12 MAGICAL Things to Do in Paris at Night (2025 Guide)

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I absolutely LOVE Paris at night. The city lights up and turns into this absolute dream – the Eiffel Tower puts on its sparkle show, tiny wine bars spill with laughter, and the streets feel like you’re walking through the most beautiful movie set ever. Every time I visit, nighttime brings the moments I remember most.

The best things to do in Paris at night are honestly incredible. From drinking wine under the stars by the Seine to finding the coolest rooftop views and ducking into underground jazz clubs that feel frozen in time, this city knows how to do nights right. I’m so excited to show you my favorite spots. Trust me, your nights in Paris are going to be unforgettable!

• 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend this romantic Seine dinner cruise through midnight Paris! They treat you to gourmet French cuisine while gliding past the glittering Eiffel Tower, plus a private deck for champagne under the stars. Dance to DJs with the city’s lights as your disco ball. This cruise is absolutely a must-do on a Paris itinerary in my opinion.

12 Things to Do at Night in Paris

Experience the excitement of the city after dark with our guide to the best things to do in Paris at night. From lively entertainment to quiet spots for reflection, Paris’s nighttime offerings are as diverse as they are captivating.

1. Watch the Eiffel Tower’s hourly light show

The Eiffel Tower puts on a free light show every hour on the hour from sunset until 1 AM. Twenty thousand golden bulbs sparkle for five minutes straight. It’s touristy but absolutely spectacular.

The best viewing spots are Trocadéro or Pont de Bir-Hakeim. Get there 15-20 minutes early since these free spots fill up fast. The golden lighting comes on automatically at sunset (thanks to sensors), and the sparkles start at the top of the next hour.

Want to splurge? Book dinner at 58 Tour Eiffel (starts at €85 for three courses) or go all out at Le Jules Verne (€290+ for tasting menus). You can also take the elevator to the summit for €36.10, but it stops running at midnight in summer.

I watched the last sparkle show at 1 AM last spring and it was incredible. It lasts 10 minutes instead of five, making it the most dramatic. Since 2022, they turn off all the lights right after midnight to save energy, except during summer when everything stays on until 1 AM. Check sunset times before you go since the show starts automatically when it gets dark.

• Read next: Unique Restaurants in Paris

2. Cruise the Seine River past illuminated landmarks

A Seine cruise at night is touristy but worth every euro. You’ll see all the major landmarks lit up: Notre-Dame (still under restoration but beautiful), the Louvre, and dozens of historic bridges.

Bateaux Parisiens runs evening cruises every 30 minutes from 7:30-10:30 PM. Basic sightseeing tours start at €18 for adults and €9.50 for kids (4-11 years). Book online for €16 to save €2. Their glass-topped boats give you unobstructed views, and audio guides come in 14 languages.

Want dinner? Cruise packages range from €79-190 depending on the menu, with most including wine pairings. The 2.5-hour dinner cruises feature French cuisine while you glide past 37 bridges and monuments.

Dress warmly. It gets seriously cold on the water after sunset. I took an evening cruise last fall and my favorite moment was when Notre-Dame’s flying buttresses came into view, still magnificent despite the ongoing restoration work. Bateaux Mouches offers similar cruises starting at €15 for adults, departing from Pont de l’Alma, while Vedettes du Pont Neuf costs €14 for adults. All offer the same spectacular views of illuminated Paris.

3. Explore Montmartre’s artistic streets and nightlife

Montmartre is pure magic after dark. The cobblestone streets buzz with over 30 bars and cabarets, while Sacré-Cœur glows white against the night sky. Street artists work under lamplight in Place du Tertre, creating that perfect Parisian movie scene.

Au Lapin Agile, operating since 1860, offers authentic French chanson performances Tuesday through Saturday starting at 9 PM. It costs €40 including one drink (€25 for students under 26 except Saturdays). The red windmill facade and candlelit interior transport you straight to Belle Époque Paris. Shows run until 1 AM with flexible arrival times.

For late-night food, hit the 24-hour crêpe stands in Place du Tertre where sweet crêpes cost €3-6. The neighborhood stays lively until 2 AM, especially around Place Saint-Michel where locals and tourists gather.

The funicular runs until 12:45 AM (2:15 AM weekends), so you won’t get stranded. I love wandering these streets on weekend evenings when accordion music drifts from bistros and portrait artists work by lamplight. Check out Café la Fourmi, one of Montmartre’s trendiest spots with a funky bar-café vibe open until 2 AM (4 AM on weekends). Le Sancerre offers great cocktails and Belgian beers on tap until 2 AM with that old-school Montmartre charm locals love.

