Paris City Center Guided Pub Crawl With Shots & Club Entry

If you’re thinking about diving into Paris after dark, this guided pub crawl might catch your eye. We’ve looked into the experience, and it seems to be a popular choice among travelers seeking a lively, social evening without the hassle of planning every detail. For just under $20, you get a chance to explore a curated selection of Parisian bars and clubs, enjoy skip-the-line VIP treatment, and share some drinks and laughs with new friends.

Two things that really stand out about this tour are its affordable price point and the knowledgeable guides who lead the way. Plus, the fact that most travelers recommend it (94%) suggests it’s worth considering if you’re after a night out that’s fun, relaxed, and well-organized. One potential downside is that it’s not the most elaborate or luxurious experience — it’s straightforward, social, and a bit casual, which might not appeal if you’re after a high-end clubbing experience. But for those who want to see some of Paris’s nightlife with ease, this tour is a solid pick, especially if you’re traveling solo, with friends, or even in a small group.

Key Points

• Affordable and social experience with drinks and club access included
• Skip long lines and enjoy VIP treatment at popular venues
• Guided by local experts who keep the night lively and safe
• Ideal for first-timers and solo travelers wanting to meet people
• Flexible itinerary with different stops on weekends and weekdays
• Limited extras—you’ll need to buy additional drinks if you want more

What’s Included and What’s Not

This pub crawl offers a straightforward package — for about $19 per person, you get access to multiple bars and a nightclub, plus 3/4 shots (one at each venue with your first drink), and special entry to clubs, especially during weekends and Wednesdays for Erasmus or student parties. The tour is designed to keep things simple and fun, with most venues within walking distance of each other, making the experience easy to navigate and less stressful.

On the downside, certain extras like locker rooms or additional drinks aren’t included. If you’re planning to indulge more or want a secure place for your belongings, you’ll need to budget for that separately. But the fluidity of the itinerary and the chance to enjoy happy hour prices at the start make this a pretty good deal overall.

The Starting Point: McBrides Irish Pub

The tour kicks off at McBrides Irish Pub on Rue St Denis, a lively spot perfect for warming up the night. Here, you’ll spend about an hour and 15 minutes, giving you plenty of time to settle in, chat with fellow revelers, and get your first shot with your initial purchase. The pub’s central location near public transportation makes it easy to find, especially after a day of sightseeing.

Guests consistently praise the welcoming atmosphere here, with Olivia noting that she and her friends felt incredibly safe and welcomed throughout the night, thanks largely to the guide, Amine, who makes everyone feel comfortable. The initial happy hour prices and the shot with your first drink set a relaxed tone for the night.

The Venues: A Mix of Pubs, Bars, and Clubs

As you move from venue to venue, you’ll experience a variety of settings — from traditional pubs to lively clubs. The tour includes at least two bars and one nightclub on most nights, with longer evenings on weekends when more venues are added to the mix. The venues are carefully chosen by the guides to provide a good balance of atmosphere and safety.

Most travelers, including Olivia, have noted the excellent selection of pubs and clubs, with some calling out the friendly staff and great drink deals. Guides are experienced in managing groups, keeping everyone moving smoothly and ensuring that no one gets left behind or feels overwhelmed.

On weekends or special nights, the tour may include entry to two clubs, which can be a huge plus if you’re looking to dance the night away. Keep in mind that on weekdays, the number of venues is slightly reduced, but the core experience remains enjoyable.

The Experience: Drinks, Atmosphere, and Social Vibe

What really makes this pub crawl appealing is the opportunity to share drinks and fun stories with strangers who often turn into new friends. Many reviews highlight how easy it is to connect during the night, especially with the guide’s friendly approach. Olivia mentioned she was glad she decided to join, especially as a solo traveler, because she quickly bonded with others and felt safe.

