15 Best Paris Night Tours: See the City of Lights

Paris is a cosmopolitan city that attracts many tourists throughout the year for its architectural wonders and exquisite art museums.

The option of several tours and itineraries in Paris can be very confusing to tourists. Thus, we have created a guide to help you navigate through the best tours that the city of lights has to offer.

Best Night Tours in Paris, France

1. Best Paris Night Tours: Mysteries of the Opera Garnier After Hours Tour

The Opera Garnier, also known as the Palais Garnier, is an opulent opera house in the heart of Paris. It was constructed by Emperor Napoleon III in the late 1860s.

The Paris tours of the Opera will give you a glimpse of the elegant mosaic artwork and help you learn about the significance of the performances which inspired modern-day books and plays, such as The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux. 

The Opera Garnier 90-minute tour at night lets you experience the sight of an architectural wonder with a rich historical background. You can see the gold embellishments and marble structures inside the theatre. 

This tour is popular among theatre enthusiasts. The tour will start with your guide talking about the historical inspiration and accuracy of the Opéra Garnier in the Phantom of the Opera. 

Your guide will describe the story of Erik and a short life story of Gaston Leroux to give you more context on the place. You can experience the ethereal feeling of climbing the double stairway of the Grand Escalier and the magnificent Parisian sculptures and jewels. This is an excellent thing to do in Paris with kids.

After you finish the tour, you could grab dinner at the traditional cafe spots in the city.

Things to know about this tour:

• You can experience the live tour in both English and French, and the tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
• There may be some Opera Garnier modifications to the guide. Such changes may occur due to technical reasons, upon which you may not get a guaranteed refund.
• The live tour costs $25.43 per person with a free 24-hour cancellation policy.
• The live tour does not allow any backstage access, or children below the age of 12.
• Tourists must bring a form of identification such as a passport or ID.

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2. Paris: City Highlights Segway Tour

Segway through the city of lights as you learn about famous Parisian sites and monuments on this Paris night tour! Glide past the city attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, which is a magnificent sight at night. You will get insightful commentary from the local tour guide. You will also cross over the River Seine and learn about its historic significance. 

You will also get to cross over the River Seine and learn about its historic significance on this Paris City Highlights Segway Tour.

The best part of this tour is that you get your money’s worth as you will cover more sites over a shorter time than the usual walking tours in Paris.

Things to know before the tour:

• The live tour costs $42.48 per person with a free 24-hour cancellation policy and mobile ticketing.
• The meeting point for this tour is at the foot of the Statue of Marshal Joseph Joffre, at the main gate of the military school. 
• This 1-hour tour is available in English and has 15 people tour limit. The tour will commence at 5:15 pm sharp.
• This tour is not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or people with a physical inability, as the tour involves a segway.
• This tour is also not suitable for people under 5ft 1in and individuals weighing less than 99 pounds or more than 260 pounds.

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3. Eiffel Tower: Direct Access Tour to the 2nd Floor by the Elevator

The panoramic view of the city lights from the Eiffel Tower in Paris is a magnificent sight to experience. Eiffel Tower Direct Access Tour enables you to access the second floor of the Eiffel Tower by elevator.

Spend some time soaking in the views of the iron tower as you will get to see Notre Dame cathedral, the Sacre-Coeur, and the River Seine from the Eiffel Tower. Escape the lines through this direct access tour to save time. However, there might be a 25-minute wait during the peak tourist season.

The tour is subject to change due to weather conditions, or when the Eiffel Tower may be closed for viewing. So before taking this tour, ensure you have a Paris itinerary of everything you would like to see in Paris. It will make it easier for you to navigate so that you don’t end up missing out on a full Parisian tourist experience.

Things to know before the tour:

• The live tour costs $41.29 per person with a free 24-hour cancellation policy and mobile ticketing.
• This tour meeting point is at the Avenue Sylvestre de Stacy, close to the Eiffel Tower. Make sure you get there 15 minutes before the tour starts so that your guide can answer any questions or problems regarding your tour ticket.
• Your live guide will have a Qualium Tours jacket on and will be holding a Qualium Tours sign.
• Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as there will be a lot of walking to do on this tour.
• There are many ways to get to the meeting point. By bus: take lines 42,69,82, or 87. By metro: take line 6 and line 8, which will lead you to the Eiffel Tower station.

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4. Paris: Lounge Dinner Cruise on the Seine River 

Enjoy a gourmet French meal with your family and friends on the Paris dinner cruise overlooking the picturesque River Seine.

You will get to taste the most scrumptious meals on your journey, enjoy music by live singers, and dance to the beats of the DJ until the early morning hours. The river cruise will have multiple food assortments, representing ten different flavors specific to French cuisine.

