Explore Hidden bars and Speakeasies in Paris

Getting a taste of Parisian nightlife without the hassle of wandering aimlessly or getting lost is exactly what this two-hour small-group tour promises. Based on consistent rave reviews, this experience offers a glimpse into some of the city’s most intriguing and elusive venues—bars that often hide behind unmarked doors or secret entrances. It’s perfect for travelers who crave authenticity, good company, and a sense of adventure after sunset.

What we love about this tour is its focus on personalized attention thanks to its small group size—capped at seven people—and the exclusive access to invitation-only spots. Plus, the guide’s local knowledge shines through, making every step feel like a friendly neighborhood exploration rather than a scripted affair. The downside? Drinks aren’t included, which means your tab can add up if you’re not mindful, but the atmosphere and discoveries are well worth the extra spend.

This tour suits curious night owls, cocktail lovers, and anyone eager to see Paris from a more intimate, insider’s perspective. If you’re looking for a fun, manageable way to kick off an evening or simply want a different side of Paris beyond the usual tourist spots, this experience could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy enhances the experience with personalized attention.
• Access to invitation-only bars offers a feeling of exclusivity and discovery.
• Two hours is enough to sample 2 to 3 hidden venues without feeling rushed.
• Drinks are not included, so budget for additional expenses.
• Expert guides share insider tips and fun facts about Paris nightlife.
• Flexible as a standalone activity or a starting point for your evening.

Why This Tour Stands Out

In Paris, the best nightlife isn’t always obvious. Many of the city’s secret bars and speakeasies have hidden entrances, unmarked doors, or require local knowledge to find. This tour taps into that mystique, taking you to some of the coolest, lesser-known spots that you’d likely miss on your own.

The two-hour format makes it manageable, especially if you’re jet-lagged or want to fit it into a larger evening plan. You’ll visit 2 to 3 venues, each with its unique vibe—whether it’s a cozy speakeasy with vintage decor, a lively underground bar, or a hidden gem with fantastic cocktails and music. The guide’s local insights mean you’ll learn not just about the drinks, but about the history and stories behind each spot, adding an extra layer of richness to your experience.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off at Place de la République, a lively and central Paris square. From there, your guide will lead you to their favorite secret spot in the 11th arrondissement, a local favorite with a cozy, inviting atmosphere. This first stop lasts about an hour, giving you ample time to soak in the ambiance, sip on a cocktail or beer, and chat with your fellow travelers.

What makes these bars special? Some feature secret entrances—imagine stepping through a nondescript door and entering a world of classic cocktails, vintage decor, and good music. The atmosphere is carefully curated to give that speakeasy feel, with some bars even having a sense of exclusivity, as if you’re part of a hidden society.

After the first stop, there’s a brief walk—just six minutes—to the next venue. Here, the vibe might shift—perhaps a slightly more lively or intimate space. The guide encourages sharing their knowledge of other secret bars in the city, so if you’re eager to explore more on your own later, you’ll leave with plenty of tips and locations.

Note: Drinks and food are not included in the price, so be prepared for additional costs. However, reviews consistently praise the quality of cocktails and ambiance—many say the drinks are well worth the extra expense.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable nature of guides like Felix and Marc, who make navigation and storytelling effortless and fun. One review states, “Very friendly and knowledgeable. We started on time and it was so easy to follow directions,” illustrating how smooth the experience is even for first-timers.

Participants also appreciate the diverse and high-quality venues visited, with one reviewer noting, “We went to 3 very cool bars. Our host was excellent. He was relaxed and made sure we were all having a great time.” The emphasis on atmosphere, great drinks, and interesting stories keeps the experience lively and engaging.

The tour’s small size creates an intimate environment—reviewers mention groups of around seven—meaning you’re not lost in a crowd. It fosters social interactions, perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups wanting a cozy yet exciting night out.

Some reviews mention the tour as an excellent way to kickstart an evening. For example, “Great little activity to get the night started! Felix was very friendly. Small group so it didn’t feel overwhelming,” making it a fun, relaxed way to begin your night.

