Visiting the city of Paris and wondering how to maximize your time while in the famous french city? Well, besides taking advantage of the daytime excursions, one of the most slept-on tips when exploring Paris is doing things in Paris at night! That’s right, exploring Paris during the night is one of the best things you can do to avoid crowds and experience Paris in a different light, literally.
So many tourists only think about the tourist adventures in Paris, but none stop to think about the wonderful activities there are at night in Paris and how some of the famous Paris tourist hot spots look way better at night!
So without further ado, let’s start with the best things to do in Paris at night! A great mixture of touristy adventures and local Parisian favorites!
Visiting Paris At Night Tips
Leave your valuables at the hotel that you don’t need to carry around
No one wants to get mugged or lose their favorite earrings while having a blast in apris at night, which is why you want to limit the risk of losing your valuables by leaving everything you don’t really need with you while out and about.
Such as extra cash, multiple cards, your passport, documents, expensive valuables, electronics and etc. So ask yourself twice whether I really need this item with me tonight. If not, then leave it.
Take a photography Paris night tour for tips on the best photos
Probably one of our favorite tips! If you are not that great at photography or have no idea what makes a good photo, then taking Paris photography night tours will be in your best interest.
Pack your Paris night bag correctly
The last thing you want is to bring a hefty backpacking bag while out exploring Paris, for starting Paris at night immediately gets a level up in fashion, and you’ll notice this in the nicer part of Paris and clubs areas. The other reason is
Choose the right makeup and clothes when in Paris at night
We emphasize choosing your makeup and clothing with a thought toward how it will look in darker settings or with camera flashes. For sure, at night, dont wear foundation with SPF, or you’ll have a white ghost face in photos.
Also, wearing daytime looks such as flowers, bright yellow, or summer looks will look slightly off at night. In regards to photos, of course, there are also times when those looks pair well with nighttime photos; it really depends on your scenery, so just keep that in mind.
The 11 Best things to do in Paris at night
Explore the Louvre
Cost:
- Online: 17 Euros for Adults 18 and over and not in school from an eligible area
- In-person: 15 Euros for adults 18 and river and not in school from an eligible area.
- Keep in mind that in-person tickets sell out quickly!
Plus, if you are an EU, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein student under the age of 26 years old, you qualify for free admission! There is also free admission slots available for other specialties, such as art or history teachers, disabled persons, and their caregiver, journalists, job seeker, and more!
When: 6:00 pm to 9:45 pm on Fridays only!!!
Why you can’t miss this night activity in Paris!
One of the great things about exploring Paris at night is that you can visit the Louvre Museum, one of the most iconic museums in the world! We wholeheartedly recommend visiting this place because for a start it’s less crowded. There will be fewer tourists to compete with for close-up photos of the mona lisa portrait, statues, and other amazing artwork held in this gallery.
Go For A Swim in the Art Déco Pool:
Looking for a way to escape the summer heat that seeps into the night? Go for a dip in one of the famous Art Déco Pools scattered across Paris. These unique art deco period pools are beautiful and a glimpse into the past of Paris. You’ll notice each pool has its own flair, but each comes back to a similar theme of the Art Déco period that was brandished across France during the 1920s to 1930s.
Piscine Molitor Hotel Pool:
Available for: Hotel Guest, Club Molitor Members, and those who booked with the spa.
One of the most notable art deco-style pools from the time period that still hasn’t lost its spark is the famous Piscine Molitor Hotel Outdoor Swimming Pool. This pool has garnered attention from fans worldwide for the revolutionary changes it experienced, from the grand opening in 1929 to a tragic shutdown to becoming an iconic graffitied emblem to being remade into what it is today.
P.s. If you’re a fan of Emily in Paris, then this is the pool she’s at with Mindy in season 3!
Piscine Georges Vallerey
Available For: Everyone
Cost: 3.50 euros per session
Time: Available until 10 pm on Tuesday and Thursday
This outdoor pool is a great option for those not staying at one of the art deco hotels. This art deco style pool still gives you that beautiful time period of art that is noticed during the 1920s-1930s. It’s also fairly popular with both locals and tourists, for its great prices.
Enjoy An Authentic Opera Performance at Opéra Garnier & Opéra Bastille
Opéra Garnier
Cost: Varies
One of the best things you can do in Paris, whether it’s daytime or nighttime, is watch a classic french opera. This authentic french experience is especially buzzworthy at nighttime because of the stunning beauty of the opera houses, especially Palais Garnier, with royal gold decorations that take you back to earlier times of royal nobility as soon as you take your first step on the grand staircase and make your way to the Rotunde du Glacier.
