PARIS BY NIGHT: THE CITY OF LIGHT AFTER DARK
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Introduction
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.
Romantic Seine River Cruises under the Stars
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.
Late-Night Museums: Exploring the Louvre after Hours
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.
Paris's Vibrant Nightlife: From Chic Bars to Underground Clubs
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.
Midnight in Paris: Iconic Cafés That Never Sleep
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 after Dark: Bohemian Nightlife and Panoramic Views
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.
Illuminated Landmarks: Notre-Dame, Arc de Triomphe, and More
- 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.
Gourmet Adventures: 24-Hour Eateries and Late-Night Bistros
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.
Night Photography: Capturing Paris's Most Photogenic Spots
- 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.
Safe and Sound: Tips for Navigating Paris at Night
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.
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