You’ve walked the Seine, climbed the Eiffel Tower, and eaten your weight in croissants. But when the sun goes down and you’re looking for something that’s not another quiet bistro or overpriced wine bar, there’s one thing that actually turns a good night in Paris into a great one: karaoke.
Forget the stereotype that Parisians only whisper in cafés. When the lights dim and the mic warms up, the city lets loose. From hidden basements in Montmartre to sleek rooftop lounges in the 11th arrondissement, Paris has a karaoke scene that’s wild, welcoming, and totally unexpected.
Why Karaoke in Paris Is a Game-Changer
Let’s be real-most tourists think Paris is all about romance and silence. But if you’ve ever tried to belt out "La Vie en Rose" with a group of strangers who suddenly become your best friends, you know karaoke doesn’t care about reputation. It’s raw, it’s joyful, and it breaks down language barriers faster than a croissant crumbles in coffee.
People come here to let go. A Japanese expat singing Adele. A French student belting out Beyoncé. An American tourist trying (and failing) to hit the high note in "Je t’aime... moi non plus." No one judges. Everyone cheers. That’s the magic.
Where to Find the Best Karaoke Bars in Paris
Not all karaoke spots in Paris are created equal. Some are dive bars with a dusty mic and a playlist from 2003. Others are full-on performance venues with stage lights, backup dancers, and drink specials that last until 3 a.m. Here’s where to go based on what you’re looking for.
- Chantier 22 (11th arrondissement) - The OG of Parisian karaoke. Basement vibe, sticky floors, and a playlist that goes from Edith Piaf to Drake. No reservations needed. Just show up, pick a song, and hope your voice holds up.
- Karaoke Box Paris (10th arrondissement) - Private rooms for groups. Perfect if you’re shy or want to scream "Bohemian Rhapsody" without an audience. Comes with snacks, LED lights, and a sound system that actually works.
- Le Comptoir Général (10th arrondissement) - Not strictly karaoke, but they have a weekly "Sing-Along Night" with live piano. Think French chansons, jazz standards, and crowd-sourced duets. It’s less about hitting notes and more about feeling the vibe.
- Barbès Karaoke (18th arrondissement) - A local favorite with a mix of African, Arabic, and French pop. The crowd here knows the lyrics to every hit from the last 30 years. Bring your A-game-or just laugh when you miss the chorus.
- Karaoke L’Étoile (15th arrondissement) - Upscale but not snobby. Think velvet booths, cocktail menus, and a DJ who actually knows how to mix. Great for groups celebrating birthdays or just wanting to feel like pop stars for an hour.
What to Expect When You Walk In
You don’t need to be a pro. You don’t even need to speak French. Most places have English song options, and the staff will help you find your track-even if you can’t spell it. Just say, "I want to sing the one with the big drums and the girl screaming ‘I will survive’" and they’ll nod like they’ve heard it a hundred times.
Expect a mix of locals and tourists. Some come to perform. Others come to watch. A few come just to drink and laugh at the chaos. That’s the beauty of it. You’re not here to be perfect. You’re here to be present.
Most bars offer drink specials during karaoke hours-usually 7 p.m. to midnight. A glass of wine or a beer costs around €6-€8. Some places have all-you-can-drink deals for €25-€35 for two hours. Worth it if you’re planning to sing three songs and then fall asleep on the metro.
How to Book and When to Go
For private rooms (like Karaoke Box Paris), you’ll want to book ahead. Weekends fill up fast, especially Friday and Saturday nights. Use their websites or call directly-most have English-speaking staff.
For walk-in spots like Chantier 22, aim for 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. That’s when the energy peaks and the crowd is still fresh. After 11 p.m., it gets rowdy. Before 7 p.m., it’s just a regular bar with a karaoke machine in the corner.
Pro tip: Check Instagram pages of these bars. Many post their weekly karaoke schedules. Some have themed nights-"80s Only," "French Hits," or "Disney Karaoke for Adults." Yes, that’s a thing. And yes, it’s glorious.
What to Wear (And What Not To)
You don’t need glitter or a sequin jacket. But if you’re going to sing "I Will Always Love You," you might as well own it. Comfortable shoes are a must-you’ll be dancing, swaying, or possibly falling off your chair.
Parisians dress to impress, even when they’re singing badly. So skip the sweatpants and flip-flops. Jeans and a nice top? Perfect. A little confidence goes further than any costume.
Karaoke vs. Nightclubs in Paris
Still debating between karaoke and a nightclub? Here’s how they stack up:
| Feature | Karaoke Bar | Nightclub |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (per person) | €15-€35 (includes drinks) | €20-€50 (cover + drinks) |
| Energy Level | Fun, chaotic, interactive | High-energy, dance-focused |
| Language Barrier | Low (songs are universal) | High (music is often in French or English only) |
| Best For | Groups, beginners, shy people | Social butterflies, dancers, party animals |
| End Time | 1 a.m. - 3 a.m. | 4 a.m. - 6 a.m. |
| Realistic Outcome | You laugh, you sing, you make friends | You dance, you get tired, you lose your phone |
Caraoke wins if you want connection. Nightclubs win if you want to disappear into the crowd. But if you want to remember your night in Paris-not just because you got drunk, but because you sang "Sweet Caroline" with a group of strangers who became your friends-karaoke is the answer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know French to enjoy karaoke in Paris?
Nope. Most karaoke bars have English song options, and the machines usually show lyrics on screen. Even if you don’t understand the words, the rhythm and emotion carry through. Plus, everyone claps when you finish-no matter how badly you sang.
Are karaoke bars in Paris safe for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Karaoke spots are some of the friendliest places in Paris for solo travelers. Locals love meeting tourists who are willing to sing. You’ll likely be asked to join a duet or get a free drink for being brave. Just keep your belongings close-like anywhere in a busy city.
Can I bring my own songs?
Most places use a digital library with over 10,000 tracks. You can search by artist, title, or language. Some bars let you upload songs via a QR code or app, but it’s rare. Stick to the classics-they’re there for a reason.
Is karaoke popular with locals, or just tourists?
It’s a mix, but locals are the backbone. Many French people grew up with karaoke machines at home during family parties. It’s not a novelty here-it’s a tradition. You’ll see couples, friends, and even retirees belting out songs like they’re on a stage at the Olympia.
What’s the best time of year to do karaoke in Paris?
Anytime works, but winter nights (November to February) are perfect. When it’s cold outside, people crave warmth, laughter, and shared moments. Karaoke bars are cozy, lit up, and full of life. Summer is great too, but many places close early or go on vacation.
Ready to Sing Your Heart Out?
Paris doesn’t just want you to see it. It wants you to feel it. And there’s no better way to feel it than by grabbing a mic, forgetting your worries, and letting your voice carry you through the night.
Next time you’re in Paris, skip the crowded tourist bars. Head to a karaoke spot instead. Sing badly. Sing loudly. Sing with strangers. You’ll leave with more than just a memory-you’ll leave with a story you’ll tell for years.
