As dusk falls, Paris invites adventurers to unravel its evening mysteries, promising an eclectic variety of nighttime activities that cater to every traveler – couples seeking romance, families in search of enchantment, and solo wanderers yearning for discovery.
This guide is curated to ensure you uncover the best things to do in Paris at night and embrace the city’s festive spirit after sunset.
1. Take a Walking Paris Night Tour
Led by an expert guide, these night tours typically cover several key attractions like the radiant Notre Dame Cathedral, the imposing Louvre Museum, and the majestic Arc de Triomphe, all bathed in the soft glow of artificial lights.
You’ll learn about the history and architecture of these sites, including anecdotes that daytime tours might skip.
For instance, at the Place de la Concorde, you’ll delve into its dark past as a site of executions during the French Revolution. The tour might also take you through the lively Latin Quarter, where the nightlife thrives, and past the cafes and bookshops that once hosted the city’s intellectual elite.
If you were thinking about what to do in Paris at night for free, you could also do this tour on your own!
2. Reward Your Eyes and Ears at the Sainte Chapelle Concerts
By night, this 13th-century chapel takes on an enchanting atmosphere, hosting soirée-concerts that are nothing short of magical.
As you step inside, you’re greeted by the sight of 1,113 stained glass panes that illustrate biblical stories, which at nightfall, are subtly illuminated to complement the evening’s ambiance.
The evening’s program typically features classical music and is one of the most unique things to do in Paris at night.
3. Explore the Louvre During a Parisian Evening
Imagine having a silent tête-à-tête with the Mona Lisa, her famous gaze following you through the dimly lit corridor.
Every Friday night, the museum’s masterpieces come alive, whispering the secrets of bygone eras to those privileged enough to wander the hallowed halls after hours.
4. Enjoy the City’s Views at a Rooftop Bar
Hanging out at a rooftop bar in Paris offers a chic experience, combining stunning city views with the pleasure of sipping on a well-crafted cocktail. Rooftop bars in the French capital come with their own unique flair, often providing panoramic vistas of iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur, and the Parisian skyline.
Here are some of our favorites:
- Mama Shelter Paris East Rooftop: This rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the city, including the Sacré-Coeur Basilica and the Eiffel Tower. It has a fun and funky atmosphere, with a heated pool, ping pong tables, and a DJ on weekends.
- Bar Le Perchoir Menilmontant: This vibrant rooftop bar offers stunning views of Sacré-Coeur and the surrounding Parisian cityscape. It features a communal seating area and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a great choice for a casual drink with friends.
- Terrass’’ Hotel Rooftop Bar: This laid-back rooftop bar in Montmartre offers a charming Parisian atmosphere with a view of the Sacré-Coeur Basilica. It’s a great budget-friendly option with a relaxed vibe.
Note: we have a guide on the best hostels in Paris, and some of them have awesome bars you can check out as well.
5. Uncover a Dark Side of Paris During a Ghost Tour
Join a Parisian ghost tour and prepare to have your spine tingled! Your charismatic guide will lead you down cobbled streets, revealing chilling tales of restless spirits, gruesome murders, and legendary hauntings.
You might even visit the rumored stomping grounds of the Phantom of the Opera. Be warned, this spooky adventure isn’t for the faint of heart, but for those brave enough, it’s a chance to see Paris in a whole new terrifying light.
This is one of our favorite Paris night tours.
Read: Unusual things to do in Paris.
6. Pretend You’re a Local at the Canal Saint Martin
Breathe in the crisp evening air as locals unwind by the water’s edge of the Canal Saint-Martin.
Sip on a glass of wine from a nearby canal-side cafe, watching the colorful houseboats bob gently and listening to the murmur of conversation. This is Parisian nightlife, minus the velvet ropes and hefty price tags.
7. Taste and Sip at a Paris Night Food Tour
You’ll start perhaps in the Marais, where the area offers legendary falafel, and then walk over to the Rue Montorgueil, a street food enthusiast’s dream with its cheese shops like La Fermette, where affineurs will explain the aging process of a pungent Roquefort or a creamy Camembert.
Your guide might lead you to the historic Les Halles area, once Paris’s central food market, regaling tales of its past while you sample fresh oysters or escargots. What we know for sure is that by the end of your night food tour, you’ll be full.
