7 Must-See Paris Cabarets That Will Make Your Night Unforgettable
Cabarets have always been a staple of Parisian culture. They come in very different styles: some are big, glamorous shows with flashy costumes and dancers, while others have more of a focus on live music, comedy, or theater. The atmosphere can be classic and fancy or a bit more laid-back and artsy. It really depends on what you’re in the mood for.
Here are seven iconic cabarets in Paris, each offering its own unforgettable experience.
1. Moulin Rouge (1889)
The Moulin Rouge, located in Montmartre, has been a symbol of Parisian nightlife since it opened in 1889. It’s most famous for being the birthplace of the French can-can. The current show, "Féerie," features 80 performers, including the stunning Doriss Girls, all dressed in sparkling costumes with feathers and sequins. The lively dance numbers and grand sets make it a magical experience. Immortalized by Toulouse-Lautrec and in the film by Baz Luhrmann, the Moulin Rouge captures the essence of Parisian cabaret.
2. Le Lido (1946)
Located on the Champs-Élysées, Le Lido has been dazzling audiences since 1946 with its glamorous and luxurious shows. Le Lido is a bit more modern than the Moulin Rouge. Its spectacular revue "Paris Merveilles" was created by Franco Dragone, the mastermind behind Cirque du Soleil. It features 70 talented performers, including dancers and acrobats, with impressive special effects and elaborate costumes. A chic and modern take on the Parisian cabaret.
3. Crazy Horse (1951)
Crazy Horse, just off the Champs-Élysées, is a bit different from other Paris cabarets. It’s famous for its more avant-garde style, with its shows performed exclusively by female dancers. The current show, "Totally Crazy," is a mesmerizing mix of light and shadows with perfectly choreographed silhouettes. It’s a more artistic and sensual experience compared to the Moulin Rouge or Le Lido, with guest appearances from stars like Dita Von Teese.
4. Paradis Latin (1803)
Located in the Latin Quarter, Paradis Latin is the oldest cabaret in Paris, dating back to 1803. It's appreciated for its traditional Parisian charm, and iits lively and colorful show "L'Oiseau Paradis" directed by famous choreographer Kamel Ouali. Paradis Latin keeps the classic elements like feathers, sequins, and the French can-can, but with a fresh and modern twist. It offers a more intimate experience than the larger Moulin Rouge, albeit with just as much energy and excitement.
5. Folies Bergère (1869)
Folies Bergère, opened in 1869, is one of the oldest and most famous cabarets in Paris. Located near the Grands Boulevards, it offers a big variety of shows with music, dance, and comedy. Unlike cabarets like Moulin Rouge that focus on dancing and flashy costumes, Folies Bergère is more about putting on a theatrical performance, often with famous guest stars. Legends like Josephine Baker and Charlie Chaplin have performed here, and the shows are still full of impressive acts and amazing costumes.
6. La Nouvelle Eve (1897)
La Nouvelle Eve, located near Montmartre, offers a more refined and intimate cabaret experience. What sets it apart from the bigger, flashier venues is its elegant, cozy atmosphere. The performances are beautifully choreographed, with dazzling costumes and traditional French charm, but on a smaller, more personal scale. It combines charm and tradition and is a delightful alternative to the grander, high-energy shows.
7. Au Lapin Agile (1860s)
Au Lapin Agile in Montmartre is nothing like the glittery shows at places like Moulin Rouge or Le Lido. Instead of flashy costumes and dance routines, this cabaret offers a simple, traditional experience focused on live music, poetry, and classic French songs. It’s more about capturing the spirit of old Paris, with a cozy, laid-back vibe that feels like stepping back in time. A quieter and more authentic Parisian experience away from the big showbiz productions.
