The 24 Best Paris Terraces For Lingering Outdoors

Café terraces are an essential to life in Paris, whether it’s for a solo coffee in the morning or apéro among friends in the evening. Parisian terraces have evolved extensively in the past few years including an increasing number of rooftop bars and reimagined courtyard terraces. Here are our picks for the best terraces across the capital.

Paris Terraces

Best Frenchie Ambiance: La Brasserie des Prés

After the success of Brasserie Bellanger and Brasserie Dubillot, La Nouvelle Garde Groupe returned with another neo-brasserie. Tucked away down the quiet Cour de Commerce-Saint-André the hip eatery is flanked by a long terrace facing the picturesque cobbled lane. Here, you can enjoy their reasonably priced menu of French classics like oeuf mimosa, pâté en croûte and saucisse purée–all made with excellent quality ingredients sourced directly from producers.

The interiors are also delightful, and there is a secret bar hidden on the top floor. If you’re simply passing by, you can also get an artisanal ice-cream to go from its glacier.

Best Cool Vibes & Music: Superflu

The labor of love of music-loving friends, this hip bar and restaurant in the 18th district has a fabulous courtyard terrace. Start your evening in this verdant oasis, sharing a selection of creative small plates, great natural wines and craft cocktails. Before long, the living ambiance will draw you inside where you can groove to the beats of Paris’s most cutting-edge DJs, who spin from 10 to 2 pm Friday and Saturday evenings.

Best for a Romantic Meal: Bellefeuille

The regal Saint James Hotel in the 16th has unveiled an enchanting garden terrace for summer. This sublime verdant setting of Bellefeuille, or ‘beautiful leaf’ in French, is perfectly complemented by talented chef Julien Dumas’s succulent Michelin-starred creations, which beautifully highlight seasonal vegetables.

Best Laid-Back Atmosphere: Living Kitchen

You’ll feel like you’re in a friend’s backyard at this relaxed rooftop perched atop the Zuko Apartment Hotel in the 17th arrondissement. Attracting a mix of travelers, remote workers and sunseekers, the huge terrace has lounge seating, swings and plenty of greenery. Come for drinks and stay for a meal of contemporary cuisine using fresh ingredients grown right on the rooftop garden.

Best Under-the-Radar Terrace – Café de l’Odéon

Although it’s only a few paces from the Luxembourg Gardens, the large terrace of the Odéon Theatre remains for those in the know. Not only does it get a lot of sunshine, but you also have the pretty backdrop of the historic theater and very little traffic noise.

Greenest Terrace – Jardin21

Nestled within a vast vegetable garden in the Parc de la Villette is this eco-forward café. It serves local artisanal beverages and food made from ingredients from its very own garden, the ideal break after a stroll along the Canal de l’Ourcq.

More Paris Terraces

Le Louis Philippe, 66 Quai de l’Hôtel de ville, 75004 Paris

Nestled along the Seine, Le Louis Philippe is a charming restaurant that combines traditional cuisine with modern touches. Its terrace is an ideal spot for a relaxing drink while watching the sunset over the river. The menu features classic French cocktails and a selection of beers and wines that perfectly complement the serene setting.

Le Relais Odéon, 132 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris, France

Le Relais Odéon is a quintessential Parisian café-bar on the beloved Boulevard Saint-Germain, dating back to 1938. Its relaxed vibe is perfect for people-watching on its spacious terrace. Get there early because it fills up quickly, especially during happy hour.

Brasserie des Arts, 28 Rue Saint-André des Arts, 75006

Brasserie des Arts offers culinary excellence in the heart of the 6th arrondissement, serving food morning to night. This stylish restaurant is becoming a beloved neighborhood institution, honoring no nonsense traditional French food. Its art-nouveau inspired interior and innovative menu, which features both classic and contemporary dishes. The terrace provides a cozy and elegant outdoor space to enjoy the prix fixe lunch, à la carte dinner or a simple drink in a lively part of Paris.

L’Osteria Del Passe Partout, 20 Rue de l’Hirondelle, 75006

In an area with loads of tourist traps, L’Osteria Del Passe Partout offers an authentic Italian experience in the heart of Paris. The restaurant has a delightful, quiet terrace perfect for a relaxed meal. The menu highlights traditional Italian dishes with generous portions and a fine selection of wines. Perfect when you want a break from French food and an authentic taste of Italy in Paris.

Café de Flore, 172 boulevard St Germain, 75006

Café de Flore needs no introduction as one of Paris’s most iconic cafes. Soak up its literary and artistic heritage and enviable location on Boulevard Saint-Germain. The extensive terrace is worth a visit for both tourists and locals wanting to grab breakfast, a light bite, coffee or an apéro.

Related Links

• Beat the heat or lap up some exercise on your stay in Paris at a hotel with a pool!
• Looking for a place to call your own moments from many of these terraces? Check out our latest fractional Marais apartment sale or this luxury St Germain des Pres apartment for sale.
• Looking for a break from Paris crowds? Check out these places to escape – whether during tourist season or anytime.
• Before taking a break on one of Paris’ Terraces, stop by Messy Nessy’s Cabinet – a new shop in the 5th arrondissement from the beloved blogger.

Written by Lily Heise. Looking to travel? Check out Plum Guide and our Marketplace for fabulous vacation rentals in Paris, France or Italy. Looking to rent long or short term, or buy in France? Ask us! We can connect you to our trusted providers for amazing service and rates or click here. Looking to bring France home to you or to learn online or in person? Check out our marketplace shop and experiences.