Paris after dark isn’t just about candlelit dinners and quiet cafés. It’s a city that wakes up when the sun goes down-especially for women looking for a night full of laughter, music, and unforgettable moments. Forget the old idea that Parisian nightlife is only for couples or solo travelers. The truth? The city’s best nights out are happening in places built for girls’ nights: vibrant lounges, hidden speakeasies, live music dens, and dance floors where no one cares if you don’t know the steps-just that you’re having fun.
Le Baron: Where the Energy Never Drops
Le Baron in the 8th arrondissement isn’t just a club-it’s a scene. Open since 2004, it’s where models, artists, and tourists all end up dancing side by side. The vibe? Chic but not stiff. The dress code? Stylish but not strict. You won’t be turned away for wearing jeans if they’re clean and you’ve got confidence. The music shifts from indie pop to house to French electro, depending on who’s spinning. On weekends, the crowd is mostly women in their late 20s to 40s, often in groups. There’s no cover charge before 11 p.m., and the cocktail menu is inventive without being overpriced. Try the Parisian Mule-vodka, ginger, lime, and a splash of rosewater. It’s the drink everyone orders.
La Chambre aux Oiseaux: A Cozy Bar with Big Personality
If you want to talk, laugh, and feel like you’re in a friend’s living room-with better cocktails-this is your spot. Tucked away in the 11th arrondissement, La Chambre aux Oiseaux feels like stepping into a bookshop turned jazz lounge. Bookshelves line the walls, velvet couches hug the corners, and the lighting is soft enough to hide your third glass of wine. The bartenders know your name by the second round. Their signature drink, the Feuille de Thé (gin, green tea, lemon, honey), is a quiet favorite. No loud music, no strobe lights, no pressure to dance. Just good conversation, live acoustic sets on Thursdays, and a crowd that’s there to enjoy the moment, not to be seen.
Le Ciel: Rooftop Views and No Crowds
Want to sip champagne under the Eiffel Tower without the tourist crush? Head to Le Ciel on the 17th floor of the Hôtel du Collectionneur in the 16th. It’s quiet, elegant, and surprisingly affordable for the view. The terrace opens at 6 p.m., and by 8 p.m., you’ll find groups of women taking selfies with the tower glowing behind them. The cocktails are crafted with French spirits and seasonal fruits. The Champagne Meringue-champagne, elderflower, and a touch of vanilla foam-tastes like dessert in a glass. The staff remembers if you liked your drink last time. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to come back to on your next trip.
La Belle Équipe: The Neighborhood Bar That Feels Like Home
Located in the 10th, near Canal Saint-Martin, La Belle Équipe is the kind of bar locals love and tourists stumble into by accident. It’s not flashy. It’s not Instagrammable. But it’s the most welcoming place for a group of friends to order a round of pastis, share a charcuterie board, and talk about everything and nothing. The owner, Sophie, greets everyone like family. On Friday nights, they host live French chanson music-no cover, no reservation needed. The crowd is mostly women in their 30s and 40s, often with a bottle of natural wine and a plate of aged goat cheese. It’s the anti-club. And it’s perfect if you want to end the night feeling warm, not buzzed.
Le Perchoir: The Rooftop with a View and a Vibe
Le Perchoir has two locations-Marais and 17th arrondissement-but the Marais one is the go-to for girls’ nights. The rooftop wraps around the building, offering views of Paris rooftops, Notre-Dame in the distance, and the occasional pigeon flying by. The crowd is young, diverse, and relaxed. You’ll see women in heels next to those in sneakers, all sipping rosé spritzes or local craft beer. They play indie rock and French pop, not EDM. There’s no VIP section, no bouncer checking your bag, and no pressure to buy expensive bottles. The food menu is simple but good: truffle fries, duck tacos, and a cheese plate that’s worth sharing. Arrive before 9 p.m. to snag a seat on the terrace. After that, it’s standing room only-and still worth it.
La Cave des Abbesses: Wine, Whispers, and No Noise
Down a narrow alley in Montmartre, La Cave des Abbesses is a wine bar that feels like a secret. The walls are lined with bottles, the tables are wooden, and the lighting is dim. There’s no music-just quiet chatter and the clink of glasses. The staff helps you pick wines based on what you like: fruity, earthy, bold, or light. They’ll pour you a taste before you commit. The wine list is all French, mostly small producers you won’t find in supermarkets. Order a glass of Beaujolais-Villages or a crisp Sancerre, and pair it with their charcuterie board. It’s the ideal place for a slow, thoughtful night out. No dancing. No lines. Just good wine and great company.
