Moulin Rouge
18th arrondissement of Paris
Price: Free exterior observation; shows require paid tickets
The Moulin Rouge is a cabaret at 82 Boulevard de Clichy, at the foot of Montmartre in Paris. It opened on 6 October 1889, and its history is closely linked to the Cancan, La Goulue and the posters of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Its red windmill is a recognisable landmark on a street that remains a busy part of the city, rather than a pedestrian museum setting.
From the public pavement you can see the windmill above the entrance and the cabaret's façade. This exterior observation is different from attending a performance: there is no free walk-in tour of the auditorium included in a neighbourhood stroll. A historical exterior photograph illustrates the building but does not establish today's programme or availability. Métro Blanche on line 2 is the nearest station named by the venue.
Looking at the exterior from the street is free; performances require a separate paid booking. Check the venue's current offers, arrival requirements and security rules before buying. Its official visitor information warns that luggage and bags are not accepted in the cloakroom, and late arrival can lead to refused admission. Keep the entrance clear when taking photographs. A short outdoor stop should not be read as the duration of a complete cabaret evening.
Frequently asked questions about Moulin Rouge
Where is Moulin Rouge located?
Moulin Rouge is located in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, in the Pigalle area. It is easy to reach on foot from the main landmarks nearby and fits naturally into a Paris walking tour.
Is Moulin Rouge free to visit?
Free exterior observation; shows require paid tickets. Check the official visitor information before your visit.
How long does a visit to Moulin Rouge take?
Plan around 25 minutes to enjoy Moulin Rouge at a relaxed pace — a little more in high season or if you want to take photos.
When is the best time to visit Moulin Rouge?
The best time to see Moulin Rouge is late in the day, for the light, when it is less crowded. Weekdays are noticeably quieter than weekends.
Can you visit Moulin Rouge when it rains?
Yes, Moulin Rouge is largely sheltered, making it a good option for a rainy day in Paris.
Nearby and similar places
- Rue Lepic
- Café des Deux Moulins
- Sacré-Cœur
- Parvis du Sacré-Cœur
- Montmartre
- Musée Montmartre
- Crazy Horse
- L'Olympia
- Cirque d'Hiver Bouglione
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