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.
Dan Garcia
November 14, 2025 AT 20:07Just got back from Paris last week, and I can’t believe I didn’t do this sooner-Le Perchoir was pure magic. No reservations, just showed up at 6:15 PM, grabbed a corner seat on the top terrace, and watched the sun melt behind the rooftops while sipping that Perchoir Spritz. The whole city felt like it was breathing with me. If you’re even slightly on the fence, just go. You’ll thank yourself later.
Éloïse Dallaire-Gauthier
November 16, 2025 AT 12:43OH MY GOD. I went to Terrass’Hôtel at sunset and I literally cried. Not because I was drunk-I was sober!-but because the Eiffel Tower just… appeared. Like it was waiting for me. And the Parisian Mojito? It tasted like the soul of Paris in a glass. I took 87 photos. I don’t care. This is the moment I’m telling my grandchildren about. Paris doesn’t do subtlety. It does *drama*. And I loved every second of it.
Derren Spernol
November 16, 2025 AT 23:52So I’ve been to like seven of these rooftop bars over three separate trips to Paris, and I think I’ve figured out the pattern. The ones that feel like a secret-like Le Perchoir or even Skyline 56 when you go on a Tuesday-are the ones that stick with you. The ones that feel like a tourist trap, even if they’re technically beautiful, like the one at Galeries Lafayette on a Saturday night? They’re loud, the music’s too loud, and the cocktails taste like sugar water with a side of guilt. The real ones? They don’t advertise themselves. You find them by accident. Or you ask someone who actually lives here. And then you realize the view isn’t the point-it’s the silence between the clinks of glasses, the way the city hums below you like it’s asleep, even though it’s not. That’s what you’re paying for. Not the gin. Not the view. The quiet.
Sharon Bryant
November 17, 2025 AT 16:23Triston Hargrave
November 18, 2025 AT 10:41Look. I get it. You want to feel special. You want to sip something expensive while pretending you’re in a movie. But let’s be real: you’re paying for the *idea* of Paris, not the actual Paris. The real Paris is the corner bodega where the guy knows your name and gives you extra cheese on your baguette. The real Paris is the metro ride where someone shares their earbuds. Rooftop bars? They’re just expensive mirrors. You’re not seeing the city-you’re seeing your own reflection in a glass tower. And that’s not magic. That’s capitalism with a view. 😔
Jodie Rae Plaut
November 18, 2025 AT 14:42Pro tip: If you're planning a rooftop visit, prioritize booking *before* sunset-especially if you're targeting Terrass’Hôtel or Le Bar du Plaza Athénée. The terrace seating is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis for walk-ins, and the staff don’t hold tables for latecomers. Also, ask for the 'seasonal rotation' cocktail menu-it’s usually more interesting than the standard list. And yes, the dress code is real. I saw a guy turned away at Le Perchoir for wearing shorts and flip-flops. Even in July. Paris doesn’t care if you're on vacation. They care if you care. Smart casual = dark denim + button-down + clean shoes. No exceptions. Also, bring a light wrap. It gets chilly up there after 8 PM, even in August. Trust me-I learned this the hard way.
Colin Napier
November 20, 2025 AT 06:46Le Ciel de Paris is not a rooftop bar, it’s a champagne tasting room with a view. And frankly, if you’re going to spend €18 on a glass of bubbly, you might as well go to a proper wine bar in Saint-Germain. Also, the Opéra view is lovely, sure, but it’s not the Eiffel Tower. And if you think that’s enough, you’ve never actually been to Paris. The Eiffel Tower is the *point*. Everything else is background noise. And don’t get me started on the 'Parisian Nights' cocktail-gin, lavender, honey? That’s not a cocktail, that’s a floral perfume with alcohol in it. Just say no.
Patsy Ferreira
November 20, 2025 AT 20:46Okay but who wrote this article? It’s full of grammatical errors. 'You’ve walked the Seine, snapped the Eiffel Tower from every angle, and eaten your way through every boulangerie in Le Marais.' That’s a comma splice. And 'it’s got a skyline you can sip under'-'it’s' should be 'it has.' Also, 'the city itself is the backdrop' is a cliché. And why is everyone acting like the Eiffel Tower is the only thing worth seeing? What about the Panthéon? Or the Canal Saint-Martin? This whole thing is so touristy it hurts. And don’t even get me started on the 'smart casual' dress code. It’s just classism disguised as style. People should wear what they want. Not everyone can afford designer sneakers.
William Terry
November 20, 2025 AT 23:06Look I get it you want to feel fancy but honestly if you’re spending 20 bucks on a drink just to see a tower you’ve seen on a postcard you’re doing it wrong. The real Paris is in the little streets the old men playing chess the smell of bread the way the light hits the stone at 4pm. Rooftops are just for people who need to prove they were somewhere. You don’t need to be up high to feel something down here. Just slow down. Drink a beer. Sit on a bench. Let the city find you. That’s the magic. Not the view.