• Read next: Hidden Gems in Paris

4. Experience a cabaret show at Moulin Rouge or Crazy Horse

Moulin Rouge remains Paris’s most famous cabaret with the iconic Féerie revue featuring 100 performers and the legendary French can-can. Shows run nightly at 9 PM and 11 PM. Tickets start at €87 for show-only or €185+ for dinner packages.

Book at least two weeks ahead during peak season. This place sells out with a 95% occupancy rate year-round. Prices increase when shows fill up, so book early. No photos allowed, and dress smart casual (no shorts or sneakers).

Crazy Horse offers a more contemporary, artistic approach near the Champs-Élysées. Shows cost €65-100 depending on seating, with VIP packages including champagne starting at €160. Le Lido is another option with dinner shows featuring acrobats.

Here’s the thing: these places are expensive and touristy, but they’re also uniquely Parisian experiences. I went to Moulin Rouge last year and while the Can-Can only lasts about two minutes (which disappoints some people), the overall production impressed me with elaborate costumes and skilled performers. Crazy Horse focuses more on artistic lighting and choreography. 

All venues require reservations and don’t take credit cards at some locations, so bring cash. The atmosphere is festive, not seedy, making it suitable for all ages (though expect some artistic nudity).

5. Tour the Louvre during extended Wednesday and Friday hours

The Louvre stays open until 9:45 PM on Wednesdays and Fridays. It’s a completely different experience with way fewer crowds and special evening lighting. Night tickets cost the same €17 as daytime admission, but you’ll practically have the Mona Lisa to yourself.

Last entry is at 8:30 PM, giving you over an hour to explore. Start with the Egyptian antiquities or Islamic art wings, which are almost meditative in the evening quiet. The museum’s glass pyramid creates stunning reflections after dark, perfect for photos.

Wednesday evenings tend to be less crowded than Fridays. Book your timed entry ticket online to skip lines. They’re selling out faster in 2025 due to increased tourism. Download the official Louvre app for free audio tours in 11 languages.

I visited on a Friday evening last winter and it was incredible how peaceful the galleries were compared to my previous daytime visits. Most internal restaurants close by 6 PM except Starbucks and The Comptoir du Louvre, so plan your dinner accordingly. Free admission kicks in for under-26s from any country on Friday evenings after 6 PM. Some special exhibitions stay open until 10 PM on these nights.

6. Stroll the Champs-Élysées from Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde

The Champs-Élysées becomes a river of light after sunset. This famous 1.2-mile avenue stretches from Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde, lined with luxury boutiques that stay illuminated until midnight.

Climb the Arc de Triomphe for €13 (closes at 10:30 PM) for spectacular night views down the avenue. The 284 steps are worth it for the panoramic city views. Street performers gather near Metro stations, and during Christmas season, elaborate light displays transform the entire street.

For late-night shopping, Galeries Lafayette and Printemps stay open until 9 PM Monday through Saturday. The famous red buses (line 73) provide scenic transportation with great views while connecting to other nighttime districts.

People-watch from outdoor cafés like Fouquet’s or Café de la Paix, where terraces offer prime viewing of the nightly fashion parade. The avenue buzzes with energy as tourists and locals promenade under the twinkling lights.

I always enjoy walking this stretch in the evening when the crowds thin out slightly and the lights create that magical Parisian atmosphere. The Christmas market (November-January) adds extra magic with wooden chalets selling hot wine and local crafts. Even if you’re not shopping, the illuminated storefronts of Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and other luxury brands create a glamorous atmosphere. It’s crowded but iconic.

7. Wander the Latin Quarter’s medieval streets and bookshops

The Latin Quarter pulses with student energy after dark. Shakespeare and Company bookstore stays open until 11 PM most evenings, perfect for browsing books by lamplight. The narrow medieval streets buzz with jazz clubs, wine bars, and impromptu debates spilling from café terraces.

Rue Mouffetard transforms into a lively pedestrian zone after 7 PM with dozens of bistros offering €20-35 prix fixe menus. The area around Place Saint-Michel stays alive until 2 AM, especially around the fountain where locals and tourists gather for celebrations.

Visit Caveau de la Huchette, a 16th-century jazz club where Ella Fitzgerald once performed. Entry costs €13-20 depending on the night, and the intimate stone vaults create perfect acoustics for live music until 4 AM. The club’s medieval setting makes it feel like a secret underground speakeasy.

Le Procope, Paris’s oldest café (since 1686), serves nightcaps in historic surroundings where Voltaire and Napoleon once drank. Street musicians perform on every corner, and the intellectual heritage comes alive with animated conversations at sidewalk tables.

