9 Intimate Jazz Clubs In Paris With The Best Live Music (2024)

Soak up the soul in these iconic Parisian jazz clubs.

Jazz music became popular in France shortly after World War II, when citizens were starting to enjoy life again. After years of unspeakable suffering, Parisians were eager to utilize their newfound freedom and be unadulteratedly entertained. Even today, a love for jazz lives on in the city of light. You can find many of these jazz clubs on Rue des Lombards, but beware you must buy tickets ahead of time to get into most of them. Here are nine intimate jazz clubs in Paris with the best live music.

Opened in 1983 by three musically talented brothers from Cuba, Baiser Salé is a small establishment reminiscent of the old school jazz clubs in Louisiana. There’s no need for speakers here, as musicians are up close and personal with the audience. Everyone from the already famous to those just starting out can be found playing here. Make sure to order the rum the bar is known for on the terrace overlooking the pedestrian street it resides on. The club is free to enter, no tickets necessary. Simply show up and enjoy the music.

Duc des Lombards is one of the most famous jazz clubs in the city, and for good reason. With a capacity of less than 100, the club offers a comfortable space with modern décor, creative co*cktails, and great energy. It’s impossible to get a bad spot, as every table has a good view of the stage and the sound system is upscale. There are typically 2 shows per night, with free jams on Fridays and Saturdays, so don’t miss out on an authentic jazz club experience at Duc des Lombards.

The iconic Sunset/Sunside jazz club is well known for its jazz fusion, with acoustic playing in the basem*nt (the Sunside) and electro-jazz up above (the Sunset). Located in an old vault cellar, the arched ceiling provides great acoustics. The club’s motto is “the club of all jazz” because all types of the genre are played here. There’s also an American bar on the first floor, full of energy and great mixed drinks.

The authentic La Cave du 38 Riv is located in a vaulted cellar from the 12^th century nearby the Notre Dame. It’s underground, as most jazz clubs used to be back in the day (most are street level now). There’s no stage so the bands are close to the audience, creating an intimate vibe between medieval stone walls. The club is split into 2 “caverns”: one with the bar and one with the musical performances. La Cave du 38 Riv is open until 4am on Fridays and Saturdays for “late jams” as well.

Opened in 1949, Le Caveau de la Huchette is a historical monument of Paris located in the Latin Quarter. It was once a place of execution, and now ancient weapons are displayed on the walls of the cellar. The club was also used as a set for La La Land and featured in many other French films throughout the years. Mingle with the regulars that come here to dance while jazz bands perform every night.

Located in a 12^th century cellar where prisoners used to be held, Le Caveau des Oubliettes opened as a jazz club in the 1960s. This medieval dungeon plays live music every night until it closes at 4am, so make sure to check out the real guillotine on display before you leave.

Located in the old printing factory of the French newspaper “Le Petit Journal,” Prince once said New Morning was his favorite place in Paris. Some live shows are broadcasted on the radio, as the garage-like interior has unmatched acoustics. While not many mainstream artists play here, it’s a great place to discover local favorites.

Le Bal Blomet opened in 1924, making it the oldest jazz club in Paris. It was extremely popular in the 20s, when it was a cabaret bar and famous artists like Hemingway used to frequent. There are concerts on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and it operates as a bar and restaurant the rest of the week.

Opened in 1975, Jazz Club Etoile is located in Le Méridien Etoile hotel, where famous jazz artists from BB King to Cab Calloway have performed. The cheerful and elegant Art Deco décor is conducive to grabbing a drink and some bar snacks during the concerts that go on. For an extra treat, enjoy jazz brunch on Sundays in the courtyard garden when the weather is nice.