Paris Cabarets: Which Show to Choose (Plus What Happened to Lido)
Paris has five major cabaret shows, and choosing between them is confusing: Moulin Rouge vs Crazy Horse vs Paradis Latin vs La Nouvelle Eve – which one should you book?
As a Paris local who’s seen all of these cabarets (and the now-closed Lido), I can tell you they’re surprisingly different. This guide compares all Paris cabarets honestly: what makes each unique, which offers best value, and how to choose based on what you actually want to experience. Current 2026 prices and booking options included.
Last update: March 2026
Table of Contents:
- What is the Best Cabaret in Paris for You? Complete Comparison
- What Happened to Lido Paris?
- A Brief History of Paris Cabarets
- Moulin Rouge Paris – The Most Famous
- Moulin Rouge Alternatives
- Crazy Horse Paris – L’Art du Nude
- Paradis Latin Paris – Locals’ Favorite
- La Nouvelle Eve Paris – The New (Not so New) Cabaret in Paris
- Le Lapin Agile Paris – The Traditional Cabaret
- Paris Cabarets During Christmas & New Year (December 2026)
- FAQ: Paris Cabaret Shows
What is the Best Cabaret in Paris for You? Complete Comparison
Not sure which cabaret to book? Use this comparison to find your perfect match based on what matters most to you:
CABARET SHOW | LOCATION | TYPE | BEST FOR | CAPACITY | DINNER | DAYS | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Montmartre | Traditional | First-timers, can-can lovers | Large (850) | Yes | Every day | ||
Champs-Elysées | Art Nude | Adults seeking sophisticated | Intimate (400) | No | Every day | ||
Latin Quarter | Modern Traditional | Budget concious, locals’ vibe | Medium (500) | Yes | Wednesday to Monday | ||
Montmartre | Traditional | Lido alternative, Belle Époque | Intimate (300) | Yes | Thursday to Tuesday (April to October) | ||
Montmartre | French Chanson | Authentic, French speakers | Very small (100) | No | Tuesday to Sunday |
Looking for Lido? Lido closed in 2022 and reopened as Lido 2 music hall (no longer a cabaret). Jump to my section about the Lido to learn what happened and which cabaret to see instead.
Choose Moulin Rouge if you want:
- The most famous cabaret experience
- Traditional French cancan
- Large-scale Vegas-style spectacle
Choose Crazy Horse if you want:
- Artistic nude performance (adults only)
- Intimate, sophisticated atmosphere
- Something different from traditional cabarets
Choose Paradis Latin if you want:
- Best value for money
- Locals’ favorite (less touristy)
- Gustave Eiffel-designed theater
- Creative, modern take on traditional cabaret
Choose La Nouvelle Eve if you want:
- Intimate Belle Époque atmosphere
- Moulin Rouge alternative (same neighborhood)
- Cheaper than Moulin Rouge with similar experience
What Happened to Lido Paris? (2022-2026 Update)
If you’re searching for Lido, here’s what you need to know:
The Lido Paris cabaret closed permanently in summer 2022 after 76 years of operation. COVID-19 kept its mostly international clientele away, and despite decades as one of Paris’s most iconic cabarets, it couldn’t recover financially.
In December 2022, the venue reopened as “Lido 2 Paris” – now an international music hall, NOT a traditional cabaret. Lido 2 hosts concerts, musicals, and variety shows (usually in English), but no longer offers the burlesque cabaret experience the original Lido was famous for. You can see the current program at Lido2Paris here
The Lido de Paris was one of Paris’s most famous cabarets, renowned for its large-scale, Vegas-style productions that combined dance, music, and theatrical spectacle. Located on the iconic Champs-Élysées, the venue became synonymous with lavish entertainment, featuring glamorous costumes, elaborate staging, and precision choreography performed by the legendary Bluebell Girls.
Its signature revue, Paris Merveilles, embodied the cabaret’s over-the-top style: sweeping stage effects, shimmering feathers, cascading bubbles, and dazzling visual spectacle designed to immerse audiences in a fantasy version of Parisian glamour.
