A seasoned guide to choosing the best Cabaret experience in Paris

Paris - The city of romance, lights, and, of course, the cabaret! If you’re visiting Paris and haven’t planned a night at a cabaret, then, mon ami, you’re missing out on one of the most quintessential Parisian experiences. Cabaret in Paris is a dazzling mix of glamour, history, and art that has entertained locals and travelers alike for over a century. We’re not kidding!

If this is your first time here, you can imagine yourself stepping into a world where sequins shimmer, feathers fly, and the energy is electric. That’s the magic of Parisian cabaret. It’s where the can-can was born, where Edith Piaf’s voice echoed, and where you can lose yourself in a night of pure, unadulterated entertainment.

What’s a typical Cabaret experience like?

We’ll need you to picture this: you’re seated at a candlelit table, a glass of champagne in hand, the room buzzing with anticipation. The lights dim, the music swells, and suddenly, the stage comes alive with dancers, singers, and performers who transport you to another era. That’s what a typical cabaret experience in Paris is like—sensory overload in the best way possible!

Cabarets are all about spectacle. The costumes are opulent, the choreography is precise, and the atmosphere is one of excitement and elegance. At the heart of most cabaret shows is the French can-can, that high-energy dance known for its high kicks, splits, and ruffled skirts. This dance has become synonymous with Parisian cabaret, and no show would be complete without it.

But beyond the glitz and glamour, cabaret is about storytelling. Each performance weaves together music, dance, and drama to create a narrative that’s both entertaining and evocative.

Bel Canto

Bel Canto is a unique dining experience where opera singers double as waitstaff. Typically working in groups of four, the singers perform a different opera aria every 15 minutes. The first Bel Canto restaurant opened in Paris in 1999.
Crazy Horse

Since the early 1950s, Crazy Horse Paris has been the most avant-garde burlesque cabaret in Paris. Featuring seductive and sensual song and dance routines, the show is performed by a troupe of talented nude dancers. Sophisticated and tasteful, the performances celebrate femininity and creative expression!
Moulin Rouge

Feathers, rhinestones, sequins and a talented troupe of 60 Doriss Girl Dancers recruited from all over the world, the Moulin Rouge attracts over 600,000 spectators a year! Watch the French can-can come to live as you sip champagne in this legendary cabaret club.
Paradis Latin

Located in the city’s Latin Quarter, Paradis Latin has been entertaining guests since 1802. A favorite Parisian nightlife hotspot among locals, it’s said that Paradis Latin shows offer the most authentic cabaret experience. With spectacular performances combining dance, circus, and magic, indulge in an exquisite French dinner as you witness the glamour on stage.

Top Cabarets in Paris

Moulin Rouge: The Icon

Let’s start with the big one. The Moulin Rouge is as synonymous with Paris as the Eiffel Tower. Opened in 1889 (the same year as the Eiffel Tower, by the way—what a year for Paris!), the Moulin Rouge is the birthplace of the can-can and remains the most famous cabaret in the world.

Walking into the Moulin Rouge, you’ll be greeted by the iconic red windmill and a wave of nostalgia. Expect extravagant costumes dripping in rhinestones, feathers flying through the air, and dance numbers that will leave you breathless. The show, called "Féerie," is a whirlwind of scenes and performances, ranging from classic can-can dances to underwater acrobatics (yes, you read that right).
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Insider tips: Book your tickets well in advance—this show sells out fast. And if you want the full experience, opt for the dinner and show package. The food is as indulgent as the performances, with a menu crafted by world-renowned chefs.

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Crazy Horse: The Avant-Garde

If Moulin Rouge is the classic, Crazy Horse is the avant-garde cousin who’s always pushing the boundaries. This cabaret is known for its artistic performances, where light, shadow, and the human form come together to create something truly unique. The dancers at Crazy Horse are like living sculptures, their movements precise and their performances often bordering on the surreal.

Crazy Horse is all about seduction and sophistication. The shows are intimate, the venue is cozy, and the experience is a more modern take on cabaret. It’s perfect for those looking for something a little different, a little more daring.
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Insider tips: Crazy Horse often collaborates with fashion designers and celebrities, so you might catch a show featuring a guest star or a special theme. Keep an eye on their schedule for these unique performances.

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Paradis Latin: The Historic

Paradis Latin is where history and entertainment come together. Built in 1803 by none other than Napoleon Bonaparte, this venue is a testament to Paris’s rich cultural heritage. The shows here are a blend of tradition and innovation, with performances that pay homage to the cabaret’s storied past while embracing contemporary flair.

The atmosphere at Paradis Latin is warm and welcoming, with a focus on audience interaction. The performers often engage with the crowd, making you feel like you’re part of the show. It’s a more intimate experience, and you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the art of cabaret.
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Insider tips: Paradis Latin offers a "dinner and show" experience that includes a gourmet meal crafted by a Michelin-starred chef. It’s a culinary journey that pairs perfectly with the evening’s entertainment.

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Bel Canto: The Operatic

For a completely different take on cabaret, head to Bel Canto. This unique venue combines the art of cabaret with the beauty of opera. Here, your servers are also opera singers who will serenade you with arias from famous operas while you dine. It’s a more subdued, elegant experience, but no less magical.

Bel Canto is perfect for those who appreciate fine dining and the arts. The menu is refined, the wine list is extensive, and the performances are nothing short of breathtaking. It’s cabaret with a classical twist, and it’s an experience you won’t find anywhere else in Paris.

Insider tips: Make sure to request a table near the performers. The closer you are, the more immersive the experience.

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Lido2Paris: The Glamorous

For those who crave glitz, glamour, and grandeur, Lido2Paris is the place to be. Located on the Champs-Élysées, the Lido is known for its lavish productions that rival Broadway musicals. The shows here are big—think dazzling light displays, massive sets, and a troupe of dancers who make everything look effortless.

This newly designed space, created by Alexis Mabille and Philippe Pumain, offers a modern cabaret experience. Seated on comfortable velvet chairs, you can enjoy drinks while immersing yourself in performances.
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Insider tips: Arrive early for a pre-show glass of champagne in the Lido’s elegant lounge. It’s a great way to set the tone for the evening ahead.

Show Details

Show Name	Schedule	Show Duration	Price	Type of Show	District	Subway	Age Limit	Dress Code	Online Ticket
Moulin Rouge	7pm and 9pm	2 hrs	From €130	Traditional Cabaret	Montmartre / Pigalle	Blanche (M2)	6 years and above	Elegant, no shorts	Book ›
Crazy Horse	Sunday to Friday 8pm & 10:30pm Saturday 7pm & 11:45pm	1.5 hrs	From €172	Avant-Garde Cabaret	8th Arr.	Alma-Marceau (Line 9)	16 years and above	Smart casual	Book ›
Paradis Latin	Wednesday to Monday 9pm	1.5 hrs	From €50	Historic Cabaret	Latin Quarter	Cardinal Lemoine (Line 10)	6 years and above	Smart casual	Book ›
Bel Canto	Tuesday to Saturday 8pm	3.5 hrs	From €98	Operatic Cabaret	Marais	Pont Marie (Line 7)	2 years and above	Elegant	Book ›