8. Test Your Skills at a Parisian Trivia Night
Gather your most knowledgeable—or at least most entertaining—friends for an evening of competitive quizzing in Paris, where your grasp of French history, wine regions, and perhaps the lineage of every Louis will be put to the test.
The stakes are high; the glory, immense. In a city where café chatter often revolves around philosophy and art, emerge victorious at trivia night and you’re practically a local legend.
9. Admire the Eiffel Tower Sparkling Light Show
Installed with 20,000 light bulbs, the tower sparkles for five minutes every hour on the hour as soon as the sun sets until 1 AM, with a final glimmering show that marks the stroke of midnight during the summer months.
This twinkling effect was first introduced as part of the Millennium Celebration in 2000 and has since become a permanent and beloved fixture. The best views can be had from the Trocadéro Gardens, Champ de Mars, or even aboard a Seine river cruise, offering a moving vantage point.
Read: Free things to do in Paris.
10. Count Bones in the Paris Catacombs
Beneath the city’s romantic streets lies a labyrinthine ossuary, housing the remains of over six million Parisians. This subterranean maze, with walls lined by neatly stacked bones and skulls, offers a macabre contrast to the city’s above-ground elegance.
The Catacombs were created in the late 18th century to address the city’s overflowing cemeteries, and they now serve as a somber reminder of Paris’s past. Guided tours take you through the dimly lit tunnels, where you’ll learn about the Catacombs’ history and the stories of those who rest there.
11. Watch a Night Comedy Show
Whether it’s a one-liner that has you in stitches or a satirical sketch that playfully mocks the nuances of everyday French life, the experience is uniquely Parisian.
Fear not the language barrier; English shows are aplenty, ensuring the humor isn’t lost in translation—except when it’s funnier that way.
12. Sit at the Pont Des Arts and Gaze at the World
Built in the early 19th century, the Pont des Arts has long been a favorite haunt for artists, writers, and those drawn to the contemplative beauty of the Seine.
From your vantage point, you can observe the historic facades of the Institut de France and the Louvre, both bathed in the soft glow of nighttime lighting.
The bridge’s position offers unrivaled views of the city’s landmarks, including Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and the Île de la Cité, all while allowing you to witness the ebb and flow of Parisian life.
13. Watch an Opera
The city boasts several opulent opera houses, with the Palais Garnier being the crown jewel—an architectural masterpiece that rivals the performances it hosts.
Here, beneath the shimmering chandeliers and Marc Chagall-painted ceiling, you’ll be treated to world-class productions of classic and contemporary operas. The artistry isn’t just on stage; it’s all around, from the plush red seats to the golden balconies.
The Opéra Bastille offers a more modern venue but is no less impressive in its scale and acoustic excellence. Here’s information on different programs throughout operas in the city.
14. Watch a Movie at a Classic Parisian Theater
Paris is home to many historic cinemas that offer a nostalgic escape from the modern multiplex experience. These theaters often feature vintage décor, with red velvet seats, ornate frescoes, and grandiose lobbies that transport you back in time.
- Cinéma Le Grand Rex is the largest cinema in Europe and boasts an Art Deco style that’s been captivating moviegoers since 1932. Its main auditorium, with a starlit ceiling and atmospheric design, resembles a night under the Parisian sky.
- La Pagode, originally built in the late 19th century as a ballroom, was later converted into a cinema and is notable for its Japanese pagoda architecture and lush garden.
- Le Champo, a favorite among French New Wave enthusiasts,
- Studio 28, the city’s oldest cinema, has welcomed legendary directors like Luis Buñuel and Jean Cocteau.
Before planning your visit, it’s worth checking the current schedule as some of these classic cinemas may feature limited releases, special screenings, or themed film festivals.
15. Admire Parisian Nights From the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe offers a vantage point from which Paris unfolds like a star-studded tapestry beneath the night sky.
Dare to conquer the queue and the leg-burning climb up its 284 stairs, and you’ll be rewarded with a view that rivals the stars above.
16. Walk Down Energetic Rue Montorgueil
This historic street in the 2nd arrondissement is home to a symphony of clinking glasses, hearty laughs, and the sizzling sounds of cooking that could make even the most disciplined of stomachs growl in anticipation. It’s lined with some of the city’s most beloved cafes, bistros, and specialty food shops.
