If you want to take in a cabaret in Paris, there are several great ones to choose from. The key is to do a little bit of research first to see which one best fits your style and expectations. They’re all unique (thank goodness or things could get boring really fast).
“Cabaret” has come to mean a few different things, and there are subtle differences. Though, cabaret in Paris generally refers to a show with a delightful mix of concert, musical, theater, and dance. Sets and costumes are often fanciful and elaborate, full of sequins and feathers. The incredible choreography and lighting grant the sensation of entering another world of imagination and fantasy.
As a certified Paris Travel Expert℠ specializing in designing custom itineraries for independent travelers, I’m sharing with you the cabaret shows I recommend to my clients to help you identify the differences and find the one most appealing to you.
First, a little bit of history (I find knowing the cultural history always enriches experiences):
Disclosure: There are affiliate links below. I may receive compensation if you book through them (at no additional cost to you).
The History of Cabaret in Paris
The theatrical and musical performance of cabaret in Paris has traditionally been performed in intimate, semi-casual nightclub environments. The audience would sit at tables enjoying food and drink in an atmosphere that was, and still is, luxurious, laid back, and occasionally a bit bawdy.
Cabaret was a place where people of all occupations, ethnicities, and economic classes could come together and enjoy a night of entertainment and a respite from the harsh realities of the outside world.
Because of their artistic bent and (often quite sophisticated) cultural and even political commentary, early cabarets became an institution that attracted bohemians, painters, poets, and creative artists of all types. You would likely recognize the iconic Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec image of Le Chat Noir, the first famous cabaret in Paris in the late 1800s. It set the stage for what would become what we today associate with modern cabaret.
Ok, enough suspense – here are my top 6 recommendations for cabaret in Paris!
Paradis Latin
Keeping with the theme of history, this one is impressive. Paradis Latin, in the Latin Quarter, is the oldest cabaret in Paris. It was founded by Napoleon himself in 1803. If that wasn’t fascinating enough, after a fire in 1870 left it in ruins, it was designed and rebuilt in 1887 by Gustave Eiffel (yes, that Eiffel).
In Paradis Latin’s classic show, “L’Oiseau Paradis,” you’ll see the influence of the true high-end variety performance, with magicians, jugglers, and dance numbers that draw on everything from the traditional French can-can and ballet to acrobatics, contortionism, and futuristic routines.
Known for its star-power director, jaw-dropping sets, costumes, choreography, and lead performers (including Iris Mittenaere, the former Miss France and Miss Universe 2016) — this is truly a spectacular, color-saturated performance, filled with a kind of audacious joy.
You’ll love this if: You want to participate in a cultural event frequented by locals. You want a variety show with lots of artistry, where even the waitstaff is in on the performance.
Where to Buy Paradis Latin Tickets:
- GetYourGuide: Adult Ticket (with or without champagne), Youth Ticket (Under 25, no champagne), 3-Course Dinner & Show (with menu choice)
Terms: Free cancellation and refund up to 24 hours before the show. Prices are the same as booking direct. GetYourGuide does not offer the reduced-rate dinner ticket for children under 12.
Terms: No refunds except in the even of cancellation of a show. No exchanges or resales are permitted.
Crazy Horse
Just a short detour from the Champs-Élysées, you’ll find the Crazy Horse. Since its opening in 1951, it has been considered the most avant-garde and risqué cabaret in Paris.
The show is an homage to the female nude, and very few men perform at all. Dream-like sequences, elaborate sets, costumes, and fantastical lighting mark the Crazy Horse style. When the sets are being turned between burlesque numbers, magicians take the stage and dazzle the audiences.
You’ll love this if: You like Vegas-style glitz and provocative performances.
Cassie’s Tip: It’s important to remember that European notions of what’s risqué or scandalous differ from those of the U.S. Occasional toplessness is not uncommon at any of the major cabarets, and even the Crazy Horse allows children as young as 13 (accompanied by an adult) into the venue. If you’re squeamish about these things, be sure to do your research in advance.
Where to Buy Crazy Horse Tickets:
- GetYourGuide: Offer options include Show-Only, Show with Champagne, Show with Champagne plus 5 canapes, and Show + Backstage Tour with a Dancer (on select dates).
Terms: Free cancellation and refund up to 24 hours before the show. Prices are the same as booking direct. GetYourGuide does not offer the Dinner & Show Option (Dinner is available at an off-site restaurant, Ginger).
Terms: There are no refunds except in the event of a show cancellation. Exchanges can be requested up to 2 days before the show, subject to availability and modification fee. No resales are permitted.
La Nouvelle Eve
Located a stone’s throw from the famous Moulin Rouge in Montmartre, La Nouvelle Eve is one of the oldest revue theatres in Paris, featuring performances that celebrate its Parisian charm and history. The theatre boasts a uniquely luxurious “Belle Epoque” style, setting the stage for various engaging revues.
Its current show, “Paris je t’aime,” a delightful fusion of the city’s artistic heritage and exceptional choreography, captivates audiences with a spirited 12-minute can-can and a touching tribute to Edith Piaf. With its authentic ambiance and lavish sets, the show masterfully brings to life the timeless songs that resonate deeply with the Parisian working-class life and ideals (see how that tied back to the history of cabaret?).
Fun Fact for Emily in Paris fans: The interior of the (fictional) “La Trompette Bleue,” where Mindy performs in season 3, was filmed inside La Nouvelle Eve!
You’ll love this if: You love a historic Belle Epoque-style setting. It’s a must if you enjoy Edith Piaf and/or La Vie en Rose.