Make this river cruise an unforgettable experience as you cruise through the scenic views of the bridges on the Seine. After your tour, you might want to unwind in a nice hotel.

Things to know about the cruise:

• The meeting point for this Paris night cruise is at the Port d’Austerlitz, 34 Quao d’ Austerlitz, 75013 Paris.
• The live tour costs $71.64 per person with a free 24-hour cancellation policy and mobile ticketing.
• You cannot wear shorts or travel sandals on the cruise.

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5. Paris Night Bicycle Tour and River Cruise

This tour is perfect for all cycling enthusiasts. Explore the heart of the city by cycling through popular attractions like Notre Dame cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and the River Seine. As a refreshment during the tour, you can stop by Berthillion Ice Cream Parlor, famous for its decadent creamy ice cream. 

The Paris night biking tour and cruise will end with an hour-long relaxing boat ride across the banks of the River Seine. Sip some complimentary wine as you take in the mesmerizing views of the Academie Francaise, the gothic churches, and the Latin Quarter. 

This evening tour perfectly captures the true meaning of the city of lights as you will see the night illuminations from your bike rides through Paris. Paris night tour is known for its night illumination. You can also choose from several bicycle day trips. 

Things you need to know about this tour:

• The meeting point will be at the local partner’s office. The tour will never get canceled due to weather conditions, and the office will sell rain ponchos during this time.
• The live tour costs $53.43 per person with a free 24-hour cancellation policy and mobile ticketing. The tour will last for approximately 4.5 hours.
• Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as you will get to visit many sites on a bicycle.
• Attendees must be over the age of 12 and must know how to ride a bicycle. Attendees below the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
• Please bring some form of identification such as a passport.

6. Paris by Night Illuminations Tour and Moulin Rouge Show

Paris night tours have many glamorous illuminations and shows, such as the Moulin Rouge. The cancan dance was first invented in the Moulin Rouge in the Montmartre district of Paris. 

The tour begins at the Arc de Triomphe and lle de Cite, where you will get escorted to either a coach or a minivan that will take you around the city to see the lights. You will pass famous Parisian monuments such as the Champs-Elysees, the Chatelet Square, and the Eiffel Tower.

The tour will end at the Moulin Rouge, where you can sip a glass of champagne as you enjoy a rendition of the famous “ Feerie” performance.

You will also experience a live performance by the Dorris Girls in their glitzy feathered costumes. Once the show is over, you will head to the original meeting point.

Things to know about the tour:

• During the winter season, the tour includes the first show. And during the summer season, the tour includes the second show in the Moulin Rouge.
• The meeting point will be at 2 Rue des Pyramides, 75001 Paris, France.
• You can book this tour online in English starting from a standard booking of $197.08 per person.
• Moulin Rouge will not grant special access and allow you to skip the line access due to the show’s popularity.

7. Paris by Night: Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting Experience

French cuisine serves a different palate experience because of its exquisite taste and the different types of wines and liquors. Explore the Parisian 11th arrondissement as you navigate through bistros and restaurants serving different varieties of cheese, wines, and delicacies such as snails and frog legs. 

You can sample the rosé and French aperitif at Le Baron Rouge or stop by the wine cellar at Le Siffleur de Ballons to try their wine and cheese spreads. There are seasonal cafes that create scrumptious plates from fresh French farm produce. 

You can also experience the actual Parisian atmosphere at a bistro La Ravigote and choose from a selection of different wines. 

Paris is known for its vino, generally paired with fresh cuts of cheese or chocolate. Finish the day at one of the best wineries in the city. This is one of the best night tours in Paris with friends.

Things to know about the tour:

• The meeting point is at 83 Rue Crozatier, 75012 Paris, France.
• You can book this food and wine tasting tour online in English starting from a standard booking of $159.52 per person. The operator of the tour is Devour Paris Food Tours.
• The tour will include six different wine-tasting and food-tasting locations.
• An expert culinary guide will accompany you on this tour. The guide will tell you more about the best food to try at each place.
• This guided tour is strictly for people above the age of 18. Don’t forget to bring your identification.

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8. Louvre under the Stars After Hours Museum Small-Group Guided Tour

If you hate waiting in long lines, this tour is perfect for you! You can escape the crowds with your group on this tour. The evening guided tour is inclusive of the skip-the-line admission ticket. 

The Louvre museum is one of the central Paris landmarks with visitors flocking to get a glimpse of the vision of Parisian artisans and their collections. It is situated next to the banks of the Seine, making it an efficient tourist spot. 

Explore famous artworks like Venus de Milo and the Mona Lisa with a personalized live tour guide who will explain the significance of each art piece in the legendary museum. It is one of the best Paris at-night tours for small groups because it has a limit of only 15 people in each small group.

