Travel
Paris after darkish: the perfect locations to go to at evening
It is well-known for vogue and meals, however the nightlife in Paris additionally deserves your consideration. Whether or not you are searching for a late-night dive bar, after-hours theater reveals, inclusive queer areas with wonderful cocktails, or pure wine in a comfortable setting, Paris has you coated.
This is our decide of the perfect locations to go when the solar goes down on the Metropolis of Gentle.
Bar Josephine
Greatest for a splurge
Monday-Sunday: 5pm-1am
sixth arrondissement
If you wish to splash out, then a drink at considered one of Paris’ palace resorts – a standing awarded to probably the most distinctive five-star addresses – is likely one of the greatest methods to do it. There are 12 palace resorts in Paris however Bar Josephine at the Hôtel Lutetia is likely one of the standouts. Named after Josephine Baker, who used the resort as her Parisian pied-à-terre when on the town, the historic bar nonetheless sports activities its unique frescoes on the domed ceiling and serves up a incredible cocktail menu crafted by rising bartender Angelo Forte. In contrast to another palace bars, it’s as fashionable with locals as it’s with company, which provides a simple, laidback really feel, even in the event you may end up sipping champagne subsequent to the likes of Marion Cotillard and Isabelle Huppert. There’s additionally a lesser-known speakeasy hidden away within the resort with a unique cocktail menu and a cozier, low-lit vibe.
Septime La Cave
Greatest for pure wine
Monday-Sunday: 4-11pm
eleventh arrondissement
Reservations go notoriously fast on the one Michelin-star restaurant Septime, however in the event you don’t handle to snag one earlier than your journey, you may all the time strive a style of the pure wine record simply across the nook at sister handle Septime La Cave. Because it opens at 4pm and serves sharing plates reminiscent of comté cheese and fig chutney and slices of pork terrine, it makes an awesome spot for an apéro (the French colloquial time period for apéritif) earlier than making an attempt to get a desk at Septime’s different handle, Clamato, which has a no-reservations coverage. The house is tiny, so it may be tough to get a seat, however most locals spill out onto the road, glasses in hand. For those who’re not accustomed to pure wines, the English-speaking group is glad to speak you thru the choice, and in the event you discover one thing you want, you should purchase a bottle to take house.
Palais Garnier
Greatest for opera and ballet
Efficiency occasions range
ninth arrondissement
After surviving an assassination try at a close-by opera home, Napoleon III commissioned the younger and unknown architect Charles Garnier to create what would turn into the Palais Garnier, full together with his personal non-public entrance so he may slip previous any would-be assailants for an evening on the opera. The Emperor died earlier than he ever noticed it accomplished however no less than he gave Paris considered one of its most lovely monuments, and naturally a house to the legendary Phantom of the Opera. You are able to do excursions throughout the day however getting dressed up for a night on the ballet or opera is a subsequent degree expertise. Look on the web site for different ways to get hold of a reduced-priced ticket, together with final minute €10 tickets in the event you don’t thoughts a lowered view, and for beneath 28s there are €10 tickets to attend a preview present.
Paname Brewing Firm
Greatest for summer time craft beers
Monday-Sunday: 11am-1am
Nineteenth arrondissement
Paris’ craft beer scene has actually grown lately however Paname Brewing Company stays one of many beloved originals. Positioned within the lesser-visited Nineteenth arrondissement, the “brew pub” was based by 4 pals who’ve brewed greater than 150 recipes since opening again in 2015. There’s normally round eight to 14 of their beers on faucet and the pub commonly hosts “Faucet Takeovers” to serve up craft beers from French and worldwide brewery pals. In addition to its number of beers, its terrace overlooking the canal can also be an actual promoting level in summer time.
Soiled Lemon
Greatest for a queer-friendly house (and nice cocktails)
Tuesday-Thursday: 6pm-2am; Friday: 6pm-3am; Saturday: 11am-3.30pm, 6pm-3am; Sunday: 11am-3.30pm
eleventh arrondissement
Paris-trained chef Ruba Koury lower her enamel in among the metropolis’s most famous Michelin-star eating places earlier than making use of her skills to cocktails. At Dirty Lemon, Koury has created an inclusive house the place queer and feminine shoppers particularly can really feel snug popping by for a drink, both with pals or alone. The cocktail menu adjustments all year long, however drinks are all the time cheekily named to regain management over drained feminine tropes reminiscent of “Woman Subsequent Door” and “Mommy Points”. You can too flip cocktail hour into dinner: a meals menu that pays homage to Koury’s Palestinian roots is on the market till as late as 1am.
Misplaced in Frenchlation
Greatest for cinema
Efficiency occasions range
Neighborhoods throughout Paris
Lost in Frenchlation brings the most recent French movies to cinemas throughout Paris with the useful addition of English subtitles, and sometimes with drinks earlier than the screening and a Q&A session with the director after. It’s been an enormous hit with Paris’ worldwide group because it launched a decade in the past and is a good way for guests to additionally expertise French cinema while on the town. For those who do perceive French and don’t want the subtitles or are glad catching an English-speaking movie, then Le Balzac, Le Champo, Le Louxor, Studio 28, Le Grand Rex, the Max Linder and Studio Galande are a few of Paris’ most iconic venues. In summer time, pack a picnic and head to the open-air cinema at La Villette, which reveals a mixture of English-speaking and French movies.
Maggie Rooftop
Greatest for rooftop views
Monday-Sunday: 12noon-midnight (open April-October)
ninth arrondissement
Sure, everybody needs a view of the Eiffel Tower, however wait till you see the view from Maggie Rooftop. The rooftop bar sits above the historic Lodge Rochechouart, which used to welcome the likes of Édith Piaf and Josephine Baker in its Twenties heyday when it additionally had a downstairs cabaret. It reopened in 2020 with a trendy makeover and its model new leafy rooftop bar, which locations company spectacularly near considered one of Paris’ most well-known sights, Sacré-Cœur. The night menu presents late-night eats, like grilled satay prawns, beef pastrami toast and smoked aubergine. The 360-degree view means you additionally get a bonus shot of the Eiffel Tower. You may’t e-book within the night, so try to get there early to safe a spot; you may e-book for lunch to get a daytime view.
Theatre in Paris
Greatest for dwell performances
Efficiency occasions range
Neighborhoods throughout Paris
Like Misplaced in Frenchlation, Theatre in Paris brings a slice of Paris tradition to an English-speaking viewers by including “surtitles” onto a display above its stage performances. The corporate works with playhouses throughout Paris, from the extra well-known Théâtre Edouard VII to the gorgeous Nineteenth-century Théâtre le Ranelagh, and reveals vary from stand-up comedy to French classics reminiscent of Cyrano de Bergerac.
Le Piano Vache
Greatest for jazz nights
Monday-Sunday: 4pm-2am
fifth arrondissement
Le Piano Vache, a dive bar/pub, has been a neighborhood stalwart within the fifth arrondissement since 1969. Because of a location close to the Sorbonne College, a summer time terrace, and its fair-priced drinks (a pint of the bar’s personal beer is €6), it’s naturally a well-liked spot with college students however Monday nights pull in a jazz-loving crowd for its dwell units of jazz Manouche, or Romani jazz. Pop by the remainder of the week for ’80s evening on Tuesday, goth evening on Wednesdays, an “after work” glad hour on Thursdays, and a DJ enjoying rock, punk, pop on Fridays and Saturdays.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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