Paris is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world. It’s no wonder that so many people flock to it every year, and even more have it on their bucket list. However, if you are out to explore Paris at night, you are in for a magical experience. Paris transformed into an illuminated wonderland after sunset, and you understand quickly why Paris is also called the City of Lights.
So, if you’re looking for things to do in Paris at night to fully enjoy this shiny spectacle, look no further. Here’s for you a list of the 8 best things to do in Paris after dark.
Enjoy a Dinner Cruise
Taking a Cruise on the Seine is one of the most popular things to do in Paris. But did you know that you can also combine the magnificent Parisian night panorama with a gourmet dinner?
If you are in for a relaxing evening activity with spectacular views, the Seine dinner cruise is what you should put on your agenda. You’ll get to see the beautiful illuminated city as you enjoy a delicious gourmet meal. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a busy day sightseeing. Plus, it makes for a great special occasion or date night.
As you cruise down the river, you’ll be treated to a stunning panorama of Paris, including iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and Pont-Neuf. So sit back, relax and enjoy a laid-back evening in a pleasurable atmosphere.
Take a Sightseeing Tour by night
If you’re keen on a laid-back way to see Paris, why not try a sightseeing tour at night? You’ll be amazed at how different the city looks when it’s illuminated by all the lights, especially when guided by a local who knows the best spots. From surprising views of the sparkling Eiffel Tower to the impressive sights along the boulevards, there’s so much to see and enjoy.
There are several different options available for night tours, so you can choose the one that best suits your interests. The most common option is a bus tour, but if you’re looking for something more unique, you can also try a tour in a classic CV2 or a sidecar of a motorbike.
If you’re a foodie, you might even want to try a bustronome tour, where you enjoy a gourmet menu with fine wines while touring the city on a bus. Thanks to the panoramic windows, you’ll be sure to not miss anything of the beauty of Paris.
Climb up the Eiffel Tower
There’s no denying that the Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic sights in Paris. The beautiful metal lace structure it’s open until late at night, making it the perfect place to enjoy the illuminated Paris. The Eiffel Tower is a fantastic view point.
You can simply head to the 2nd floor for and enjoy the sight. But if you are in for a treat, head up to the summit. It goes without saying that the views are spectacular and on a good day, you can see more than 70 km far. The summit is only accessible by elevator, though, and it’s best to plan it in advance because spots are in high demand.
In case you didn’t know, there is a champagne Bar on the summit. It’s a great spot to enjoy a glass of bubbly while taking in the stunning views.
And if you time it right, you can be there for sunset and watch as Paris transforms from day to night.
Of course, one of the best things about being at the Eiffel Tower at night is seeing it sparkle. Every hour, on the hour, the tower is illuminated with twinkling lights for five minutes. It’s truly a spectacle you don’t want to miss.
Visit Montmartre
There are so many things to do in Montmartre! It’s a great place to spend a night out when in Paris. The hilltop neighborhood is home to many bars and restaurants, and there are some great views over Paris to be had. If you are not eager to enjoy a drink in one of the many sidewalk cafés, get a bottle of wine or some beers and sit on the steps of Sacre Cœur. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy the night panorama and the illuminated Paris that stretches out in front of you. You’ll even be able to see the Eiffel Tower from there.
Montmartre is also the red light and entertainment district, so if you’re looking for a little bit of excitement, you can attend a show at the most famous cabaret in Paris, the Moulin Rouge. Or head to one of the clubs, like the La Machine de Moulin Rouge or O’Sullivan’s.
Just be aware of pickpockets and scammers – they’re known to frequent this area. Montmartre is especially targeted by petition scammers and guys who try to tie a bracelet around your wrists. Don’t engage; it’s best if you simply ignore them.
Visit the Arc de Triomphe at night
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most popular sights in Paris, and it’s easy to see why. Located at the top of the Champs-Élysées, it offers a fantastic panorama over the rooftops of the city. You can even see the Eiffel Tower sparkle in the distance!
By night, the Arc de Triomphe is especially charming because of the 12 illuminated avenues that are radiating from the roundabout the Arc is sitting on. The monument is open until 10:30 pm, so you have plenty of time to enjoy the Paris night skyline.
Just don’t attempt to cross the roundabout on foot! There are pedestrian passages for your safety.
Have a drink in a Speakeasy bar
If you’re looking for a truly unique drinking experience, you can’t go wrong with a speakeasy bar in Paris. These hidden bars are known for their fantastic and inventive cocktails but also for their relaxed atmosphere. Plus, they are fun to explore.
Whether you’re looking for a fun place to chat with friends or simply enjoy a good drink, speakeasy bars are definitely worth checking out.
For example, the Lavomatic. It’s a hidden bar that you enter through a secret door behind a washing machine! Or l’Epicier, which is hidden away in a grocery store. To enter this bar, you need to know which pack of couscous to pull from the shelf for the door to open. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might even want to check out the Rehab bar in the cellar of a restaurant! Whichever one you choose, you’re sure to have a great time.
Enjoy your Dinner in a traditional Bouilllon
Are fancy gourmet dinners not your thing, and are you rather eager to try a truly authentic French dining experience? Then you’ll want to check out a bouillon.
Bouillons are traditional French restaurants that originated in the 19th and 20th centuries. They were typically frequented by factory workers and merchants who wanted a quick, good, and cheap meal.
When brasseries became popular, the Bouillons slowly disappeared from the Parisian culinary scene. However, a few survived until today, and you can still find a handful of these restaurants today.
Since a few years, their popularity is even rising again, and they are for many the go-to place for traditional and authentic French dishes. Bouillons don’t take reservations, and you have to expect to stand in line for a good bit, but it’s absolutely worth.
By the way, most of them are still in their original state, and you can not only eat great food, you can also marvel at their simply stunning Art Nouveau interior.
Enjoy Paris during a night stroll
If you run out of things to do, or you are not up to go straight to bed after your evening plans, go for a walk. There is actually no better time for a walk in Paris than at night. The city comes alive with a different energy after dark, and while some neighborhoods burst with life, you find others deserted.
The list of charming neighborhoods you could explore is endless, but if you are in for lively Parisian nightlife vibes, the Latin Quarter and the Marais are where you should be heading to. Both areas qualify as old town, and you find yourself strolling through quaint cobblestone streets lined with trendy bars, restaurants and hundreds of illuminated streetlamps.
If you are more in for a calm and quiet nighttime walk, you don’t need to leave the center, though. Just take a turn into a side street and leave the buzz behind you. Perfect for a romantic stroll through Paris without the crowds.
Safety Tip: The center of Paris is safe, and you can enjoy an evening walk even alone, but stay alert anyway. The crime rate in Paris is comparable with other European cities, but most of them are pickpockets, not physical assault. However, it’s best to stay somewhat sober when venturing out for a walk at night in Paris.
Are you up to exploring Paris at night now? I am sure you’ll have a fantastic time, and if the things to do in Paris at night listed in this article are not what you’re up for, you can always just head to the Seine River Banks. It’s one of the most popular hang out spot in summer for evening gatherings and apéro, and in winter for cozy romantic strolls. You simply never go wrong with an evening by the Seine.
Author Bio
Lena fell in love with Paris 16 years ago and is eager to show you her adopted home beyond the Eiffel Tower. On her website Salut from Paris she provides you with many valuable local Paris insider knowledge and essential Paris tips, but also hotel recommendations, itineraries, neighbourhood info and things to know and to avoid.
