Paris isn’t just about quiet cafés and candlelit dinners. When the sun goes down, the city turns into a buzzing playground for people who want to let loose - and nothing says let loose like belting out a Beyoncé anthem in front of a crowd of strangers who are already cheering you on. If you’re looking for the real Parisian nightlife experience, skip the overpriced wine bars and head straight to the karaoke joints where the real energy lives.
La Gargote
Hidden beneath a nondescript door in the 11th arrondissement, La Gargote feels like a secret you weren’t supposed to find. The walls are lined with vintage microphones, the stage is small but perfectly lit, and the crowd? A mix of locals, expats, and tourists who all know one thing: this isn’t a place for shy singers. The song list is huge - from Edith Piaf to Drake - and the staff doesn’t judge. You want to scream Bohemian Rhapsody at 2 a.m.? Go ahead. They’ll hand you a beer and clap louder than anyone else. It’s not fancy. It’s not Instagrammable. But it’s the real deal. People come back here because they’ve sung their hearts out and walked out feeling like they actually lived.
Le Petit Chant
If you’re the kind of person who wants to sing in comfort, Le Petit Chant is your spot. Located in Montmartre, this place turns karaoke into an intimate performance. Private rooms with plush seating, soundproof walls, and professional-grade microphones make it feel like you’re recording in a studio. The menu includes champagne by the glass and gourmet snacks - think truffle fries and duck confit crostini. It’s perfect for groups of friends who want to celebrate something special. Don’t be surprised if you see a French couple singing a duet of Je t’aime… moi non plus in the corner. They’re not trying to be funny. They’re just good. And honestly? That’s what makes this place special. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being real.
Bar à Chansons
Bar à Chansons isn’t just a karaoke bar. It’s a cultural experience. Every Thursday night, they host open mic nights where locals perform original French songs. The crowd doesn’t just clap - they sing along. The bartender doesn’t just pour drinks - he shouts encouragement between sets. You’ll hear everything: folk ballads, punk covers of classic French pop, even a guy who rapped in Parisian slang about his cat. The vibe is raw, unpolished, and deeply human. You don’t need to be French to join. You just need to show up. And if you do, you’ll leave with a new favorite song and a story you’ll tell for years.
Karaoke L’Étoile
Right next to the Arc de Triomphe, Karaoke L’Étoile is the most tourist-friendly option - but don’t let that fool you. It’s also one of the most consistent. The sound system is top-tier, the screens are crystal clear, and the staff remembers your name after your third round. The crowd here is international, which means you’ll hear everything from Korean pop to Italian opera. The real draw? The 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. happy hour. Drinks are half-price, and the energy? Electric. You’ll find groups of Japanese tourists singing ABBA, American college students doing a group rendition of Don’t Stop Believin’, and a French grandmother belting out My Way like it’s her last performance. It’s chaotic. It’s loud. And yes, it’s exactly what you came for.
Le Cabaret du Chanteur
This one’s for the performers. Le Cabaret du Chanteur is a tiny, candlelit venue in the 18th arrondissement that looks like it stepped out of a 1920s Parisian film. The owner, a retired opera singer, personally picks who gets on stage. He doesn’t care if you’ve never sung before - he cares if you mean it. You’ll find people here who’ve been singing since they were kids. Some are professionals. Others are accountants who come once a week to feel alive. The lighting is soft, the acoustics are perfect, and the silence between songs? Heavy. You don’t just sing here. You connect. It’s not the loudest bar in Paris. But it’s the one that stays with you.
What to Expect
Forget the idea that karaoke in Paris is just a gimmick for tourists. These places are woven into the city’s rhythm. Most bars charge a flat fee - usually between €10 and €15 - for unlimited singing, drinks included. You don’t need to book ahead unless you’re with a big group. Just show up around 8 p.m. and you’ll get a good spot. The drinks? Mostly wine, beer, and cocktails. Don’t expect cheap shots - this is Paris, after all. But the vibe? Always worth it.
Pro Tips
- Go early. The best spots fill up fast, especially on weekends.
- Don’t over-order. You’ll spend more time singing than drinking.
- Try singing in French. Even if you’re bad, locals will cheer you on.
- Bring a friend who’s brave. One person starting the chaos is all it takes.
- Leave your phone in your pocket. The magic happens when you’re fully present.
Why Karaoke in Paris Works
Parisians don’t do karaoke because it’s trendy. They do it because it’s one of the few places left where you can be completely yourself - messy voice, wrong notes, and all. No one’s watching to judge. Everyone’s watching because they’re waiting for their turn. There’s a rhythm to it. A quiet understanding. You’re not just singing. You’re joining a tradition. And in a city that’s often seen as cold or distant, that connection? That’s priceless.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve only experienced Paris as a museum, you haven’t really been here. The real Paris sings. It laughs. It stumbles. It sings off-key and loves every second of it. Find one of these bars. Order a glass of wine. Wait for your name to light up on the screen. And when it does? Let go. You’ll leave with a sore throat - and a memory you won’t forget.
Do I need to book a room in advance at Paris karaoke bars?
Most karaoke bars in Paris don’t require reservations for small groups. You can just walk in, especially if you arrive before 9 p.m. However, if you’re with more than four people, it’s smart to call ahead. Places like Le Petit Chant and Le Cabaret du Chanteur offer private rooms, and those tend to fill up on weekends. Booking 24 hours in advance guarantees you won’t be turned away.
Are there English song options at Paris karaoke bars?
Absolutely. Every major karaoke bar in Paris has a massive English song library - from classic rock to current pop hits. Some even have separate screens for English and French tracks. You’ll find everything from The Beatles to Taylor Swift, and most systems let you search by artist or title. If you’re unsure, just ask the bartender - they’ll help you find it.
How much does it cost to sing at a karaoke bar in Paris?
Most places charge between €10 and €18 per person for unlimited singing during evening hours. This usually includes a drink or two. Some bars offer happy hour deals after 10 p.m., where drinks are half-price and singing is still free. You won’t find any hidden fees - the price is clearly posted at the door. No need to tip extra, but a small thank-you for the staff goes a long way.
Is it okay to go alone to a karaoke bar in Paris?
Yes - and it’s more common than you think. Many locals go solo to unwind after work. The staff and regulars are welcoming. If you sit at the bar, someone will likely invite you to sing next. You don’t need to be social to fit in. Just show up, order a drink, and let the music lead. Some of the best moments happen when you’re alone.
What’s the best time to go for the best vibe?
Weeknights (Tuesday-Thursday) are quieter and more relaxed - perfect if you want to sing without pressure. Weekends are packed, loud, and full of energy. If you’re looking for a party, go Friday or Saturday after 10 p.m. The real magic happens between midnight and 2 a.m., when the crowd is loose, the drinks are flowing, and everyone’s singing along. Avoid Sunday nights - most places close early or have quiet acoustic nights.
