For a city that does not seem to have a particularly feisty nightlife at first sight, Paris has an astounding assortment of bars. There are cafes galore, of course, but a cafe is not necessarily a bar. Though both serve alcoholic beverages, cafes offer a laid-back place to sip at any time of day or night, whereas anything that calls itself a bar usually has an edgier feel and gets going after dark. Two recent developments may be responsible for the per-capital barstool increase: First, France has finally discovered cocktails and is putting its culinary talent to work behind the bar. Second, there is a new fondness for beer, a beverage that has often been treated with scorn and dismay in this wine-drinking country. Artisanal brewpubs are cropping up all around town. Bars, be they beer-, wine-, or cocktail-oriented, generally stay open until around 2am.
Wine Bars
Wine fans can lose their heads in this city, not because they drink too much, but because Paris has so many tempting wine bars to choose from. Not only can you sample all sorts of delightful fruits of the vine at a bar à vin, but you can usually nibble something salty and delicious (generally cheese or charcuterie) to complement what’s in the glass.
Cocktail Bars
Over the last few years, Paris has become a mixology powerhouse, with streams of fabulous cocktail bars opening in all sorts of places across town, from speakeasies hidden behind unmarked doors to tapas joints where cocktails steal the show from the wine. Hotel bars are some of the loveliest spots for cocktails too, especially the palaces where each drink (albeit expensive—around 26€) comes with free nibbles. Elsewhere expect to pay between 10€ and 15€.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
