September is a lovely, but confusing month in Paris. It has all the allure of summer-like comfortable weather and dinnertime sunsets. The metros, however, begin to fill up with sunburnt and pouty Parisians. Why the long faces? For them, vacation is over.
To get a final taste of summer, an optimistic few keep that vacation energy alive along the quais. If you’d like to see (or participate) in this final celebration of the season, head to the water. Here are the best bars in Paris to grab a drink by the water, whether along the Seine or on the canals.
Bars on The Seine
A fresh reminder of the sea. This little boat with its large, riverside terrace serves market-fresh oysters with white wine in the late afternoon. Small plates like burrata and ceviche also grace the menu. On the boat, you’ll find an intimate atmosphere with a great view of Île Saint-Louis. Outside is more laid-back, perfect for a spritz and a couple of well-spent hours by the Seine.
Les Maquereaux – Quai de l’Hôtel de Ville, 75004
Les Nautes
After sundown, this casual open-air bar has crowds who end up dancing by the water. Perfect for dates and reunions with big groups, Les Nautes comes alive at night. They have themed occasions, such as a Brazil night with caipirinhas and samba music.
Les Nautes – 1 Quai des Célestins, 75004
Lanterns dangle between tree branches, and set the mood for this pop-up terrace on the Right Bank. With tropical vibes, live music, and seasonal cocktails, this is a great place to enjoy the twilight of summer.
BarbaNegra – 12 Port de la Rapée, 75012
A pool that overlooks the Seine? That sounds too good to be true. Well, it’s a thing at OFF Paris Seine cocktail bar and pool. After work, stylish crowds head here to relax poolside (and Seine-side) with a cocktail. The pool is mostly there for the ambience, but it’s also 100% functional if you’re so tempted.
OFF Paris Seine – 86 Quai d’Austerlitz, 75013
On the west side of Paris lies this massive multipurpose beer garden. Yoga classes and craft fairs are held during the day, and at night they have live bands, pop-up bars, and fresh pizza. The crowds gather on the quay to watch the sunset over the skyline.
La Javelle – Port de Javel Bas, 75015
Bars on the Canal
Legend says that if you’re by the canal and whisper “I could really go for a glass of rosé,” the Barboteur will appear on the horizon. This magical, little boat docks at a different location on the canal every day and they serve wine, craft beer, and batch cocktails to lucky locals. On Sundays, they have live concerts (often jazz) along the Canal Saint-Martin.
Le Barboteur – 140 Quai de Jemmapes, 75010
Who knew that 20 rotating beers and 70 meters of canal-side terrace were the equation for happiness? With a friendly staff and unpretentious clientele, L’Atalante is for beer lovers and novices alike.
L’Atalante – 26 Quai de la Marne, 75019
Across the Canal de l’Ourcq sits the iconic barge, Grande Fantaisie, known for it’s street art-covered façade. Stop here for a very affordable pint and a seat by the water. At night, they host shows, including comedy, live music, and theater.
Grande Fantaisie – 3 Quai de l’Oise, 75019
Related Links
- You can also enjoy sunset views at Paris’ best rooftop bars.
- Read more about Canal Saint-Martin.
- And find out all about the lesser known Canal de l’Ourcq.
Written by Alexander Gittleman for HiP Paris. Looking to travel? Check out Haven In for a fabulous vacation rental in Paris, France or Italy. Looking to rent long-term or buy in France or Italy? Ask us! We can connect you to our trusted providers for amazing service and rates.
WRITTEN BY
Alexander Gittleman
An editor and writer from the United States, Alex has published two literary journals on business and history, and also writes about lifestyle subjects. When he isn’t delving into the realms of literature both fiction and non-fiction, he can be found trying out Paris’ latest bars and restaurants, which he reviews for HiP Paris.
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