Bars in Paris – Where to Drink Tonight

Looking for a place to grab a drink in Paris? The city has everything from tiny street‑side cafés to high‑end cocktail lounges. You don’t need a map – just a few tips and you’ll be sipping a perfect glass in the right neighborhood.

Cheap & Cozy Neighborhood Bars

First stop: the cheap‑and‑cheerful spots where locals hang out. In the 11th arrondissement, Le Perchoir offers rooftop views at a modest price. A beer costs about €5 and the vibe stays relaxed even when it’s full. Head east to Le Bar des Amis in Belleville for craft brews; it’s a walk‑in‑only place, so you can avoid long lines.

For a true Parisian feel, try the tiny bars of the Latin Quarter. Le Petit Terminal serves cheap wines by the glass and a small plate of cheese – perfect for a quick stop before a night out. Prices stay under €4 for most drinks, and the crowd is a mix of students and tourists, making it easy to strike up a conversation.

In the bustling Marais, Le Syndicat highlights French‑made spirits. Their cocktail menu is short but each drink uses a local ingredient, and the house‑made gin is only €9. The bar’s low‑light interior feels intimate, and the staff are quick to suggest a drink based on your taste.

Luxury Lounges & Cocktail Havens

If you’re after a fancy night, the 8th arrondissement hosts the city’s most upscale bars. Bar Hemingway at the Ritz Paris is legendary – expect a $15 classic martini and a strict dress code (no sneakers). The service is polished, and the ambience feels like a movie set.

Another high‑end option is Le Bar du Bristol. Their signature cocktail, the “Bristol Sour,” mixes French cognac with fresh citrus and costs €18. Reservations aren’t required, but arriving early helps you avoid the door‑policy crowd.

For a modern twist, check out Le Glass in the 16th arrondissement. The bar combines a glass‑blowing workshop vibe with a cocktail menu that changes weekly. Expect to pay €12‑€14 per drink, but the experience – watching a glass artist shape your cocktail glass – is worth it.

All these spots share a few common rules: bring an ID, respect the dress code (smart‑casual is usually safe), and tip the bartender a euro or two per drink. Paris bars close around 2 am, but many stay open later in the 2nd arrondissement’s nightlife hubs.

Getting there is easy. The Metro lines 1, 4, and 8 stop near most major bars, and night buses run every hour after the Metro shuts down. If you’re planning a bar crawl, buy a pack of ten tickets from any station – it’s cheaper than single rides.

Safety tip: keep an eye on your drink, watch the crowd, and use reputable taxis or rideshares if you’ve had a few. Most Parisians are friendly, but it never hurts to stay aware.

Bottom line: Paris has a bar for every budget and mood. Whether you’re chasing cheap drafts in Belleville or a $20 cocktail by the Eiffel Tower, the city’s nightlife will match your vibe. Grab a map, pick a neighborhood, and start exploring – the perfect bar is just around the corner.