Opéra Bastille
Cost: Varies
For a modern take on Opera and theater, visit the Opéra Bastille; the difference between this modern theater vs. palace garner is night and day. While Garnier is a blast from the past, bastille looks just like today’s modern buildings with plenty of windows.
Shows Offered between the two great french opéra houses
Palaus Garnier and Opera Bastille both offer different shows; there are several musical performances featuring the Paris opera orchestra. If musical shows are not your cup of tea, there are a variety of opera shows such as Hamlet, Nixon in China, Ariodante, and plenty more. There are also several ballet shows such as Pit, Spectacle de l’École de danse, Maurice Béjart
Sit On Montmartre Hill and Watch the Sunset
Montmartre hill is an iconic area to be at if you’re trying to find the perfect Paris sunset, which is why we recommend starting your Paris night right at sunset so you can start the evening by watching the sun go down. The Paris plaza known as Sacré Coeur is a local favorite for experiencing a Paris sunset, so make sure to head there for an epic view.
Witness The Eiffel Tower Sparkle at Night
Everyone has seen the sparkling Eiffel tower lit up at night; it’s one of the most romantic views in Paris you can experience when traveling to the french city. Unfortunately, most people opt to see the Eiffel tower during the day, but we think the nighttime view of the sparkling Eiffel tower with all the city lights is just too good to pass up.
Plus, the crowds are generally way smaller during this time of the day, so you’ll have a better chance of catching an epic photo with the Eiffel tower all to yourself!
All in all, this is an amazing way to enjoy Paris, especially if you only have one night.
Enjoy A Parisian Cabaret: The Moulin Rouge
You can’t visit Paris without experiencing an authentic Parisian cabaret; for starting, it’s one of the best way forms of entertainment, and the amount of work and artistry that goes into their productions is just amazing.
One famous cabaret that you are probably familiar with is the Moulin rouge, this iconic french cabaret is a highlight for nighttime entertainment while in Paris. Locals and tourists alike will be seen flocking to grab a seat to watch wild French Cancans pulling ridiculous stunts while they wait for the show to start.
Usually, one of the pluses that comes with many cabaret shows is they will have a dinner menu, and you can order food to enjoy while watching the show and don’t forget to sip champagne or try some locally made french wines!
Take A Rive Cruise along the Seine River
The iconic Seine River evening cruise is an excursion you do not want to miss. It is a truly magical experience; taking a cruise across the sein rive will give you a night to remember due to the many stunning french monuments you see during the cruise. Not to mention the delicious authentic french cuisine served as you set sail and pair that with some good drinks.
It’s just a romantic night in general, and the amount of famous landmarks you see while enjoying this Paris night activity is too good to pass up.
Some of the notable Paris monuments you’ll come across are the Notre-Dame cathedral, The Eiffel tower, Les Invalides, the Musee de Orsay, and the Louvre museum.
Drink Some Bubbly on a Parisian Rooftop bar Perchoir.
Nothing like relaxing on a Parisian rooftop bar, taking in the breathtaking view of Paris at night, and sipping on some bubbly champagne. Some top picks for Paris rooftop bars are:
Perchoir Gare de l’Est: Offering an authentic Parisian local taste to your nighttime excursions, this rooftop bar features drinks, tapas, and good music 😎.
Sequoia at the Kimpton St. Honore: Stunning views of the Eiffel tower and other notable french monuments.
Skybar: Offering tasteful Parisian-style nights full of music, delicious food, and note-worthy drinks. Plus, you’ll love that view of the Eiffel tower lit up at night ☺️.
Climb The Arc de Triomphe For A Stunning After Dark Paris Adventure
Cost: est
- Roughly 16 -25 euros for adults depending on if you want stairs or a lift to go up. Also, prices depend on whether you want access to the second floor or the very top level of the arc de Triomphe.
- Roughly 2-5 euros for children, following the same price guidelines mentioned for adults.
When: 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm for sunset and nighttime Paris views!
Climbing the arc de Triomphe may not originally come to your mind when thinking about things to do in Paris, but trusts it’s amazing! If you aren’t heading to Montmartre hill for a sunset view, then head to the arc de Triomphe for absolutely amazing views of Paris; you’ll see historical Paris monuments such s the Eiffel tower, the Louvre, and the Sacré Couer.
