Paris: First Show Moulin Rouge with Champagne & Seine Cruise

Experience the magic of Paris with the Moulin Rouge show and Seine cruise

This tour promises a blend of iconic Parisian nightlife and breathtaking river views. For those looking to tick off two of the city’s most celebrated attractions in one evening, it offers a lively, well-organized package. The highlight? The spectacular Moulin Rouge revue, complete with vibrant costumes, impressive choreography, and a good dose of champagne. The next day, you can unwind with a glass-enclosed Seine River cruise, offering a different perspective of Paris’s landmarks lit up at night.

One thing we love about this experience is how smoothly it combines entertainment with sightseeing — saving you time and offering a well-rounded taste of Paris. Plus, the guides and organizers seem to prioritize ease of access, making it beginner-friendly even if you’re unfamiliar with the city. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the timing: the show typically starts late at night, which might not suit early risers or those with young children. This experience is best suited for travelers eager to indulge in classic Parisian glamour while enjoying some of the city’s most memorable sights.

Key Points

Convenient combination: Enjoy both the Moulin Rouge show and a Seine River cruise, often booked as a package for good value.
High-energy entertainment: Expect a vibrant can-can show with colorful costumes, original music, and talented dancers.
Stunning views: The cruise offers impressive sights, including Notre-Dame lit up at night and the city’s iconic bridges and monuments.
Knowledgeable guides: Reviewers praise the guides for their helpfulness, clear instructions, and multilingual support.
Flexible options: The Seine cruise ticket can be used the next day, offering flexibility for your schedule.
Potential seating issues: Some guests found their seats in Moulin Rouge to be in corners, limiting their view of the stage, so ask for central seats if possible.

A detailed look at the experience

The journey starts with a centrally-located meeting point and smooth transport

You’ll meet your guide outside the Moulin Rouge, at the designated spot (from April 1st, 2024, at 82 Boulevard de Clichy). The guides seem well-organized, with many reviewers mentioning how easy it is to find and communicate with them, thanks to multilingual staff in recognizable red jackets. For those arriving by Metro, N° 2 – Blanche is the closest station**, making the meeting straightforward even after a long day of sightseeing.

Once gathered, you’ll hop onto a spacious coach for the ride to Moulin Rouge. The transportation portion is often praised for its comfort and punctuality, which is crucial in a bustling city like Paris where traffic can be unpredictable.

The Moulin Rouge show: a feast for the senses

Once at the iconic cabaret, you’ll experience the Féerie revue, featuring around 100 performers, including 60 Doris Girls, and over a thousand costumes adorned with feathers and glitter. The stage boasts magnificent settings crafted by Italian artists, blending rich colors and detailed drawings that set the scene for each act.

Guests repeatedly mention the high-quality costumes and dynamic choreography, particularly the famous can-can. Several reviews highlight the energy of the dancers and the original music performed by a live orchestra of 80 musicians and 60 chorus singers. This live music adds a layer of authenticity and excitement, making it more than just a dance show.

The Champagne experience

Depending on your chosen option, you’ll be served either a half bottle or a glass of Champagne. Reviewers note that the Champagne flows freely, with many appreciating the generous pours. One guest mentioned being upgraded to half a bottle per person, which made the experience feel quite luxurious.

Although some guests found the seating in Moulin Rouge to be in the corners or to the side, the overall consensus remains positive, with many saying the view of the performers and costumes was still enjoyable. To get the best experience, requesting centrally located seats might be worth considering if possible.

The Seine River cruise: a night-time fairy tale

The next day, you’ll receive your ticket for a glass-enclosed boat cruise. The cruise is a wonderful way to see Paris’s illuminated landmarks from a different vantage point. Guests love how the cruise glides past Notre-Dame and the Louvre, with the statues of gargoyles on Notre-Dame lit up at night creating a magical atmosphere.

The cruise includes audio commentary in multiple languages, helping you catch interesting facts about the city’s history as you float along. Many reviewers have said they appreciated the relaxing pace and the stunning views of the bridges and gardens, especially floating past the Tuileries Gardens.