What to See now instead: Moulin Rouge – Most similar to old Lido
- Large-scale spectacular with Doriss Girls (like Bluebell Girls)
- Elaborate costumes, French cancan, Vegas-style production
- Most famous cabaret in Paris
- Book Moulin Rouge
A Brief History of Paris Cabarets
Until the 19th century, a cabaret in France was a place to eat and drink, and it was easy to recognize thanks to a sign on the facade with an ivy cork.
During the Belle Époque era, cabarets in Paris became “café-concerts,” with cheap prices that were affordable for all pockets. Cabarets were places where people could forget about social barriers for a while and have fun. The atmosphere was festive; men could keep their hats on, and they used to drink and smoke all night long.
The best cabarets in Paris during the Belle Époque were Le Chat Noir (1881-1897) and Les Folies Bergère (since 1869).
Today, visitors can find two kinds of cabarets: large-scale shows featuring perfectly choreographed dancers and intimate shows that celebrate French chanson, humorous wit, and artistic talent.
Moulin Rouge Paris – The Most Famous
The Moulin Rouge is the most famous cabaret in Paris. Its funky red building dominating Boulevard de Clichy, in the Pigalle neighborhood, is one of the most famous landmarks in Paris.
Active since 1889, this Pigalle institution has developed a cabaret show impossible to replicate outside its doors, where the talented Doriss Dancers in flamboyant costumes perform crazy choreographies with incredible synchronization. There is only one Moulin Rouge Cabaret, and it’s in Paris.
Address: 82, Boulevard de Clichy, Paris 18; Metro Station: Blanche, Line 2
Moulin Rouge Show Options
It is possible to book the Moulin Rouge show with or without dinner. Tickets without dinner are usually sold with a glass of champagne. There are also interesting bundles with other attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower or a Seine River cruise, which can help you save money.
What to Expect at Moulin Rouge “Féerie“
Moulin Rouge’s show Féerie is the most famous cabaret in Paris. Here, you’ll see the talented Doriss Dancers perform crazy choreographies with incredible synchronization. Costumes are flamboyant (some great designers took part in their creation) with many feathers and bling-bling. As part of the show, you will see the iconic French cancan.
In the past, the Moulin Rouge was considered a little bit cramped. After the 2019 lockdown, however, they have reduced the number of spectators, so this should not be an issue anymore.
DID YOU KNOW? 250 meters of tissue are necessary to produce the “frou-frou” skirt. We find the noun “frou-frou” since the late 19th century: from French, imitative of the sound of a woman walking in a dress.
Dinner starts at 7 p.m. and there are shows at 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. daily. The Moulin Rouge is often sold out, so book your tickets well in advance!
Moulin Rouge Alternatives: 4 Great Options
Sold out? Do you want to spend less? While the iconic Moulin Rouge might be the most famous cabaret in Paris, it’s not the only option in the French capital. In fact, there’s a good selection of cabaret shows in Paris to suit everybody.
With that in mind, here are the best alternatives to Moulin Rouge Paris with their differences and similarities:
- Crazy Horse
- Paradis Latin
- La Nouvelle Eve
Paradis Latin vs Moulin Rouge
Located on opposite sides of Paris (Left Bank vs Right Bank), both cabaret shows are very similar, but prices at Paradis Latin are cheaper.
Another factor that can help you decide between Moulin Rouge or Paradis Latin is that the Moulin Rouge is more touristy while Paradis Latin’s audience is mainly French. This also means that sometimes they “forget” to translate some bits of the show and you could be lost in translation.
La Nouvelle Eve vs Moulin Rouge
If you are looking for Moulin Rouge alternatives, La Nouvelle Eve is a great option. Both cabarets are a Parisian institution (la Nouvelle Eve is only 9 years younger than the Moulin Rouge) and boast the only two original cancan dances in the world.
Literally right down the block, La Nouvelle Eve is smaller and more intimate (300 seats vs. 850 seats in the Moulin Rouge), and the audience is, in general, younger. La Nouvelle Eve cabaret show is much cheaper than the Moulin Rouge show, and the reviews are equally good.
