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The most recommended activity at Moulin Rouge is to attend one of its world-famous cabaret shows. The performances include glamorous dancers, impressive costumes, and incredible choreography. You can also explore the surrounding Montmartre district, which is full of artistic history and charming streets. Consider dining at the Moulin Rouge for a full experience with dinner and a show.
The Moulin Rouge, located in Paris, France, boasts a rich history. Located near the Place Blanche at the foot of Montmartre, it is a quintessential French cabaret. Atop its roof, a large, shimmering red impeller, the Moulin Rouge opened its doors as early as 1899. Over the past 120 years, the Moulin Rouge has become an internationally renowned brand. Today, it is a world-renowned cabaret where you can enjoy the famous Cancan. Guests are advised to wear formal attire, and photography is prohibited during the performances.
Temperate maritime climate, suitable for all seasons
Montmartre, Sacre Coeur, 1 day
19:00 Dinner and show from 175 euros
21:00 Single performance 95 euros
23:00 Single performance 105 euros
One show each at 19:00, 21:00, and 23:00
Moulin Rouge, opened in 1889, is a historic cabaret in Paris famous for its role in the entertainment culture of the Belle Époque. It is known for the can-can dance, a high-energy dance that became its hallmark. The venue has also been immortalized in art, film, and literature, and remains an iconic symbol of Parisian nightlife.
Moulin Rouge is located in the Montmartre district of Paris, at 82 Boulevard de Clichy. It can be reached by metro (station Blanche on Line 2), bus, taxi, or by walking from nearby attractions like Place Pigalle. It's a central area that's easy to access from various parts of Paris.
Moulin Rouge's shows typically start at 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM. It is best to arrive early for a good seat, especially during weekends or peak tourist seasons. The venue is busiest in the evenings, so early evening is recommended for a quieter atmosphere if you're only looking to see the exterior or the surrounding area.
Tickets for the show range from €87 to €180 depending on the seating and whether dinner is included. Tickets can be purchased online through the Moulin Rouge website or at the box office. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the high season.
Yes, it is strongly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially if you plan to attend on weekends or during busy seasons. Booking a few days to a week in advance ensures you get a good seat and avoid missing out on popular show times.
To fully enjoy a Moulin Rouge experience, you should allocate around 2 to 3 hours for the show and dinner if applicable. This includes the time for the performance, food service (if attending the dinner show), and post-show activities.
The must-see highlight of Moulin Rouge is the cabaret show itself, including the legendary can-can dance. The venue’s interior is opulently decorated with red velvet, chandeliers, and mirrors, giving it a quintessential Parisian charm. The surrounding Montmartre area is also steeped in history, worth exploring before or after your visit.
There are no formal guided tours inside Moulin Rouge, but some dinner shows come with a brief introduction to the history of the venue. However, you can explore the Montmartre area with guided tours available in various languages, including English, French, Spanish, and more.
The best photography spot is directly in front of Moulin Rouge to capture its iconic red windmill. Inside, photography is generally not allowed during the show, but the venue's exterior and the surrounding streets offer plenty of opportunities for great shots. For a wider view of the area, head to the nearby Montmartre hill or Place du Tertre.
Upon arrival, you’ll enter through the grand entrance, where you’ll be greeted and shown to your seat. If you’re attending a dinner show, the meal is served before the performance. It’s best to arrive early for the best seats and enjoy a drink while admiring the venue's rich decor. After the show, you can take a stroll through Montmartre or visit nearby cafes and bars.
Moulin Rouge is a nighttime venue, with performances typically starting at 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM. While there are no specific light shows, the cabaret performance itself is a colorful and extravagant spectacle. There are no special tours of the interior, but the evening show is the main attraction.
Moulin Rouge is very popular and can be crowded, especially on weekends and during the high tourist season (spring and summer). The least crowded times are usually mid-week (Tuesday to Thursday) and off-peak seasons (autumn and winter).
Inside Moulin Rouge, there are restrooms, a full-service bar, and dining options if you're attending the dinner show. Shops or souvenir stalls aren’t located inside the venue, but there are plenty of nearby shops in Montmartre.
Moulin Rouge is generally accessible to people with disabilities, with accessible seating available for wheelchairs. However, there may be some limitations in terms of seating and mobility inside the venue. Children can attend, but the performances are geared towards adult audiences, so discretion is advised.
Cards and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.) are accepted for tickets and purchases at Moulin Rouge. Cash is not necessary but is accepted in some cases.
Nearby restaurants include Le Relais Gascon, La Maison Rose, and Café des Deux Moulins. These offer a variety of French and international cuisine, and some even provide views of Montmartre.
Many nearby cafes and restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. Some restaurants also provide halal meals, especially those in multicultural areas like Montmartre.
Close hotels include the Terrass" Hotel, Hotel des Arts Montmartre, and Le Relais Montmartre. These hotels are within walking distance of Moulin Rouge and offer a range of prices from budget to luxury.
Nearby attractions include the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Place du Tertre, and the Montmartre Museum. You can easily spend a full day exploring the charming Montmartre neighborhood along with Moulin Rouge.
There are a few souvenir shops around Montmartre, offering items like mini Eiffel Towers, Parisian art prints, and Moulin Rouge-themed memorabilia, such as postcards, t-shirts, and scarves.
After visiting Moulin Rouge, you can take a metro from the Blanche station or a bus from nearby stops. Taxis are available, or you can enjoy a walk through Montmartre to continue exploring the area.
