Paris after dark isn’t just about wine and candlelight
Most people think of Paris as museums, croissants, and quiet cafés. But when the sun sets, the city transforms. It becomes electric-loud music, laughter, cocktails, and streets buzzing with women dancing, talking, and living out loud. If you’re planning a girls’ night out in Paris, you don’t need to stick to the tourist traps. There are real spots where locals go, where the vibe is fun, safe, and full of energy.
Le Comptoir Général: Where the vibe is eclectic and the drinks are creative
Start your night at Le Comptoir Général in the 10th arrondissement. This isn’t your average bar. It’s a sprawling, hidden compound of vintage furniture, hanging plants, and mismatched lamps that feel like a dreamy attic in Marrakech crossed with a Parisian loft. The crowd? Mostly women in their late 20s to 40s, groups of friends, artists, and expats. The cocktails? Inventive and not overpriced. Try the Parisian Negroni-it’s made with gentian liqueur and orange blossom water, and it tastes like a French summer night.
No one here is trying to impress. Everyone’s just here to unwind. There’s live jazz on Thursdays, and on weekends, DJs spin indie rock and French house. You won’t find a single guy trying to buy you a drink. That’s the magic of this place-it’s welcoming, but never pushy.
La Chanson: Sing your heart out in a cozy, no-pressure karaoke bar
Want to scream along to Edith Piaf or Lady Gaga without judgment? Head to La Chanson in the 11th. It’s tiny, dimly lit, and feels like your best friend’s living room-if your best friend had a professional sound system and a bartender who remembers your name.
The menu is simple: wine by the glass, craft beer, and a few French snacks. But the real draw? The karaoke books. You pick a song, the host hands you a mic, and you’re on. No stage. No spotlight. Just a circle of women clapping, singing off-key, and cheering you on. Last month, a group of four American tourists sang Je t’aime… moi non plus in French and got a standing ovation. That’s the kind of night you remember.
Le Baron: The chic, all-women-friendly club that doesn’t take itself too seriously
If you want to dance until 3 a.m., go to Le Baron in the 8th. It’s a former mansion turned underground club, with velvet couches, mirrored walls, and a dance floor that never empties. The door policy is strict-not because it’s exclusive, but because they keep it small. No bouncers checking IDs like they’re at a bank. Just a friendly host who smiles and says, “You’re in.”
The music? A mix of 2000s pop, French electro, and current hits. The crowd? Mostly women, many in heels and leather jackets. You’ll see groups of friends from Berlin, London, and Lyon. No one’s here to be seen. They’re here to move. The bartenders pour generous drinks, and the playlist doesn’t skip a beat. Pro tip: Arrive before 11 p.m. to avoid the line. After midnight, it’s packed.
Le Perchoir: Rooftop cocktails with a view you won’t forget
For a more relaxed but still magical start to the night, climb up to Le Perchoir on the 7th floor of a building in the 11th. This rooftop bar has two levels: one with cozy armchairs and string lights, another with a long bar and panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower. It’s not cheap, but it’s worth every euro.
Order the Perchoir Spritz-it’s Aperol, prosecco, and a splash of elderflower. Sit by the edge, watch the lights of Paris blink on, and talk about everything and nothing. The staff doesn’t rush you. No one’s checking watches. It’s the perfect pre-club spot, or the perfect end to a night if you’re not ready to dance.
Le Dauphin: A hidden gem where the music is loud and the crowd is real
Down in the 13th arrondissement, tucked behind a nondescript door, is Le Dauphin. This place doesn’t show up on most tourist lists. But locals know it. It’s a small, industrial-style bar with exposed brick, a jukebox that plays everything from Daft Punk to Fiona Apple, and a crowd that’s 80% women. The drinks are affordable-€8 for a gin and tonic, €6 for a beer.
