Discover the Secret World of Speakeasies and Hidden Bars in Paris

Paris is one of the most magical cities in the world and its nightlife is no exception. Whether you’re looking for a 1990s speakeasy hidden in the catacombs or a modern speakeasy tucked away in a refurbished French boudoir, you can find the perfect spot for a night out just waiting to be discovered. Plus, like all the best secrets, most of these underground bars are completely hidden from view and off the beaten path – so you’ll feel like you’re in some secret underground society as soon as you walk through the door.

Exploring the Paris underground scene can be a fun, yet slightly overwhelming experience; so to help you out on your mysterious evening, here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the best hidden gems and speakeasies in Paris that are sure to provide a unique evening, no matter what your tastes are.

The Grand Pigalle Hotel

The Grand Pigalle Hotel is a boutique hotel in Paris hiding all sorts of surprises. In addition to its own speakeasy, the hotel is also home to a hidden cellar bar, a jazz club and cocktail lounge. Located in fashionable Montmartre, the area beneath this luxury hotel will transport you straight into the world Roaring Twenties. Get out your velvet suit and frilled dress, and get ready for a night of gin cocktails and smooth rhythm & blues of the 20s.

In the spirit of the age, all drinks at the Grand Pigalle Hotel speakeasy come served in teacups, giving you that extra dash of discretion. Beautiful red velvet sofas will give you a hug that will leave you feeling velvety, safe and sound.

L’Atelier 1950

If swing dancing and martinis are more up your street, then L’Atelier 1950 is definitely worth visiting. It’s located under the famous Hotel Particulier in the 19th arrondissement and is famous for its Gin & Tonic menu and Saturday night swing dancing parties. It’s a beautiful speakeasy that will make you feel like you stepped right back in time.

The bar also offers delectable tapas to accompany your drinks throughout the night. Anything from eggplant caviar with smoked spicy peppers to codfish asparagus will do just the trick. [Hotel Particulier Website]

The Experimental Cocktail Club

The Experimental Cocktail Club has gained so much popularity that it has become a bit of a mainstream spot in Paris nightlife. It’s still an incredibly unique and beautifully laid-back bar; plus, it serves perfectly thought-up drinks that are guaranteed to make an evening special. It’s located just off Rue Montorgueil – this is one speakeasy that shouldn’t be missed.

The Experimental Cocktail Club has two branches; one on Rue St-Sauver and one on Rue Des Condes. Both locations offer unique ambiances for an equally unique evening. Choose your environment, sit back and enjoy a magical night full of delicious cocktails, chic décor and great French music. [Experimental Cocktail Club Website ]

La Clandestine

This sleepy little underground bar offers great beer and is located in an area with some of the very best seafood restaurants in Paris. La Clandestine is always busy as residents arrive here to grab all sorts of different beer choices such as Mexican beers, German pilsners, Belgian lambics and even more locally produced choices. The cozy atmosphere of this beautiful brick-walled cellar makes it one of Paris’ best kept secrets; but be sure to arrive early since it’s always crowded.

The staff here is knowledgeable about all things regarding beer, so please don’t hesitate to ask them for their best recommendations – they won’t be shy about it! La Clandestine also organizes events such as concerts or themed parties throughout the year. [La Clandestine Facebook Page]

Verjus Bar à Vins

This poky-sized little wine bar has become an institution in Paris’ restaurant scene. Verjus Bar à Vins is multi-award winning and is run by Bruce & Sarah and their team, offering contemporary bistronomy method paired with minimalist décor. The place also features New York-inspired cocktails as well as imaginative dishes inspired by French cuisine.

Visitors can plunge into an atmosphere designed around mystery, romance and mischief with its green walls, bespoke gilt-framed artworks and Champagne tiled flooring. Verjus Bar à Vins definitely entices guests to linger later into the evening with its alluringly mysterious décor and vintage art pieces. [Verjus Bar à Vins Website]

Little Red Door

Little Red Door definitely dominates Paris’ underground cocktail scene with its combination of classic service of an frommage cave (cheese cave) with chic styling that evokes an American speakeasy. The place has built up a reputation for producing high-quality cocktails which can be customized according to guests’ preferences beyond those found on the typical menu.

This privately owned speakeasy is one of Paris’ most buzzed-about bars; but be quick if you decide to go because local regulars usually occupy almost every spot inside by 9 o’clock! Here’s a tip: There’s a hidden back room where you can take refuge while you sip your cocktail and enjoy the vintage atmosphere of Little Red Door. [Little Red Door Website]

Apollo Club

Apollo Club is definitely one of the hottest places to visit in Paris if you are a fan of whisky or mescal; but that’s not all it has to offer! Apollo Club provides live jazz music accompanied by beautiful Latin American melodies, soulful funk from the 70s and disco from the 80s.

The place offers running themes nights such as ‘Taco Tuesdays’ where visitors can indulge in delicious tacos along with their drinks. Apollo Club offers drinks ranging from whisky-based concoctions to old school classics, made with quality ingredients by skilled bartenders behind a bar made of Guatemalan volcanic stone – truly an experience not to be missed! [Apollo Club Website]

Discovering all these amazing hidden gems can be quite challenging; luckily, GetYourGuide has got your back! Here you’ll find all sorts of exciting activities for any type of night out – whether you want to explore Paris’ underground world or just relax at a jazz bar – GetYourGuide has something for everyone! So don’t wait any longer; follow the Paris Speakeasy Tour link , pick your favorite activities – get ready for an unforgettable night out!