Paris After Dark: Speakeasy, Cocktails, Local Bars & Clubs

Discovering Paris After Dark: An Honest Review of the Speakeasy, Cocktails, and Hidden Bars Tour

Finding authentic Paris nightlife isn’t as straightforward as hopping between tourist bars. That’s where a tour like Paris After Dark: Speakeasy, Cocktails, Local Bars & Clubs promises an inside look into the city’s secret, stylish, and often undiscovered venues. With a focus on hidden speakeasies, premium cocktails, and skipping long lines at iconic clubs, this experience appeals to those eager for a more intimate, local flavor of Paris after sunset.

What immediately stands out is the tour’s promise of exclusive access—slipping behind bookshelves, laundromats, or pizza places to find these hidden gems—and the chance to sip some of the best cocktails Paris has to offer. Hosted by a nightlife expert with deep connections across the city’s bar scene, it’s a curated journey designed for curious travelers who want more than just a typical bar crawl.

One thing to consider: the tour is relatively short, lasting between 1 to 3 hours, and involves some walking around different neighborhoods. So, it’s ideal if you’re already comfortable with an active evening and don’t mind a bit of secrecy and surprise. If you’re someone who loves discovering offbeat spots and enjoying expertly crafted drinks, this tour could be perfectly suited for you. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, seated evening or have mobility concerns, it’s worth noting the walking involved and the venues’ security procedures.

This tour is best suited for adventurous couples, solo travelers, night owls, and anyone who appreciates a blend of storytelling, insider knowledge, and vibrant nightlife scenes. Now, let’s explore what makes this experience worth considering—and what you might want to keep in mind.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Slip behind hidden doors in laundromats, pizza places, and vintage bookshelves to discover Paris’s secret bars.
• Quality Cocktails: Savor drinks crafted by award-winning mixologists ranked among Europe’s best.
• Skip the Lines: Gain fast entry to a renowned Parisian club, with location revealed on the night for added thrill.
• Vibrant Neighborhoods: Experience a mix of elegant 1st arrondissement bars, edgy 11th and 12th districts, and lively 13th arrondissement clubs.
• Authentic Stories: Learn the stories and history behind each venue from a knowledgeable nightlife insider.
• Flexible Duration & Group Size: Tours last 1 to 3 hours with small groups, offering a more personal experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Paris After Dark Tour

Starting Point and First Impressions

The adventure kicks off right outside Le Jip’s, a cozy bar in the heart of the 1st arrondissement. This location is ideal—central, lively, and quintessentially Parisian, setting the tone with warm lighting and vintage charm. Here, the guide—often someone like Deborah, who’s praised for her engaging storytelling—begins weaving the narrative of Paris’s nightlife. We loved her insider tales about the neighborhood’s history and its hidden watering holes, making the experience feel personal and genuine.

Exploring the 1st Arrondissement: Elegant Beginnings

The tour’s first stop feels like slipping into a different world—refined, intimate, with a hint of glamour. You might find yourself in a classic Parisian bar with vintage interiors, where locals sip wine in relaxed conversation. It’s the perfect way to warm up and get into the spirit of the night. The focus here is on softer, more refined venues that showcase Paris’s timeless elegance.

Transition to the Edgier 11th & 12th Districts

From the elegant start, the tour shifts gear to the hip and electric neighborhoods of the 11th and 12th arrondissements. Here, the vibe becomes more daring—think Afro-Caribbean bars pulsating with dance rhythms or secret cocktail spots that look like something from a spy movie, with vintage washing machines hiding behind secret doors. One reviewer, Kelly from France, raved about discovering a speakeasy that transforms into a club after midnight, with “great atmosphere” and cocktails that made the wait totally worthwhile.

The highlight here is the theatrical entrances and daring drinks, which make each venue feel like a special secret. The guide’s connections mean you’ll often skip lines and sidestep the crowds, especially at popular venues that typically attract locals rather than travelers.

Into the 13th Arrondissement: The Rising Nightlife Scene

The final phase takes you into the more modern and lively 13th district, a hotbed for young Parisians dancing on rooftops, enjoying underground beats till dawn. Here, the energy is raw and authentic, far from touristy hotspots. You might catch scenic views on the way, adding a visual dimension to the experience. The guide’s stories about this area’s transformation into a nightlife hub enrich what you see and feel.

