The Vibrant Side of Paris: Preparing for a Girls' Night Out
So, you and your besties have landed in Paris and are ready to paint the town red? Fantastic! I've been in Paris for a good number of years now, and there’s nothing quite like discovering the city’s night scene. But tapping into the city’s pulse after dark is a dance with diligence. It takes a perfect blend of old-world charm, hidden spots, and fashionable locales, and voila — you get a night to remember! Now, keep up as I spill the secrets on how to enjoy an amazing Parisian girls' night out.
Cocktail Paradise: The Best Bars in the City
The first place a girls' night out usually ends up is a bar. And before you ask, yes, there are plenty of them in Paris! Trending bars such as Little Red Door on Rue Charlot or Le Syndicat on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis are battle-tested spots where the cocktails never disappoint. Or, you can opt to venture into the cozier, lesser-known bars like Bar Hemingway or Castor Club. Each of these places have something unique to offer — from innovative cocktails to esteemed classics, served with an original Parisian twist. The blend of tastes and the ambiance will keep your buzz buzzing long past midnight. Remember, Parisians have a thing for drinking softly and sipping slow. So, I suggest you keep pace.
L'Atmosphère: Indulging in Paris' Classic Night Cafés
It’s not all about bars, Parisian nightlife is just as much about style and relaxation as it is about dancing and carousing. The legendary Café de Flore, or the less touristy Le Fumoir near the Louvre, are just a few places where you can soak in the Parisian vibe while sipping on sophisticated wines and spirits. From an outdoor terrace in summer to a cozy interior in winter, these cafés offer a rich experience of Paris' night-time atmosphere. They are perfect for catching a break, chit-chatting, and even celeb spotting. And I tell you, the thrill of possibly running into a French film star while savoring a glass of exquisite Bordeaux is indeed priceless.
Clubbing the Night Away: Dance Until Dawn
If an all-night dance-off with your girls is your thing, Paris plays a masterful host. Flashing lights, pulsating music, and unparalleled energy dominate the dance floors of clubs like Rex Club, Silencio, or Batofar. The DJ culture in these clubs is a thriving ecosystem of its own — from the seasoned techno gurus to the latest electronic enthusiasts, there's something for everyone. And let me spill a special secret here, the DJ sets in Amsterdam and Berlin may be famous, but Paris is the underdog whose prowess will leave you astounded.
When You're in the Mood for a Cabaret or Burlesque Show
What better place to immerse in a cabaret or burlesque show than in Paris, the birthplace of these titillating performances? If a vaudeville feather-and-sequin kind of night seems appealing, make a beeline for Moulin Rouge, Lido or Crazy Horse. Each of them is a scintillating blend of breathtaking choreography, elegant costumes, and entrancing music. And let me whisper another secret, between Crazy Horse’s glamorous aesthetics and Moulin Rouge's historic charm, there's a show to fulfill every fantasy. But, be prepared, tickets can sell out weeks in advance, so booking ahead is a must!
A Serenade by the Seine: Gently Flowing with the Night
For those looking for a less lively but equally memorable night, there’s nothing more magical than a serene evening by the Seine. After all, Paris is not just about liveliness and loud music. Imagine sitting by the river, under the soft glow of street lamps, as the city rhythmically hums around you. You could bring along a baguette, a bottle of your favorite French wine, and enjoy some pleasant girl talk with the Eiffel Tower twinkling in the backdrop. Some of my most treasured memories in Paris have been these simple, peaceful riverside nights.
Exclusive Retreat: Boutique Hotel Bars
If privacy and exclusivity are on the cards, then Paris' boutique hotel bars could be your haven. Nestled within some of the city's most opulent hotels, these bars exude an unmatched charm. Hotel Costes, located on rue Saint-Honoré, and The Hoxton Paris offering in its speakeasy Jacques' Bar, are just a couple of options where you can enjoy the evening in a classic, refined setting. The softly lit ambiance, vintage decor, and extraordinary cocktails truly afford an unforgettable Parisian experience.
Wrapping up the Parisian Night
In the end, the perfect girls' night out in Paris ultimately depends on you and your squad. Whether you prefer sipping champagne at a ritzy rooftop bar, dancing the night away in an electrifying club, or just quietly admiring the city lights by the Seine, Paris accommodates all. Remember, Paris is the city of light, but it truly sparkles after dark. As they say, "Paris is always a good idea" — and that's especially true when you're planning an unforgettable girls' night out!