Things to Do in Paris: Cabarets and Burlesque Shows for an Unforgettable Night

Ever thought about swapping your regular Paris night out for something bold and unforgettable? Paris cabarets and burlesque shows aren't just for tourists—they're packed with locals, laughter, and eye-popping performances you won’t see anywhere else. This scene is alive, slightly naughty, and buzzing every night of the week.

Whether you’re drawn by the glitz of the Moulin Rouge or you want to check out a new-wave burlesque bar in Pigalle, there’s a show for all tastes and budgets. Cabarets serve up classic French glam with feathers and sequins, while burlesque acts mix comedy, dance, and some good old-fashioned Paris cheekiness.

Tickets can sell out fast, especially for the big names or special weekend shows. If you want the best seats or dinner packages, booking ahead online is usually your safest bet. If you’re more of a last-minute adventurer, smaller venues in Montmartre often have a few seats at the door—but don’t bank on it if you’re with a group.

Bring your sense of humor and go with the flow: audience participation happens more than you might expect. Dress codes aren’t super strict, but a smart-casual outfit (think shirt and jeans for guys, a nice dress or top for ladies) blends in well—leave the flip-flops at the hotel.

• Key Takeaways
• Quick Guide to Paris Cabaret & Burlesque
• What Makes Paris Cabaret and Burlesque Unique?
• Where to Find the Best Cabarets and Burlesque Shows
• Insider Tips: Booking, Prices, and What to Expect
• Safety and Etiquette for an Epic Night Out

Key Takeaways

Ready to squeeze the most out of your Paris nights? Here are the main things you need to know about cabarets and burlesque shows in the city. These spots aren’t just showy; they’re woven into the local culture, and you can feel the buzz as soon as you walk in. Here’s what stands out:

• Paris is home to world-famous cabarets like Moulin Rouge, Lido2Paris (reopened as Lido2 in late 2024), and Crazy Horse. These venues run daily or almost daily, with around 500,000 visitors flocking to the big names each year.
• Modern burlesque bars, mostly clustered in Pigalle and Montmartre, offer edgier, more intimate acts. Shows range from retro-glam to full-on comedy sketch, with smaller crowds but tons of personality.
• Tickets usually start at €45 for basic entry at classic cabarets and can jump to over €200 for VIP seats with dinner. Underground burlesque shows average €25-€40.
• Most big venues have a casual-to-smart dress code. No need for a tux, but skip sportswear and beach wear.
• Popular cabaret shows often sell out, especially on weekends and holidays; booking 2-4 weeks ahead gives you the best shot at good seats.
• Photography isn’t allowed during performances—keep your phone tucked away and soak in the atmosphere with your own eyes.

If you want the classic feathers-and-glam, go for one of the historic venues. Craving an alternative, up-close experience? Follow the locals to one of Pigalle’s burlesque bars for a fresh twist on Paris nightlife.

Quick Guide to Paris Cabaret & Burlesque

If you want to experience Paris nightlife that's different from your average bar or club, cabarets and burlesque shows are your ticket in. Paris is the birthplace of cabaret—think smoky rooms, feathered costumes, and bold performances that mix song, dance, and comedy. The most famous spot is the Moulin Rouge, which has been entertaining crowds since 1889. But there’s more to the scene than just the big names.

Classic venues like Lido de Paris and Crazy Horse are known for their high-energy dance numbers, incredible light shows, and dazzling costumes. For something more intimate (and on the edgy side), smaller bars and underground theaters in Pigalle or Le Marais put on burlesque acts that blend sass, humor, and a bit of old-school French attitude. You’re as likely to catch a tongue-in-cheek performance as you are a jaw-dropping dance routine.

• Moulin Rouge: World-famous, family-friendly, and wildly popular. Expect full-on production numbers and a crowd from everywhere.
• Crazy Horse: Modern, artistic, and a bit risqué. Focuses on choreography, body art, and clever lighting.
• Lido de Paris: Recently reopened, Lido offers glitzy dinner shows along the Champs-Élysées with classic French revue style.
• Nouvelle Eve: More laid-back, lots of jazz and swing, perfect for smaller groups or anyone trying cabaret for the first time.
• Secret Burlesque Bars: Check out La Folie Barbizon or Madame Arthur if you want that up-close, underground feel.

