Looking for a truly unique and memorable experience while in Paris? Then be sure to check out one of the city’s traditional cabarets! These venues offer more than just the cancan – they are living pieces of history that provide a fascinating glimpse into Paris’s rich cultural past. Here are eight of the best traditional cabarets in Paris that are worth a visit!
Why Visit A Traditional Cabaret In Paris?
A traditional cabaret in Paris is the perfect place to go for an evening of music, dance, and good food. The most famous cabaret in the city is the Moulin Rouge, which was established in 1889. The Moulin Rouge is known for its lavish performances, featuring some of the best dancers in the world.
If you want to experience a more intimate setting, there are also many smaller cabarets located throughout the city. These establishments often feature live music and offer a more relaxed atmosphere. No matter what your taste, there is sure to be a cabaret in Paris that will suit your needs.
So why not give one of these unique venues a try the next time you are looking for a night out on the town? You are sure to have an unforgettable experience.
A Brief History Of The Parisian Cabaret Scene
For centuries, the cabaret has been a staple of Parisian nightlife. Originating in the 18th century, the first cabarets were informal coffeehouses where people gathered to socialize and exchange ideas.
As the city grew, so too did the number of cabarets, and by the early 1900s, they had become an essential part of Parisian culture. The most famous cabaret of all was the Moulin Rouge, which opened its doors in 1889. With its vibrant atmosphere and lavish stage shows, the Moulin Rouge quickly became a hotspot for both locals and tourists alike.
Today, the Parisian cabaret scene is as vibrant as ever, with new venues opening up all the time. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out or a chance to experience some of the city’s rich history, a visit to one of Paris’s many cabarets is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
The Top 8 Traditional Cabarets In Paris
When it comes to traditional cabarets, there is no city more famous than Paris. For centuries, these lively entertainment venues have been a staple of the French capital, offering visitors a chance to see some of the best performers in the world.
From the cancan dancers of the Moulin Rouge to the acrobats of the Lido, there is no shortage of talent on display. Here are eight of the best traditional cabarets in Paris:
1. Moulin Rouge
This renowned venue is perhaps the most iconic cabaret in Paris. Founded in 1889, it has been entertaining visitors for over 130 years. The Moulin Rouge is best known for its spectacular cancan dancers, who perform nightly to a packed house.
Address: 82 Bd de Clichy, 75018 Paris, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
2. Lido
The Lido is another world-famous cabaret, located on the Champs-Élysées. Founded in 1946, it has been one of Paris’s premier entertainment venues for over 70 years. The Lido is home to a team of talented acrobats and performers, who put on an unforgettable show each night.
Address: 116 Av. des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
3. Crazy Horse
The Crazy Horse is a relative newcomer to the Parisian cabaret scene, having only been founded in 1951. However, it has quickly established itself as one of the city’s most popular venues. The Crazy Horse is famed for its unique blend of glamorous dance and risqué humor, which has entertained audiences from all over the world.
Address: 82 Bd de Clichy, 75018 Paris, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
4. Folies Bergère
The Folies Bergère is one of the oldest cabarets in Paris, having first opened its doors in 1869. Located in the 9th arrondissement, it remains one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The Folies Bergère is famous for its ornate décor and glittering costumes, as well as its talented chorus line of dancers.
Address: 12 Av. George V, 75008 Paris, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
5. Bobinos
Bobinos is a smaller cabaret located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Founded in 1922, it has a more intimate setting than some of the other venues on this list. However, what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in charm. Bobino’s offers a variety of shows throughout the year, ranging from comedy to music Hall revues.
Address: 14-20 Rue de la Gaité, 75014 Paris, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
6. Bouffes du Nord
The Bouffes du Nord is another historic Cabaret located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Founded in 1876, it was originally designed as an opera house but now hosts a variety of theatrical performances. The Bouffes du Nord has welcomed some of the biggest names in theatre over the years, including Sarah Bernhardt and Édith Piaf.
Address: 37 bis Bd de la Chapelle, 75010 Paris, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
7. La Cigale
La Cigale is located in Pigalle and was founded in 1887. It started as a restaurant but soon became one of Paris’s most popular entertainment venues. La Cigale specializes in operetta and boulevard theatre, and its beautiful Art Nouveau décor makes it one of the most atmospheric places to watch a show.
Trysting spot for bohemian artists and writers such as Pablo Picasso, Maurice Ravel, and Oscar Wilde. were regulars at La Cigale during its early years. Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec even painted a famous poster for the venue, which depicted two clowns embracing under a streetlamp. Today, La Cigale continues to be one of Paris’s best-loved theatres.
While its programming has evolved, it still provides visitors with an authentic taste of bohemian Paris.
Address: 120 Blvd Marguerite de Rochechouart, 75018 Paris, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
8. Théatre du Rond – Point
Last but not least, we have Théatre du Rond – Point. This much-loved cabaret was founded by none other than Jacques Offenbach himself back in 1855. Located near Les Grands Boulevards, Théatre du Rond – Point remained open until 1914 when it was forced to close due to World War I.
However, Offenbach’s grandson Jean -Claude helped to revive the theatre after the war ended, and it finally reopened its doors once again in 1919. Although Théatre du Rond – Point doesn’t receive quite as much attention as some of Paris’s other theatres, it remains an important part of the city’s cultural heritage.
These are just eight of the many fantastic traditional cabarets that can be found in Paris. Whether you’re looking for good old-fashioned family entertainment or something a little more risqué, there’s sure to be a show that will suit your taste.
So why not take advantage of all that this vibrant city has to offer and catch a traditional cabaret performance next time you’re visiting? You won’t regret it!
Address: 2Bis Av. Franklin Delano Roosevelt, 75008 Paris, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Tips For Enjoying Your Experience At A Parisian
There’s nothing quite like a Parisian cabaret to add some spice to your evening. Whether you’re looking for a romantic night out or an opportunity to let loose and have some fun, these tips will help you make the most of your experience.
First, be sure to dress the part. Many cabarets have a dress code, so avoid jeans and sneakers. Instead, opt for something a little more elegant, like a cocktail dress or pantsuit.
Second, don’t be afraid to get up and dance. Cabarets are all about having fun, so ditch your inhibitions and hit the dance floor.
And lastly, don’t forget to enjoy the show! From the can-can to acrobatics, there’s plenty of entertainment to be had. So sit back, relax, and take it all in.
With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have a memorable night at the cabaret.
In conclusion
If you’re looking for a night out on the town, Paris has no shortage of traditional cabarets. From the Bouffes du Nord to the Théâtre du Rond-Point, these venues offer an eclectic mix of entertainment that is sure to please everyone. So be sure to put one (or more) of these iconic cabarets on your list next time you’re in Paris. You won’t regret it!