Another important difference between La Nouvelle Eve vs Moulin Rouge (besides the size and price) is the opening times: while the Moulin Rouge is open all year round, La Nouvelle Eve only works from April to October.
Crazy Horse vs Moulin Rouge
The two most famous cabarets in Paris are totally different, so expect two different experiences. In the Moulin Rouge, naked artists are just a few, while the Crazy Horse show is based on the art of nude.
The Crazy Horse theatre is also smaller, thought for a more intimate experience. While the Moulin Rouge offers a total experience cabaret show + dinner, there are no dining options in the Crazy Horse. Depending on what you want to see (a nude show in Paris? Cancan girls?), you will choose Moulin Rouge vs Crazy Horse.
Paradis Latin vs Crazy Horse
Same as Crazy Horse vs Moulin Rouge, these two cabaret shows are totally different, so expect different experiences.
The Paradis Latin is located on the Left Bank, giving it a slightly off-the-beaten-cabaret-track feel, but its show is similar in style to the one at the Moulin Rouge, with dazzling choreographed dancing and lively music. By contrast, the Crazy Horse offers a nude revue and is located in one of the city’s most elegant neighborhoods.
Set in a theatre built by Gustave Eiffel, Paradis Latin calls itself the most Parisian of the Paris cabarets, while the Crazy Horse cabaret could be anywhere in the world.
Crazy Horse Paris – L’Art du Nude
The Crazy Horse is the sexiest cabaret in Paris. Its burlesque show “Totally Crazy” is an ode to feminine beauty, combining eroticism and sophistication.
Indeed, the Crazy Horse show is the only one where you can see naked female dancers who are only dressed in lights (and strategic strips of black tape). The Crazy Horse girls have perfect, lookalike bodies (when standing, the girls’ nipples and hips are all the same height) and perform innovative and delicate choreographies.
Address: 12 Avenue Georges V, Paris 8; Metro Station: Alma-Marceau, Line 9
Crazy Horse Show Options
There are no dining options inside the Crazy Horse but websites like Viator or Tiqets offer great bundles with elegant restaurants nearby.
- Le Crazy Horse “Totally Crazy” Show
- Le Crazy Horse Show + Alcoholic Beverages
- Le Crazy Horse Show + Dinner at the Ginger (Asian food) Tiqets’ exclusive offer!
- Le Crazy Horse Show + Meet a Dancer before the show Viator’s exclusive offer!
What to Expect at Crazy Horse “Totally Crazy”
Crazy Horse’s Totally Crazy is a sexy and classy cabaret show, the best cabaret Paris has to offer of its kind. The intimately small theatre of this cabaret allows for no elaborate special effects, just the enviable perfection of the 20 nude dancers executing superb choreographies.
There is a fantastic use of song, dance, and special effects in this Paris nude show. What is clear is that you don’t come to the Crazy Horse Paris to see spectacular costumes and leathers! Like other cabarets in Paris, there are also magic and comedy acts while the ladies change their barely-there costumes.
There are nightly shows at 8:30 p.m. and 11 p.m., and three shows on Saturday. Because it usually sells out very soon, try to book your tickets ASAP. Seating is first-come, first-served, so arrive about 30 minutes in advance.
Paradis Latin Paris – Locals’ Favorite
The Paradis Latin is the oldest cabaret in Paris, founded by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802! Located in the Latin Quarter, in the 5th Arrondissement of Paris, it was a trendy meeting place welcoming guests like Dumas or Balzac, to name a few.
During the Franco-Prussian War, a big fire destroyed the Paradis Latin, and Gustave Eiffel later rebuilt it for the Universal Exhibition of Paris. Just like the Eiffel Tower, the new Paradis Latin turned 130 in 2019!
Paradis Latin is locals’ favorite cabaret, probably because of its high-quality cabaret dinner and affordable prices compared to other cabarets.
Paradis Latin’s new owners have given the historic cabaret an instant makeover with the new show, “L’Oiseau Paradis” (Paradise Bird), created by Kamel Ouali, a famous choreographer, dancer, director, and once-in-a-lifetime talent.
