Known more simply as the City of Light, Paris changes at twilight, and all of it lives up to its name. Darkness turns the French capital into an enchanted realm of tingly, brightly lighted monuments, pulsating nightlife, and a romantic atmosphere. So, this nocturnal tour of Paris reveals a face most tourists will never know, proving that venturing out at night is quintessentially Parisian.
The Eiffel Tower's Sparkling Light Show: A Must-See Spectacle
No mention of Paris at night could overlook the famous Eiffel Tower. As impressive as it is during the day, it's genuinely at night that La Dame de Far comes alive. Every night, on the hour, the tower bursts into a sparkling display of lights that makes it shine for five minutes.
Added in 2000 to celebrate the new millennium, this illumination has become one of Paris's most photographed and beloved night-time attractions. Head towards the Place de Trocadéro or along the Seine River for the best view. This sight is magic as the tower's golden lights reflect off the water.

There's something undeniably romantic about cruising along the Seine River at night, with all of Paris's lights twinkling around you. Several companies offer evening boat tours ranging from simple sightseeing cruises to more elaborate dinner experiences.
You'll cruise under beautifully lit bridges by illuminated landmarks, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower. Many cruises also offer commentary that gives you insight into what you see.
Why not have a dinner cruise for a memorable time? Savoring gourmet French cuisine while the City of Light glides by is indeed unforgettable.

 

Did you know some of Paris's most famous museums have extended working hours on days? For example, the Louvre, which hosts the Mona Lisa and many other masterpieces, only closes at 9:45 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Visiting the Louvre at night has its advantages. The crowds are generally much less heavy, so one can quickly get up close and personal with the art. Lighting is different: dramatic shadows fall across the works, setting details in high relief that would otherwise have been rather stark in the light of day. There's just something so right about wandering through the vast halls of this former palace after dark.
Other late-opening museums include the Centre Pompidou, which is open until 9 p.m. nightly, except Tuesdays, and the Musée d'Orsay, which is open until 9:45 p.m. on Thursdays. Check websites for specific opening hours, as these hours are subject to change.

Whatever your purpose for visiting, Paris offers everything from a classy evening out to simple nightlife. For a sophisticated evening, visit one of the city's rooftop bars. Le Perchoir in the Marais district offers views of the city skyline, while the Terrass Hotel in Montmartre provides the best possible views of the Eiffel Tower.
If you want to dance, there are plenty of clubs in Paris. The best clubs, like Rex Club or Concrete, have hosted famous DJs worldwide who party all night until daybreak. Alternatively, for alternative scenes, check out La Java or Le Batofar, a retired lighthouse boat moored on the Seine, now converted into a unique nightclub.
Keep in mind that Parisians generally go out late at night. Very few places will be busy before midnight, so try to stay at a pace and prepare for an all-nighter of fun.

However, the Parisian café culture is not close to the setting sun. Many historical cafés remain open deep into the night, allowing for the best view of people watching, lounging around, discussing philosophical ideas, or just soaking up the Parisian atmosphere.
Le Select in Montparnasse, a favorite haunt for artists and writers like Hemingway and Picasso, stays open 24/7. At any time of day, its terrace is the place to watch the world slide by. Another literary landmark, the Café de Flore in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, remains open until 1:30 a.m. Order a late-night café crème and reflect on the famous minds who have sat at these tables over the years.
For those with sweet tooths, Lindemans, near the Grands Boulevards, stays open until 2 a.m. for decadent desserts. After such a night, this place will be just right for an indulgence in chocolate fondue.

Montmartre, the hilltop district famous for its artistic past and the beautiful Sacré-Cœur Basilica, assumes a different character after dark. You may start the evening by climbing the steps of the basilica. The perspective taken in by the view, with Paris lying below, twinkling with thousands of lights, is fantastic.
Later, lose yourself in the winding streets and find your way to some of the best bars and cabarets the district offers. While the brilliant Moulin Rouge is taking in its share of tourists with its glamorous shows, more low-key places like La Fourmi or Le Refuge des Fondus are enjoyed by locals, who approach their wine in baby bottles.
For a very different scene, try Au Lapin Agile. This tiny cabaret has entertained visitors since 1860 and is still cheerfully old-fashioned with sing-alongs and poetry readings.

 

• The grand architecture of the Opéra Garnier.
• The modernistic glass pyramid of the Louvre.
• The golden dome that reflects off Les Invalids—one different facelift to Parisian architecture.

No problem for the hungry night owls in Paris. Even though many restaurants close quite early by international standards, there are ample options for dining well after dark.
Since 1947, Au Pied de Cochon in Les Halles has served French food 24 hours daily. Their French onion soup is perfect for a midnight snack. In the Marais, L'As du Fallafel serves its famous falafel sandwiches until midnight (2 a.m. on weekends).
For classier grub later in the night, swing by Le Tambour in the 2nd, which stays open till 3:30 am. Its heartier classics of French cuisine are exactly what you'll need to cap off a long night exploring.
Of course, there is the classic French crepe. Many stands around tourist areas selling crepes stay open late to provide visitors and locals with quick, delicious on-the-go snacks or treats.

• Pont Alexandre III: This is another ornate bridge that is nicely lit and offers wonderful views of the Eiffel Tower.
• Palais Garnier: An opera house whose facade creates dramatic shadows when lit at night.
• Place de la Concorde: This location offers excellent views of fountains with the iconic Luxor Obelisk at the front, which is great for night shots.
• Rue Crémieux: This colorized rue in the 12th arrondissement takes on a magical dimension under streetlights.

Always bring along a tripod for the best results, and be respectful to the residents when getting shots of residential areas.

While Paris is generally safe, taking care of it after dark is always sensible. Stay in well-lit and busy areas, keep an eye out, and don't wander about flashing your valuables. The metro runs until around 12:30 a.m. (1:30 a.m. from Fridays to Saturdays), but night buses, or Octillion, come into play afterward. Taxis and ride-sharing are easily accessible. If you are staying late, consider choosing accommodation in a lively area with good night transport links.
Paris after dark is a world all its own, one of romance, culture, and fun. Sparkling lights from the Eiffel Tower and a warm atmosphere in a late-night café make the City of Light genuinely see the magic happen when the sun sets. It's here for everyone, from art enthusiasts to foodies, shutterbugs, or those passionate about Parisian nightlife.
So next time you're in Paris, don't rush back to your hotel as it gets dark. Just step out and into this fairy-tale land of Paris by night. You will find that the city's after-dark charms become those with which you have been gifted for some of the most cherished memories of your Parisian adventure.