Explore hidden bars and speakeasy in Paris

Our review takes a close look at an intriguing experience that promises to unlock some of Paris’s best-kept secrets—the Hidden Bars and Speakeasy Tour by Speakeasy Spirits Paris. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast, a solo traveler, or someone eager to discover Paris beyond the usual tourist spots, this tour offers a fascinating way to explore the city’s underground drinking scene. For €40.12 (about $40 USD), this 2-hour guided adventure promises visits to two carefully selected bars, each with its own story and vibe.

What we love most about this experience is the emphasis on authentic, secret locations with unique atmospheres—some hide behind unassuming doors, others require passwords or invitations. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly demeanor, making the journey not just about drinks, but about uncovering Paris’s hidden nightlife. The only potential drawback? The tour’s pace means you’ll spend roughly an hour at each bar, which might feel brief for those wanting a more relaxed or in-depth exploration. Still, it’s perfectly suited for travelers who love quick, fascinating glimpses into the city’s secret spots.

If you enjoy discovering off-the-beaten-path venues, meeting other travelers, and sampling some excellent cocktails, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially recommended for those who appreciate storytelling, a lively atmosphere, and a bit of adventure in their evenings. Solo travelers, couples, and small groups will find this experience a lively, engaging way to spend a few hours in Paris’s vibrant nightlife scene.

Key Points

• Authentic Hidden Venues: The tour focuses on bars that are not easy to find—some require passwords, others have secret passages—adding a sense of adventure.
• Knowledgeable Local Guides: Guides like Felix and Mohona are highly praised for their friendliness and expertise, enriching the experience with stories and recommendations.
• Diverse Atmospheres: Each bar offers a different vibe, from intimate speakeasies to rooftop venues, catering to a range of preferences.
• Quality over Quantity: Visiting only two bars allows for a more meaningful experience, with ample time to enjoy each locale.
• Inclusive for All: The tour welcomes a variety of travelers—introverts, solo adventurers, couples, even non-drinkers—making it accessible and welcoming.
• Value for Money: At around $40, the experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into Paris’s clandestine nightlife, especially considering the positive reviews about the hidden gems visited.

The First Impressions and Booking Process

Booking the Paris Speakeasy Tour is straightforward: most travelers book about 39 days in advance, indicating a steady demand for this unique experience. The tour’s mobile ticket makes it easy to organize on the go, with confirmation received immediately. The price point at $40.12 per person seems reasonable considering the exclusive access it grants—visiting locations most travelers wouldn’t stumble upon alone.

The meeting point is conveniently located at Gregory Shideler, 2 Bd du Temple, close to public transportation options. The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, which keeps the group intimate and personal—perfect for those who prefer small, friendly outings rather than large bus-like groups.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour lasts around 2 hours, with roughly an hour spent at each bar. Cali, the creator of the tour, carefully selects venues that each tell their own story. The focus is on hidden places—think secret doors, passages, or bars accessible only by invitation. This adds an element of intrigue and makes the experience feel like a mini adventure.

First Stop: A Hidden Gem with Unique Character

One of the bars visited might feature secret passages or require a password for entry. Reviewers have described these places as interesting and very hidden, with great selection of cocktails. For example, one guest mentioned a rooftop bar that was “amazing”—a view you wouldn’t find on a typical tourist map, and a perfect start to the evening.

Second Stop: Diverse Atmospheres and Specialties

The second bar tends to be equally captivating, often with its own distinct vibe—be it a cozy speakeasy, a jazz-infused lounge, or a bar with a cool vintage feel. Guides like Felix have been praised for their stories, explaining the history of each place and the craft behind the drinks. It’s clear that the storytelling aspect and the ambience are what set this tour apart from just going to random bars.

The Drinking Experience: Cocktails, Beers, and Soft Drinks

While the tour cost includes visits to the bars, actual alcoholic beverages are not included in the price. Guests are expected to purchase their drinks, which are described as excellent, with options ranging from tequila, mezcal, pisco, whisky, bourbon, to absinthe and chartreuse. One reviewer lauded the “great selection of cocktails,” and guides like Mohona, a talented sommelier, can tailor suggestions to your taste.

