The top 5 must-visit cabarets in Paris

Cabaret visit on your mind on your next Parisian holiday and wondering which one to choose from? We’ve made it easy for you! We bring you 5 of the very best cabarets that are sure to add a bit of panache to your soiree a la parisienne!

Le Lido

Located along the Avenue of Champs Élysées, one of the most prestigious addresses of the capital, the modern and sophisticated exteriors of this cabaret in Paris, exalts the Parisian art de vivre. As you step in, you will be awestruck by the gigantic chandelier that envelops the foyer, meticulously decorated gold-clad rooms and water/light effects used during the show. The current show “Paris Merveilles” is a tribute to the city of the lights featuring talented artists (Bluebell girls, Ice Skaters, Acrobats, Lido Boys) singing and dancing against the backdrop of many prominent locations of Paris.

Fun fact: Did you know that Lido is considered as one of the world’s biggest consumers of champagne? For every spectacle, 800 bottles of champagne are uncorked, which makes about 292,000 bottles per year.

Moulin Rouge

The red windmill with its rotating blades, at the foot of the Montmartre hill, is the most emblematic and recognizable cabaret in Paris. The stark contrast of the red façade in the sombre neighbourhood was the backdrop for the blockbuster movie Moulin Rouge (by Bazz Lurhmann) and several paintings by notable artists. The performances (featuring the reputed French Cancan), the décor (inspired by the circus) and the costumes embody the decadence and the glamour of the Belle Époque era. The cabaret shows here run late at night with a dinner option before the spectacle or few treats (gifts, macarons, premium seats etc.).

Fun Fact: Out of respect for tradition and the success of the revue Frou-Frou (1963–1965), all the shows at Moulin Rouge Paris start with the letter F, like the current one “Féerie”.

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Paradis Latin

This iconic cabaret in Paris, opened in 1803, was built by First Consul Napoleon Bonaparte, making it one of the oldest cabaret in Paris. Within walking distance from Notre-Dame and the Pantheon, this building, listed as a historical heritage site, gives viewers the impression of walking into a metallic cathedral thanks to its wide arches, colossal beams and impressive painted dome. The current show- L’Oiseau Paradis combines dancing, singing and comedy to appeal to an audience with different interests. Thanks to the considerable heights of the main room, the artists here can perform many creative scenes- the aquarium, the hypnotic army and Pegasus flying from the sky.

Fun Fact: The site was destroyed by a fire in 1870 and was later rebuilt by Gustave Eiffel ( the architect behind Eiffel Tower), who rendered the overall décor with an art-deco appeal.

Le Crazy Horse

Unlike the other cabarets in Paris, this burlesque theatre is located at an understated area, wedged between the plush Avenue of Champs Élysées and the decadent Pont de L’Alma bridge. Neon lit red lips placed at the front of the building, helps guests to easily locate the cabaret. The overall structure is much smaller than the other cabarets with maximum 10 performers at a time and seating arrangement for only 250 guests, making the overall spectacle very intimate and powerful. The shows here are scandalous, audacious and intoxicating, but at the same are tastefully executed. The current show - Totally Crazy! - an ode to femininity, is bold, modern, glamourous without being garish or vulgar.

Fun Fact: You would be surprised to know that 12 wine cellars of an impressive Haussmannian building were demolished to make room for this crazy cabaret.

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La Nouvelles Eve

Located at the foot of the Montmartre Hills, this cabaret in Paris, known for its traditional set-up, has been making its guests relive the great cabaret era. When it opened in the late 19th century, it was considered to be one of the most happening places to be in Paris, as the first topless revue was invented here. The décor is sumptuous and subdued unlike the other cabarets in Paris, featuring star lit ceiling and Corinthian-style stage pediment. The current show- Paris Je t’aime is a tribute to the city of light, featuring a 10 minute French cancan performance and a special act dedicated to the highly-acclaimed singer Edith Piaf.

Fun Fact: This cabaret which combines the traits of a music hall and cabaret, was in fact converted to a cinema during the second world war.