The shots are a popular feature — one at each venue with your first drink. These shots are part of the fun, adding a bit of excitement early on and encouraging group cheers. The tour’s pace is relaxed but lively; you’ll have enough time to enjoy each venue without feeling rushed, and the guides do a good job of managing the flow, keeping everyone engaged.

The environment is generally described as welcoming and safe, which is crucial for a night out in a busy city. It’s clear that the guides understand the importance of maintaining a good vibe, and they are attentive to the needs of their guests.

The Costs and Value: Is It Worth It?

For just under $20, you’re getting a farewell tour of some of Paris’s popular nightlife spots, skipping long lines, and getting some drinks included. When you compare this to the cost of individual drinks, cover charges, and planning your own night, it’s a decent deal. Plus, the possibility of free club entry and special event nights adds extra value.

Most travelers agree that for the price, the experience is well worth it, especially considering the convenience and safety provided. Olivia noted, “it was great to discover a variety of pubs and clubs without spending too much.” Similarly, some reviewers appreciated the organized nature of the tour, which means you don’t have to worry about where to go or how to get in — the guides handle that.

Of course, if you prefer a more exclusive or upscale nightlife experience, this might not satisfy your tastes. But for an energetic, social evening with a group, it offers good bang for your buck.

The Group Size and Atmosphere

The tour has a maximum of 100 travelers, but most groups tend to be smaller and more manageable. The reviews suggest that the group dynamic is friendly and lively, with many travelers mentioning how easy it is to meet people, even if you’re on your own.

Olivia mentioned she “met new people and discovered a variety of pubs and clubs,” and others echoed that sentiment. The guides are experienced in creating a welcoming environment, making it easier for solo travelers or first-timers to feel included.

On the flip side, some reviews indicate that the experience can be disorganized or rushed if the guide isn’t attentive, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the norm. The vibe appears more positive than negative.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The venue start point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to reach after a day of sightseeing. Bring your passport or ID card, as they are required for entry, especially into clubs. The tour is suitable for most travelers, though pets, drugs, and flip-flops are not permitted.

The tour lasts roughly 3 to 3.75 hours, making it a manageable evening activity that fits well into a broader Paris itinerary. If you’re planning to continue the night elsewhere, you’ll appreciate the options for club entry and the relaxed schedule.

This pub crawl is perfect for travelers looking for a fun, budget-friendly way to experience Paris nightlife. It’s especially suited to solo travelers, groups of friends, or even Erasmus students eager to meet new people and explore without the hassle of planning. The guides’ attentiveness and the variety of venues provide a safe and lively environment that keeps the night flowing smoothly.

If you’re after a more luxurious or exclusive clubbing experience, this might not be for you. However, if you value socializing, good drink deals, and skip-the-line VIP access, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable option. It’s also a good choice if your main goal is to get a taste of Paris’s after-hours scene without worrying about logistics.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many solo travelers have enjoyed the experience and mentioned how easy it is to meet people. The guides are friendly and help foster a welcoming environment.

How many drinks are included?
You get 3/4 shots—one at each venue with your first bought drink. Additional drinks are not included, so plan to purchase extra if you want more.

What are the start and end points?
The tour starts at McBrides Irish Pub on 54 Rue St Denis. The ending location varies, and the tour ends in a different place from the start.

Is there a dress code?
While not explicitly stated, typical club dress codes apply—avoid sandals or flip-flops, and bring your passport or ID card.

Can I cancel if I change my plans?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Cancelations within 24 hours are not refundable.

What nights does the tour run?
It’s available most nights, with specific features like club entry and Erasmus parties on weekends and Wednesdays.

To sum it up, this Paris City Center Guided Pub Crawl offers a fun, affordable way to get a taste of the city’s nightlife. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to meet others, skip long lines, and enjoy a relaxed yet lively evening. While it’s not a high-end experience, the combination of friendly guides, good drink deals, and convenient venues makes it a popular choice for many. If you’re after a social night out with minimal fuss, this tour might just be what you need to see Paris in a different, more vibrant light.