Address: 28 Rue du Cardinal Lemoine, Paris 5; Metro Station: Cardinal Lemoine, Line 10
Paradis Latin Show Options
You can book the cabaret show with or without dinner. Le Paradis Latin also has a show especially designed and adapted for the whole family. Named “Mon Premier Cabaret” (my first cabaret), this show runs three afternoons a week (Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays) and every day during French school vacations.
What to Expect at Paradis Latin “L’Oiseau Paradis”
Kamel’s troupe of dancers reviews the classical cabaret and its famous French cancan with “L’Oiseau Paradis,” a fantastic show that combines to perfection sound, music, light, and dreamy costumes.
As spectators arrive through Paradis Latin’s famous front doors, the show is everywhere, with wild animals and unique live entertainment during the dinner.
Once the bellies are happy, the cabaret show begins, with creative scenes such as the aquarium and the duo dancing on a bathtub (my two favorites!), the Pegasus horse flying from the sky, or the Grand Finale.
Dinner starts at 8 p.m. and shows from 9:30 p.m. Expect an audacious, joyful, and creative cabaret show, which is being talked about as the best burlesque show in Paris! Read my full Paradis Latin cabaret show review.
La Nouvelle Eve Paris – Intimate Belle Époque Experience
La Nouvelle Eve is one of the oldest cabarets in Paris. Open since 1898, a few steps from the Moulin Rouge, La Nouvelle Eve is a smaller and more intimate cabaret offering a show in the purest Parisian tradition (French cancan included) and dinner with wine and champagne.
La Nouvelle Eve Paris also boasts one of the most beautiful halls in the city! Arranged in the Belle Époque style, you’ll love the starry ceiling and its softened and intimate atmosphere.
Address: 25 Rue Pierre Fontaine, Paris 9; Metro Station: Pigalle, lines 2 and 12
La Nouvelle Eve Show Options
It’s possible to book La Nouvelle Eve cabaret show with or without dinner. Tickets without dinner are usually sold with a glass of champagne.
What to Expect at “Paris Je T’aime”
La Nouvelle Eve’s “Paris Je T’Aime” celebrates the Parisian spirit. The underlying theme is a tribute to Paris, the Capital of Love, and the iconic Edith Piaf, a key figure of Montmartre. Expect a traditional cabaret show with fun acrobatics and choreographies, singing, French cancan, glitter, feathers, and lots of bubbles.
You eat before the show in the decor of this beautiful, intimate hall for 300 people. There’s a single menu (starter – main – dessert, with vegetarian choices), which comes with a decent bottle of red wine and white wine per couple and a glass of champagne during the show. All the dishes are prepared on-site from fresh produce.
Dinner is from 6:30 p.m. And shows are from 8:15 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
La Nouvelle Eve’s cabaret show is only available for six months, from April to October.
Address: 25 Rue Pierre Fontaine, Paris 9; Metro Blanche, line 2
Le Lapin Agile Paris – Traditional French Cabaret
Located in the quintessential neighborhood of Montmartre, Le Lapin Agile is one of the few traditional cabarets in Paris still working in the city. This French cabaret consists of a village house, easily recognizable from its sign (a rabbit jumping out of a saucepan).
Le Lapin Agile is famous for being the center of the bohemian Montmartre at the beginning of the 19th century, welcoming guests like Max Jacob, Pablo Picasso, and Modigliani. This Parisian establishment continues to display new talents and is a place where you can have a good time.
Le Lapin Agile is a popular option for those looking for an authentic cabaret experience, and new artists are happy to go to Le Lapin Agile to introduce their shows.
Address: 22 Rue des Saules, Paris 18. Metro Station: Lamarck-Caulaincourt, Line 12
Le Lapin Agile Show Options
The cabaret show costs 40€ and includes one drink. There is no dinner option inside, but there are plenty of good restaurants in Montmartre nearby. Space inside the cabaret is limited, so bookings are essential – click here for days and times. Send your booking request, with names and dates, to infos@au-lapin-agile.com.