A common point of praise is how safe and comfortable the glass-enclosed boats feel, with some reviewers mentioning how the view from the top deck was excellent. Keep in mind that the cruise tickets are valid for six months, so if you skip the cruise on the scheduled day, you can still enjoy it later.

The logistics and overall flow

The tour’s duration is approximately 5.5 hours, mainly due to travel time and show length. Timing is crucial because the Moulin Rouge show usually begins around 11 pm, making it a late night for some. Reviewers comment that the smooth transfer and clear instructions help the evening run without a hitch, even if traffic causes slight delays.

The tour ends with a drop-off in central Paris, near major districts like Opéra, Champs Elysées, and Bastille, making it easy to reach your hotel afterward. The coach rides are often described as comfortable, with guides providing helpful commentary or answering questions.

Price and perceived value

At $304 per person, the package is on the higher end, but many feel it’s justified by the quality of entertainment and convenience. It bundles two iconic Parisian experiences, saving you the hassle of booking separately. Reviewers consistently mention how the combined experience offers great value, especially with the added perk of the Seine cruise ticket being valid for several months.

Some guests, however, pointed out that seating at Moulin Rouge can be in corners, which might limit the view, and that drinks were somewhat limited during the show. Still, the generous Champagne servings and the overall spectacle seem to compensate for minor inconveniences.

Who is this experience perfect for?

This tour appeals most to travelers who want a hassle-free way to enjoy two Parisian icons in one evening. It suits those who appreciate live entertainment, vibrant costumes, and scenic sightseeing from the river. It’s particularly good for couples, groups of friends, or even solo travelers looking for a memorable night out.

However, if you’re sensitive to late night shows or prefer a more relaxed pace, you may want to consider the timing and seating options. It’s less ideal for young children or travelers with mobility issues, as the tour involves standing, walking, and seating in a crowded venue.

Final thoughts on the tour’s value

For the price, you’re getting a well-organized evening that combines glamour, entertainment, and scenic beauty. The knowledgeable guides, the stunning performances, and the breathtaking river views make this a worthwhile experience for those wanting a taste of classic Parisian nightlife. The flexibility of the cruise ticket also adds a layer of convenience, allowing you to enjoy the river at your own pace later.

While some seating in Moulin Rouge may be less than ideal, the overall spectacle, combined with a memorable cruise, justifies the cost for many visitors. It’s especially fitting for first-timers eager to tick off two of the most photographed sights in Paris in one sophisticated evening.

FAQ

Is the Seine cruise included in the price?
Yes, the cruise is part of the package, and you receive a ticket that’s valid for six months, meaning you can use it on a different day if you prefer.

Can I do the cruise before the show?
The cruise tickets are typically for the following day, but if you’d like to do it before, you must collect your cruise ticket at the ParisCityVision office in advance.

What should I wear?
A smart casual outfit is suitable; however, for Moulin Rouge, formal dress is required. Bring a jacket for the cruise if it’s chilly.

Is stroller or wheelchair access available?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and does not specify stroller accessibility, so check with the provider beforehand.

Are drinks available during the Moulin Rouge show?
Drinks are limited; you are served a glass or half a bottle of champagne depending on your option, but there’s no bar service during the show.

How long does the entire experience last?
It takes approximately 5.5 hours, including transportation, the show, and the cruise.

What languages are supported?
Guides speak English primarily, with audio commentary available in Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian, Hindi, and Arabic.

Is formal dress necessary?
Yes, formal attire is required for Moulin Rouge, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years old, and the show is more suited to adult audiences due to late hours and content.

To sum it up, this Paris experience offers a well-rounded evening of spectacle, scenic views, and cultural vibrancy. Perfect for those wanting a fun, stylish introduction to the city’s nightlife, it balances entertainment with sightseeing, all wrapped in a seamless package. You’ll love the lively performances, the impressive river vistas, and the convenience of combining two classic Parisian activities into one memorable night out.