Related Post: Emily In Paris Filming Locations You Can Visit (Season 1)
Where to Buy La Nouvelle Eve Tickets:
- GetYourGuide: (Updated February 2024: La Nouvelle Eve is currently not available to book on GetYourGuide)
Terms: No refunds except in the event of cancellation of a show. No exchanges or resales are permitted.
Cabaret in Paris for Kids and Families (No Nudity!)
Paradis Latin also offers a family-friendly show, “Mon Premier Cabaret.” Performed three afternoons per week, the show is a delightful treat and fitting introduction to cabaret for families to enjoy together without worrying about any, um, awkward moments.
Designed to embody a playful allure while maintaining the charm of traditional cabaret, you can expect a mesmerizing spectacle with swirls and vibrant colors, fascinating dances, and lively humor.
You’ll love this if: You prefer to introduce your family to the joy, enchantment, and uniqueness of cabaret in Paris – without the topless dancers or risqué behaviors.
Where to Buy “Mon Premier Cabaret” Tickets:
Terms: Free cancellation and refund up to 24 hours before. Prices are the same as booking direct.
Terms: No refunds except in the event of cancellation of a show. No exchanges or resales are permitted.
Moulin Rouge
This one, it’s safe to say, you’ve heard of. Its resurgence in popularity is thanks, in part, to the internationally famous 2001 movie and subsequent Broadway Musical. But Le Moulin Rouge has long been known as one of the early thriving entertainment spots during France’s le Belle Epoque.
Luckily for us, this classic cabaret in Paris retains the same decadent extravagance that first put it on the map. The current show, “Féerie,” is a spectacular two-hour extravaganza. Anticipate feathers, sequins, and high-heeled dancers that will immerse you in a unique universe of music and dance. Dazzling, breathtaking scenes, and grandiose costumes is what Moulin Rouge does best.
Did you know that it was here that the can-can — the physically-demanding dance routine featuring high kicks and flouncy skirts that initially scandalized and titillated viewers — was first popularized? It’s still a highlighted feature of performances today.
You’ll love this if: You want to see the perfect French Can-can; you want a glitzy, famous, pull-out-all-the-stops extravaganza.
Where to Buy Moulin Rouge Tickets:
- GetYourGuide: Cabaret Show with Champagne, 3-Course Dinner, Champagne & Show
Terms: Non-refundable except in the event of cancellation of a show. GetYourGuide does not offer the Show-Only (no champagne) ticket.
Cassie’s Tip: GetYourGuide sometimes offers promo codes. If you have or can find out, you’ll save some money versus booking direct.
Terms: No refunds except in the event of cancellation of a show. No exchanges or resales are permitted.
Aux Trois Mailletz
Nestled in a 13th-Century gothic stone cellar across from Notre Dame, Aux Trois Mailletz has a kind of speakeasy mystique that is at once intimate and grand. Part restaurant, part piano bar, and part cabaret, this historic venue has been graced by jazz legends such as Louis Armstrong, Dizzy Gillespie, John Coltrane, Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, and Billie Holiday.
Aux Trois Mailletz takes a more traditional and down-to-earth approach to cabaret in Paris. You show up to the bar, pay a cover, and the performances begin around 10:30 or 11 pm (and don’t end until 6 am!).
Come expecting a cozy piano bar vibe and a showcase of up-and-coming musicians from all over the world – in addition to the cabaret acts. It’s not about glitz here. It’s about finding a particular style of warm, authentic locals-only hideout right in the heart of Paris.
You’ll love this if: You want to experience a more traditional, less razzle-dazzle cabaret. You like your venues mysterious, cozy, Gothic-inspired, and a little gritty.
Where to Buy Aux Trois Mailletz Tickets:
- Arrive by 10 pm and pay your cover at the door. Table reservations for pre-show drinks or dinner can be made on the Aux Trois Mailletz Website
Find the Cabaret in Paris That’s a Perfect Fit for You
Since Paris is the cradle of the cabaret as we know it today, it only makes sense that the City of Lights gets to play with the entertainment form it inspired. So whatever your fancy — whether you’re craving an all-out spectacular visual extravaganza, a slice of history, a taste of the exotic, an acrobatic jubilee, or a musical revue — there’s a cabaret in Paris just right for you.
Contact me if you are still debating and are also interested in a custom-designed Paris itinerary. I can help you identify which venue best suits your interests, plus take care of everything from your hotels, museum tickets, tours, dinner reservations, transportation, and more.
Cassie Tetro
Itinerary Designer
& Certified Travel Expert
(Paris, London & Rome)
WHO AM I?
I’m Cassie Tetro, an Itinerary Designer and Certified Travel Expert for Paris, London, and Rome — my three favorite cities!
I help independent travelers like you save time and eliminate confusion with customized point-to-point itineraries crafted to your interests, preferences, travel pace, and style.
I take care of every aspect of your trip before you walk out your front door — tickets, reservations, tours, maps, transportation — so you can relax, soak in the magic, and enjoy a frustration-free vacation with a travel plan that’s as unique as you are.
MORE FROM THE MONTAGE TRAVEL BLOG
First Trip to Europe: Top Cities to Visit
Paris Nightlife: Great Entertainment After Dark!
11 Best Hotels With A View Of The Eiffel Tower In Paris
What’s New in European Travel in 2020
Strategic Tips for Buying Eiffel Tower Tickets
A Guide to the Enchanting Loire Valley Chateaux
Why You Should Hire a Vacation Photographer in Paris
Paris in Winter: Fun, Festive and Worth Planning For