Watch a Show at Moulin Rouge

Claim to Fame

The Moulin Rouge is the birthplace of the modern can-can dance and the world’s most iconic cabaret, known for its flamboyant performances, red windmill, and Belle Époque decadence.

📌 Navigating Moulin Rouge : Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Admission Fee: Admission fee required and varies by show type and seating arrangement; booking in advance is recommended.
How Long to Visit: A show typically lasts around 90 to 120 minutes.
Washrooms: Accessible toilets are available at the venue.
Hours of Operation: Shows are typically offered twice nightly; check current schedule and availability online.
Important Information: Arrive at least 30 minutes early to accommodate seating and pre-show activities.
Handicap Accessible: The venue is accessible, but it's advisable to notify in advance for specific seating arrangements.
Pets: Pets are not allowed in the theater.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are available during the day, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the venue and its history.
Restaurant or Cafe: Dinner is offered with some ticket options, featuring French gourmet cuisine.
Gift Shop: The gift shop sells themed souvenirs, including show posters and branded merchandise.
Parking: Limited on-street parking; it's advisable to use public transport with Blanche Metro station nearby.
Family Friendly: The cabaret show content may be more suitable for adults; family-friendly performances are limited.
Photography: Photography during performances is strictly prohibited, though photos can be taken before and after the show.
WIFI: WIFI available in the lobby and lounge areas.
Picnic Area: No picnic facilities; dining is strictly within the venue's restaurant as part of the show package.

📌Heads up: All times, prices and visitor policies are subject to change without notice. Please check the official website for the most recent information.

Photos of Moulin Rouge

Located in the heart of Paris’s Montmartre district, the Moulin Rouge has been dazzling audiences since 1889. Its glittering stage, extravagant costumes, and iconic red windmill have come to symbolize Parisian nightlife. From its early days entertaining bohemian artists to today’s high-energy shows, the Moulin Rouge offers a dazzling mix of dance, drama, and spectacle.

What to Expect

Guests can expect a vibrant, choreographed revue show filled with feathers, sequins, and high kicks. The current production, Féerie, features over 60 performers, opulent set designs, and dramatic lighting effects. Expect tightly timed choreography, stunning acrobatics, and nods to traditional French cabaret.

You can choose from several show options, including a champagne-only ticket or a dinner-and-show experience featuring French cuisine served in the opulent dining room before the performance.

Background and Cultural Context

The Moulin Rouge was a beacon of Belle Époque Paris, frequented by artists like Toulouse-Lautrec, whose posters immortalized its dancers. It was a place where class boundaries blurred and creativity flourished. The can-can, once considered scandalous, became an international symbol of French flair and exuberance.

Though cabaret culture has changed, the Moulin Rouge retains its historical charm while embracing contemporary performance standards. It continues to inspire pop culture — appearing in films, fashion, and music videos across the world.

Best Time to Visit

Evening shows start around 9 PM and 11 PM, with dinner service beginning earlier for combo packages. Book tickets in advance — shows often sell out, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons.

How to Get There

Take Metro Line 2 to Blanche station — the red windmill is visible immediately as you exit. The venue is located at the base of Montmartre, walking distance from Pigalle and Place de Clichy.

Photo Opportunities

Classic shot of the illuminated red windmill at night
Selfies at the entrance beneath the art-deco neon sign
Charming café-lined Rue Lepic nearby for street scenes
Montmartre staircase views for before/after-show ambiance

Travel Tips

Dress smart-casual — no sneakers, shorts, or sportswear are allowed.
Photography is not permitted during the show, but allowed outside and in the lobby.
Arrive early if dining — doors open around 6:30 PM for dinner service.
Combine your visit with a walk through Montmartre’s artistic streets.

FAQs

Is the Moulin Rouge suitable for children?
While the performance is tasteful and artistic, it is geared toward adults and includes some partial nudity — parental discretion is advised.

Is it a live performance or pre-recorded?
All performances are live, with professional dancers, singers, and occasionally acrobats and specialty acts.

Is dinner worth it?
Yes, for a complete experience — the food is upscale and French-focused, with wine or champagne included. However, the show alone is equally impressive.

Final Thoughts

Visiting the Moulin Rouge is more than a night out — it’s a step into Paris’s artistic and theatrical past. From its opulent ambiance to its mesmerizing revue, the experience is unforgettable. Whether you're drawn by history or seeking an evening of flair, the Moulin Rouge delivers pure Parisian magic.

Things To Do near Moulin Rouge

Montmartre

The Distance from Moulin Rouge to Montmartre is 1.3 Kilometer(s) / 0.8 Mile(s)

Champs-Élysées

The Distance from Moulin Rouge to Champs-Élysées is 3.9 Kilometer(s) / 2.4 Mile(s)

Louvre Museum

The Distance from Moulin Rouge to Louvre Museum is 4.2 Kilometer(s) / 2.6 Mile(s)

Sainte-Chapelle

The Distance from Moulin Rouge to Sainte-Chapelle is 5.3 Kilometer(s) / 3.3 Mile(s)

Notre-Dame Cathedral

The Distance from Moulin Rouge to Notre-Dame Cathedral is 6 Kilometer(s) / 3.7 Mile(s)

