If you’re looking for a night out in Paris that’s a bit different from the usual, the Medieval Tavern offers a lively, interactive journey back to the Middle Ages. This isn’t just a dinner show; it’s an experience designed to make you feel like you’ve stepped into a bustling medieval city, complete with costumes, music, food, and surprises. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just after a fun, atmospheric evening, this event has plenty to offer.
What really caught our eye was how authentic the atmosphere feels—thanks in part to the costumes and period music—and how interactive the event is, with plenty of chances to mingle and participate. Plus, the setting in vaulted cellars right in the heart of Paris adds a bit of historic charm. However, it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included, so you’ll need to plan for that separately. This experience suits those who enjoy lively, immersive events and don’t mind a bit of playful mischief.
If you’re up for a quirky night that combines history, entertainment, and a sense of adventure, the Medieval Tavern is an experience worth considering. It’s perfect for friends, couples, or solo travelers craving a memorable evening rooted in the city’s medieval past.
Key Points
- Authentic atmosphere: The medieval costumes, music, and setting create a genuine vibe.
- Interactive fun: Expect surprises, pranks, and engagement with performers.
- Costumes included: You can borrow period attire for free, helping you blend right in.
- Food and drinks: Not included, so plan to purchase on site.
- Ideal for lovers of history and lively entertainment: It’s a fun, immersive event, but not a refined dinner show.
- Limited capacity: Book early to ensure your spot, especially since it’s a popular event.
What Is the Medieval Tavern Experience?
The Medieval Tavern is a lively event held in Paris’s Caves Saint Sabin, just a short walk from historic sites like the Bastille. Organized by Les Caves Saint-Sabin, it’s a full evening of medieval-themed entertainment, where the King of Ribauds and his troupe take you on a journey into the past. It feels more like a lively party than a traditional tour, with a focus on fun, laughter, and participation.
The event runs from 7:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., giving plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere, dance, and mingle. You can arrive at any time within that window, but arriving early helps you settle in before the festivities ramp up.
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The Setting: Vaulted Cellars in the Heart of Paris
The event’s venue, in the vaulted cellars of Caves Saint Sabin, is a real highlight. These historic underground chambers provide an authentic medieval ambiance, with stone walls and arches that make you feel like you’re inside a castle or old tavern. It’s small enough to feel intimate, but lively enough to get the energy going.
The location’s proximity to the former Bastille adds a layer of historic significance, connecting the experience to Paris’s storied past. You’re not just watching a show—you’re stepping into a piece of history.
The Costume Experience: Dress Up for the Night
One of the best parts? Costumes are complementary and available for all participants. You can choose to be a troubadour, court lady, knight, or rogue, and the staff provides the attire free of charge. This makes it easy to fully embrace the medieval scene without any extra expense or hassle.
Wearing the costumes adds to the fun, especially when you’re mingling with others or participating in dances. It’s a playful, inclusive touch that turns the event into a sort of dress-up party.
Food, Drinks, and Medieval Recipes
While the main focus is on entertainment, the event doesn’t include food or beverages—these are to be ordered separately on site. You’ll find a selection of period drinks like mead, hypocras, and rustic beers, which complement the medieval theme. The recipes are traditional, giving you a taste of yesteryear’s flavors.
The lack of included food might be a downside if you’re expecting a sit-down dinner, but it also allows you to pick and choose what you want to try from the menu. The prices are reasonable, and the drinks are part of the authentic experience.
More Great Tours NearbyLive Music, Dances, and Entertainment
The highlight for many is the lively musical atmosphere created by street performers and musicians. The event features a festive ball with an introduction to period dances like the carole, tresque, and tarantella, so you might find yourself twirling on the dance floor. The music and dancing truly bring the medieval scene to life.
The troupe also puts on surprises, pranks, and encounters that keep everyone on their toes. As one reviewer put it, “no one leaves unscathed,” hinting at the playful nature of the show. Expect some good-natured mischief, with the provost’s archers making an appearance to add a bit of drama.
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The Crowd and Atmosphere
Since the event is limited in capacity and booking is strongly recommended, it tends to attract a lively, engaged crowd. It’s not a formal event but rather a spirited gathering of like-minded people looking for entertainment and a dash of history. Many guests appreciate the camaraderie that emerges from dressing up and participating together.
It’s not overly family-oriented, but the playful nature means it’s suitable for adults and older teens who enjoy a bit of silliness and historical flavor.
Is It Worth the Price?
At $19 per person, the event offers surprisingly good value considering what’s included—costume rental, live entertainment, dancing, and interaction. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy an evening that feels like stepping into a different time without spending a fortune. However, keep in mind that food and drinks aren’t included, so you should budget for those separately.
The limited capacity makes it a more intimate, engaging experience, but it also means booking ahead is a must. If you’re after a unique, entertaining night that immerses you in medieval life, this tour is a solid option.
Final Thoughts: Who Is This For?
The Medieval Tavern is best suited for travelers who enjoy lively, participatory experiences and want to add a splash of medieval flair to their Paris visit. It’s perfect if you like dressing up and dancing, or if you’re curious about medieval recipes and customs. Because of the playful pranks and surprises, it also appeals to those who appreciate humor and spontaneous fun.
If you prefer more refined, static shows or a formal dining experience, this event may not be the best fit. But for anyone looking for a relaxed, interactive, and memorable evening in the city, it’s a good pick.
The Medieval Tavern Experience the Unmissable Festive and Immersive Event
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a dress code for the event?
No specific dress code is required, but costumes are provided for free, so you can fully participate by dressing as a troubadour, knight, or rogue.
Can I arrive late or leave early?
You can arrive any time from 7:00 p.m., but the event runs until 1:00 a.m. Keep in mind that arriving late might mean missing some of the initial activities and the full atmosphere.
Are food and drinks included in the price?
No, food and beverages are not included. You can order medieval recipes or drinks like mead and hypocras on site, but they are paid separately.
Is the event suitable for children?
The description doesn’t specify children’s suitability, but given the playful nature, it’s likely more appropriate for teenagers or older. Always check if you’re traveling with younger kids.
How big are the groups?
Since capacity is limited and bookings are recommended, the groups tend to be small and intimate, fostering interaction and participation.
Is this experience accessible for people with mobility issues?
The event takes place in vaulted cellars, which might involve some uneven or narrow pathways. It’s best to inquire directly if accessibility is a concern.
How many times a week does the event run?
The Medieval Tavern is open all year round, Monday through Saturday, offering multiple options for visiting.
What’s the overall vibe?
Expect a lively, playful, and immersive environment with lots of surprises, music, dance, and costumes. It’s more about fun than formality.
The Medieval Tavern in Paris offers a fun, reasonably priced night that plunges you into the lively world of medieval life. It’s a mix of history, entertainment, and good humor—perfect for those seeking a memorable, interactive evening that stands out from the typical sightseeing experience. If you’re after a night of laughs, costumes, and medieval music, this is definitely worth adding to your Paris itinerary.
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