Sun’s out, buns out! One of the best ways to experience the charm and splendor of Paris is by enjoying a drink, or two (or five let’s be honest) at a rooftop bar.
Nothing screams a good afterwork like basking in the sun with a glass of rosé, overlooking the City of Lights.
Have I got your imagination going?
Cool, because here’s a list of my five go-to rooftop bars:
There are three Perchoirs: one in the Marais, one in the East and one in Ménilmontant, which I prefer. This bar offers an exquisite rooftop experience at a reasonable price. It has a panoramic view of Paris’ chimneys – to be honest, I kinda feel like I’m in “The Aristocats” when I go there.
The rustic decor, friendly atmosphere, and affordable drink options make it a must-go.
Address: 14 Rue Crespin du Gast, 75011
Open from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. during the week; 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Saturdays, and until midnight on Sundays.
Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Belleville, Mama Shelter Rooftop offers a lively and relaxed atmosphere combined with an incredible view of the city. It’s a very trendy spot, adorned with colorful furniture and decor, serves up reasonably priced drinks and cocktails. With its eclectic vibe and panoramic vista, it’s the perfect place to unwind and soak in the beauty of Paris.
This is atop a Mama Shelter hotel, a relatively new chain with locations across the globe. Founded in 2008 by Serge Trigano, the brand is built on the concept of being an “urban refuge.”
This one is quite special, because it is located atop the famous Moulin Rouge! Le Bar à Bulles is a quirky and offbeat rooftop bar that exudes a playful and artistic vibe. It offers a breathtaking view of the iconic red windmill and the Montmartre neighborhood. Unwind on the terrace, enjoy the bohemian atmosphere, and soak in the panoramic vista of the city’s rooftops and landmarks. Le Bar à Bulles is an ideal choice for those seeking a unique rooftop experience in Paris.
Address: 4 Cité Véron, 75018 Paris
Hours:
Tuesday and Wednesday, 6 p.m. to midnight; Thursday, 6 p.m. to 1 a.m.; 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Tucked away along the picturesque Canal Saint-Martin, Point Éphémère offers a unique rooftop experience for budget-conscious visitors. With its industrial-chic decor, laid-back atmosphere, and unbeatable view of the canal, this hidden gem provides an authentic taste of Parisian life.
Enjoy reasonably priced drinks, cultural events, and a vibrant artsy scene that makes this rooftop bar a true local favourite. It’s also in my all-time favourite area of Paris.
Address: 200 Quai de Valmy, 75010
Hours:
Monday and Tuesday, 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Wednesday and Thursday, noon to 2 a.m.; Friday and Saturday, noon to 3 a.m. and Sunday, noon to 11 p.m.
Okay, I’ve got to admit this, it is the most pretentious spot on this list, and it’s not technically a rooftop. But if you are looking to get the absolute best view of the Eiffel Tower, this is the place for you.
This place is literally all about sipping fancy drinks while getting a killer view of the Eiffel Tower. If you’re feeling nibbly, the food is delicious too. You’ve got to admit that the pic made you gasp, so go, my friend!
Run grab a drink at La Girafe, soak up the glitz, and let the laughter and Eiffel Tower selfies commence!
Address: 1 Pl. du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre, 75016 Paris
Hours:
Open every night from 7 p.m. – 2 a.m. Also open during the day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
When visiting Paris, it’s crucial to find the perfect rooftop bar that combines affordability, a great view, and an enjoyable atmosphere. The Top 5 rooftop bars above provide an excellent balance of these qualities, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of Paris without breaking the bank.
So, raise your glass, savor the breathtaking views, and create unforgettable memories at these rooftops. Just be careful not to get too tipsy and mistake the chimneys for the Eiffel Tower’s secret siblings!
Charlotte Laborie grew up in England, Belgium and Switzerland. Charlotte then moved to Paris and graduated from Sciences Po Paris. She is still based in Paris, where she works in marketing.
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