Eiffel Tower

The Distance from Moulin Rouge to Eiffel Tower is 6.4 Kilometer(s) / 4 Mile(s)

Latin Quarter

The Distance from Moulin Rouge to Latin Quarter is 6.4 Kilometer(s) / 4 Mile(s)

Seine River Cruise

The Distance from Moulin Rouge to Seine River Cruise is 6.6 Kilometer(s) / 4.1 Mile(s)

Luxembourg Gardens

The Distance from Moulin Rouge to Luxembourg Gardens is 6.8 Kilometer(s) / 4.2 Mile(s)

Musée d'Orsay

The Distance from Moulin Rouge to Musée d'Orsay is 12.1 Kilometer(s) / 7.5 Mile(s)

📘 Paris Visitors Travel Information

Time Zone: Paris operates on Central European Time (CET), which is UTC +1. During Daylight Saving Time, it shifts to Central European Summer Time (CEST), UTC +2.

Weather: Paris has an oceanic climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Summer temperatures typically range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures average 3°C to 8°C (37°F to 46°F). Rain is spread fairly evenly throughout the year.

Population: Paris has a population of approximately 2.1 million people in the city proper and over 12 million in the metropolitan area, making it the most populous urban center in France and one of the largest in Europe.

Size: Paris covers an area of around 105 square kilometers (40.7 square miles). Located along the Seine River in northern France, it is renowned for its historic architecture, world-class museums, and cultural landmarks.

Language: French is the official language spoken in Paris. English is commonly understood in hotels, major tourist attractions, and restaurants, though a few basic French phrases are appreciated by locals.

Currency: The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops and cafés.

Safety: Paris is generally safe, especially in tourist areas. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing are common in crowded spots like the metro, Eiffel Tower, and major train stations. Visitors should stay alert and protect valuables.

Tipping: Tipping in Paris is appreciated but not required. Most restaurants include a service charge in the bill. Leaving small change or rounding up is customary for good service.

Electricity and Plugs: France uses 230V electricity at 50Hz. Plug types C and E are standard. Travelers from countries using different voltage or plug types should bring appropriate adapters.

Water: Tap water in Paris is safe to drink and meets EU quality standards. Public fountains and restaurant water are safe unless otherwise indicated.

Annual Visitors: Paris welcomes over 30 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited cities in the world. Key attractions include the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Montmartre.

Visa Requirements: Citizens of the EU, U.S., Canada, Australia, and many other countries do not need a visa for short stays in France. A valid passport is required for entry.

Health & Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required for travel to France. Routine immunizations such as measles, flu, and tetanus are recommended. Healthcare in Paris is high-quality and widely available.

Transportation: Paris has a dense and efficient public transportation network, including metro lines, buses, RER trains, and trams. Walking is also a convenient way to explore central neighborhoods.

Food: Paris is a culinary capital known for pastries, cheeses, wine, and gourmet dining. Signature dishes include croissants, escargot, coq au vin, and steak frites. Cafés and boulangeries are cultural staples.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms: Parisians value politeness and formality. A simple “bonjour” when entering shops or restaurants is expected. Quiet behavior in public spaces and respectful dress at religious sites are appreciated.

Telecommunications & Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafés, museums, and public spaces. Mobile coverage is excellent. SIM cards with prepaid data are available at convenience stores and kiosks.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is strongly recommended when visiting Paris. While France has excellent healthcare, non-EU visitors may be charged for treatment. Insurance also helps cover theft, delays, or lost baggage.

Did You Know? - Facts About Moulin Rouge

The Moulin Rouge is not just a tourist attraction but a working entertainment venue that continues to offer a variety of performances, including dinner shows that combine gourmet French cuisine with spectacular dance routines featuring the famous Doriss Girls. The shows are known for their elaborate costumes, featuring feathers, rhinestones, and sequins, designed to dazzle audiences.

The Moulin Rouge, located in the Pigalle neighborhood near Montmartre in Paris, is one of the most famous cabarets in the world. Opened on October 6, 1889, by Joseph Oller and Charles Zidler, it quickly became a symbol of the Belle Époque era, known for its lavish shows, extravagant costumes, and the celebration of freedom and pleasure.

The name "Moulin Rouge" translates to "Red Mill" in English, named after the red windmill on its roof, which has become an iconic symbol of Parisian nightlife. The cabaret initially introduced the can-can dance to the public, a high-energy and physically demanding dance that became synonymous with the Moulin Rouge and contributed to its reputation as a place of exuberant entertainment.

Throughout its history, the Moulin Rouge has been a popular venue for many famous artists and performers, including Édith Piaf, Josephine Baker, Frank Sinatra, and Liza Minnelli. The venue has also inspired numerous works of art, literature, and film, most notably the 2001 movie "Moulin Rouge!" directed by Baz Luhrmann, which reimagined the cabaret's golden age with a modern soundtrack and vivid cinematography.

Over the years, the Moulin Rouge has adapted to changing tastes and times while retaining its essence as a cabaret. It remains a testament to Paris's enduring allure as a city of art, culture, and nightlife. Visiting the Moulin Rouge offers a glimpse into the city's hedonistic past and the chance to experience one of the last vestiges of a bygone era of glamour and extravagance.