Exploring the Nightlife of Paris

There is no city in Europe quite like Paris. Hostels in various areas throughout the city provide the ideal convenient budget accommodation, with the added bonus of affording you the opportunity to meet new and interesting people from all over the world.

When you think of the city's highlights, it’s the Eiffel Tower, Champs Elysees and Louvre that may come instantly come to mind, but for those who enjoy a little action after dark, there is an eclectic array of nightlife to discover around the Paris hostels.

The City After Dark

Even after a full day pounding the pavements of the city, if you indulge in a good evening meal (this is Paris, after all!) your batteries will be recharged and ready to see you through a few hours of the city’s nightlife. Whether you just fancy an early evening drink in a local café close to your hostel, a few glasses of wine and a delicious dinner in a modern bistro, or want to spice it up in a jazz club or cabaret, there is something for you in Paris. Hostels in the city are often within walking distance of some amazing places to while away an evening, and seeing the city at night, with all the amazing buildings and statues lit up, gives a whole new perspective.

Top Night Spots

The area between Boulevard Saint German and the river is bursting with bars, cafes and other small nightclubs and, although it is quite touristy, the area is friendly, welcoming and buzzing with energy. Across the road from the statue of St Michel, the streets provide an open stage for street dancers and performers and make a great place to enjoy an aperitif.

If jazz is something that appeals, you're in the perfect city. Originally the jazz music of the French capital was imported from the USA in the guise of many of the greats, such as Dexter Gordon, Miles Davis and Lionel Hampton. These artists, and others, brought their music to the clubs of the city; today, these bars and clubs can still transport you back in time to the days when jazz was at its peak.

Of course cabaret - think the Moulin Rouge - is all part of the city's iconic nightlife and no visit would be complete without attending a performance of a colourful show that includes troupes of dancing girls, feathers, rhinestones and sequins. These shows can be pricey – particularly the Moulin Rouge - and you can’t just turn up in shorts and t-shirt, but if you have a smart outfit in your backpack and a little extra cash burning a hole in your pocket, it is definitely worth the cost.

There is no end to the excitement going on after dark in this wonderful city. If you are staying in one of the Paris hostels in summer, the streets of the Marais, Saint Michel and Saint Germaine are alive with music, dancing and colour. If you're lost for ideas, you can get hold of a copy of Time Out to give you a run-down on events happening while you're there.