Nighttime is the perfect moment to engage with the district’s culinary heritage and its lively terraces also offer a front-row seat to the theatre of Parisian nightlife.
17. Pretend You’re Napoleon in a Round of Laser Tag
Strap on your vest and unleash your inner warrior at a Parisian laser tag arena!
These action-packed labyrinths, shrouded in fog and neon lights, are the perfect battlegrounds for a fun and strategic group activity
18. Find Your Way to the Hidden Speakeasies
Ditch the tourist traps and dive into Parisian nightlife’s hidden gem: speakeasies! Forget flashy signs and neon lights. Here, the thrill of the hunt is half the fun.
Imagine stumbling upon an unmarked doorway, a vintage bookstore facade concealing a password-protected cocktail haven. Step inside and be transported to a dimly lit world of handcrafted concoctions, velvet armchairs, and an atmosphere whispering of the city’s rebellious past.
Here are some of our favorites:
- Lavomatic (Mid-Range): While it appears to be an unassuming laundromat from the outside, a secret door behind a stack of washing machines leads you to this hidden gem.
- Le Syndicat (Mid-Range): Calling all history buffs! This speakeasy is disguised as a 1920s workers’ union office. The entrance involves ringing a doorbell and being “interviewed” by a character in period clothing. Once inside, the dimly lit space features vintage furniture, propaganda posters, and a selection of absinthe-based cocktails – a nod to the historical drink once banned in France. It’s an immersive experience perfect for those seeking a quirky and theatrical evening.
- No Entry (Mid-Range): True to its name, No Entry offers a speakeasy experience that’s all about secrecy. Located in the heart of the 9th arrondissement, the entrance involves navigating an unmarked doorway and a flight of stairs.
19. Board a Péniche
Péniches are converted barges lining the Seine that have been transformed into floating hotspots for Parisians in the know. They offer a dizzying array of options, from trendy bars with live music to intimate wine bars with cozy nooks for conversation.
Some péniches even boast floating cinemas, perfect for catching a quirky arthouse film under the Parisian sky. The beauty lies in the variety – you can mingle with locals over craft beers on a deck buzzing with conversation, or find a quieter péniche with panoramic views for a romantic evening.
Here are some of our favorite peniches in Paris:
- Rosa Bonheur sur Seine (Mid-Range): This péniche boasts a restaurant with a focus on seasonal French cuisine, a cool bar scene, and stunning Seine River views. They often host art exhibitions and cultural events.
- La péniche cinéma – Le Baruda (Budget-Friendly): This unique péniche is a floating cinema. Watch classic and contemporary films in a cozy and intimate setting.
- L’eau et les rêves (Budget-Friendly): This cozy péniche offers a relaxed atmosphere with stunning views of the Seine. Enjoy a drink or a meal on their terrace or take a stroll along the riverbank.
20. Dance Free Tango at the Seine
In Paris, you can dance tango by the Seine on summer nights when the quayside becomes an impromptu dance venue. This experience is open to everyone, regardless of skill level, and is a great way to immerse yourself in a piece of local culture.
You’ll find dancers of all ages and backgrounds sharing the space, practicing their steps, and enjoying the music.
21. Join a Paris Night Photography Tour
Armed with your trusty camera, you’ll prowl the lamplit streets with fellow shutterbugs, capturing Paris’ landmarks as they’re rarely seen: basking in the glow of the moon and the warm caress of streetlights.
22. Have a Late Night Picnic
Who says picnics are strictly a daytime affair? Certainly not the Parisians. Seize the night and unfurl your blanket under the shimmering stars at a charming Parisian park.
23. Stroll Along the Seine and Explore Paris at Night
As twilight deepens, the Seine mirrors the city’s lights, turning your walk into a dance with the reflections of centuries-old architecture.
Street performers might serenade you, or perhaps you’ll just be accompanied by the soft strumming of a distant accordion.
And if you’re feeling hungry, just follow your nose to the nearest riverside crêpe stand—because nothing says Paris like stuffing your face with Nutella under the stars.
