Moulin Rouge

Tip for an even more exceptional visit.

For a truly memorable experience at the Moulin Rouge, the key is to understand that you're not just there for the show, but for the legendary setting. If you've booked the dinner show (the first seating), the secret is to arrive as soon as the doors open (usually 6:45 pm): seats are assigned by the ushers, and arriving early increases your chances of being seated closer to the stage rather than at the back of the room. The real secret to enjoying the "Féerie" show is to keep your eyes glued to the stage during the scene changes: the stage mechanisms are feats of engineering, especially the enormous aquarium that rises from the floor for the snake act. Another tip: if you choose the "Show only" option (9 pm or 11 pm), be aware that the half-bottle of champagne is practically a given, but you can ask for water or fruit juice if you don't drink alcohol; the price remains the same. Finally, for a souvenir photo without the hundreds of tourists crowding the central reservation on Boulevard de Clichy, cross the street and position yourself slightly back towards Rue Lepic. You'll have a clearer view of the windmill's sails and the illuminated sign, while avoiding the throng.