Paris by Night: exploring from jazz clubs to cabarets

There’s so much to do and see in Paris during the day, but the city also really comes to life at night.

There are so many options for different experiences here, and for tourists, it can sometimes be a little bit daunting to try to find the best nightlife in Paris that fits your taste.

This is a guide that gives you a few options, from jazz clubs, to cabaret shows, to techno venues - whatever your taste, hopefully, this guide helps!

You might be stuck with luggage, though, if you’re going out on the town after just arriving in the city (or going to the airport straight from the club… don’t worry, we’ve been there!), and so you’re thinking “where’s some hourly luggage storage near me”? Well, Nannybag is a service that can help with that. Anyway, on to the list…

Moulin Rouge

The Moulin Rouge is the most famous cabaret venue in the world. Yes, it may be a little touristy, but it is one of those “bucket-list” venues for nightlife in Paris for tourists. It first opened its doors in 1889 and quickly became a symbol of the city's nightlife and entertainment culture.

Visitors worldwide come to the Moulin Rouge to witness the iconic cancan dance performed by a talented troupe of dancers in elaborate costumes. The cabaret's stunning Belle Époque interior, with its vibrant red decor and sparkling chandeliers, creates an atmosphere of extravagance and glamour. Guests can enjoy a delicious meal and drinks while watching the show, which features a variety of other acts, including singers, acrobats, and magicians.

Gare Jazz

The Gare Jazz is a wonderful, Bohemian hidden gem and one of the best jazz bars in Paris. Located in an old abandoned railway station in the 19th arrondissement, entry is free to this dimly lit, super cool location.

You’ll usually hear jazz music, but live music of all genres can be enjoyed here, surrounded by graffiti-covered walls. At midnight, the upstairs jazz bar finishes up, and in the dark, murky downstairs, a nightclub called “Le Gore” opens up, where you can enjoy techno, house, and other electronic dance music with a young, bohemian crowd.

Rex Club

If you’re a fan of techno music, Rex Club is a must-visit and one of the most famous Paris nightclubs and electronic music venues. It was founded in 1973 and has evolved from being a disco and rock club in the 70s and 80s to one that focused almost exclusively on techno and electronic music in general.

Located in the 2nd arrondissement, this is a huge club with a capacity of over 800 people and boasts a revolutionary sound system. Some of the world’s biggest and most popular DJs play here, and it’s always busy and energetic.

YOYO- Palais de Tokyo

YOYO is a nightclub located in the Palais de Tokyo, in the glamorous 16th arrondissement. The Palais de Tokyo is a modern art museum well worth a visit, known for its cutting-edge exhibitions and avant-garde approach to art, as well as its peculiar layout and immersive installations.

If you spend the day here, you should hang around until YOYO opens - this is a cutting-edge venue hosting a vibrant, eclectic range of nighttime activities in a minimalist concrete space. You can catch everything from electronic music nights, film screenings, and sound and light exhibitions to fashion events and dance shows as you enjoy this famous Paris night club.

Lido de Paris

If you’re looking for an unforgettable, classic Parisian nightlife experience? Why not go to see a Cabaret show at the famous Lido de Paris on the Champs-Elysées? The venue has entertained audiences since 1946 with dazzling shows featuring talented dancers, singers, and acrobats.

The shows are known for their elaborate costumes, intricate dance moves, and stunning special effects, creating a truly immersive experience for the audience. Lido de Paris has a capacity of over 1000 people and is one of the largest cabaret venues in the world. You can also avail of a dinner and show package, where guests can enjoy a delicious meal consisting of classic French dishes and a selection of fine wines and champagne alongside the performance.

Djoon

France and Paris are at the forefront of house music around the world, and Djoon in the 13th arrondissement is one of the most respected and beloved house music venues in the whole city.

Since its opening in 2003, Djoon has attracted some of the best-known house DJs from around the world and has gained a reputation as a welcoming and inclusive space with a diverse crowd of music lovers from all walks of life. It’s housed in a really cool space, a converted former garage that houses around 500 people and features colorful decor. While house music is the main genre on offer, you can also catch some great soul, funk, and disco music here.

Le Bal Blomet

Le Bal Blomet holds the distinction of being the oldest jazz club in Paris - indeed, the oldest jazz club in Europe - and dates all the way back to 1924. You will be transported back to the Roaring Twenties when you visit this venue! The old building had fallen into disrepair and was out of use, but renovations and restorations were finished in 2017.

Now, the interior is reminiscent of both New York Speakeasies and the French glamour of the 1920s, Tickets should be booked in advance on their website, but you can pick some up on the door if you’re lucky. There are drinks and food served both upstairs and downstairs. If you’re looking for a truly authentic Parisian jazz spot, this is the one for you! Another cool place to listen to some jazz is Le Caveau de la Huchette, in the 5th arrondissement.

Holy Holster Bar

If you’re looking for something different from glamorous cabaret shows, electronic music spots, or jazz recitals, check out this cheap, punky dive bar on the 11th. There’s always some rock or punk music playing, whether by a live band or even a recording of one of the owner’s bands (he’s in three, by the way).

Beers are very cheap, and this old-school punk bar has a lively, friendly atmosphere. If you’re a rock music head., and want something a little bit different (or just some good cheap beer), this hidden gem is definitely worth a visit!