On Friday nights, they host Girls’ Night Out with free entry for women before 11 p.m. There’s no dress code. No VIP section. Just good music, good people, and a vibe that feels like you’ve stumbled into a secret club your cool aunt started. The owner, Marie, used to be a DJ in Lyon. She knows what women want to hear. And she plays it.
What to wear? Comfortable shoes, not a costume
Parisian women don’t dress like they’re going to a party. They dress like they’re going to dinner-then stay out all night. Think: tailored trousers, a silk top, ankle boots, or a simple dress with a leather jacket. No glitter, no fake lashes, no over-the-top heels. You’ll see women dancing in loafers. That’s the Paris way.
And forget the “no sneakers” rule. If you’re walking from bar to bar, wear what feels good. You’ll thank yourself at 2 a.m. when you’re still laughing on the metro.
How to get around safely
Paris is safe for women at night, but like any big city, use common sense. Stick to well-lit streets. Use the metro after 10 p.m.-it’s crowded and monitored. Avoid unmarked taxis. Use Uber or Bolt. Most bars are in the 1st, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 11th, and 13th arrondissements. These areas are walkable and full of people. If you’re going out in a group of three or more, you’re golden.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Parisians are more helpful than they seem. If you look lost, someone will stop. Just say, “Excusez-moi, où est la station de métro la plus proche?” They’ll point you there, maybe even walk you partway.
What to avoid
Stay away from the tourist bars near the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre. The ones with “Parisian Experience” signs? They’re overpriced, loud, and full of guys trying to pick up tourists. The drinks cost €18, and the music is EDM remixes of French pop songs from 2007. You’ll leave tired and disappointed.
Also skip the clubs that charge €30 entry for women and €10 for men. That’s not a night out. That’s a scam. The real spots don’t play those games. They want you to come back.
When to go
Weekends are packed, but that’s when the energy is best. Friday and Saturday nights are the peak. But if you want to avoid crowds, go on a Thursday. The bars are lively but not overwhelming. You’ll get better service, shorter lines, and a chance to actually talk to the people around you.
Final tip: Don’t plan too much
The best nights in Paris happen when you let the city lead you. Start at Le Comptoir Général. Move to La Chanson if you feel like singing. Head to Le Baron if you want to dance. End at Le Perchoir if you’re not ready to call it a night. Wander. Talk. Laugh. That’s what a girls’ night out in Paris is really about.
Is Paris safe for women at night?
Yes, Paris is generally safe for women at night, especially in popular nightlife areas like the 10th, 11th, and 13th arrondissements. Stick to well-lit streets, use public transport or ride-share apps, and avoid isolated areas. Most bars and clubs have staff who watch the crowd, and locals are often helpful if you need directions.
What’s the best time to start a girls’ night out in Paris?
Start between 8:30 and 9:30 p.m. That gives you time to enjoy drinks and conversation before the clubs get crowded. Most bars open at 7 p.m., but the real energy kicks in after 9. If you want to dance, aim to hit Le Baron or Le Dauphin by 11 p.m. to get in before the line forms.
Do I need to make reservations for these spots?
Reservations aren’t needed for Le Comptoir Général, La Chanson, Le Dauphin, or Le Baron-they’re walk-in only. But for Le Perchoir, especially on weekends, it’s smart to book a table online. You can do it through their website. It’s not required, but it saves you from waiting outside in the cold.
Are these places expensive?
Not compared to tourist spots. Cocktails at Le Comptoir Général and Le Dauphin cost €8-€12. At Le Perchoir, they’re €14-€18, but the view justifies it. Le Baron has no cover charge before midnight, and drinks are fair. Avoid places that charge over €20 for a drink-that’s usually a trap.
Can I go alone to these places?
Absolutely. Many women in Paris go out alone. Le Comptoir Général and Le Perchoir are especially welcoming to solo visitors. You’ll likely end up talking to someone new. But if you’re uncomfortable, go with a friend. There’s no rule that says you have to be alone to have a good time.