24. Enjoy a Glass of Wine in a Wine Bar
Nestled in the nooks and crannies of Paris, these quaint refuges from the hustle and bustle invite you in with the warm hug of dim lighting and the promise of fermented grapes.
You’ll be rubbing elbows with connoisseurs and novices alike, all united under the sacred act of swirling and sniffing. Just remember, while the wine may flow like the Seine, your ability to walk straight afterward certainly will not.
Here are some of our favorite wine bars in Paris:
- La Cave des Bernardins (Upscale): This hidden gem boasts a truly unique location – nestled within a 12th-century cellar that once belonged to a monastery!
- Le Garde Robe (Mid-Range): This quirky wine bar is a haven for vintage lovers. Step inside and be greeted by a whimsical collection of mismatched furniture, antique trinkets, and a distinctly bohemian atmosphere.
- Les Pipos (Budget-Friendly): This lively wine bar is all about good vibes and good company. Located in the trendy Canal Saint-Martin area, it boasts a communal atmosphere with long tables and friendly service.
25. Take a Night Seine River Cruise
A Seine river cruise is an iconic way to experience the heart of Paris from a unique perspective. These cruises offer various options, ranging from simple sightseeing trips to elaborate dinner cruises, typically lasting from one to several hours.
As you float along the Seine, you’ll pass an array of historic and cultural landmarks including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Conciergerie. Many cruises offer audio guides or live commentary, providing historical context and interesting facts about the sights as they come into view.
The cruises are available during the day and night, but the evening cruises are particularly special as the city lights create a magical backdrop against the monuments.
This is one of the best things to do in Paris at night with family.
26. Swim in History in Piscine Pontoise
This Art Deco gem, nestled in the 5th arrondissement, offers a vintage swimming experience that feels like a dip back in time.
The pool, open until the witching hour, is a beacon for night owls looking to unwind or squeeze in some late laps under a ceiling of glass and light.
27. Visit the Musee d’Orsay After Dark
This former railway station turned art museum houses masterpieces that seem to come alive after sunset as if the moonlight whispers life into the strokes of Van Gogh, Monet, and Cézanne.
With select late-night openings, this museum provides a serene atmosphere for visitors to admire its vast collection of 19th and early 20th-century art, far from daytime crowds.
28. Experience Unique Parisian Cuisine at a Michelin Star Restaurant
In Paris, the options for Michelin-starred dining are plentiful, each offering a unique take on both traditional French and innovative, contemporary cuisine.
Prices tend to be high, reflecting the quality and creativity of the food, the level of service, and the overall dining experience. However, for many, the cost is worth it for the chance to savor some of the best food in the world.
Read: Mistakes tourists make in Paris.
29. Familiarize Yourself With Paris Nightlife
The city’s clubs offer a mosaic of musical experiences, from the electric vibes of EDM to the soulful grooves of jazz. Some Parisian clubs are known for their strict door policies, so dress to impress and arrive early to ensure entry.
Here are some clubs to check out:
- La Bellevilloise (Mid-Range): Located in the lively Belleville neighborhood, La Bellevilloise offers a mix of live music, DJ sets, and cultural events. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, with a focus on showcasing local talent. They have a beautiful outdoor terrace perfect for enjoying a drink between sets.
- La Machine du Moulin Rouge (Mid-Range): This club is located in the old boilers of the Moulin Rouge and offers a unique clubbing experience. They have a large dance floor and a variety of seating areas, both inside and outside.
- Wanderlust (Mid-Range): This club in the 19th arrondissement is known for its electronic music scene. They have a large dance floor and a variety of seating areas. The atmosphere is vibrant and energetic, making it a great place to dance the night away.
- Pachamama (Mid-Range): This club in the 10th arrondissement offers a mix of live music and DJ sets, with a focus on world music, reggae, and Latin sounds. The atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, with a large dance floor and plenty of seating. They also have a great selection of cocktails and beers.
Tip: If you’re looking for a specific type of music outing, download the Shotgun app. It’s the go-to app for Parisians to discover and book tickets for concerts, festivals, clubs, and more.
30. Attend a Romantic Candlelight Concert
Candlelight concerts in Paris offer a unique cultural experience, where attendees can enjoy classical music in an intimate and atmospheric setting.
