The famed Paradis Latin has a history full of twists, turns, and surprising characters—Napoleon Bonaparte, for one, who ordered the construction of the Latin Theatre (a predecessor to the Paradis Latin) in 1803. Though it was damaged in a fire during the Franco-Prussian War and forced to close, the theater was revamped and renamed under Gustave Eiffel, who decked it out with metal fixtures and a glass cupola in time for the 1889 World’s Fair. With additional periods of closure and renovation behind it, the thriving cabaret hosts its signature show, Paradis à la Folie, most evenings.
The Paradis Latin is an in-demand destination that attracts crowds, so book your tickets in advance. Choose from options that include dinner or Champagne and macarons on the side; upgrade to VIP seating, which affords the best views in the house.
Paradis à la Folie, the current show, has been performed since 2008 and includes 15 different rousing scenes.
A smart-casual dress code is recommended; while jeans and sneakers are permitted, sportswear and beachwear are not.
The Paradis Latin is accessible for visitors with limited mobility.
Access the Paradis Latin via the Métro; the 10 line stops at Cardinal Lemoine, and the 7 and 10 lines also stop at the nearby Jussieu. You can also take the 47, 63, 67, 86, and 87 bus lines, which stop nearby. Given its convenient Latin Quarter location, the theater is also accessible by car, on foot, or by Vélib’.
The Paradis Latin is open from Wednesday–Monday, and holds regular evening performances (as well as lunchtime, matinee shows on select dates). It also hosts special revue shows for select holidays, like Valentine’s Day and New Year’s Eve.
Impressed by the Paradis Latin’s dancers, and curious about the can-can? The theater hosts a monthly workshop that will teach you the basics of this classic dance style.
