Original Paris Pub Crawl

An Authentic Night Out in Paris: The Original Paris Pub Crawl

Imagine stepping out after a day of sightseeing into the bustling, lively nightlife of Paris. For about four hours, you’ll explore some of the city’s most popular bars, with skip-the-line access to a major Parisian club thrown in for good measure. Costing just under $24 per person, this pub crawl offers a chance to connect with fellow travelers while experiencing the city’s vibrant after-dark scene. Led by engaging local guides like Omar, you’ll visit three different spots, each with its own unique vibe, and finish with a dance session at a packed Paris club.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the balance between guided fun and local authenticity—you’ll get insider tips, free shots, and discounted drinks without feeling like you’re just ticking boxes. Plus, the small group size (max 50 people) fosters a friendly, lively atmosphere, perfect for solo travelers or groups looking to make new friends.

The main consideration? Some reviews indicate that, on rare occasions, guides may be late or less enthusiastic. It’s worth keeping expectations flexible, especially during busy nights or if you’re seeking a more intimate, quiet evening. But overall, this pub crawl is well-suited for young travelers, solo explorers, or anyone eager to sample Paris’s nightlife without the hassle of planning each stop.

Who will love this? If you’re after a fun, social night with a local feel, enjoy a good mix of drinking and dancing, and value a guide who keeps things lively, this tour will likely hit the mark.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $23.70, this tour offers good value considering the free shots, discounted drinks, and club VIP treatment.
• Authentic Nightlife: Visit three lively bars chosen for their popularity and vibe, giving you a taste of Paris after dark.
• Guided Experience: Engaging guides like Omar make the evening memorable, offering insight and ensuring the group stays together.
• Easy Access & Flexibility: Near public transportation, with a mobile ticket, making it straightforward to join and leave.
• Great for Solo Travel: Many reviews highlight the social aspect and the ease of meeting fellow travelers.
• Potential Variability: Some travelers mention occasional guide lateness or less enthusiasm, so flexibility is key.

A Deep Dive into the Paris Pub Crawl Experience

Starting Point: McBrides Irish Pub

Your night kicks off at McBrides Irish Pub, located at 54 Rue St Denis, right in the heart of Paris’s historic nightlife district. The meeting time is 9:00 pm, providing an early enough start to maximize your evening. The location is convenient, close to public transportation, which means getting there is hassle-free whether you’re coming from a nearby hotel or after a day of sightseeing.

The pub itself has a cozy, lively atmosphere typical of Irish pubs, with friendly bartenders and a welcoming crowd. This first stop serves as a chance to meet your group, settle in, and start sampling some of the local drinks. Remember, this experience is aimed at those 18 and over, so carry a photo ID. While the exact route may vary, the focus is on making the most of Paris’s nightlife hubs.

First Few Bars: Free Shots and Discounted Drinks

The tour visits three buzzy bars or pubs—each picked for their popularity and vibe. According to reviews, the guides make a point of engaging the group, encouraging conversation, and creating a friendly atmosphere. Many travelers appreciate the cheaper drinks here compared to solo bar-hopping, which is a real plus after a day of spending.

Participants can expect free shots at each stop, which helps break the ice and adds to the fun. The guides often share tips on the best drinks or how to navigate Paris’s bar scene, making it easier for first-timers to feel comfortable. Several reviews emphasize that the bars had a welcoming vibe, with some even commenting on the interesting conversations they enjoyed with guides like Omar.

The Nightlife Vibe: Dancing and Connecting

After the bar stops, your evening culminates with VIP skip-the-line access to a major Parisian club. This is where the tour really shines—no waiting in long lines, just straight into the action. The club is described as lively, and on some nights, even packed on a Tuesday or Wednesday, which speaks to its popularity.

Expect to dance, mingle, and enjoy the distinct Parisian club scene. Several reviewers raved about how the guides kept the energy high and helped everyone feel comfortable. This part of the experience is ideal for those who enjoy music, dancing, and socializing with a diverse crowd.

Group Size & Atmosphere

The tour keeps groups relatively small, with a maximum of 50 people, but many reviews mention that the groups tend to be even smaller, especially during off-peak nights. Smaller groups foster better conversation and a more intimate atmosphere, which many travelers appreciated. As one reviewer wrote, “It was a smaller group, and I had some interesting, real conversations with Omar,” highlighting that this isn’t just about drinking but about genuine social interaction.

What the Reviews Say

Overall, reviews are largely positive, with a 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 88 reviews. Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, especially Omar, who is described as funny, engaging, and helpful. Many mention that they felt welcomed and found the experience to be great value, especially considering the cost of drinks and the club entry.

However, some less favorable reviews point out that guides can sometimes be late or appear less enthusiastic. A few travelers had issues with communication or encountered cancellations, which underscores the importance of flexible expectations. If you’re seeking a lively, social night without fuss, this tour generally delivers.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Arrive on time at McBrides Irish Pub to ensure you don’t miss the start.
• Carry a valid photo ID, as it’s required for entry.
• Be prepared for responsible drinking—guides reserve the right to dismiss disrespectful guests without a refund.
• Dress smart-casual; some clubs may have a dress code.
• If you’re sensitive to loud environments, be prepared for energetic music and crowds.
• The tour ends back at the meeting point, so plan your transportation accordingly.
• Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance; plan accordingly if your plans are uncertain.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who loves to socialize, dance, and meet people in a lively city like Paris, this pub crawl offers a relaxed yet festive environment. It’s especially suitable for solo travelers or small groups wanting a guided night out that’s both fun and efficient. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the free shots, discounted drinks, and skip-the-line club access, which boost the overall value.

On the flip side, if you prefer a more intimate or quiet night, or if punctuality and enthusiastic guides are make-or-break for you, this experience might not fully meet those expectations. Also, remember that the experience can vary depending on the night and guide, so approach with an open mind.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this pub crawl suitable for all ages?
No, the experience is only for those 18 and older, so bring a valid photo ID.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 4 hours, starting at 9:00 pm and ending back at the meeting point.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at McBrides Irish Pub, 54 Rue St Denis, and ends back at the same location.

What’s included in the price?
For $23.70, you get access to three bars with free shots, discounted drinks, and VIP skip-the-line entry to a club.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, but you get free shots at each stop and discounted drinks, making it more affordable than solo bar-hopping.

What if I’m running late or need to cancel?
Arrive promptly to avoid missing out. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
While the focus is on drinking and socializing, the tour is designed around bar visits, so non-drinkers might find less to do.

Will I need transportation?
No, the tour starts near public transportation, making it easy to get there and back.

What’s the atmosphere like?
Lively, friendly, and social—many reviews highlight the engaging guides and the energetic vibe.

What should I wear?
Casual but neat attire is recommended; some clubs may have dress codes.

Final Thoughts

The Original Paris Pub Crawl offers a lively, accessible way to experience Paris’s nightlife. For a modest price, you get to visit some of the city’s popular bars, enjoy free shots, and dance the night away in a major club—all with the guidance of friendly, knowledgeable locals. It’s perfect for those looking to meet new people, get a taste of the local scene, and explore Paris after dark without the hassle of organizing everything independently.

While it may not be flawless—occasional guide lateness or variable enthusiasm—most travelers find it a fun, memorable way to spend an evening. If you enjoy social environments, vibrant atmospheres, and a touch of Parisian nightlife, this pub crawl is worth considering for your trip.

Whether you’re a solo traveler eager to make friends or a couple looking for a fun night out, this tour offers an authentic taste of Paris after hours. Just bring your good humor, a camera, and your ID, and prepare for an entertaining evening in the City of Light.