Most shows run night after night, usually kicking off around 9 or 10 p.m. Some include dinner, others just drinks and a show. If food’s included, expect around three courses—classic French and a bit pricey, but it’s all part of the vibe.

These shows fit all kinds of crowds, so don’t worry if you’re not a big cabaret expert. Paris cabarets are where locals and visitors both wind down and let loose. Whether you want old-school French glam or something wild and new, there’s a stage for you in this city.

What Makes Paris Cabaret and Burlesque Unique?

Paris didn’t just borrow the cabaret idea—it invented it. Back in the late 1800s, joints like Le Chat Noir started the whole trend, letting performers get wild and creative in ways regular theaters wouldn’t allow. The energy was rowdy but classy, with singers, comics, and dancers mixing it up. Over time, this turned into the Paris cabaret scene we know today, where every night still feels a bit rebellious.

The real magic? It’s not just the dancing or the outrageous costumes (though there’s plenty of that). Paris cabarets lean into the art of storytelling, tongue-in-cheek humor, and audience interaction. You might spot a cancan line kicking up at the Paris cabaret Moulin Rouge, while just a few blocks over, classic clubs like Le Lido or Crazy Horse put on shows that rival any Hollywood production for lights and choreography—but with a Parisian wink.

Burlesque here goes beyond striptease. It’s about teasing the crowd, breaking the fourth wall, and mixing in comedy. Performers come from all walks of life, often mixing old-school glamour with modern themes, gender-bending acts, or commentary on pop culture. This blend keeps the shows fresh and unpredictable night after night.

• Historic venues like Moulin Rouge, opened in 1889, have shaped the image of Paris nightlife around the world.
• Choreography in Paris cabarets is often a cross between classic ballet, jazz, and modern street styles.
• Burlesque performers in Paris pride themselves on individuality—each act is unique, and audience reactions matter.
• The venues themselves are experiences, from the velvet booths to mirrored walls and sparkling lights.

If you’re after something you can only get in Paris, this is it—a night that’s part old-school theatre, part party, and part pure French charm. There’s no better way to soak up the city’s wild, creative side in one go.

Where to Find the Best Cabarets and Burlesque Shows

Paris is packed with legendary cabarets and cool burlesque spots that have been entertaining crowds for decades. Some of these places are practically landmarks, while others have an underground vibe that only locals would know. If you want to soak up the classic glitz or dive into the wild side, it all depends on what kind of night you're in for.

Let’s break down the key venues:

• Moulin Rouge: You can’t talk about Paris cabaret without mentioning this all-time classic in Montmartre. It’s been going strong since 1889, famous for can-can dancers, feathers, and dreamy sets. Moulin Rouge hosts two shows nightly—be sure to book weeks in advance because it fills up fast.
• Crazy Horse: Not far from the Champs-Élysées, Crazy Horse is a bit naughtier and more modern. Choreography here is edgy and artistic, with lighting that turns dance into a full-on visual experience. Celebrities have been spotted in the audience, and the vibe is always electric.
• Le Lido: Located on Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Le Lido is all about jaw-dropping costumes and big stage numbers. It’s high-energy and fancy. Think dinner and a show, Vegas-style, but with that unmistakable French flair.
• La Nouvelle Eve: South of Montmartre, this is a historic, intimate venue that often gets overlooked. La Nouvelle Eve is great for visitors who want a cabaret without the huge crowds or sky-high prices. The acts are lively and the atmosphere feels relaxed.
• Le Secret Square: For a spicy twist, this spot combines cabaret, burlesque, and a “gastronomic” dinner. The crowd is mostly local, and the performers push creative boundaries. It’s the go-to place for something a little different.
• Le Cabaret Michou: Famous for drag and impersonation acts, Michou in Montmartre is pure fun. Performers channel legends like Edith Piaf or Dalida, and the crowd is always laughing. The space is small, so it feels more like a party than a theater show.
• La Java: This former ballroom in the 10th arrondissement has become a home for alternative burlesque and artsy shows. If you like the idea of cabaret with a punk-rock twist, check out their calendar for performances by up-and-coming and international artists.

