The Freedom Bar

If you know something about traveling then you know never to make a specific plan. That's how I stumbled across one of the best bars, in my opinion, in the world the Freedom Pub. It's the perfect size with an agreeable English speaking staff from various countries. The prices for drinks are moderately low for a city this size. Freedom is mostly for mid 20's through the 30's crowd trying to relax at the end of the day or "pre-load" for the night that's yet to happen. I have only great things to say about this gem and plenty of bar stories to entertain my friends with back home.
Monday through Thursday is more for having a relaxing drink, while Friday and Saturday the staff turns it up with an array of music spun by their own in-house DJ. Sunday features a quiz night where first prize was a big bottle of champagne for the winning team on the house. (I just so happened to be on the winning team). Stop on by. I'll definitely be there for this New Year's.

I use "chill" in the most time-relative sense. If you go there in the middle of the afternoon, the atmosphere will be laid back. If you go there in the evening, depending on the night, you could be up for a rowdy good time.

The Freedom is just off the Champs Elysees, and let me tell you, if you're not with someone who knows where they're going, you'll be lucky if you stumble across it. I know for a fact that it would take me at least a street map and a couple of street crossings (to get to the correct side) before I'd be able to find it again. I always went with friends who knew exactly where they were going.

The bar is dubbed an "English" bar, so there are lots of big wooden tables and pints of Guinness aplenty. There is also a dancefloor, and in the back are pool tables. The dancefloor may or may not be hoppin', it depends on what time of night you arrive--the music is extremely eclectic, so be ready to dance to everything from rap to techno. You'll find lots of different kinds of people there, most of whom (in my experience) are regulars.

Depending on the night there's a cover--but I think that's to check your coat. It's not too expensive, maybe at most 5euros. And it IS a relief (particularly in the winter) to not have to carry around a coat and scarf.

The other perks of going to the Freedom is that nearby are the wonderful late night or all night fast food places along the Champs...namely the Quick. When Freedom closes at three, make your way over there for some post bar deliciousness!