Moulin Rouge Review – Is it worth going? Tickets, Dress Code, Seating Guide
Last Updated on 29/03/2025
Moulin Rouge Review – Is it worth visiting in Paris? This article will share my experience watching the show, along with a brief introduction to the origins, historical background, and main performances of Moulin Rouge. Additionally, I will provide detailed insights into ticket options, showtimes, seating selection, and dress code requirements. Moulin Rouge was a must-visit on my quick trip to Paris, and I hope these insights will inspire and assist you in your own Parisian adventure.
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Paris Attraction Reviews：Louvre Museum｜Sacré-Cœur Basilica｜Bastille Market｜Moulin Rouge Review
What is Moulin Rouge?
The name Moulin Rouge comes from its iconic red windmill. This theatre opened in 1889 in the Pigalle district of Paris, in the Montmartre area. Initially, Moulin Rouge was part of the red-light district, primarily centred around the sex industry and cabaret entertainment. It became a venue where men could unwind and release their stresses, especially after the Franco-Prussian War, when it became a popular escape for people seeking relaxation.
Over time, Moulin Rouge transformed into a modern, glamorous cabaret show, becoming one of the symbols of Parisian nightlife. Today, the performances combine French cancan dancing, singing, and acrobatics, with each show filled with lavish costumes and energetic dances, continuing the romantic artistic atmosphere of Paris.
What performances are there at Moulin Rouge?
One of the most famous performances at the Moulin Rouge is the Can-Can, often referred to as the "thigh dance." This performance originated in the mid-19th century as a social dance and gradually evolved into a more provocative show performed by female dancers.
As time passed, the image of the Can-Can evolved from its early associations with lowbrow eroticism into a highly skilled, energetic musical performance. This transformation attracted a more upscale audience, turning it into a fashionable, high-end trend. As a result, guests are required to dress formally when attending the show.
In addition to the Can-Can, Moulin Rouge's performances also feature a variety of song and dance acts, as well as acrobatics. Each show is filled with stunning stage designs, exquisite costumes, and captivating music, offering an unforgettable experience for both the eyes and ears.
What impressed me the most during my visit to the show was the performance where an artist held her breath underwater, playing the role of a mermaid, as well as the thrilling roller skating and hula hoop act performed by a pair of incredibly coordinated male and female performers.
Is Moulin Rouge an erotic performance?
I thought it was an erotic performance before I went, but it's definitely not. Although Moulin Rouge is known for bold performances and elements of nudity, it is not an erotic show. The Can-Can and other dance performances at Moulin Rouge incorporate dramatic elements to showcase France's unique dance and music culture. Nudity is not the main focus of the show; rather, it is a part of the artistic expression and the unique charm of Paris.
Off-topic: If you're looking for more explicit performances, I recommend *Amsterdam Red Light District* Casa Rosso.
Is the Moulin Rouge performance worth watching?
Following up on the previous point, when people think of Moulin Rouge, many may immediately picture the can-can dance with female dancers exposing their upper bodies. However, there is much more depth behind this performance. Beyond simply witnessing the historical traces of the post-Franco-Prussian War period, this artistic expression also symbolised the freedom and rebellious spirit of Paris at the time, as well as a challenge to the societal norms of the era.
Even without delving into the historical background, from a purely entertainment perspective, Moulin Rouge's performance is definitely worth watching. The nearly two-hour show is fast-paced with no dull moments, and paired with champagne served during the performance, it makes you feel like you're in the high society of Paris from a century ago, enjoying a luxurious feast for both the eyes and ears.
Moulin Rouge performance times and booking link
Moulin Rouge offers two performances every night at 21:00 and 23:00, each lasting about 2 hours. You can also choose to arrive at 19:00 for dinner before the 21:00 show.
- 19:00 (Dinner + 21:00 Show), prices from €250
- 21:00 (Show + Champagne or Drink), prices from €165
- 23:00 (Show + Champagne or Drink), prices from €125
- Moulin Rouge Tickets with Dinner
- Moulin Rouge Tickets without Dinner
Moulin Rouge review – Showtimes selection and seating tips
Moulin Rouge performances do not have assigned seating; it's first-come, first-served. I don't think it's necessary to purchase the "VIP ticket" (early entry for seat selection) from the official website. If you arrive a bit earlier to queue, there's usually a good chance of getting a seat near the stage.
During the Easter holiday peak in April, I arrived around 10:15 pm for the 11:00 pm show and was able to get a first-row seat close to the stage (on the left side, not directly in the centre).
Which performance time should you choose?
- 19:00 Dinner + 21:00 Performance: Ideal for those who prefer to have dinner first and relax before the performance. This way, you'll automatically get the best seats for the 21:00 show, as you'll enter earlier than others, even those with VIP tickets, who won't be allowed in until 20:00.
- 21:00 Performance: This is the best option if you don’t want to stay up late, but the price is higher than the 23:00 show.
- 23:00 Performance: This show is perfect for those who want to end their day with the spectacular performance at Moulin Rouge. Plus, the price is usually cheaper than the 21:00 show. This is what I chose.
Moulin Rouge Dress Code Recommendations
When attending a performance at Moulin Rouge, there are specific dress code requirements. The official website clearly states that casual wear such as shorts, beachwear, flip-flops, and sportswear are not permitted. The ideal dress code suggested is a suit, evening dress, or business attire—something that suits your style while making you feel special and out of the ordinary.
My Own Experience：On the day, I wore a long dress, a black trench coat, and ankle boots. But my partner, being his usual forgetful self, didn’t think to dress more formally (we’d come from the UK and were in full casual holiday mode). He turned up in trainers, as always. Luckily, my black trench coat had a unisex vibe, so I lent it to him to make his outfit look a bit more polished, and we got in without any trouble. Our takeaway? As long as you’re generally dressed appropriately, wearing trainers might still be fine.
That said, I think this was a poor example! After all, everyone else was dressed quite formally (Come on, this is Paris!). If you don’t want to stand out as the “odd one out,” it’s best to wear a pair of elegant shoes to fully embrace the sophisticated atmosphere of the Moulin Rouge.
Can you take photos at Moulin Rouge?
Photography and videography are prohibited during the performance. However, you are welcome to take photos before the performance begins and after it ends.
How to get to Moulin Rouge?
Moulin Rouge is located at the foot of Montmartre in the heart of Paris. Take the M2 metro line to the BLANCHE station, and you'll see the iconic windmill of Moulin Rouge as you exit.
Nearby attractions around Moulin Rouge
Before heading to the Moulin Rouge for the performance, you can take a stroll around the nearby Montmartre district, including the famous Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur and the artist-filled Place du Tertre. These spots offer a deeper glimpse into Parisian culture and art.
Accommodation near Moulin Rouge
During my Easter long weekend getaway in Paris, I stayed at Ibis Paris Montmartre Sacré-Coeur.
- Just a 4-Minute Walk from Moulin Rouge
- Since I attended the 23:00 show, it was already 01:30 AM when it ended. Plus, with France switching to daylight saving time that night, it was effectively 02:30 AM by the time I left. In this situation, having a hotel nearby was crucial!
- The hotel isn’t the newest, but it was clean and well-maintained.
- I paid around HKD 1,200 per night at the time of booking.
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