You’ve walked the Seine, snapped the Eiffel Tower from every angle, and eaten your way through every boulangerie in Le Marais. But have you ever had a drink where the city itself is the backdrop? Paris isn’t just about museums and cafés-it’s got a skyline you can sip under, and the best places to do it are up on the rooftops.
Why Rooftop Bars in Paris Are a Must-Do
Most tourists think of Paris as ground-level: cobblestone streets, sidewalk cafés, and metro stations. But the real magic? It’s above it all. Rooftop bars in Paris turn the city into your personal postcard. You’re not just seeing the Eiffel Tower-you’re sipping champagne while it sparkles right in front of you. No filters. No crowds. Just you, a cocktail, and 360 degrees of Parisian light.
These spots aren’t just pretty. They’re strategic. After a long day of walking, you don’t need to rush to dinner. You can unwind with a glass of rosé as the sun dips behind Montmartre. The air cools. The city lights blink on. It’s the kind of moment that sticks with you longer than any souvenir.
What Makes a Rooftop Bar in Paris Great?
Not all rooftop bars are created equal. Here’s what separates the good from the unforgettable:
- View quality: Can you see the Eiffel Tower without obstruction? Is the Sacré-Coeur visible from your seat?
- Atmosphere: Is it loud and packed like a nightclub, or calm enough to actually talk?
- Drink quality: Are they just pouring standard cocktails, or do they craft something unique?
- Access: Do you need a reservation? Is there a cover charge? Can you just walk in for a drink, or do you need to book a table?
Some spots are for Instagram. Others are for memory-making. We’re talking about the ones that do both.
The Top 5 Rooftop Bars with Unbeatable Views in Paris
Here’s where to go if you want the real deal-no gimmicks, no overpriced watered-down drinks, just pure Parisian skyline.
1. Le Perchoir - Rue de la Fontaine au Roi
Think of Le Perchoir as Paris’s coolest backyard. It’s not one bar-it’s a cluster of terraces spread across three levels, each with a different vibe. The top floor? A panoramic view of the 11th arrondissement and the distant spire of the Eiffel Tower. The crowd? Young Parisians, artists, travelers who know where to look. Order the Perchoir Spritz-it’s made with local liqueur and tastes like summer in a glass. No reservations needed before 7 PM, but show up early if you want a corner seat.
2. Terrass’Hôtel - Montparnasse
If you want the Eiffel Tower front and center, this is your spot. Perched on the 18th floor of a boutique hotel, Terrass’Hôtel gives you an unobstructed, straight-on view of the tower. The lighting at sunset? Pure gold. The drinks? Expertly made. The crowd? A mix of locals and savvy tourists who don’t want to pay €20 for a mojito in the Latin Quarter. Their Parisian Mojito uses house-made mint syrup and a splash of elderflower-refreshing without being cloying. Arrive by 6:30 PM for golden hour, and stay for the tower’s nightly sparkle at 10 PM.
3. Skyline 56 - Tour Montparnasse
This isn’t a bar you stumble into. It’s a destination. Located on the 56th floor of Montparnasse Tower-the tallest skyscraper in Paris-it’s the only place where you can look down on the entire city. The view is surreal: the Louvre looks like a toy, the Seine a silver ribbon. The bar itself is sleek, modern, and surprisingly quiet for such a height. The cocktails are on par with top New York spots. Try the Montparnasse Mule-vodka, ginger, lime, and a hint of rosemary. It’s pricey (€18-€25), but worth it. Book ahead. And don’t forget to take the elevator down slowly-you’ll want to savor the view all the way back to ground level.
4. Le Ciel de Paris - Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
Here’s a secret: you don’t need to go far to find magic. On the top floor of the iconic Galeries Lafayette, Le Ciel de Paris offers a view of the Opéra Garnier and the rooftops of central Paris. It’s less about the Eiffel Tower and more about the architecture-the gilded domes, the wrought-iron balconies, the red-tiled roofs stretching endlessly. The vibe is upscale but not stuffy. The wine list? French through and through. Their Champagne Flight lets you taste three different cuvées side by side. Perfect for a date night or a quiet celebration. Open until midnight, and no dress code beyond ‘no flip-flops’.
5. Le Bar du Plaza Athénée - Avenue Montaigne
For those who want luxury with a view, this is it. Nestled atop the Plaza Athénée hotel, this bar feels like stepping into a 1920s Parisian novel. The terrace overlooks the Eiffel Tower and the quiet elegance of the 8th arrondissement. The service is impeccable. The cocktails? Crafted by a James Beard Award-nominated mixologist. Their signature Parisian Nights-gin, lavender, lemon, and a touch of honey-is smooth, floral, and unforgettable. This isn’t a place for loud parties. It’s for slow sipping, quiet conversations, and watching the city glow under the stars.