I spent a wonderful evening last autumn browsing Shakespeare and Company before grabbing dinner on Rue Mouffetard and ending at a jazz club. The neighborhood’s winding streets reveal hidden courtyards, medieval churches, and centuries-old buildings that look magical under gas-style street lamps. It’s where Parisian bohemian culture thrives.

8. Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral and walk around Île de la Cité

While Notre-Dame Cathedral remains closed for restoration following the 2019 fire, its Gothic silhouette creates a hauntingly beautiful backdrop when illuminated after dark. The surrounding Île de la Cité offers peaceful evening walks with fewer crowds than daytime.

Start at Pont Neuf, admiring the cathedral’s flying buttresses reflected in the Seine while street lamps cast dancing shadows on medieval stones. The restoration work is visible but doesn’t diminish the cathedral’s majesty. It’s still one of Paris’s most moving sights.

Sainte-Chapelle stays open until 7 PM in summer (6 PM in winter) for €11.50. The 13th-century stained glass windows create a kaleidoscope effect during golden hour that’s absolutely breathtaking. The nearby Conciergerie, where Marie Antoinette was imprisoned, offers evening visits until 6 PM for €11.50.

End at Place Dauphine, a hidden triangular square lined with wine bars and bistros perfect for quiet dinner away from tourist crowds. This tucked-away spot feels like a village square in the heart of Paris.

I walked around the entire island perimeter one evening last summer and it took about 30 minutes, offering beautiful views of both banks of the Seine. The island’s peaceful atmosphere at night contrasts sharply with the daytime crowds. Even with Notre-Dame’s scaffolding, the evening lighting makes this a romantic and contemplative experience.

9. Sip cocktails at Le Perchoir or other rooftop bars

Le Perchoir in Ménilmontant offers killer panoramic views from its 7th-floor terrace where creative cocktails cost €12-16 and the Eiffel Tower sparkles in the distance. The industrial-chic space operates year-round with heated terraces, attracting trendy locals especially on weekends. Arrive before 8 PM. They don’t take reservations and the best spots fill fast.

Bar Hemingway at the Ritz serves world-class cocktails where the author himself drank, but expect to pay €25-35 per drink for the privilege. For cheaper options, try Monkey Club near République with rooftop cocktails starting at €10 and DJs spinning until 2 AM on weekends.

Terrass” Hotel’s rooftop bar in Montmartre provides stunning Sacré-Cœur views with cocktails averaging €15. Le Mary Celeste in the Marais combines natural wine with small plates on their outdoor terrace. It’s more relaxed and affordable.

Most rooftop venues operate April through October only, with indoor alternatives during colder months. I’ve been to Le Perchoir several times and the sunset views over Paris never get old, especially when the Eiffel Tower starts sparkling. The scene gets competitive, so having backup options helps. These spots cater to different vibes: Le Perchoir for hipster crowds, Ritz for luxury seekers, and Mary Celeste for wine lovers. Dress nicely but not overly formal. Smart casual works everywhere.

10. Browse the Marché des Enfants Rouges evening food stalls

Marché des Enfants Rouges, Paris’s oldest covered market dating to 1615, transforms from daytime produce vendors to an evening food court with international cuisines. Located in the trendy Marais district, it stays busy until 8:30 PM Tuesday through Saturday with 20+ food stalls.

Grab Lebanese mezze from Alain’s stall for around €15, then find a communal table to soak up the buzzing atmosphere. The Italian stall serves fresh pasta and cannoli for €4-6, while wine vendors offer tastings and bottle sales perfect for pairing with your meal.

The covered setting makes it perfect for rainy evenings, while outdoor seating areas provide people-watching opportunities in good weather. After 6 PM, when daytime produce vendors close, the dinner crowd creates a lively, social atmosphere that feels like a multicultural block party.

Nearby Rue de Bretagne and Rue Charlot offer additional dining options if market stalls are full. The Moroccan tagine stall draws long lines for good reason. Portions are generous and prices reasonable around €12-15. Japanese ramen, fresh oysters, and artisanal ice cream round out the options.

I love coming here on Thursday evenings when the mix of locals and tourists creates this amazing energy around the communal tables. It’s basically a trendy food hall before food halls were cool. Bring cash since not all vendors accept cards.

11. Attend opera or ballet at the Palais Garnier

The Palais Garnier‘s opulent 19th-century architecture and Chagall-painted ceiling make it one of the world’s most beautiful theaters. Evening performances typically begin at 7:30 PM with tickets ranging from €5 for restricted-view seats to €300+ for premium orchestra locations.

Even if you don’t attend a show, self-guided tours cost €14 and run until 6 PM. The grand marble staircase and ornate foyer are worth seeing alone. Evening performances require formal attire. Think suits and cocktail dresses, not casual wear.