Visit a Secret Paris Speakeasy For A Unique Night in Paris
If you have no idea what a speakeasy club is, it’s an “underground” bar that was created during the prohibition act that took place in the unit4ed states from the 1920s-the 1930s. Drinking suddenly became illegal, and bars were forced to shut down, restaurants poured out their alcohol reserves to remain compliant, and alcohol was no longer sold to the public.
Well, Americans didn’t like being told what to do (when have we ever), so they created secret systems that allowed alcohol sales in hidden bars. The Illegal bars were beyond difficult to get into, their locations were hidden, and there were passwords and code you had to mention even to get allowed access. It’s said the name speakeasy came from the constant whispering surrounding speakeasy bards as eager people came and whispered their way into these highly coveted bars.
Now you are probably wondering, what does something that happened in the States, have to do with a speakeasy in Paris? Well, the french and actually the world, in general, were inspired to recreate these exclusive nightclub and bar environments that not just anyone could have access to. It quickly rose in popularity, and soon enough, there were speakeasy bars spread across all of Paris.
Now, these are some of the most popular speakeasies clubs in Paris:
- No entry
- Clandesitino
- Candelaria
- Little red door
Explore the Spooky Paris Catacombs at night
Cost: Booked in Advance
- Adults est 29 euros
- Reduced rate est 27 euros
- Children est 5 euros
When: 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm
While most of the things to do in Paris at night are romantic or offer amazing views of the french city. This item on our list of must things to do in Paris at night is a great one! Especially for those who love to experience a little thrill in their lives.
Exploring the catacombs is already scary as it is since you descend into the crypts of Paris, surrounded by darkness and nothing left to light the way but old lights. Still, at least you have the joy of knowing you’ll eventually come up to the light at the end of the tunnel. Meanwhile, if you tour the catacombs during the nighttime, you’ll be experiencing an even darker and spookier experience!
Remember to get your tickets in advance because the lines are insane and always packed! However, during the summer, there are last-minute the day of discounted tickets, so if you’re on a budget, this may be your plan instead.
Experience Wine tasting with Parisian Flair
If you love wine, then you have to try wine tasting and try some of the best locally made French wines, learn the differences between how wine is created in different regions of France, and why french wine has always held a top place in the wind industry.
The great news is that you dont have to be afraid of not being able to speak french; a lot of the staff and locals and tourists touring with you while wine tasting will either speak English as well or translate french to English for you.
However, it’s not a bad idea to learn some key french phrases when traveling in Paris or venturing off to other parts of France where there is a lower chance of locals speaking English fluently and who only speak french.
At the very least, learning how to say hello in french and other greetings would be important and show good manners.
How To Be Safe While in Paris During The Nighttime
Exploring Paris is just like visiting any other big city; there are perks and cons to wandering the big cities at night. The con is it is not always the safest; by exploring Paris at night, you want to take extra safety precautions:
- Don’t wander into alleyways,
- Stay away from deserted areas
- Travel with a buddy
- Don’t flash valuables
- Don’t advertise yourself alone or traveling with a small group when talking with strangers, even fellow travelers.
- Never give details about where you are staying and who you are traveling with to strangers; we always lie and say we came with a big group that we are meeting with later and are expecting us back. That way, they know people are expecting you.
- Do not wear headphones.
- Pay attention to your surroundings, ALWAYS
- If something feels off, trust your gut!
- Know the local Emergency phone numbers and how to ask for help!
- Make sure your phone is fully charged, and if possible, share your location with friends and family.
Paris At Night FAQ
Yes, you can walk around the Eiffel tower at night; in fact, it’s one of the best times to explore as the Eiffel Tower is fully lit up.
The Eiffel tower closes at 10:45 pm every night of the week.
Parisians go out at night from around 8:00 pm and return around dawn for long nights out.
Yes, Paris is safe for American tourists; however, just like in any city, you want to practice being safe and aware of your surroundings.
Visiting the Eiffel Tower at night allows you to see the beautiful lights that light up the Eiffel tower; the crowds are also generally smaller than the daytime crowds around the Eiffel tower.
Visit a Cabaret and enjoy a fun show with friends and family while you dine in and drink champagne and enjoy delicious french cuisine.
Paris is amazing at night; it’s full of beautiful french monuments that light up during the nighttime, the seine river glows from the city lights, and the city is full of locals and tourists touring the night.