To make it easier to compare, here’s a quick table with what you can expect at each spot:

Every neighborhood brings something different, so it’s worth checking travel times on Google Maps and grabbing tickets early, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. For sold-out shows, try waiting lists or ask your hotel to call for last-minute seats. And if you’re craving variety, smaller venues often feature guest performers from all over the world. There’s always a fresh act playing somewhere in Paris!

Insider Tips: Booking, Prices, and What to Expect

Let’s get practical—here’s how to lock down your spot and what you’ll pay for a night at a Paris cabaret or burlesque show. Booking online is honestly your best move, especially if you're aiming for Paris cabaret hotspots like Moulin Rouge or Crazy Horse. Their official websites and trusted booking platforms (like GetYourGuide or Tiqets) show real-time availability, and you can often pick your seat in advance. For more intimate or offbeat clubs, a quick message or call to the venue usually does the trick—and plenty of smaller places keep back a handful of tickets for walk-ins if you don’t mind a bit of a gamble.

Prices swing a lot. For world-famous venues, expect to pay anywhere from €95 to €230 per ticket for the standard show, with add-ons like dinner or champagne pushing things higher. More modern or low-key burlesque bars can start as low as €20-€40 a ticket, especially on weeknights or if you skip the food-and-drinks package.

Here’s what typical cabaret and burlesque show costs look like:

Most shows run for 1.5 to 2 hours, with a short break in the middle. Dinner packages mean you’ll arrive earlier (usually 7-7:30pm) and have a three-course meal before the lights dim and the acts start. Without dinner, aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime to grab a drink and settle in.

• Keep an eye out for deals—early week shows or last-minute tickets can save you money.
• Drinks can cost extra, even if you paid top price for your ticket. Be ready for champagne at €15-€25 per glass.
• Keen on front-row seats? Book at least 2-3 weeks ahead, especially during summer or December holidays.

The vibe is lively but friendly. People clap, laugh, and occasionally shout out encouragement to performers. There’s no need to stress—just soak up the show, snap a few photos if it’s allowed (big venues usually ban pictures), and enjoy the glitz. If you’re celebrating something special, a simple note during booking can sometimes land you a glass of bubbly or a shout-out during the show.

Safety and Etiquette for an Epic Night Out

Alright, you’re all set for a wild Paris night, but let’s make sure it’s an awesome time for everyone. When you step into a Paris cabaret or burlesque show, you’re part of the vibe—so a bit of respect and smart planning goes a long way.

• Watch your stuff: Big cabaret crowds can attract pickpockets, especially in busy areas like Pigalle and Montmartre. Keep your valuables secure, bring only what you need, and don’t just toss your bag under the table.
• Be cool with the staff and performers: A smile and a “bonjour” go further than you’d think. Snapping photos or recording is almost always off-limits, especially during performances. Venues like Crazy Horse and Moulin Rouge are strict about this—staff will ask you to stop or may even ask you to leave.
• Politeness counts: French crowds are pretty chill but expect you to respect the show. Don’t talk loudly during acts, and wait until the end for bathroom breaks unless it’s really urgent.
• Alcohol limits: You can order drinks at most cabarets but know your limits. Security is on-site at popular venues, and they won’t let you stay if you’re too rowdy. French law sets the legal drinking age at 18, and most cabarets will ask for ID if you look young.
• Dress the part: Most places don’t require you to show up in a tux, but ditch the shorts and sandals. Upscale cabarets like Lido and Moulin Rouge might turn away folks in overly casual clothes, especially on weekends.

For a quick rundown, here’s what you can count on at top cabarets:

Uber and taxis run late, but be street-smart if you go clubbing after. Stick to lit spots and avoid wandering off solo, especially after midnight when the crowds thin out. Paris is safe, but just like any big city, being aware keeps the fun rolling.

If you have food allergies or dietary needs, say something when booking dinner shows. Paris venues usually accommodate, but they need a heads-up. If you’re celebrating something big like a birthday or bachelor party, check the venue’s rules—some allow costumes and group games, others keep things chill and classy.

Last thing—give yourself time to get there. Paris traffic, especially in the evening, is unpredictable. Shooting for a 30-minute early arrival helps you settle in without stress.