Summer in the city: When dusk falls and life spills out onto the pavements and cobblestones of the city, in squares, alleys and grand avenues. When the lights seem to shimmer, the Eiffel Tower puts on a sparkly show and the sound of chatter and laughter carries on the night air. There’s something very special about Paris after dark.
Live life like a local not a tourist and enjoy some of the best things to in Paris on summer nights …
Paris after dark in the summer
Where to drink late in Paris
Perfect for night owls: Every thursday night, the Paris Zoo will remain open late to offer visitors a unique experience. Watch the animals nibble their night time treats and enjoy your own night owl night out with snacks, drinks and dancing. www.parczoologiquedeparis.fr/en
Bobbing about on the river: Enjoy the cooler night air on a barge on the Seine. Rosa Bonheur was built in 1867, she’s a “guinguette” a traditional word used to describe a place where you can eat, drink and dance. This boat makes for a great place for a food and drink stop during the day but it’s at night when it really comes alive. Picnic style food, great cocktails, a heaving dance floor, eclectic music and a friendly atmosphere that spills onto the quayside make this one of the most fun night time venues in Paris. Thursday – Saturday until 1am. Port des Invalides, Quai d’Orsay, 75007
Night at the opera: On Saturday nights, from mid June June to the end of September, the Opera restaurant at the foot of the Opera Garnier turns into a night club with DJ, dancing and music until the early hours of the morning. If you fancy something a little less energetic, from 22h enjoy a cocktail at the Cointreau bar on the hidden terrace. 1 place Jacques Rouché; facebook.com/laboumette
Books and wine – there’s not much to beat that winning combination: La Belle Hortense book shop opens until 2am and has a wine bar. Pop in for a browse of the book shelves, an aperitif and snack. Literary heaven in the heart of Paris close to Notre Dame. 31 rue Vieille du Temple, 75004
Where to dine late in Paris
Arty party: Café Beauborg is open until 2 am (orders until 1am). Facing the modern art wonder of Paris, the Pompidou Centre, the restaurant has been a firm favourite with artists and locals alike. A fresh, zingy menu and a sunny terrace just perfect for watching the world go by. 21 Rue Saint-Merri, 75004
A taste of Provence in the city: At Chez Janou the emphasis is on friendly, fun and fabulous tasting food with a southern accent – as in the south of France. You won’t find a better selection of Pastis anywhere in Paris, you’ve got a choice of more than 80 different types here. Wine and dine until 2 am. 2 Rue Roger Verlomme 75003
Café chic: Le Café Louise in Saint-Germain-des-Prés is where you can while away the night until the wee small hours. Open until 5.00 am from Thursday to Saturday (2am Sunday to Wednesday). In this posh area of Paris, the café is all you’d expect, chic, comfy and cosy. Happy Hour is weekdays from 18h-20h and the menu is classic French from snacks like traditional Croque Monsieur to a la carte, including dishes like Sole Meuniere, Andouillette and entrecote. 155 boulevard Saint Germain, 75006
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