Paris: Speakeasy and Hidden Bars Tour

Are you craving a glimpse into Paris’ underground nightlife? This 2-hour guided tour promises to take you behind secret doors, through hidden passages, and into some of the city’s most exclusive and mysterious bars. It’s a fun, interactive way to discover the city’s speakeasy scene, learn about their history, and enjoy some authentic cocktails with fellow travelers. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast, solo traveler, or just curious about Paris’ lesser-known spots, this experience offers a lively, immersive night out in the City of Light.

What we really love about this tour is its emphasis on curiosity and discovery. From solving riddles to earn your drinks to traversing secret passages, it’s as much about the adventure as the drinks themselves. Plus, the guides—like Maeva, Norbu, and Felix—are praised for their warmth, knowledge, and ability to make everyone feel at ease. On the flip side, one consideration is the tour’s relatively short duration, which means you won’t get to spend endless hours in each bar. Still, that pacing keeps things lively and allows for a good variety of venues in just a couple of hours.

Who is this tour best suited for? It’s perfect for nightlife lovers, solo explorers, couples, or anyone interested in uncovering a different side of Paris that’s off the usual tourist trail. Also, those who enjoy craft cocktails and a bit of storytelling about the vintage bar scene will find this experience especially rewarding.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to hidden Parisian speakeasies with secret entrances and passages
• Engaging, puzzle-based entry adds a fun, interactive element to the night
• Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with local insights and history
• Diverse bar atmospheres—from classic clandestine settings to modern underground spots
• Wide cocktail variety including tequila, whiskey, mezcal, and more
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a friendly vibe
• Value for money considering the cocktail experience and guided exploration
• Authentic local experience away from the typical tourist crowd

An In-Depth Look at the Paris Speakeasy and Hidden Bars Tour

Starting Point and Overview

Meet outside the Filles du Calvaires metro station, specifically at line 8, exit #2, facing the “Cirque d’Hiver” building. The meeting spot is straightforward to find, and the tour typically lasts about 2 hours. You’ll join a small group—perfect for mingling without feeling lost in a crowd—and start your exploration of Paris’ secret bar scene.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Unlike typical bar crawls or pub tours, this experience emphasizes hidden locations and storytelling. Your guide—fluent in multiple languages including English, French, German, and Spanish—will lead you through the night, uncovering bars that are often only known to locals. Many venues have hidden entrances, secret doors, or require passwords, which adds a dash of mystery and adventure to the evening.

The Venues and Atmospheres

You’ll visit two top secret speakeasies, each with its own distinct vibe. One might feature 1920s-style decor, transporting you back in time, while another could be more modern and chic. Some bars have hidden passages or secret photos, making it a fun treasure hunt to find them. The tour ensures you get a good amount of time at each stop to soak in the atmosphere, chat with bartenders, and enjoy your signature cocktail.

The Cocktails and Drinks

The tour offers a variety of signature cocktails—from tequila and mezcal to whiskey, bourbon, chartreuse, and absinthe. Reviewers have highlighted the quality of drinks, noting that bartenders are talented and willing to recommend drinks tailored to your preferences. One guest mentioned, “Mobsters had a very classy 1920s feeling,” and another praised the “amazing cocktails” that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Additional Inclusions

Depending on your ticket choice, some packages include beer and wine, along with the cocktails. Non-drinkers are also considered, with soft drinks available. This inclusivity makes it suitable for groups with different preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy the night without feeling excluded.

The Guides and Group Dynamics

People consistently praise the guides for their warmth, knowledge, and fun personalities. Maeva, Pierre, Norbu, Felix, and Cali are frequently mentioned as being personable, professional, and eager to share stories and tips about Paris. Many reviews highlight how guides proactively adjusted plans when groups ran late or weather was tricky, which reflects their dedication to a great experience.

Authenticity and Safety

The experience is designed to be authentic and safe. Guides handle all the logistics, including skip-the-line access through separate entrances, so you can avoid queues and hassle. Several reviews mention feeling comfortable and secure, especially as the small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere.

Cost and Value

At $41 per person, the tour offers excellent value for the unique access, expert guides, and quality cocktails. Given that some packages include drinks and the personal touch of a guided experience, it’s a good investment for those wanting more than just a pub crawl—it’s a curated, storytelling night out.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The event is not suitable for wheelchair users, which is an important note for accessibility. Check the starting times and availability—these vary, so booking ahead is advisable. The tour is offered in multiple languages, with private group options available, making it flexible for different traveler needs.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This speakeasy and hidden bar tour is a fantastic way to see a different side of Paris nightlife. You’ll get to explore secret venues that are usually off-limits to travelers, enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, and learn about the history of speakeasies in a lively, friendly atmosphere. The guides’ passion and local knowledge shine through, making each stop engaging and memorable.

It’s best suited for adventurous spirits, cocktail lovers, solo travelers, couples, and small groups who want an intimate, immersive experience. If you enjoy solving puzzles, discovering hidden spots, and savoring quality drinks, this tour will delight you. And if you’re visiting Paris for the first time but want to experience its night scene in a curated way, this is an excellent choice.

However, if you’re looking for a lengthy night out or have mobility concerns, you might prefer a different activity or a private experience. Still, for a curated, fun, and authentic glimpse into Paris’ clandestine bars, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers? Yes, soft drinks are available, and the focus on exploration means non-drinkers can still enjoy the atmosphere and the experience.

How long does the tour last? The tour is approximately 2 hours, providing a lively yet manageable experience without feeling rushed.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure a spot, especially since tickets are flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.

What is included in the price? The tour includes a guided exploration of two secret bars, with a choice of signature cocktails, and possibly beer or wine depending on your option.

Are the venues accessible? No, the experience is not suitable for wheelchair users, and the venues are typically accessed via hidden entrances that may involve stairs or narrow passages.

Can I join as part of a private group? Yes, private or small groups are available upon request, making the experience customizable.

What if I arrive late or run into weather issues? Guides are flexible and adapt plans as needed, and reviews praise their professionalism in handling unforeseen circumstances.

Are the guides multilingual? Yes, guides speak English, French, German, and Spanish, enhancing accessibility for international travelers.

Is this experience good value for money? Absolutely. Considering the exclusive venues, expert guides, and quality cocktails, many find the price very reasonable for such a curated night out.

In The Sum Up

This Paris speakeasy and hidden bars tour offers a unique and genuine look at the city’s underground nightlife scene. It’s a fantastic way to add a touch of mystery and adventure to your trip, all while enjoying expertly crafted cocktails in atmospheres that range from vintage glamour to modern chic. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge elevate the experience, making it engaging and fun for a diverse range of travelers. Whether you're a solo explorer or part of a small group, this tour provides a memorable evening that combines discovery, culture, and a little bit of Parisian secret magic.

If you enjoy uncovering hidden gems, learning about the history of vintage bars, and savoring creative drinks, this experience is well worth considering. It’s more than just a bar crawl—it’s a playful, authentic adventure into Paris’ clandestine nightlife.