Things to know about this tour:

• You can book this tour online and get your admission ticket in advance, starting from a standard booking of $82.88 per person. 
• The tour is available in English and will last for 2 hours.
• You are not allowed to take food and drinks inside the museum.
• The meeting point of this tour is at 10 Place du Carrousel, 75001 Paris, France.

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9. A Vintage Paris Night Tour by Car

Experience one of the best Paris night tours hosted by Stoyan. The guided Paris night tour by car is available in English, Bulgarian, and French and accommodates a maximum of four people.

Stoyan will take you through the Parisian streets in his vintage Peugeot 404 of 1963. 

He will take you on a ride to watch the city’s illuminations and different attractions. It will be an authentic experience as you will get to see Le Marais, a historical district famous for its architecture and historic influence. 

Stop by Butte-aux-Cailles, a hilltop neighborhood with many bars and restaurants. You will also get the opportunity to witness the Grand Mosque of Paris or the Gare de Lyon.

Stoyan will accompany you to Place des Vosges, a petit square in the city famous for its unique atmosphere and fascinating history. 

Enjoy a long stroll through the city as Stoyan tells you all the historical stories and significance of each place. After having a long day, you might want to book yourself an Airbnb for the night. Airbnb has provided many accommodations for tourists in Paris.

Things to know before the tour:

• There need to be four attendees to take this guided tour. There are no age limitations.
• You can book this tour on Airbnb at $74 per person. Stoyan is verified on Airbnb and has committed to Airbnb’s Covid-19 regulations and safety.
• There will be a one-stop for tasting macaroons included in the tour fee.

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10. Paris and Montmartre by Night Tour in a 2CV

The tour company specializes in vintage car tours by a classic French model, the Citroen 2CV. You will get to drive along the Champs-Elysees.

Most tourists love this experience as they see attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, all while in the comfort of an expensive car, sipping on a glass of champagne. 

In this two-hour ride, you avoid crowded areas and see all the major attractions. All in all, it gives tourists a local Parisian experience.

You will finish the tour by driving through Montmartre and Sacre Coeur Basilica to experience a beautiful panoramic view of the starry Paris skyline through Paris at night tours.

Things to know before the tour:

1. You can book this tour online, starting from a standard booking of $253.35 per group. This tour is only available for a group of 3 travelers.
2. The best time to take this private tour is from May to August.
3. It will be a one-hour tour, starting at 9 pm and lasting till 10 pm.
4. You will get champagne and a private driver for the tour. The driver will be your guide to answer any questions or to share some insight into the attractions and monuments.
5. The operator of this private tour is Golden Services Plus- Paris Authentic.

11. City of Wonders: The Paris Ghosts, Legends, and Mysteries Night Walking Tour

City of Wonders is a global tour and travels operator with offices in the Vatican, Rome, Paris, Barcelona, Naples, London, and Milan. They provide custom-designed, educationally intensive, slightly out-of-the-ordinary tours in Paris. Their most popular tour is the Paris Ghosts, Legends, and Mysteries Night Walking Tour. 

If you enjoy macabre, ghost stories, and the underworld, you will love this tour. You will learn about Paris and her sinister side when the city is beautifully lit up in the dark. 

The Paris Ghosts, Legends, and Mysteries Tour is conducted in groups of no more than 20. It focuses on bloodbaths, executions, medieval torture techniques, historical wars in France, and suicides. You will enjoy this tour if you enjoy the medieval era and history. 

The guides make the tour interesting for the audience by using special effects, intonation, and an engaging storytelling technique. Teenagers will enjoy this tour because it will be a fantasy walk for them.

Things to know about the tour: 

• The walking tour has an English-speaking guide. You will also get headsets for improved audio capture.
• The tour starts from Statue équestre d’Henri IV and stops at rue Rivoli.
• The tour is available from 9 pm to 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
• The tour costs $21.38 per adult.

12. Big Bus Paris Night Tour

Big Bus is well known for its hop-on, hop-off tours in Paris, but they also offer a non-hop-on, hop-off night tour, an affordable and worthwhile way to explore Paris at night. 

The tour lasts two hours and includes stops at the Eiffel Tower, Opera Garnier, Musée d’Orsay, Notre Dame cathedral, Champ de Mars, Louvre – Pyramide, Champs-Elysées, Trocadéro, Pont des Arts, and Grand Palais, among other notable Paris landmarks.

All tours include an audio guide in 11 languages, free maps, a live tour guide, and a reward voucher good for discounts at stores and restaurants. The double-decker, air-conditioned buses have an open top and provide panoramic views of the city.

