—a perfect spot for an evening cocktail.
Seine River Cruise
An evening Seine River tour is yet another stunning option for enjoying Paris at night. This cruise allows you to see all the iconic landmarks lining the river from a unique perspective.
- This Eiffel Tower Summit Access and Seine Tour combines two fantastic nighttime activities in Paris.
Take a Vintage Car Tour
We embarked on a chauffeured vintage car tour through Paris, and it was an exhilarating way to explore the city. The Citroën 2CV, a classic Parisian car, is driven by an informative tour guide. Sipping champagne while learning about the history of Paris is truly a delightful experience—it’s a dream come true to drive down the Champs Elysées without the stress of navigating traffic independently.
Pub Crawl in the Latin Quarter
For those looking to meet new people and party the night away, a guided pub crawl through the Latin Quarter is a perfect choice.
- Join a pub crawl tour that will introduce you to three of the top bars in the Latin Quarter.
Drink Champagne on a Rooftop Bar
As we’ve mentioned previously, the best way to view Paris at night is from above. You don’t necessarily have to go up to the peak of a Paris landmark; many hotels feature rooftop bars like the Novotel Paris Vanguard in Montparnasse or Hotel Raphael, which offer splendid views of the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe. Additionally, Hyatt Regency hotels often have impressive rooftop bars in cities around the world. Order a bottle of champagne and enjoy a truly Parisian night out.
Suggested Rooftop Bars
- Experience great views from Montmartre, where the Terrass Hotel is a fantastic option.
- Le Georges at the top of the Centre Pompidou provides another excellent rooftop setting.
- Rooftop Galeries Lafayette
- Peninsula Hotel Rooftop Bar
Go for a Wine Tasting
What encapsulates the essence of Paris more than sampling exquisite French wine? Participating in a wine tasting event in Paris is a delightful way to indulge your palate. Alternatively, consider booking a dinner at one of Paris’s top wine bars, such as Le Figaro Wine Bar, for a memorable wine pairing dinner.
- A Parisian Deluxe Wine Tasting invites you to a tasting room led by a sommelier who guides you through six remarkable vintages.
These are our suggestions for things to do in Paris at night. Have you visited Paris? Did you make sure to experience the nightlife? What Paris at night photo would you like to see added?
