A Guide to the Paris Nightlife: Where to Go, What to Know

When you think of a Parisian night out, you likely think of sitting in a sidewalk café sipping a glass of champagne or lounging in a cozy bistro listening to the local musicians. While these are indeed quintessential Parisian experiences worth adding to your itinerary, the City of Lights offers a much deeper nightlife than that. After dark, the heart of Paris comes alive with a diverse range of bars, clubs, music venues, and activities that allow you to explore its culture and heritage with ease.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best places to go during a night out in Paris. We’ll also discuss what you’ll need to know before hitting the town and suggest our favorite things to do during an evening in the City of Light.

Where to Go for Nightlife in Paris

From luxury megaclubs to cozy Parisian bars and social jazz halls, Paris has something for every type of night owl. Here are some of our top recommendations:

1. Le Coq

If you’re looking for a lively night out surrounded by energetic locals and tourists, Le Coq is one of the best spots for catching the Parisian nightlife vibe. This music lounge and nightclub located in the Latin Quarter attracts chic locals and international guests alike with its decadent drinks menu and pulsating beats. With two floors and two dancefloors, it’s a great spot to groove until the late-hours.

2. Silencio

Voted one of the city’s best clubbing venues five years in a row, Silencio is one of the hottest after-dark experiences in town. Named after David Lynch’s iconic club in Mulholland Drive, this nightclub enjoys an unparalleled level midcentury decor and cutting-edge lighting. It also hosts live performances by some of the biggest names in French and international music.

3. Café Charbon

This classic French cabaret nightclub has been attracting music fans since its opening in 1978. Located in the 11th Arrondissement, Café Charbon features live performances from top DJs and eclectic acoustic bands. While this spot may be viewed as a bit more low-key than some of its fellow nightlife venues, it has great vibes and even better music.

4. Wanderlust

Set beneath the shadow of the Eiffel Tower, Wanderlust is one of the newest additions to the city’s nightlife scene. Taking inspiration from desert oases and chic Parisian gardens, this venue offers panoramic views of the city in an immersive atmosphere. Part outdoor terrace, part nightclub, it shows off the best characteristics of Paris’ vibrant scene.

5. Le Wanderlust

Le Wanderlust is another after-dark spot located on the Seine River. Open until 4am on weekend nights and 11pm on weekdays, it hosts an array of events ranging from disco mythology nights to Latin evenings. Boasting one of the largest sounds systems in town, it’s definitely worth visiting for its epic beats alone.

What You Need to Know Before Going Out

Now that you know where to go for a night out in Paris, here are some important things to keep in mind before getting out for some fun:

• Age: Most activity venues say 18+ (including bars and clubs). However, depending on the venue and the event, minimum age requirements may differ.
• Alcohol: The legal drinking age in France is 18.
• Dress Code: While there is no universal dress code across clubs in Paris, most clubs require smart casual attire – no body-hugging silhouettes or runners.
• Safety: Like any European city, there may be pickpockets in crowded areas so always carry your wallet/purse close to your body. You should also never accept food or drinks from strangers.
• Cover Charges: Depending on the venue you choose, you may also have to pay an entry fee.

What Else Can You Do for Fun at Night?

If dancing “til dawn isn’t your idea of fun, have no fear – Paris has plenty of other entertaining nighttime activities that are just as enjoyable. Here are a few favorites:

• Paris At Night with Local: Get an insider look at Paris with a private guide who takes you from chic bistros to off-the-beaten-path dives as part of a smaller group tour. It’s a great way to enjoy a taste of real local cuisine and perhaps even find yourself at a hidden cabaret.
• Dark Gothic Tour of Paris : If creepy castles and dark alleys excite you, then this is the tour for you! Follow your knowledgeable guide around Paris with stops at ancient catacombs, graveyards, churches, and abandoned tunnels.
• Eiffel Tower Tour: There’s no better way to see Paris than from above it! The Eiffel Tower offers stunning night views from its highest points and you can book guided tours to really make the most of your time.
• Sightseeing Tour by Night: Join experienced local guides for a sunlit cruise down the River Seine or a ride in a classic Fiat 500 to experience some of Paris’ best attractions such as Notre DameCathedral, Place de la ConcordeLuxembourg Gardensand more while they’re lit up after dark.
• Segway Tour: Get ready for an evening like no other! Hop on a Segway for an illuminated glide through Paris’ most iconic sites such as Tuileries Garden, Place de la Concorde and more.
• River Boat Cruise: Enjoy an entertaining night out by booking a dinner cruise or sightseeing tour along the Seine River. From lively dj sets and buffets to fascinating histories, you’ll see why this is one of tourists’ favorite ways to explore Paris.
1. Head out on an Evening Bike Ride: Take some time away from the bustle of the city by grabbing your bike and forging your own path through one of the City’s many parks or along its waterfront promenades.
2. Take A Local Food Tour: Hear delightful stories about French cuisine while sampling traditional dishes made with local ingredients.
3. Visit a Suspended Bird Aviary : journey inside an illuminated forest filled with dazzling flying creatures while being mesmerised by musical sounds.

Conclusion

As you can see, there’s no shortage of activities for your next night out in Paris! Whether you’re up for dancing “til dawn or head off to explore one of the city’s unique attractions, you won’t have trouble finding something fun to do during an evening visit. For those who want more than a nightclub experience, we recommend opting for activities like river cruises or guided tours that give you an intimate view into local culture and heritage – elements that many nightlife spots overlook (but that take your visit in Paris to the next level!).

To make your evening even more special add in a trip with Paris At Night with Local”, where their expert local guide will give you an unforgettable exploration through their beloved city! Plus start your night off with dinner at one of their favourite hotspots along the Seine before strolling around iconic locations like Île de la Cité and Notre Dame Cathedral – what could be better?