For the longest time, I was disappointed in Paris and totally convinced it was overrated. It wasn’t until the summer of 2023 that I made amends with the City of Lights, and it was all thanks to winging it and going off the beaten path. I avoided every single touristy landmark possible and one of my favorite activities throughout this whole trip was discovering the Paris speakeasies scene!

I’ve always wanted to go to a speakeasy, and since I already knew that Paris had lots of those, I decided to explore this scene on my last trip. So, whether you’re looking for unusual things to do in Paris or you’re searching for some hidden bars (or gems), this read’s for you.

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But first, what’s a speakeasy?

If you’re not familiar with the term “speakeasy”, they’re secret bars, often with bizarre entrances, that were conceptualized in the U.S. in the 20s when booze was banned. The name is believed to have come from the patrons having to whisper; or speak “easy” when attempting to enter the secret bar.

To this day, the concept is still very much alive simply because of the fun experience. There are thousands of speakeasies in the U.S. alone, and about 20-something in Paris since the Parisians loved the concept.

How to Find Paris Speakeasies?

During my last trip, I went to 5 Paris Speakeasies that I absolutely loved. I discovered 4 of those by joining a tour I found on Airbnb Experiences, but I can’t find it anymore for some reason. However, I fetched some other tours for you because it’s a very cool thing to experience as a solo traveler. Aside from it being bar hopping but with a twist, joining such group tours is a great way to meet people and make friends as a solo traveler. 

Book a speakeasy tour through Viator:

• Private group explore hidden bars & speakeasies in Paris
• Explore hidden bars and speakeasy in Paris
• Explore Hidden bars and Speakeasies in Paris

5 Paris Speakeasies to Put on Your Radar

P.S: You can find mocktails and non-alcoholic drinks on the menus.

#1 Lavomatic

Hidden behind the facade of a fake laundromat, Lavomatic offers a one-of-a-kind escape into the world of speakeasies. To find this hidden gem, you must step through the faux laundromat entrance and climb up a spiral staircase. You will then find yourself in a cozy bar with playful decor and an inviting atmosphere. 

• Location: 30 rue René Boulanger
• Working hours: 6 PM – 1 AM on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and 6 PM – 2 AM on Thursdays through Saturdays.

#2 Mobster Bar

For those who enjoy a touch of intrigue and exclusivity, Mobster Bar is a great choice. You see, you’re only allowed to enter if you know the secret code, which you must provide using the vintage phone right outside the bar. I won’t spoil the fun for you, but let me tell you that your Great Gatsby knowledge will come in handy!

Inspired by the prohibition era, the bar screams 1920s speakeasy vibes. The dark wood furnishings, the dim lighting, the intimate, cozy setting, and even the bartender’s costume, will all make you feel like you traveled back in time. 

• Location: 8 Rue de Crussol
• Working hours: 7 PM – 1 AM on Sundays through Thursdays, and 7 PM – 2 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.

#3 Candelaria

Aside from this being the oldest speakeasy in Paris, there’s more to why Candelaria is a great spot. It offers the perfect fusion of speakeasy charm and culinary bliss. If you find yourself with some late-night cravings, this is the place to be and it’s not just because they serve delicious treats. Candelaria is actually hidden at the back of a bustling taco place, and not just any taco place; it’s one of the best in the city. It’s a great destination for foodies and cocktail enthusiasts all thanks to its delicious Mexican treats and the expertly crafted cocktails, and Mezcal. 

• Location: 52 Rue de Saintonge
• Working hours: 5 PM – 2 AM on Mondays through Fridays, and 12 PM – 2 AM on Saturdays and Sundays.

#4 La Mezcaleria

Another Mexican-inspired haven is this bar that specializes in mezcal and tequila-based cocktails. And if you guessed it’s hidden behind another restaurant, well, you guessed right. However, La Mezcaleria takes hiding a speakeasy to a whole other level as you have to go through their bustling kitchen and a couple of backdoors to get to it. Once you do, you’ll find yourself in a colorful, lively bar that unlike any other speakeasy is quite spacious. 

• Location: 13 Bd du Temple
• Working hours: 6 PM – 1 AM on Sundays through Wednesdays, and 6 PM – 2 AM on Thursdays through Saturdays.

#5 La Malicia 

This one is hands down my favorite of all the Paris speakeasies I’ve been to for several reasons. For starters, La Malicia is a speakeasy within a speakeasy! The boudoir-themed bar is hidden behind a door inside La Mezcaleria, which only opens with a secret code. 

Its eclectic decor was the most aesthetically pleasing of all in my opinion – the chandeliers, the candlelit tables, and the tarot-inspired and mystical decor were all on point. Don’t be surprised when you see erotic art and books though. Moving on to the menu, it was pretty impressive – be it for the bespoke cocktails or the artsy designs and illustrations. And the coolest part of the place? We could see the people on the outside through a glass wall, but they couldn’t see us! 

• Location: 13 Bd du Temple
• Working hours: 7 PM – 2 AM on Wednesdays through Saturdays.

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Practical Tips for Visiting Paris Speakeasies

• Make reservations if the bar allows it. Many Paris speakeasies are small and pretty popular so you might end up standing in line for a long time.
• Arrive early and avoid peak hours if you don’t have a reservation. 
• Check the opening hours and days in advance via the bars’ official websites/Instagram pages.
• Bring both cards and cash just in case – I remember paying by card at all venues but better be safe than sorry. 
• Go bar hopping with a tour if you’re traveling solo – it’s a cool way to make friends!
• Just like any night out, it’s important to stay alert, keep an eye on your drink and your belongings, and of course, drink responsibly.
• Make sure you have a safe way to get back to your hotel/hostel.
• Last but not least, enjoy the experience and interact with the bartenders and other people at the place.

Would you try out this experiencea and explore Paris speakeasies? Let me know in the comments below. And don’t forget to pin this blog post for your next trip to Paris.

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