La Machine Du Moulin Rouge

La Machine du Moulin Rouge: Paris Visiting Guide – History, Tickets, and Essential Information

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction: Discovering La Machine du Moulin Rouge

In the heart of Paris’s lively Pigalle district stands La Machine du Moulin Rouge—a dynamic blend of historic legacy and contemporary nightlife energy. Situated at 90 Boulevard de Clichy, this multi-level venue extends the iconic spirit of the neighboring Moulin Rouge cabaret, a Paris institution since 1889 renowned for its can-can shows and creative innovation (Moulin Rouge Official; jetaimemeneither.com). Today, La Machine du Moulin Rouge is recognized as one of the city’s most significant nightlife and cultural destinations, offering immersive experiences across music, art, and gastronomy.

Whether you’re seeking electrifying club nights, intimate concerts, or a taste of Paris’s evolving creative scene, La Machine is a must-visit. This guide provides comprehensive information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, nearby attractions, dress code, and insider tips to help you make the most of your Parisian adventure (Discotech; visitparisregion.com).

History and Cultural Legacy
Venue Architecture and Spaces
Visiting Hours & Ticketing
Atmosphere, Programming & Events
Practical Information: Access, Dress Code & Amenities
Dining & Culinary Experiences
Nearby Attractions & Suggested Itinerary
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit & Stay Connected
References

History and Cultural Legacy

La Machine du Moulin Rouge is intrinsically linked to the legacy of the Moulin Rouge cabaret, opened in 1889 by Joseph Oller and Charles Zidler as “the first women’s palace, the largest, most elegant and most luxurious temple of dance” (jetaimemeneither.com). The red windmill and illuminated façade became enduring Paris symbols, drawing crowds with their innovation and flair (paristeachersclub.com).

Occupying a space once part of the original entertainment complex, La Machine du Moulin Rouge has evolved over the decades. While the Moulin Rouge popularized the can-can and became a hub for artists like Toulouse-Lautrec, the adjacent spaces adapted to changing nightlife trends, emerging in the 21st century as a multi-level venue that fuses Belle Époque architecture with avant-garde sound, lighting, and artistic programming (castlepedia.org).

Today, La Machine is recognized for its role in supporting emerging musicians, collaborating with visual artists, and fostering an inclusive, creative community that honors Montmartre’s bohemian legacy (moulinrouge.fr).

Venue Architecture and Spaces

La Machine du Moulin Rouge spans four distinct levels, each with its own personality and function (Discotech; Moulin Rouge Official):

Le Central: The main concert and club room, accommodating up to 1,000 guests. It features state-of-the-art sound and lighting, hosting large-scale events from electronic DJ sets to live concerts (visitparisregion.com).
La Chaufferie: An intimate basement club in the former boiler room, characterized by industrial design and playful décor. Ideal for underground parties and thematic events.
Le Bar à Bulles: A leafy terrace bar and restaurant offering creative brunches, cultural events, and a relaxed bohemian setting (Klook).
Le Toit: The rooftop, available for private bookings and special events, provides panoramic views of Montmartre and the famous Moulin Rouge windmill.

These spaces preserve architectural elements from the Belle Époque while embracing modernity and inclusivity (castlepedia.org).

Visiting Hours & Ticketing

General Hours: Club nights typically run from 10 PM or 11:30 PM until 6 AM, especially on weekends. Concerts and cultural events may start earlier in the evening (Discotech; Shotgun Live).
Bar à Bulles Hours: Opens from 6 PM on weekdays and from midday on weekends, offering daytime and early evening options (Klook).
Tickets: Prices generally range from €15–€30 for club nights; major concerts and special events may be higher. Purchase tickets in advance via the official website, Shotgun Live, or Songkick.
Advance Booking: Strongly recommended due to high demand and strict door policies.

Atmosphere, Programming & Events

La Machine du Moulin Rouge is celebrated for its vibrant and eclectic programming:

Club Nights & Themed Parties: Events like Chronologic, We Are The 90’s, and Club Trax span genres from house and techno to pop, indie, and retro dance (La Machine du Moulin Rouge).
Live Concerts: Hosts 12–15 major concerts annually, featuring international and French acts across genres.
Cultural Experiences: Includes vintage markets, rooftop film screenings, cabaret shows, and community banquets like La Grande Tablée (Paris Select Book).
Signature Events: Annual celebrations such as the venue’s anniversary, themed New Year’s Eve parties, and Pride events reinforce its community focus.

