Audio GuideMoulin Rouge

Step into the Moulin Rouge, the legendary cabaret that has been at the heart of Parisian nightlife for well over one hundred years. Established at the end of the eighteen-eighties by Joseph Oller and Charles Zidler, this iconic venue sits at the foot of Montmartre in the vibrant Pigalle district. Its founders imagined a place where people from all walks of life could come together for sparkling evenings out, and over time, the Moulin Rouge has become a symbol of both the artistic flair and refined elegance of the Belle Époque—a period celebrated for its appreciation of beauty and festivity.

Alicia M.

Greeting you at the entrance is the Moulin Rouge’s striking red windmill, a whimsical creation by Léon-Adolphe Willette. Its vivid colour pays homage not only to the neighbouring red-light district but also to colourful tales from Paris’s history. When it first opened, the cabaret attracted attention for more than just its distinctive exterior; it was also one of the earliest fully electrified venues in Paris, with décor that could be changed in a matter of minutes to match its ever-evolving shows.

Natalia Freeman

Inside, the atmosphere glows with the rich décor of the Belle Époque—velvet curtains, gleaming lights, and a dance floor alive with excitement. The Moulin Rouge is where the French can-can was born, an exuberant dance celebrated for its flamboyant kicks and infectious energy. Legendary performers such as La Goulue, Jane Avril, and Mistinguett brought this dynamic style to life, captivating audiences and inspiring the renowned artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, who immortalised their performances in his work.

András Kovács

Over the decades, the Moulin Rouge’s stage has welcomed famous stars—Édith Piaf, Maurice Chevalier—as well as international icons such as Liza Minnelli and Elton John. Despite the challenges brought by the world wars and temporary closures, the cabaret has always managed to reopen and thrive, keeping its trademark blend of music, dance, and spectacle very much alive. Its influence has stretched far beyond Paris, inspiring films such as Baz Luhrmann’s early two-thousands musical and appearing time and again in works of art and literature across the globe.

Today, the Moulin Rouge continues to enchant guests with modern dinner shows that combine the timeless spirit of cabaret with fresh, creative energy. The lively Montmartre and Pigalle districts add further character, with their artistic, bohemian atmosphere attracting musicians, creatives, and dreamers of every kind. Welcoming visitors all year round, the Moulin Rouge promises an evening filled with music, laughter, and all the unmistakable magic of Paris.