If you consider the best cities to visit during the night, Las Vegas, Tokyo, or New York would be the first to pop up in your head. But don’t forget, Paris is referred to as “The City of Light” for a reason!

There are plenty of entertaining things to do in Paris at night. As in other major cities, it boasts excellent bars, interesting events, and night activities to have fun. Whether you’re traveling alone, with a friend, or in a group, you won’t struggle to find something to do.

I’ll admit it—most of the activities are food and drink-related, but that’s not a complaint when you’re in a nation famous for incredible food! I always try to visit cities at night because they just feel so different. Provided that you remain conscious and safe, walking around Paris under its twinkling lights is a magical and unforgettable experience.

Ready to dive into the top things to do in Paris at night? Let’s go!

1. Watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle from Champs de Mars

Champs de Mars is amongst the finest views to witness the Eiffel Tower, which means it’s also an ideal place to visit at night. Seeing the “Iron Lady” illuminate during her spectacular show is an out of this world experience!

This big park, situated in the seventh district, is right at the tower’s base. It provides broad, open vistas and is a favorite among tourists as well as locals. It’s filled with people lounging on picnic blankets, drinking rosé, and soaking in the views by day.

But the magic is really in the evening. Rather than leaving, people linger, sitting on benches or lying down on the grass, all waiting for the time when the Eiffel Tower starts to twinkle. It’s one of the most beautiful things to do in Paris in the evening!

Champs de Mars is also a stop you must make if you are keen on getting that picture-perfect photo with the illuminated tower as your backdrop. Wait until night and you will get a picture moment which will last your lifetime.

2. Wander through Montmartre at night

Montmartre is one of Paris’s most vibrant and artistic areas. But during the day, it is too crowded, which makes it difficult to really enjoy its charm.

That’s why one of the best things to do in Paris at night is to discover Montmartre after the tourists have departed. Strolling along its narrow streets in the still evening is an entirely different experience—serene, inspiring, and even a bit magical.

With no mad tourists, you can wander through and enjoy Montmartre for all its serene beauty. Old buildings with curved windows, climbing ivy over the walls, and the roadways of black stone are straight out of an art gallery. You may wish to hear a piece of music, hear your own footsteps walking, or take in the calm atmosphere – in either case, this night wander is unique.

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Paris at night, wandering through Montmartre should definitely be on your list!

3. Dance the night away at a Paris nightclub

If you’re looking for an exciting way to spend the night in Paris, heading to a nightclub is a great choice! Paris has a buzzing nightlife scene with clubs that play everything from techno and house music to hip-hop and pop. No matter your music taste, you’ll find a spot that fits your vibe.

One thing that might surprise you is how much American music gets played in Parisian clubs—locals know the lyrics and sing along just like in the U.S. The atmosphere is lively, with packed dance floors, long lines at the bar, and plenty of energy to keep the party going late into the night.

Even if you’re not a big dancer, the experience is still worth it. The energy, lights, and music make for an unforgettable night out. So, if you’re in the mood for a fun and memorable evening, add a nightclub visit to your list of things to do in Paris at night!

4. Enjoy stunning views of Paris from the top of Arc de Triomphe

Seeing Paris from above is one of the most magical experiences, and climbing the Arc de Triomphe at night offers a breathtaking view you won’t forget. Yes, it’s a touristy activity, but for good reason—the panoramic sight of the city lights stretching out in every direction is absolutely worth it.

To reach the top, you’ll need to climb 284 steps up a winding staircase. It might sound challenging, but it’s totally doable, and the reward at the top makes every step worth it. Once you reach the rooftop terrace, you’ll be treated to one of the best views of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower sparkling in the distance and the Champs-Élysées glowing below.

Since this is one of the most popular things to do in Paris at night, tickets sell out quickly. It’s best to plan ahead and book in advance (currently €13 per person). There’s also a small museum at the top with interesting exhibits about the history of the Arc de Triomphe, so take some time to explore before heading back down. If you want a picture-perfect moment in Paris, this is the place to be!

5. Visit the Catacombs for a spooky but fascinating night

This might not be for everyone, but if you’re looking for unique and eerie things to do in Paris at night, the Catacombs should be on your list. Beneath the city streets lies an underground maze filled with the remains of over six million people. It’s not just a creepy attraction—it’s a historical site managed by the Musée de Paris, offering insight into the city’s past.

Walking through the dimly lit tunnels, you’ll see neatly arranged skulls and bones, creating an unforgettable (and slightly chilling) experience. While the Catacombs are open to visitors, they close at 8:30 PM, so you won’t have to worry about walking home alone in the middle of the night with your imagination running wild.

Before you go, here are a few important things to keep in mind:

• You’ll need to climb 131 steps down and 112 steps back up—there’s no elevator, so only visit if you’re comfortable with that.
• The temperature inside is a cool 57°F (14°C) year-round, so bring a sweater, even in summer.
• It can get humid underground, so be prepared for that.
• Tickets must be purchased in advance, as the Catacombs often sell out.

If you’re in the mood for a different kind of Parisian adventure, exploring the Catacombs at night is an experience you won’t forget!

6. Experience a magical Seine night cruise

While a picnic along the Seine is romantic, a night cruise down the river beats that. This is one of the most magical things to do in Paris at night, which showcases breathtaking views of the city’s lit-up attractions, like the Eiffel Tower, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre.

For a stress-free experience, look no further than Seine River Cruises, which provides a range of options to cater to your price and taste. From a no-frills one-hour sightseeing cruise to a leisurely dinner cruise or high-end private transport, there’s something for everyone.

The cherry on top? You won’t break the bank! Certain tours begin at only €15, so it’s a budget-friendly yet unforgettable experience to have Paris at night. If you’re looking for a romantic night out or just want to see the city from another vantage point, a Seine night cruise is an absolute must-do!

7. Enjoy a late-night dinner in Paris

One of the best ways to experience Paris at night is by embracing the local dining culture—having a late dinner. Unlike in the U.S., where dinner often happens around 6 or 7 PM, Parisians take their time, with peak dining hours stretching well past 9 PM.

There’s something special about sitting at a cozy Parisian bistro, sipping wine, and letting the night unfold naturally. If you’re with friends, the experience is even better—conversations flow effortlessly, and before you know it, midnight sneaks up on you.

During my first visit to France, I stayed across from a lively restaurant and often wondered how people could stay out so late. But after finally joining in, I completely understood—it’s not just about eating, it’s about savoring the moment.

And the best part? It doesn’t have to be a fancy place! Some of the most memorable meals are in small, unassuming restaurants where the food is simple but incredible. So, if you’re looking for a true Parisian experience, embrace the late-night dinner culture and let time slip away.

It’s just a small fraction of the things you can enjoy at Paris at night. If you want to know more about Paris, you can explore our detailed Paris blog.