What’s Included & How It Works

The tour includes guided access to some of Paris’s most hidden bars and speakeasies, with venues chosen for their vibe, vibe, and stories. The host can provide photography services upon request, capturing moments amidst the stunning interiors or street views. You’ll also learn about the neighborhoods’ history and how these underground spots fit into Paris’s wider cultural fabric.

Participants are guided on a seamless walking route through the districts, with some metro rides included. You should expect to purchase your own metro tickets (~€2.50 each) but the guide will advise on how to do that smoothly.

The Atmosphere & Group Dynamics

This is a small-group experience, which means more personalized attention and room for conversation. The group size allows the guide to tailor the experience and share more intimate stories that you might not hear on a crowded pub crawl. The atmosphere is friendly, relaxed, and infused with a sense of discovery.

Quality & Value for Money

At $82 per person, this tour offers a curated, insider experience with expert guidance, skip-the-line access, and some of the most unique venues in Paris. While you’re responsible for drinks and metro tickets, the value lies in the exclusive access and storytelling that elevate a simple bar hop into a memorable journey. The reviews highlight guides like Deborah as “great hosts,” adding to the overall positive perception.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous night owls who love discovering hidden spots and enjoy hearing stories behind the scenes. It’s perfect for couples, solo travelers, or groups of friends looking for a more intimate, authentic taste of Paris nightlife. Creative types and influencers will appreciate the colorful venues and photo opportunities, while those craving a less touristy, more local vibe will find plenty to love.

However, keep in mind the walking involved, and that some venues require security screenings, so mobility could be a concern for some. The tour isn’t suitable for children or those with mobility impairments.

Final Thoughts: Is This Experience Worth It?

This tour offers a lively, intimate look at Paris’s underbelly—places most visitors never see—that are filled with character, stories, and exceptional drinks. You’re guided by a knowledgeable insider who knows the city’s secret scenes and can help you skip lines at popular spots. The variety of neighborhoods means you get a broad perspective on Paris’s nightlife—from the elegance of the 1st to the edgy vibrancy of the 13th.

If you’re curious about Paris’s underground scene, enjoy handcrafted cocktails, and love stories that bring the city’s night to life, this tour promises a memorable evening. It’s a great choice for those who prefer whispers over crowds, velvet over chaos, and meaningful experiences over surface-level sightseeing.

On the other hand, travelers seeking a more relaxed, seated evening or with limited mobility might want to consider the walking involved and the security procedures at venues.

Overall, for value, exclusivity, and authentic flavor, this experience is a compelling way to see a side of Paris that’s often hidden behind velvet curtains and secret doors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Paris?
Yes, especially if you’re eager to see a side of the city that’s off the usual tourist trail. The guide will introduce you to neighborhoods and venues that are authentic and full of local character.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration varies from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the group and pace. It’s flexible enough to fit into an evening adventure.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the price. You will have opportunities to purchase cocktails, beers, or spirits at each venue. The guide will advise on metro tickets and other logistics.

What’s the dress code?
Fashionably casual is perfect. Wear comfortable shoes since there’s walking involved, and dress for the weather.

Is the tour family-friendly?
No, it’s designed for adults over 18 years old due to alcohol consumption and the nature of venues.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, photography services are available from the host upon request, using your equipment or theirs.

What if I want to skip a stop?
The tour is flexible, but it’s best to follow the guide’s plan for the best experience. You can discuss your preferences beforehand.

How do I find the meeting point?
Your guide will meet you right outside Le Jip’s bar in the 1st arrondissement, a central and easy-to-find location.

Are there any hidden costs?
The tour price covers access and guiding. You’ll need to budget separately for drinks and metro fares.

Is this experience available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, French, Spanish, and Swahili, accommodating a diverse range of travelers.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of exclusivity, storytelling, and authentic nightlife exploration. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to look beyond the obvious, uncover hidden Parisian treasures, and enjoy expertly crafted cocktails—all led by a passionate insider. Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking adventure or a couple craving a romantic secret tour, this experience is worth considering for a memorable night in Paris.