The clientele is diverse and cosmopolitan, including locals, expats, and international visitors. There is an emphasis on inclusivity and a welcoming atmosphere.

Practical Information: Access, Dress Code & Amenities

Access & Transport

Address: 90 Boulevard de Clichy, 75018 Paris.
Nearest Metro: Blanche (Line 2), with Pigalle (Lines 2 & 12) also nearby.
Bus: Lines 30, 54, and 68 serve the area.
Taxis & Rideshare: Drop-off and pickup are available directly outside the venue.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: The main entrance and Le Central are generally accessible. Some areas (basement, rooftop) may require stairs. Contact the venue ahead for accommodations (La Machine du Moulin Rouge).
Cloakroom: Available for coats and small bags. Large luggage is not accepted.
Restrooms: Modern facilities, including accessible options, are available on each level.

Dress Code

La Machine du Moulin Rouge: Smart-casual is typical; “dress to impress” for club nights. Avoid sportswear, sneakers, and hats for men. Women often choose stylish, club-appropriate attire (Discotech).
Moulin Rouge Cabaret: Formal attire is required—cocktail dresses or gowns for women, suits or smart jackets for men. No sneakers, flip-flops, sportswear, or shorts (Moulin Rouge Official; Roam Bliss).

Security

ID & Bag Checks: Strict at entry. Smoking is not allowed inside.

Visitor Tips

Arrive Early: Especially for popular nights, to minimize wait times.
Advance Tickets: Recommended for all events.
Age Restriction: Entry is 18+ for most events.

Dining & Culinary Experiences

On-Site

Le Bar à Bulles: Offers brunch, small plates, cocktails, and desserts in a leafy terrace setting (Klook).
Event Dining: Special banquets like La Grande Tablée transform the area into convivial, open-air feasts (Paris Select Book).

Nearby Restaurants

Pigalle boasts a wide array of dining options:

French Bistros: Le Sanglier Bleu, Le Relais de la Butte, La Crémaillère 1900 (My Best Paris; Bon Voyage Solo).
Italian & International: Mamma Primi, Pink Mamma, Les Canailles.
Vegetarian/Vegan: Le Potager de Charlotte, Le Tricycle, L’Oasis Dans La Cuisine.
Cafés & Pizza: Les Deux Moulins, Roco Pizza, La Crêperie des Canettes.

Reservations are advised for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.

Nearby Attractions & Suggested Itinerary

Cultural & Historical

Moulin Rouge Cabaret
Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Panoramic city views.
Place du Tertre & Montmartre: Bustling with artists.
Espace Dalí: Surrealist art museum (Travalour).
Musée de la Vie Romantique: 19th-century villa and museum.
Le Mur des Je t’aime: The “I Love You Wall.”

Nightlife & Entertainment

Le Trianon: Concerts and events.
Le Divan du Monde: Music venue.
Pigalle Bars & Clubs: Eclectic nightlife scene.

Shopping

Rue des Martyrs: Food shops and boutiques.
Marché Saint-Pierre: Fabric market.

Sample Day

Morning: Sacré-Cœur & Montmartre
Lunch: Local bistro
Afternoon: Musée de la Vie Romantique or Espace Dalí
Evening: Dinner in Pigalle, then La Machine du Moulin Rouge event

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Club nights typically run from 10/11:30 PM to 6 AM; daytime and early evening activities at Bar à Bulles. Always check the official schedule for your event.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Online via La Machine du Moulin Rouge’s official site or authorized platforms (Shotgun Live, Songkick).

Q: Is the venue accessible for those with reduced mobility?
A: Main areas are accessible; some sections may have stairs. Contact the venue for specific needs.

Q: What is the dress code?
A: Smart-casual for club nights; formal attire for Moulin Rouge cabaret shows.

Q: Are vegetarian/vegan food options available nearby?
A: Yes, several nearby restaurants cater to plant-based diets.

Q: Age restrictions?
A: Most events are 18+.

Plan Your Visit & Stay Connected

For the latest event updates, ticketing information, and exclusive offers, download the Audiala app and follow La Machine du Moulin Rouge on social media. Enhance your Paris trip with related guides on historical sites, dining, and nightlife.