Navigating Parisian Nightlife: Savoir Where To Go
Constantly named as one of the best cities for nightlife in the world, Paris certainly lives up to the reputation. A city where you can sip wine by candlelight at a quaint corner bistro or rave until sunrise at a mega-club, Paris has something for everyone. But before diving into the Parisian nightscape, let me lay out for you the key neighborhoods to explore, each with its unique flair and charm. From the ever-energetic Bastille with its smattering of trendy bars and nightclubs, to the chic and sleek Marais district, with a mix of cozy cocktail bars and vibrant LGBTQ+ spots. Let’s not forget the hip scene of the Canal Saint-Martin area and the racy Pigalle district, home to the iconic Moulin Rouge.
Trendiest Bars in the City: Pouring the Night Away
If you like your martini shaken, not stirred, Paris has that and more to offer when it comes to bars. Amid the numerous options, one place that stands out is the Experimental Cocktail Club in the 2nd district. Here, innovative and stunningly presented drinks are the norm, each telling a story of its own. Ever wondered how it would be to drink in an old Chinese restaurant transformed into a retro haven? Well, Andy Wahloo gives you exactly that. The Moroccan inspired décor paired with its 70's kitsch creates an ambiance incomparable to any other. Now if you’re after the most Parisian experience, imagine yourself in a movie set at Harry’s New York Bar. It's here that classics such as the Bloody Mary and Side Car were invented. It's almost like sipping from a glass of history.
Clubbing under the City Lights: Dancing to the Beat of Paris
Nightlife in Paris is one great big moving feast, and if clubbing is your ideal side dish, you're in for a treat. Start your night at the Rex Club, one of the city's oldest and most loved nightclubs. It isn’t just a club, think of it as the Holy Grail of electronic music in Paris. Trust me, the sheer variety of music you’ll hear will have you dancing on air. Moving on to La Machine du Moulin Rouge, an eclectic club known not only for its music but also its energetic crowd. The site is an old three-floor cabaret and I recall getting lost in its labyrinth of rooms, each pulsating with its own rhythm. If you like your clubs with a sprinkle of glamour, Silencio club is a must-visit. Conceived by legendary filmmaker David Lynch, the club echoes the literary tradition of Paris. Before midnight the spectacular baroque golden hall hosts arts events, but after midnight, the place comes alive with music until the early hours.
Exploring Parisian Cabaret Shows: The Glamorous Stage of Night
Often overlooked in favor of bars and clubs, cabaret is a form of entertainment that is intrinsically Parisian. Leading the pack is Moulin Rouge, famous worldwide for its French cancan and immortalized by the painter Toulouse-Lautrec. I still remember when I first saw the glitz, glamour, and high-kicking choreography. I was so engrossed I almost forgot to eat the gourmet dinner that was provided! Another spectacle is the Lido de Paris, situated along the Champs-Élysées. The 70 dancers, known as the Bluebell girls, ensure a visual treat for their audience. A glamorous cruise on a glass-topped boat along the Seine? Crazy Horse offers exactly this, with its unique show that combines seductive cabaret with high-fashion aesthetics and theatrical effects. Definitely a must-watch!
Hot Nightlife Tips: Don’t Forget the Corkscrew!
As you navigate the Parisian nightlife, don't be surprised to see locals carrying around a bottle of wine - drinking on the street, or more commonly by the Seine, is a typical Parisian nightlife activity. Don't forget to chat with the locals - Parisians know how to party, and they're also incredibly friendly. They’ll point you to the hidden gems tucked away in the narrow lanes of Paris, spots that even Google Maps couldn’t possibly discover. Lastly, do your homework and plan ahead. Many clubs have themed nights, so you don't want to show up for a techno night if you're expecting jazz! And remember, in Paris, the party really gets started after midnight, so don’t burn yourself out too early!
Whether your preference is sipping a fine wine, dancing the night away, or watching wide-eyed at a cabaret show, Paris sets the stage for an unforgettable evening. As for me, soaking in the Parisian nightlife is akin to walking through an endlessly enticing labyrinth: the city comes alive in a different way, and each corner turned is an invitation to discover something new and magical. So, next time you're in Paris, paint the town red, or should I say, paint the town ‘Parisian Night Blue’. Bonne nuit, mes amis!
