Cirque d'Hiver de Paris, one of Europe's oldest circuses

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Published by Rizhlaine de Sortiraparis · Photos by Laurent de Sortiraparis, Graziella de Sortiraparis · Updated on August 22, 2025 at 03:54 p.m. · Published on December 4, 2023 at 02:10 p.m.
Located near Filles du Calvaires, in the 11th arrondissement of Paris, the Cirque d'Hiver is a historic venue with neo-classical architecture. One of the oldest permanent circuses in Europe, it continues to showcase the circus arts to the delight of families.

Cirque d'Hiver, located in the heart of Paris, is a cultural, artistic and historical treasure! Nestled in the 11th arrondissement, this emblematic landmark of the French capital has stood the test of time, retaining its charm and evolving to offer audiences an experience that promises to be spectacular.

Also known as the Cirque Napoléon, the Cirque d'Hiver de Paris is the fruit of a bold vision by architect Jacques Ignace Hittorff, who designed this architectural masterpiece in 1852. The circus was built under the Second Empire, and inaugurated by Napoleon III himself. Since then, the Cirque d'Hiver has left its mark on the history of Parisian culture.

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Over the years, this venue has witnessed circus performances by world-renowned artists, from beast tamers to daring trapeze artists. The Cirque d'Hiver survived both world wars, and today still unveils spectacular acts that make it one of the unmissable pillars ofcircus history. It was listed as a historic monument on February 10, 1975.

The architecture of the Cirque d'Hiver is a real eye-catcher, in stark contrast to the surrounding buildings. Neo-classical in style, the building is adorned with majestic columns, an impressive dome and detailed frescoes telling the story of the circus. The interior, with its central stage and wooden tiers, creates a warm, intimate atmosphere.

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Today, Cirque d'Hiver is owned by the Bouglione family and offers a varied program, from traditional circus performances to music concerts. Cirque d'Hiver also hosts private events, charity galas and fashion shows. With its rich history and remarkable architecture, it remains a must-see venue for show lovers. It embodies the magic of the circus while evolving to meet the expectations of a contemporary audience.

It's possible to visit the Cirque d'Hiver one Saturday a month ,outside performance times, at a cost of 15 euros. Whether you're a fan of thecircus arts or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, Cirque d'Hiver is one of those places where history and spectacle meet. To get there, simply stop at Filles du Calvaire on line 8 or Oberkampf on lines 9 and 5.

The Cirque d'Hiver de Paris program:

Cirque d'hiver - IMG 8428Cirque d'hiver - IMG 8428Cirque d'hiver - IMG 8428Cirque d'hiver - IMG 8428 Patrick Bruel to perform at Cirque d'Hiver Bouglione in Paris this June 2026
Patrick Bruel is gearing up for an enchanting concert tour in Paris in 2026! The renowned singer will perform at the Cirque d'Hiver Bouglione on Tuesday the 16th, Wednesday the 17th, and Thursday the 18th of June, delivering three unforgettable shows. [Read more]

Paris Fashion Week Haute Couture : assistez au défilé caritatif de Stéphane Rolland - réservationsParis Fashion Week Haute Couture : assistez au défilé caritatif de Stéphane Rolland - réservationsParis Fashion Week Haute Couture : assistez au défilé caritatif de Stéphane Rolland - réservationsParis Fashion Week Haute Couture : assistez au défilé caritatif de Stéphane Rolland - réservations Attend Stéphane Rolland's SS 2026 Haute Couture show during Fashion Week in Paris.
Have you ever dreamed of attending a Haute Couture fashion show during Paris Fashion Week? On Tuesday, January 27, 2026, during Fashion Week, Maison Stéphane Rolland is organizing a charity fashion show at the Cirque d'Hiver Bouglione, which any couture enthusiast can attend by reserving a ticket! 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the Fondation des Hôpitaux. [Read more]

Cirque d'hiver - IMG 8477Cirque d'hiver - IMG 8477Cirque d'hiver - IMG 8477Cirque d'hiver - IMG 8477 Tempo: the show that integrates the Sapeurs-Pompiers de Paris at Cirque Hiver Bouglione
Cirque d'Hiver Bouglione is back in town with its new show: "Tempo", to be seen in Paris from October 11, 2025 to March 8, 2026. This year, the Sapeurs-Pompiers join the team of circus performers for some impressive acts! [Read more]

Spectaculaire - Cirque d'hiver - IMG 8566Spectaculaire - Cirque d'hiver - IMG 8566Spectaculaire - Cirque d'hiver - IMG 8566Spectaculaire - Cirque d'hiver - IMG 8566 Meet the Bouglione family: flying trapeze at Cirque d'Hiver, our interview
On the occasion of their new show "Spectaculaire", we met up with Joseph and Louis-Sampion Bouglione to talk about flying trapeze, a skill born at the heart of the Cirque d'Hiver, one of the capital's most historic venues. [Read more]

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Practical information

Location

110 Rue Amelot
75011 Paris 11

Route planner

Accessibility info

Official website
www.cirquedhiver.com

Booking
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