When to Go: Best Times for Rooftop Bars in Paris
Timing matters. Paris rooftop bars aren’t just about the view-they’re about the light.
- Sunset (6-7:30 PM): The golden hour. This is when the Eiffel Tower catches the last rays and turns into a glowing monument. Book ahead-this is prime time.
- Evening (8-10 PM): The tower sparkles every hour on the hour for five minutes. If you’re there at 10 PM, you’ll see it light up like a Christmas tree. Perfect for photos.
- Weekdays vs. Weekends: Weekends are packed. If you want a quiet table, go Tuesday-Thursday. Fridays and Saturdays? Expect crowds and higher prices.
- Weather: Paris can be chilly even in summer. Bring a light jacket. Rooftop bars are open year-round, but the terrace closes if it rains or gets too windy.
How to Book and What to Expect
Don’t just show up. Most of these spots require reservations, especially for sunset. Here’s how to plan:
- Go to the bar’s official website-no third-party apps. They often have better availability.
- Book at least 3-5 days in advance for weekends.
- Specify “terrace seating” or “Eiffel Tower view” when booking.
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early. The staff will seat you before the rush.
- Most places have a dress code: no shorts, no flip-flops, no athletic wear. Smart casual is safe.
Expect to pay €15-€25 for a cocktail. Champagne starts at €18 per glass. Water and non-alcoholic options are usually available, but they’re not cheap. The price isn’t for the drink-it’s for the view.
What to Wear to a Paris Rooftop Bar
Parisians dress well-even for drinks on a roof. You don’t need a suit, but you do need to look like you care.
- Men: Dark jeans or chinos, button-down shirt or polo, clean sneakers or loafers.
- Women: Midi dress, tailored pants with a blouse, or a chic jumpsuit. Heels aren’t required, but avoid sneakers unless they’re designer.
- Everyone: Bring a light jacket. Even in July, it gets chilly up there.
Too casual? You might get turned away at the door. Too fancy? You’ll feel out of place. Aim for effortless elegance.
Rooftop Bar vs. Ground-Level Bar: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Rooftop Bar | Ground-Level Bar |
|---|---|---|
| View | Unobstructed skyline, Eiffel Tower, city lights | Street life, café culture, pedestrian views |
| Price per Drink | €15-€25 | €8-€14 |
| Reservations Needed | Yes, usually | Often walk-in friendly |
| Atmosphere | Quiet, romantic, elevated (literally) | Lively, social, noisy |
| Best For | Sunsets, proposals, special moments | Quick drinks, meeting friends, people-watching |
Ground-level bars are great for beer and banter. Rooftops? They’re for moments you’ll remember forever.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are rooftop bars in Paris open in winter?
Yes, most rooftop bars stay open year-round, but only some have heated terraces. From November to March, outdoor seating is limited, and many move indoors. The views are still there, but you’ll be behind glass. If you’re visiting in winter, call ahead to confirm if the terrace is open.
Can you go to a rooftop bar without ordering food?
Absolutely. Most rooftop bars in Paris don’t require you to order food. You can just order a drink and enjoy the view. Some places have light snacks or small plates, but they’re optional. The focus is on the experience, not the menu.
Is it worth it to pay €20 for a cocktail?
If you’re looking for a drink, no. But if you’re looking for a memory-yes. You’re not paying for the gin or the lime. You’re paying for the Eiffel Tower sparkling behind you, the quiet hum of the city below, and the feeling that you’re seeing Paris the way locals do. It’s an experience, not just a drink.
Which rooftop bar has the best Eiffel Tower view?
Terrass’Hôtel and Skyline 56 give you the clearest, closest views. Terrass’Hôtel is more intimate and relaxed. Skyline 56 is more dramatic and panoramic. For a photo that’ll make your friends jealous, Terrass’Hôtel wins. For a full-city experience, go to Skyline 56.
Do I need to speak French to go to a rooftop bar?
No. Most staff at popular rooftop bars speak fluent English. But learning a few phrases-like “Une table avec vue, s’il vous plaît” (A table with a view, please)-goes a long way. Parisians appreciate the effort.
Final Thought: Don’t Just See Paris-Soar Above It
You’ll remember the Louvre. You’ll remember the croissants. But the night you sat on a rooftop, glass in hand, watching the Eiffel Tower light up as the city breathed around you? That’s the moment you’ll tell people about. Paris doesn’t just live on the ground. It rises-into the sky, into the stars, into the quiet spaces between heartbeats. Find your rooftop. Order your drink. Look up. And let the city do the rest.
