There are thousands of terrace bars in Paris and one of the joys of a visit is to find your own favourite. Everyone will find a bar that they feel suits them whether its on a busy main road or a quiet cobbled rue. Get off the beaten track and take a break in one of the secret gardens and heavenly hidden terraces in Paris and chill in your own little oasis…
10 terrace bars in Paris you’ll fall in love with
Iconic terrace bars
Café de la Paix is an institution and from its position next to the Opera Garnier, the Paris Opera House, it’s in a fabulous location. Sitting outside in the sun or under the awning when it rains is one of those Paris experiences that you’ll always remember.
Les Deux Magots has been a cafe in its Saint Germain de Pres position opposite rival Café de Flore since 1884. The word Magot comes from its former incarnation as a shop selling silk items from the far east, Magot meaning Chinese merchant in this case. Inside the cafe you’ll see the two Magots, wooden figurines. Bustling, fun and expensive but for visitors to Paris this is one of those tick box must dos.
Café de Flore has been pleasing customers for more than 130 years in its corner position on Boulevard Saint–Germain and Rue Saint-Benoît in posh Saint Germain des Pres (read more about the history of Café de Flore). Another must do for Paris visitors.
Secrets in the City
In the heart of the lively district of Pigalle, close to Montmartre is a hidden courtyard to fall in love with. Vibrant planting in the trendy outdoor bar of the Hotel Amour make this place perfect for afternoon tea as well as an evening cocktail in a stylish setting (8 Rue de Navarin, 9th Arr).
Le Bistrot des Dames: From outside, the Bistrot des dames looks like a typical Parisian cafe, but locals know that it hides a special treat. Ask to be seated on the terrace and you’ll be led to a small garden oasis. It’s an ideal respite from the noisy city atmosphere (18 Rue des Dames, Métro Place de Clichy ).
City Sensation
In a building that was formerly a convent, just steps from the Gare de l’Est train station it’s easy to miss, but here is where you’ll find the cool Café A. It’s a tranquil outdoor café by day though far more animated at night. This inner courtyard haven has ping pong tables and refreshing drinks and is perfect to escape the crowds (148 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Martin).
Hipster Heights
It doesn’t get much higher than the third floor bar of the Eiffel Tower! At the Champagne Bar gives you’ll enjoy a glass of fizz while taking in incredible views of Paris, seen from an altitude of 276m.
Invisible from the street, the terrace of the Bellevilloise is only open when the weather permits. Housed in the first workers cooperative building in the city, the bar has been beautifully renovated. So, when the timing is right, head for the historic heights of this hanging garden which is oh so pretty with olive and palm trees and let the hours slip by… (19-21 Rue Boyer, 20th Arr)
Galeries Lafayette – yes it is a department store, however up on the top floor is a terrace area where you’ll get outstanding views over the city. (Where to find the best panoramic views over the city)
Bobo Hideaway
Popular with Bobos, (Bourgeois Bohemenians), l’Entrepot (The Warehouse) is a cultural venue with cinema, concerts and exhibitions. The restaurant and bar area in the shaded, bamboo planted garden and glass covered terrace is like a little sanctuary in the heart of the city. (rue Francis de Pressensé, 14th Arr).
More great bars in Paris
5 historic bars in Paris
4 bars the locals love in Paris
Best cocktail bars in Paris