The venue’s champagne bar operates during intermissions, offering flutes of Mumm for €12-18. Popular performances like Swan Lake or Carmen sell out weeks in advance through the Opera de Paris website. Same-day tickets occasionally become available at the box office 90 minutes before curtain.

The acoustics are incredible, and the atmosphere is pure Old World glamour. Even cheap seats offer decent views due to the theater’s intimate design. Programs include opera, ballet, and classical concerts throughout the year.

I splurged on center orchestra seats for La Traviata last season and felt completely transported by both the performance and the venue’s incredible acoustics. Book early for the best experience since this isn’t the place to wing it. The building itself is a masterpiece, representing the pinnacle of Parisian cultural elegance. Many performances have English subtitles for opera.

12. Join a nighttime photography tour through historic districts

Guided photography tours reveal Paris’s most photogenic angles after dark, led by professional photographers who know the best lighting conditions and hidden viewpoints. These 3-4 hour walking tours typically cost €75-120 per person and cover iconic locations like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Pyramid, and Notre-Dame.

Tours accommodate all skill levels from smartphone users to advanced DSLR photographers. Guides provide technical tips for long exposures, light trails, and architectural photography. Meeting points usually start near major landmarks around 7 PM, allowing you to capture both golden hour and blue hour lighting.

Popular companies include Paris Photo Tours and Shoot My Travel. Small group tours (maximum 8 people) offer more personalized instruction, while some provide equipment loans including tripods and filters. Most tours end around 11 PM near convenient Metro stations.

You’ll learn to photograph the sparkling Eiffel Tower, capture the Louvre’s illuminated pyramid reflections, and master low-light techniques for street photography. The guides know exactly when and where to position you for the best shots.

I joined a Montmartre-focused tour last summer and learned techniques for capturing the neighborhood’s gas-lit streets and illuminated Sacré-Cœur that I still use today. It’s perfect for photography enthusiasts wanting to improve their skills while exploring Paris. Even beginners come away with professional-looking shots, and you’ll meet fellow photography lovers from around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Things to Do in Paris at Night:

Are you keen to expand your knowledge of the best things to do in Paris at night? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about the best nighttime activities in Paris.

How do you spend a night in Paris?

Spending a night in Paris can be a magical experience. Start with a leisurely dinner at a classic Parisian bistro – try the Marais or Latin Quarter for a mix of traditional and trendy spots. After dinner, a stroll along the Seine River is a must, especially when the city lights reflect beautifully on the water. If you’re up for more, catch a late-night show at a cabaret like the Moulin Rouge or enjoy a drink at a rooftop bar like Le Perchoir for stunning city views. Paris at night is about embracing the city’s romantic and vibrant atmosphere, so keep your plans flexible and soak in the ambiance.

Can you walk in Paris at night?

Absolutely! Walking in Paris at night is not only safe but also one of the best ways to experience the city’s charm. Neighborhoods like Montmartre and the Champs-Élysées are particularly lively and beautiful after dark. Just remember to stay in well-lit, populated areas and be aware of your surroundings, as you would in any major city.

Is Paris good for a night out?

Paris is fantastic for a night out! The city offers a diverse nightlife scene, from cozy wine bars and jazz clubs to bustling nightclubs. For a unique experience, try a Seine River cruise at night or visit a historic jazz club in the Latin Quarter. No matter your taste, Paris at night has something to offer everyone.

What time do bars shut in Paris?

Most bars in Paris close around 2 AM, but some can stay open as late as 5 AM, especially in lively areas like Bastille or Oberkampf. It’s always a good idea to check the closing times of specific bars you plan to visit, as they can vary.

What time does the Eiffel Tower light up?

The Eiffel Tower lights up every evening from sunset to 1 AM. Additionally, there’s a sparkling light show for five minutes every hour on the hour after sunset. It’s a spectacular sight and a must-see when in Paris.

Is the Paris metro free at night?

The Paris metro is not free at night. You’ll need a valid ticket or pass to travel. However, the service runs until around 1:15 AM on weekdays and around 2:15 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. This makes it a convenient way to get around the city at night. Remember to check the last train times to avoid getting stranded.

Wrapping Up the Best Things to Do in Paris at Night

Paris at night is an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left. Each corner of the city offers its own unique French charm and adventure. For me, the highlight is always a late-night walk along the Seine River. There’s something about the way the lights dance on the water and the landmarks glow against the night sky that feels like pure magic. It’s a simple pleasure, but it captures the essence of Paris beautifully.

Whether you’re exploring the lively night markets, enjoying a show at the Palais Garnier, or capturing the city’s beauty on a photography tour, Paris at night is sure to enchant you. My advice? Let the city’s nighttime allure guide you, and you’ll find your own favorite memory to cherish.