Held in some of the most awe-inspiring locations, from the intimate chapels to grandiose halls like Sainte-Chapelle or La Madeleine, these concerts are a feast for the senses.
31. Visit the Iconic Paradis Latin
Step back in time (and into sparkles!) at the Paradis Latin, the oldest cabaret in Paris. Founded by Napoleon himself and rebuilt by Eiffel (yes, that Eiffel!), this legendary venue oozes Parisian glamour.
Prepare for a dazzling spectacle – think feathers, can-can dancers, and enough acrobatics to make your head spin.
But it’s not all just glitz and glam. The Paradis Latin boasts modern, electrifying shows that blend humor, poetry, and a touch of Parisian edginess.
Attend a Show at the Crazy Horse Cabaret
Delve into Parisian sensuality at the legendary Crazy Horse Cabaret, a place where feathers fly and the art of the tease reigns supreme. Founded in the 1950s, the Crazy Horse wasn’t your typical can-can show.
Prepare to be captivated by the “Crazy Girls,” famed for their athletic physiques and playful routines.
Gone are the feathers and can-can kicks. Here, elaborate costumes adorned with strategically placed crystals hint at more than they reveal, all under the masterful play of light.
32. Socialize the Night Away During a Pub Crawl
A pub crawl in Paris is a straightforward way to meet new people while enjoying the local bar scene.
The concept is simple: you join a group, visit several pubs throughout the evening, and socialize with fellow attendees.
As the group moves from one pub to the next, you’ll have the chance to chat with different people, share stories, and learn about the city from those who know it best.
33. Attend a Performance or Show at the Lido 2 Paris
This legendary venue, once a cabaret icon, has transformed into a dazzling musical theater. Gone are the days of feathers and frivolity; Lido 2 Paris now stages showstopping productions, from Broadway classics to electrifying new works.
Imagine an unforgettable evening of captivating music, world-class performers, and the undeniable glamour that Paris is famous for.
34. Discover Versailles Palace by Night
Catch the Night Fountain Show at the Palace of Versailles! Every Saturday from June to September, witness the royal gardens transformed by twilight.
Stroll through the meticulously landscaped grounds, now illuminated by thousands of lights, as historic fountains come alive with choreographed water displays.
This enchanting spectacle is set to the music of Lully and Rameau, transporting you back to the era of the Sun King (minus the guillotine and revolution).
35. Watch the Sunset Over Paris
As the sun decides to call it a day in the City of Light, there’s no better performance than the one nature puts on from the many vantage points across Paris.
The Sacré-Cœur Basilica, perched atop Montmartre’s highest point, offers a front-row seat to the sky’s changing palette, where the hues of twilight embrace the city in a warm, ephemeral hug.
The glowing orb of the sun kisses the horizon, brushing landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Seine with a golden sheen that even the most skilled painter couldn’t replicate.
36. Watch the PSG Football Club Play
Immerse yourself in the heart of Parisian football at the Parc des Princes, home to the legendary Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) club. Cheer alongside over 48,000 fans, a sea of red and blue scarves waving as world-renowned players like Mbappé and Neymar showcase their skills on the pitch.
However, snag your tickets well in advance, especially for high-profile matches, or you might be left watching players score wonder goals from a bar across the street.
37. Relax at Parisian Spa
Picture yourself slipping into the warm embrace of a mineral-rich pool, the stress of the day dissolving faster than sugar in a café au lait.
Treat yourself to a massage that kneads away your worries, and if you’re feeling a tad indulgent, a body scrub with ingredients so luxurious, you half expect Marie Antoinette to pop in and demand the same.
By the end of the night, you’ll emerge not just rejuvenated, but practically reborn.
Here are some of our favorite Spas in Paris:
- Sensation Spa (Budget-Friendly): Combine relaxation and value at Sensation Spa. They provide a variety of massage therapies, facials, and body treatments at affordable prices.
- Arbre à Sens Spa (Mid-Range): Escape the city bustle at Arbre à Sens Spa. They focus on natural ingredients and holistic wellness practices, offering a tranquil oasis in the heart of Paris.
- Les Bains du Marais (Mid-Range): Experience a traditional Hammam at Les Bains du Marais. This historic bathhouse offers steam rooms, hot tubs, and a variety of massages for a revitalizing experience.
