Moulin Rouge

Overview

The Moulin Rouge is the flamboyant, world-famous spiritual birthplace of the modern can-can dance. Located at the foot of Montmartre in the Pigalle district, its iconic, slowly spinning red windmill remains a global symbol of Parisian nightlife and cabaret.

Highlights

• The Facade: The spectacularly lit, red windmill and massive glowing sign make for an essential, classic Paris photograph.
• The 'Féerie' Show: The incredibly lavish, glittering, and fast-paced resident cabaret show featuring over 1,000 costumes of feathers, rhinestones, and sequins.
• The Doriss Girls: The highly trained, incredibly athletic resident dance troupe famous for their perfectly synchronized, high-kicking French can-can.

History

Opened in 1889 by Joseph Oller and Charles Zidler, it was decidedly designed as an extravagant, hedonistic palace where the extremely wealthy could come to "slum it" and drink champagne alongside the bohemian artists and working girls of Montmartre.

Visitor Tips

• Tickets: Shows sell out completely months in advance; spontaneous entry is essentially impossible.
• Dress Code: While highly glamorous, you don't need a tuxedo. Smart-casual is required; sneakers and shorts are strictly forbidden.
• The Neighborhood: Pigalle remains the heart of the city's red-light district. It's bustling and safe, but quite gritty compared to central Paris.