Paris doesn’t sleep when the sun goes down
Forget the Eiffel Tower at night-Paris comes alive after 9 p.m. with hidden speakeasies, jazz-filled cellars, rooftop lounges, and buzzing boulevard bars. This isn’t just about drinking. It’s about the rhythm of the city: the clink of glasses in Montmartre, the bass thumping in Oberkampf, the quiet hum of conversation under string lights in Le Marais. If you want to feel the pulse of Paris after dark, here are the 10 spots you can’t miss.
1. Le Comptoir Général
Tucked away on the edge of the Canal Saint-Martin, Le Comptoir Général feels like stepping into a forgotten colonial attic filled with vintage maps, African masks, and mismatched armchairs. The vibe is eclectic, the cocktails are inventive (try the Spiced Rum Mule with hibiscus), and the music shifts from Afrobeat to French chanson depending on the night. It’s not a club. It’s not a bar. It’s a mood. Locals come here to unwind, not to be seen. No cover, no dress code, just good drinks and even better company.
2. Le Baron
Le Baron is where Parisian cool meets global celebrity. Located in the 8th arrondissement, this members-only club has hosted everyone from Rihanna to French ministers. The interior? A mix of 1970s velvet and modern art. The crowd? Stylish, confident, and rarely touristy. Entry isn’t guaranteed-you might need a recommendation or to be on the list. But if you get in, you’ll find one of the best sound systems in the city, DJs spinning everything from house to French electro, and a terrace that overlooks a quiet courtyard. It’s not cheap, but it’s worth it if you want to feel like you’re inside a Parisian fantasy.
3. La Belle Hortense
Down a narrow alley in the 10th, La Belle Hortense is the kind of place you stumble into and never want to leave. It’s a wine bar disguised as a jazz club. The walls are lined with vinyl records, the lighting is low, and the staff knows your name by the second drink. They serve natural wines by the glass-think orange wines from the Loire Valley and biodynamic reds from the Rhône. Live jazz plays every night, usually starting at 9:30 p.m. No reservations. Just show up, grab a stool, and let the music take over.
4. Clouds Rooftop Bar
Perched on the 18th floor of the Hôtel du Nord, Clouds offers one of the most breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower without the crowds. The bar is sleek, minimalist, and perfect for sunset cocktails. Their signature drink, the Parisian Sunset, combines gin, elderflower, and a hint of rosewater. It’s not the cheapest spot in town, but the view alone makes it worth it. Arrive before 8:30 p.m. if you want a window seat. By 10 p.m., it’s packed with couples, influencers, and expats who know the best views don’t come with a ticket line.
5. Le Perchoir
Le Perchoir isn’t one place-it’s three. There’s one in the 11th, another in the 18th, and a third on the roof of a former warehouse in the 19th. Each has its own personality, but they all share the same magic: open-air terraces, city-spanning views, and drinks that don’t cost a fortune. The 11th location is the most popular. Order a Champagne Spritz, sit on a beanbag, and watch the city lights flicker on. It’s casual, fun, and perfect for groups. The vibe is young, local, and relaxed. No pretense. Just good drinks and great company under the stars.
6. L’Avant Comptoir
Right next to the famous Marché des Enfants Rouges, L’Avant Comptoir is the go-to spot for foodies who want to eat and drink like a Parisian. It’s tiny, standing-room-only, and always packed. The menu? Charcuterie, cheese, and seasonal small plates. The drinks? Natural wines, craft beers, and classic cocktails made with precision. It’s not loud. It’s not flashy. But it’s where Parisians go after work to decompress. Come at 7 p.m. for the best chance at a spot. Stay for the third glass. You’ll leave with full cheeks and a full heart.
7. Le Bar à Vins
Located in the heart of Le Marais, Le Bar à Vins is a wine lover’s dream. The shelves are lined with over 300 bottles, most from small French producers you’ve never heard of. The staff will guide you through tasting flights-try the Pinot Noir from Alsace or the Chenin Blanc from the Loire. The space is cozy, with wooden tables and candlelight. No music. Just quiet conversation. It’s the kind of place you go to after a long day of sightseeing, when you want to slow down and taste something real. They close at 1 a.m., but you won’t want to leave.
8. The Pink Hotel
Don’t let the name fool you. The Pink Hotel isn’t a hotel-it’s a bar. And it’s one of the most fun places in Paris. Located in the 10th, it’s decorated in bright pink, neon signs, and disco balls. The cocktails are bold: think Strawberry Daiquiri with chili or Blue Lagoon with edible glitter. The music? Pop, disco, and French pop hits from the 90s. It’s loud, it’s glittery, it’s chaotic-and it’s exactly what you need if you want to dance like no one’s watching. Locals come here on weekends to let loose. Tourists? They leave with photos and a new favorite drink.
