Debauchery, free sex, drugs, it's more than a way of life in Paris, it's a state of mind. From the kings of France to the partygoers of today, changing our revolutionary and debauched DNA is impossible. Let's take a look back at the vice-filled spots of old Paris.
Le Moulin Rouge
Classic but essential in this list of mythical places of debauchery in Paris. Before it became a haven for American tourists in search of undressed French women, it was a lustful hotspot in the capital. It's here, in particular, that La Goulue spreads the French cancan and fills the eyes of millions of men with stars (or something else) in the early 1900s.
The Moulin Rouge 82, boulevard de Clichy - 18thVoir cette publication sur Instagram
Le Chabanais
Le Chabanais is nothing less than the trendiest brothel in Paris, from its establishment in 1878 until its closure 70 years later. The early 1900s were truly a pivotal period for Parisians when it came to indulging in their desires... The madame or keeper of this establishment had between 20 and 35 girls to satisfy the desires of an upscale and discerning clientele. Even King Edward VII of England had his (stunning) room reserved and would frequent it during his visits to Paris, under the pretext of "visiting the Senate President."
Le Chabanais 12, rue Chabanais - 2nd
The Beverley
Perhaps you prefer to touch yourself in the dimness of your studio, OR you are more of an exhibitionist, then this place will please you. Before the dirty double penetration porn movies, there were erotic films. The kind that has a beginning, an end, and even a middle: kind of like a French film, with some lascivious scenes added. In the last porn cinema in Paris (yes indeed...), you can feast your eyes on vintage films from the 70s or 80s. Just be careful not to stain the red seats too much...
The Beverley 14, rue de la ville Neuve - 2e
The Sphinx
The Sphinx was the sister venue of Chabanais, another luxury brothel in the 1930s until it closed down in 1946. The upper class of Paris flocked there for the girls (of course), but also for its Egyptian-inspired architecture and decor. It was a great way for them to escape without spending too much but still reach cloud nine... To learn more, visit For all the brothels in 19th century Paris, click here.
The Sphinx 31, boulevard Edgar-Quinet - 14th
Chez Moune
The only spot in Pigalle with its own dedicated paragraph. Madame Moune opens her lesbian bar in the 50s in a former jazz cabaret. Here, the bodyguards of the lady are pretty ladies who love other ladies... Today, it is a popular club among Parisian night owls.
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Chez Moune 54, rue Pigalle - 9th arrondissement
Pigalle's red light district
It's impossible to cover all the hostess bars in Pigalle here. But if there's one historically sexual district and den of debauchery, it's definitely Pigalle's red light district. For as long as we can remember, the neighborhood at the foot of Montmartre hill has always been the hub for "working girls," as they were called. Dirty Dick, Venus, Pigallion, PCC... If these names now bring to mind rock music and cocktails, for the 80's Russian mafia and others, they were mainly places to enjoy oneself and/or get shot at. Take your pick.
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