A common point raised in reviews is that you’ll need to earn your drinks, contributing to the fun, interactive aspect of the tour. Some feedback indicated that initial ticket options included drinks or soft drinks, but the tour has since improved its collaboration with bars to offer more cocktail options with the ticket, making the experience even better value.

Guides: The Heart of the Tour

Guides like Felix and Mohona are consistently praised for their warmth, knowledge, and storytelling ability. One review mentions Felix’s “friendly personality” and how he made the evening memorable through engaging stories and great recommendations. Mohona, being a skilled sommelier, added a layer of expertise, helping guests understand their drinks and even suggesting additional bars for later visits.

The guides’ multilingual skills (English, French, German) ensure that international travelers feel comfortable and well-informed. They also help foster a friendly, social atmosphere, making it easier for solo travelers to mingle.

The Social Element and Group Size

With just 7 travelers maximum, the tour maintains an intimate vibe, encouraging conversation and connection. Many reviews highlight the fun group dynamic, with guests bonding over shared interests and laughs. This small-group approach makes it a fantastic choice for solo travelers, couples, or friends looking for a fun, social night out.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

The tour welcomes a wide range of travelers, including non-drinkers and those with specific dietary considerations like vegetarians. Everyone is invited to experience the vibe and storytelling, even if they choose not to indulge in alcohol. The welcoming atmosphere means you’ll find many enjoying soft drinks or just soaking in the unique ambiance.

The Value Proposition

At around $40, this experience offers a lot of value for the money—especially considering the exclusive access to hidden venues and the expertise of the guides. Many reviewers commented that they’d never have found these bars on their own, and the storytelling made each stop more memorable. It’s not just a bar crawl; it’s a curated journey through Paris’s clandestine nightlife.

Some reviews pointed out that the tour’s pace is brisk—which is perfect if you want a quick but enriching glimpse into Parisian underground culture. For those craving a more leisurely exploration, adding extra time at each stop might be preferable but would likely cost more.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy discovering secret spots and hearing captivating stories. It’s especially great for solo travelers or small groups wanting an authentic, intimate night out. If you’re a cocktail lover, you’ll appreciate the quality and variety of drinks available. It’s also a good choice for those interested in French culture and nightlife, with guides sharing insights beyond just the drinks.

It’s perfect if you’re seeking a sociable, fun-filled evening that combines exploration, storytelling, and high-quality drinks. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or a comprehensive history of Paris’s bar scene, this might feel a bit too rushed.

For fans of hidden gems, expert guides, and a lively atmosphere, this tour hits most marks. The focus on unique venues and personalized storytelling makes it more than just a bar crawl—it’s a curated experience that uncovers some of Paris’s best-kept secrets. The small-group setting fosters a friendly vibe, and the diverse atmospheres ensure something for all.

If you’re someone who loves authentic experiences and doesn’t mind spending a couple of hours exploring underground bars, this tour offers excellent value for money. It’s a wonderful way to spend an evening in Paris, especially if you’re eager to see a different side of the city’s vibrant nightlife.

While it’s not a comprehensive history of Parisian speakeasies, the stories and hidden locations make it a fun, engaging, and memorable experience. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value local insights, social interaction, and discovering offbeat places.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included in the price, but guests are expected to purchase their drinks at each bar. The tour guides help with recommendations, and many guests find the options excellent.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, non-drinkers are very welcome. You can enjoy soft drinks or simply soak in the atmosphere and stories without alcohol.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours, visiting two bars with about an hour at each location.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 7 travelers, ensuring an intimate, friendly experience.

Is the tour physically accessible?
Most travelers can participate, and the meeting point is near public transportation. Specific accessibility details aren’t provided, so contact the provider if you have special needs.

Are there options for languages other than English?
All visits are provided in English, but earlier guides speak multiple languages—including French and German. For a private or full experience in another language, contact the organizers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out from other nightlife experiences?
Its focus on hidden, exclusive venues combined with passionate local guides and small group sizes creates a personal, authentic adventure—perfect for those looking to see Paris from a different perspective.

In summary, if you’re after an exciting, social, and authentic glimpse into Paris’s underground bar scene, this tour offers a memorable way to spend a couple of hours. The combination of hidden venues, engaging storytelling, and friendly guides makes it a worthwhile addition to your Paris itinerary.