Au Lapin Agile

The Basics

Enjoy a lively night of song, humor and poetry at Au Lapin Agile on your own, or visit the cabaret as part of a private walking tour of the Montmartre neighborhood made famous in the art-house film, Amelie. Stroll the winding alleyways toward the hilltop Sacré Coeur Basilica, taking in panoramic city views, learning about life in the 19th and 20th centuries, when legendary artists and poets lived, worked, and took in the nightlife here. Then, enjoy a romantic dinner before finishing your night with a rousing night of cabaret in the always packed Au Lapin Agile.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Au Lapin Agile is an ideal spot for lovers of cabaret, jazz, and nightlife.
• Entry is about US$27 and includes a glass of house cherry wine.
• Reservations are not required, but are highly recommended.
• The club can get steamy, so wear light clothing.
• Spot paintings by Picasso, Toulouse-Lautrec, Utrillo, and others, and look for famous names carved on the tabletops.

How to Get There

Au Lapin Agile is located along Rue des Saules in Paris’s 18th arrondissement, behind Sacré Coeur Basilica. Take Métro line 12 to Lamarck-Caulaincourt, which is two blocks away. Or take bus line 40 or the Montmartrobus to Saules Cortot, one block away.

When to Get There

Au Lapin Agile is open at night, Tuesday through Sunday. Have a meal nearby and drop in well before 9pm, when the show usually starts. Although popular throughout the week, go on a weekday to beat the crowds. Come to Paris in the spring for the jazz and blues festival, Banlieues Bleues, and the summer, for the city-wide music festival, Quartier d’Été.

From Thieves to Assasins to Rabbits

Originally known as Cabaret des Voleurs (Cabaret of Thieves), the club changed its name to Cabaret des Assassins after, as the story goes, gangsters broke in and killed the owner’s son. In 1875, artist André Gill painted an entry sign—a rabbit jumping out of a saucepan—so residents started calling it Le Lapin à Gill (Gill’s Rabbit), and over time, the name evolved into a play on words, Au Lapin Agile (At the Nimble Rabbit).

Ways to explore

Enjoy a lively night of song, humor, and poetry at Au Lapin Agile; all entry tickets include one drink, or you can buy packages with a bottle of Champagne. Plan a meal ahead of the show, as food isn’t served at Au Lapin Agile, then head to the always-packed venue for a rousing night of cabaret.

Alternatively, many walking tours of Montmartre pass the cabaret to see its exterior, alongside other area highlights. Tours typically stroll the winding alleyways toward the hilltop Basilique du Sacré-Coeur, taking in panoramic city views and learning about life in the 19th and 20th centuries, when legendary artists and poets lived, worked, and took in the nightlife here.

Accessibility

The main entrance is not wheelchair accessible, but guests using wheelchairs can contact the venue for assistance.

Age limits

All ages are welcome, though the shows may be more appropriate for adults.

What to pack

Cash, as credit cards are not accepted.

What to wear

Light, layered clothing, as the club can get warm.

Not allowed

Outside food and drink, phone usage during performances

Amenities

Restrooms, bar

Address

Au Lapin Agile, one of the city’s oldest and most famous cabarets, is situated along Rue des Saules in the 18th arrondissement. Tucked behind the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur, the rose-colored building has been a cultural landmark since the 19th century.

Driving

Situated on a steep, cobblestone street, the Au Lapin Agile cabaret is a charming yet somewhat challenging destination to drive to. Leave the car at home, if you can.

Public transportation

Take metro line 12 to Lamarck-Caulaincourt, which is two blocks away, and walk uphill to Au Lapin Agile. Alternatively, take bus line 40 or the Montmartrobus to Saules Cortot, which is one block away.

Best times to visit

The show runs from 9pm through to 1am, and you can arrive at any time during these hours. Have a meal nearby before the show, as food isn’t served here.

Best days to visit

The cabaret is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Although popular throughout the week, plan a weekday visit to avoid the crowds.

Best months to visit

Summer can be crowded in Paris, so book a trip for the shoulder seasons for a calmer experience.

Special events

Visit Paris in the spring for the Banlieues Bleues jazz and blues festival—usually in March and April—and in the summer for the city-wide Quartier d’Été music festival.