That said, a few reviews note that guides’ professionalism can vary. One reviewer mentioned a less positive experience due to guide conduct, so it’s worth considering that, as with any small group tour, the experience can depend on the guide.

The Venues: What Makes Them Unique

Each bar or speakeasy on the tour is carefully selected for its hidden charm and excellent ambiance. Many feature secret entrances, which add an element of fun and adventure. You might find yourself walking through a discreet door or behind a nondescript facade, entering a world of vintage decor, curated music, and craft cocktails.

The venues also seem to excel in creating a cozy, authentic vibe—not overly commercialized, but instead feeling like a genuine local haunt. The music levels are generally good, allowing for conversations, while still maintaining a lively, energetic atmosphere.

The cocktail quality is often praised, with reviews mentioning “phenomenal drinks” and “fabulous cocktails,” suggesting that these hidden spots are serious about their mixology. For those who enjoy wine and beer, many venues have a good selection, and some bars even offer non-alcoholic options.

Value for Money

At $32.10 per person, this tour offers a solid value, especially considering the access to exclusive venues and the guided experience. The price covers all venues’ entry fees—a bonus since many bars in Paris charge a cover or minimum spend—plus the insider tips from your guide.

While drinks are extra, the reviews indicate that the quality and atmosphere of the cocktails make the additional spend worthwhile. If you’re someone who appreciates the history and story behind each bar, this experience provides a richer perspective than just popping into random spots.

For travelers keen on exploring the hidden side of Paris nightlife, this tour balances affordability with memorable, authentic experiences you can’t easily find alone.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure-minded travelers eager to discover Paris’s underground bar scene. It’s perfect for those who enjoy small group settings and personalized stories. If you’re interested in craft cocktails or want to get into the local nightlife culture, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It also works well as a starter activity before a longer night out, giving guests a taste of Paris’s secret venues without feeling overwhelmed. Solo travelers, couples, or small groups will all appreciate the intimate atmosphere and chance to meet new friends.

However, if you prefer a more luxurious, all-inclusive experience, or if you’re not comfortable with walking between venues, this tour might feel a bit casual. Likewise, since drinks aren’t included, budget-conscious travelers should be prepared for extra expenses.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In our view, this tour offers a fun, authentic peek into Paris’s underground bar culture. The combination of expert guides, hidden venues, and local stories makes it much more than just a bar crawl. It’s an engaging way to see a different side of the city, especially if you’re curious about Parisian nightlife beyond the tourist spots.

The small-group format ensures you won’t feel lost or rushed, and the exclusive access makes you feel like a local for an evening. While drinks aren’t included, many reviewers found the quality of cocktails and the atmosphere well worth the extra spend.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy socializing, history, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. It’s a bit of a gamble if guides vary, but overall, the overwhelmingly positive reviews suggest you’ll be in good hands.

If you’re looking for a lively, memorable way to explore Paris after dark, this tour may just be the highlight of your trip.

FAQs

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included. You can expect to pay extra for drinks at each venue.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately two hours, visiting 2 to 3 secret bars or speakeasies.

What’s the group size?
Groups are small, with a maximum of seven travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the short walks between venues, and a positive attitude for fun exploration.

Is it suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many reviews mention solo travelers meeting new friends and enjoying the experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate; however, since alcohol is involved, participants should be of legal drinking age in France.

Can I do this tour as a standalone activity?
Absolutely. It’s designed as a complete experience or a great way to start a night out in Paris.

What should I do if the weather is bad?
Since good weather is needed, the tour may be canceled if it’s pouring rain or poor conditions. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done online through the provider’s site, and it’s recommended to reserve about a month in advance due to its popularity.

In short, if you’re eager to uncover Paris’s secret nightlife with a knowledgeable guide, enjoy good company, and love discovering hidden gems, this tour is worth considering. It’s a step beyond the typical club or bar crawl—an insider’s peek into the city’s clandestine cocktail scene that promises memorable stories and a taste of local life after dark.