When to Go and What to Wear
Parisian nightlife doesn’t start early. Most places don’t fill up until after 10 p.m. Weekends are busy, but weekdays-especially Thursday and Friday-are perfect for avoiding crowds. You don’t need to dress like you’re going to the opera. Smart casual works everywhere: a nice top, jeans or a dress, and closed-toe shoes (cobblestones are real). Avoid flip-flops and sportswear unless you’re at a casual outdoor spot. A light jacket is always a good idea-even in summer, the breeze off the Seine can be chilly after midnight.
How to Get Around Safely
Paris is safe for women at night, but like any big city, it pays to be smart. Stick to well-lit streets. Use the metro until 1:30 a.m. on weekends (Nuit Blanche lines run all night). If you’re out past that, Uber and Bolt are reliable and cheaper than taxis. Avoid walking alone through the 18th or 19th arrondissements late at night unless you know the area. Group up. Share your location. And if a bar feels off, leave. Your comfort matters more than staying for the last drink.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Girls’ Night
- Make a reservation at Le Ciel or Le Perchoir if you want a table-especially on weekends.
- Don’t order water at bars. It’s not free, and it’s overpriced. Ask for a carafe d’eau instead-it’s cheaper and comes in a glass pitcher.
- Try the apéritif culture: a small drink and snack before dinner. Many bars offer this from 6-8 p.m. for under €10.
- Bring cash. Some smaller bars, especially in Montmartre and the Marais, still prefer it.
- Ask for the carte des vins at wine bars. The staff will help you pick something you’ll love.
What to Do If You’re Not a Night Owl
Not everyone wants to dance until 3 a.m. That’s fine. Paris has plenty of late-night options that don’t require a high heel or a loud playlist. Try a 1 a.m. gelato at Gelateria dei Neri in the 6th. Or grab a warm croissant and espresso at La Maison d’Isabelle in the 11th-they’re open until 2 a.m. on weekends. Or just walk along the Seine. The city is beautiful at night, and the quiet moments often become the ones you remember most.
Is Paris safe for girls’ nights out?
Yes, Paris is generally safe for women at night, especially in popular nightlife areas like the Marais, Saint-Germain, and the 8th and 9th arrondissements. Stick to well-lit streets, avoid isolated alleys late at night, and use ride-sharing apps if you’re out past 1:30 a.m. Most bars and clubs have security, and locals are used to seeing groups of women out together.
What’s the best time to start a girls’ night in Paris?
Start around 8 p.m. with dinner or an apéritif, then head to a bar by 9:30-10 p.m. Most clubs and lounges don’t get busy until after 11 p.m. If you want to dance, aim to be at Le Baron or Le Perchoir by midnight. If you prefer quiet drinks, 8-10 p.m. is perfect for La Chambre aux Oiseaux or La Cave des Abbesses.
Do I need to dress up for Paris nightlife?
You don’t need to wear a dress or heels unless you want to. Smart casual works everywhere: a nice top, jeans, boots, or a little dress. Avoid sportswear, flip-flops, or overly casual outfits like tank tops and shorts-especially in upscale spots like Le Ciel or Le Baron. But no one will turn you away for not looking like a fashion model. Confidence matters more than the brand on your shirt.
Are there any bars in Paris that are women-only?
There aren’t any officially women-only bars in Paris, but places like La Chambre aux Oiseaux and La Cave des Abbesses have a naturally female-heavy crowd. You’ll often see groups of women, solo travelers, and couples-no men dominate the space. It’s not by rule, but by vibe. If you want a space that feels welcoming to women, these are your best bets.
How much should I budget for a girls’ night out in Paris?
You can have a great night out for €50-€80 per person. That includes a drink or two at a bar, a snack or small plate, and maybe a cocktail at a rooftop. If you want to go clubbing, expect €15-€25 cover charges after midnight. Wine bars are cheaper-€8-€12 a glass. Skip the tourist traps near the Eiffel Tower; prices there can double. Stick to local favorites for better value.
What’s Next After This Night?
After your girls’ night, you’ll probably want to do it again. Maybe next time, try a wine tasting in the 10th, or catch a live jazz set at Le Caveau de la Huchette in the Latin Quarter. Or just wander back to your hotel, smiling, tired, and already planning your next evening. Paris doesn’t just offer nightlife-it offers moments that stick with you. And for women traveling together, those moments are the ones that turn a trip into a memory.