9. Le Chien de Soie
Hidden behind a nondescript door in the 2nd arrondissement, Le Chien de Soie is a jazz bar that feels like a secret. The name means “The Silk Dog,” and the vibe is just as smooth. Low lighting, leather booths, and a live trio playing standards every night. The drinks are classic-Old Fashioneds, Manhattans, Sazeracs-all made with care. The crowd is older, quieter, and deeply knowledgeable about music. It’s not a place for loud nights. It’s for listening. For feeling. For remembering why jazz still matters. Come at 9 p.m. for the first set. Stay for the second.
10. Bobino
Bobino is a Paris institution. Open since 1905, this historic venue has hosted Edith Piaf, Serge Gainsbourg, and Johnny Hallyday. Today, it’s a mix of live music, cabaret, and comedy. The shows start at 9 p.m., and the crowd is a blend of locals and tourists who appreciate culture over chaos. The acoustics are perfect, the seats are comfortable, and the wine list is surprisingly good. It’s not a club. It’s not a bar. It’s a cultural experience. Book ahead if you want to see a show. But even if you just stop by for a drink at the bar, you’re still part of Parisian history.
What to know before you go
Paris nightlife doesn’t run on American hours. Bars don’t open until 8 p.m. Most clubs don’t get busy until after midnight. And many places don’t take cards-carry cash. Also, dress smart-casual. No flip-flops, no sportswear. Even in Le Perchoir, you’ll stand out if you show up in sweatpants.
Weekends are packed. If you want to avoid lines, go on a Tuesday or Wednesday. And don’t expect to find American-style clubs. Paris doesn’t do 2-hour DJ sets or bottle service. It does atmosphere, intimacy, and long nights.
Best time to visit
April through October is peak season. The weather is warm, terraces are open, and the energy is high. But winter has its charm. December and January bring cozy candlelit bars, mulled wine, and fewer crowds. If you visit in late December, you’ll catch the quiet magic of Paris after the holiday rush-when the locals finally get to enjoy their city again.
Where to go next
If you love these spots, try exploring the 13th arrondissement for underground electronic parties, or head to Saint-Germain-des-Prés for literary cafes that turn into wine bars after dark. Or take a late-night walk along the Seine-you never know who you’ll meet or what hidden door you’ll find.
Is Paris nightlife safe at night?
Yes, Paris is generally safe at night, especially in popular nightlife areas like Le Marais, Oberkampf, and Saint-Germain. Stick to well-lit streets, avoid isolated alleys after midnight, and keep an eye on your belongings. Pickpocketing can happen in crowded bars, so use a crossbody bag and keep your phone secure. Most venues have security, and police patrols are common near major clubs.
Do I need to make reservations for Paris nightlife spots?
It depends. Places like Le Baron, Bobino, and Clouds Rooftop Bar require reservations or are members-only. For spots like La Belle Hortense, L’Avant Comptoir, or Le Comptoir Général, you can usually walk in-especially on weekdays. On weekends, expect to wait 20-40 minutes at popular bars. If you’re traveling with a group, it’s smart to call ahead.
What’s the average cost for a drink in Paris nightlife spots?
A cocktail at a standard bar costs €12-€16. At rooftop or upscale venues like Le Baron or Clouds, expect €18-€24. Wine by the glass runs €8-€14, depending on the quality. Beer is €6-€9. Most places don’t have happy hours, but some wine bars like Le Bar à Vins offer tastings for €10-€15 that let you try three wines.
Are there any age restrictions for nightlife in Paris?
The legal drinking age in France is 18. Most bars and clubs enforce this strictly-ID is often checked, even for people who look older. Some venues, like Le Baron, have a 21+ policy for international visitors. Clubs usually stop admitting guests after 2 a.m., and many close by 3 a.m. or 4 a.m. on weekends.
Can I find English-speaking staff in Paris nightlife venues?
In tourist-heavy areas like Le Marais, Montmartre, and near the Champs-Élysées, most bartenders speak basic to fluent English. In more local spots like La Belle Hortense or Le Chien de Soie, staff may speak limited English-but they’ll still help you with drinks, music, or recommendations. A few phrases in French go a long way. Try "Un verre de vin rouge, s’il vous plaît"-it’s always appreciated.
What’s the best way to get around Paris at night?
The metro runs until about 1:15 a.m. on weekdays and 2:15 a.m. on weekends. Night buses (Noctilien) operate after that, covering most of the city. Taxis and Uber are widely available, but surge pricing kicks in after midnight. Walking is safe in central areas if you stay on main streets. Avoid taking shortcuts through parks or empty alleys after dark. Always check your route before heading out.
Final tip: Don’t rush it
Paris nightlife isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about lingering. Sipping slowly. Letting the music wash over you. Talking to strangers who become friends. The best nights aren’t the ones with the most clubs-they’re the ones where you lose track of time because the conversation was too good to end.