Things to know about the tour: 

• Every day at 9:15 pm, the 2-hour tour leaves from 8 No. stop on Avenue Champs-Elysees.
• You will hear recorded commentary and will get to choose from 11 digital languages.
• The tour starts at 156 Av. des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris, France, and ends at the meeting point.
• The tour costs $25.43 per adult and $13.23 per child (4 to 12 years) for the night tour.

13. Tootbus Paris by Night Tour

The tootbus Paris by night tour offers breathtaking views of the city’s lit-up sites and streets. On this tour, you take a double-decker open-top bus tour of Paris to see the Louvre Museum, Eiffel Tower, the River Seine, and the Paris Opera.

You also get to explore Champs Elysées Avenue, Place Vendômeas, and Place de la Concorde. This Paris at-night tour is perfect for individuals who want to have a fun night and have never been to Paris or are short on time.

Additionally, it provides onboard audio commentary so that you don’t miss anything and ensures that you enjoy stunning views of the Parisian nighttime illuminations.

Things to know about the tour:

• The tour costs around $31.18 per adult.
• The activity lasts 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) and is offered in five languages, including German, Spanish, English, Italian, and French.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible and includes a maximum of 55 travelers.
• The tour starts at 121 Pl. du Carrousel, 75001 Paris, France, and ends at the meeting point.

14. Paris Night Tour in Electric Bike

Ride an electric bike across Paris’s side streets and bike lanes during this night tour. You will feel at ease riding an electric bike in the dark with a guide in the lead, peddling as hard as you wish, and taking advantage of the electric motor.

During this Paris bike at night tour, you will pass through famous illuminated Parisian monuments like Fontaine Saint-Michel, Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Paris, Place de la Concorde, and more. All in all, this is the best tour for exploring Paris landmarks.

Furthermore, you will hear the tour guide’s commentary on the city’s modern life, history, architecture, and culture. So get ready to take this exciting bike tour and experience the magic of the “city of lights.”

Things to know about the tour:

• The tour costs around $91.77 per adult.
• The activity lasts 1 hour and 40 minutes to 2 hours (approx.) and is offered in two languages, English and French.
• The tour starts at 10 Rue de la Paix, 75002 Paris, France, and ends at the meeting point.
• This activity requires good weather. You will get an option of an alternate date or a full refund if it gets postponed because of bad weather.
• There must be a minimum number of participants for this activity. If the minimum isn’t reached, you will get the option of an alternate date or a complete refund.

15. Self-Guided Tour: Walk Along the Seine River 

You can get from the Eiffel Tower to the Musée d’Orsay by taking a stroll along the Seine River. Once you reach the Seine River, you can start your journey eastward, up the river, and you will directly pass through the Eiffel Tower. You will also see a vibrant carousel and concession stand near the Pont d’Iéna bridge, creating the impression of a tiny fair.

When you look across the river, you will see the curving Palais de Chaillot, with its spectacular sculptures and water fountains.

Keep moving east, and you will see one of Paris’ newest museums. It is the Museum of Branly Quay, inaugurated in June 2006. The museum displays the arts and cultures of Africa, Oceania, Asia, and the United States.

The Place de la Résistance and the Pont de l’Alma bridge can be reached by continuing down the Quai Branly. The Pont des Invalides and the elaborate Pont Alexander III are the other two bridges you will encounter.

The Grand Palais, a massive glass-roofed structure across the river, is on the left (west), while the Petit Palais, with its slated dome roof, is on the right (east).

The Esplanade des Invalides is located at Pont Alexander III as well.

The Pont de la Concorde and the Assemblée Nationale are located immediately beyond the Esplanade des Invalides. The Place de la Concorde, located across the river, can be seen from the bridge.

Moving straight ahead, you will get to the Boulevard Saint Germaine, where you will also find the Assemblée Nationale metro station on line #12, a few steps further.

Next, you will reach Passerelle Solferino, a pedestrian bridge and a lovely entrance into the Jardin des Tuileries, also known as the Garden of the Tuileries, by continuing along the Quai, now known as Quai Anatole France.

You can then reach the Musée d’Orsay going a little distance past the Passerelle. The RER station Musée d’Orsay is also nearby.

Here are some of the accommodations you can choose to stay in Paris:

• Hôtel Le Milie Rose
• citizenM Paris Gare de Lyon
• Hyatt Paris Madeleine
• Résidence Charles Floquet

Final Thoughts

Paris night tours are an unforgettable experience for any tourist or visitor. Whether you like bicycling around Paris or want to take a long stroll around Montmartre, there is a tour for everyone to enjoy and learn about Parisian stories and historical influences in all popular attractions.

Paris at night tours allow you to experience the local life in Paris and will make you fall in love with the beauty of the illuminations and art in the city.

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