What to Expect at Lapin Agile
This is the best cabaret show Paris has to offer of its kind. French songs, famous songs about Paris, music in general, and poetry. There is no micro, no lasers, or feathers… It’s a traditional cabaret in a small space where the public is invited to sing along.
That said, the show is only in French, and there is no translation or explanation for non-French speakers; just follow the music!
Make sure to eat first, then show up anytime between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m. Nobody stays for the whole soirée, but you are welcome to try!
Paris Cabarets During Christmas & New Year (December 2026)
Planning a trip to Paris at Christmas? Here’s what’s special about cabaret shows during the holidays:
Christmas Eve (December 24):
- Most cabarets offer special Christmas shows
- Often include festive menu options
- Premium prices with higher prices
- Book 3-4 months in advance (sells out fast)
New Year’s Eve (December 31):
- Premium packages with champagne at midnight
- Special extended shows
- Most expensive tickets of the year
- Book 3-4 months in advance
Christmas Week (December 25-31):
- All cabarets open (except possibly December 25)
- Popular week for international visitors (book 3-4 months in advance, even for regular shows)
- Regular shows + some special performances (Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year’s Eve)
Christmas + New Year Shows this year
Most of the cabarets haven’t announced their special holiday shows yet. Keep clicking for the latest updates!
FAQ: Paris Cabaret Shows
What happened to Lido Paris?
Lido closed permanently in summer 2022 after 76 years. The venue reopened as “Lido 2 Paris” in December 2022 as a music hall, not a cabaret. For Lido-style experiences, see Moulin Rouge. Read full Lido story
Which is better: Moulin Rouge or Crazy Horse?
Depends on what you want. Moulin Rouge = traditional cabaret with cancan, large-scale show, family-appropriate. Crazy Horse = artistic nude performance, intimate, adults-only. Read the detailed comparison.
Can I see a cabaret show without dinner?
Yes. All major cabarets offer show-only tickets (usually with champagne or drinks included). Dinner packages cost more but include 3-4 course meals.
Do I need to book in advance?
YES, especially for Moulin Rouge (often sold out months ahead). Paradis Latin and Crazy Horse are easier to get last-minute tickets, but advance booking is always safer, especially weekends and holidays.
What’s the dress code for Paris cabarets?
Smart casual minimum. Men: no shorts, sports shoes, or athletic wear. Jacket/tie appreciated but not required. Women: dress, skirt, or nice pants. Think “date night” attire, not “nightclub” or “gym.” Lapin Agile Dress Code is casual.
Are Paris cabarets appropriate for children?
Moulin Rouge, Paradis Latin, La Nouvelle Eve: Yes (though topless dancers present, it’s artistic not sexual). Crazy Horse: NO (adults only, explicit nude performance). Paradis Latin offers a family-specific show “Mon Premier Cabaret” on Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday afternoons.
How long are cabaret shows?
Typically 90-120 minutes. With dinner: allow 3-3.5 hours total. Show-only: arrive 30 minutes early for seating, show itself 90-120 minutes.
Can I take photos during the show?
NO. Photography and video strictly prohibited at all Paris cabarets (pictures in this article were kindly shared by the different cabarets). Security will ask you to stop. Enjoy the show without screens.
Which cabaret is cheapest?
Paradis Latin generally offers best value. La Nouvelle Eve also has good prices. Moulin Rouge is the most expensive. Crazy Horse mid-range. Compare current prices in the comparison table.
Is Lido 2 worth visiting?
Lido 2 is a music hall with concerts/musicals, NOT a traditional cabaret. I saw one of its first shows and really liked it (check current program here), but if you want the cabaret experience, see Moulin Rouge, Crazy Horse, or Paradis Latin instead.
Have more questions? Join my Facebook group about Paris & France travel planning – ask anything, get insider tips from locals and experienced travelers, and find inspiration for your trip.
Paris has incredible cabarets, each completely different from the others. Pick the one that matches your style, book ahead, and you’ll have a great night. Bon voyage!
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