The Best "Terrasses"
The Best Rooftops in Paris
Enjoy the warm weather and take in the best views of Paris from our selection of rooftop terraces – and most of them are free! Although the views from the well-known tourist hotspots such as the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower and the Sacré Cœur are excellent, this list of rooftops will take your experience of Parisian views to a whole new level, away from the busy and bustling crowds of tourists.
Institut Du Monde Arabe
1 rue des Fossés Saint-Bernard,75005, Paris, M° Jussieu
The Institut du Monde Arabe is a museum showcasing the diversity of the Arab world and Arab-Islamic civilisation, and its rooftop has a particularly good view over the Seine, the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Ile de la Cité. There is also a Lebanese restaurant located on the rooftop for those who wish to have a drink or eat with a great view!
Free access to the rooftop. Open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 6pm and until 7pm on weekends and public holidays.
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
Level 8, 40 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009, Paris, M° Chaussée d’Antin – La Fayette
The rooftop of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is a great spot for relaxing while taking in the impressive Parisian skyline, including the Eiffel Tower.
You can sit on the rooftop with a takeaway ice cream, drink or snack from one of the shops on the floors below, or even bring your own picnic!
The Galeries Lafayette is a true shopper’s paradise, and do not forget to admire the dome from the ground floor too!
Free access to the rooftop. Open Monday to Saturday from 9:30am until 7:30pm.
Pompidou Centre
Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004, Paris, M° Rambuteau
The Pompidou centre opened in 1977 and has the largest collection of modern art in Europe. The inside-out architectural style is certainly one of a kind, and it is definitely worth taking the external escalators up to the roof to enjoy the panoramic view from the top!
Access from inside the Pompidou Centre. Free access for 18 to 26 EU citizens. The Pompidou centre is closed on Tuesdays.
Le Jardin Atlantique De La Gare Montparnasse
Place des Cinq Martyrs du Lycée Buffon, 75015, Paris, M° Gaîté
The Jardin Atlantique is situated on the top of the Montparnasse station in the 15th arrondissement. This place is perfect if you have some time to kill before taking your train, or even just for a relax in the sun! This rooftop is less of a viewing destination but rather an idyllic spot of greenery among the skyscrapers!
Point Ephémère
200 Quai de Valmy, 75010, Paris, M° Jaurès
Point Ephémère, a popular bar and club known for its edgy music scenes also has a rooftop with an outstanding view of the Canal Saint-Martin. Check their programme for up-to-date information about their events.
Open Wednesday to Friday from 12pm to 3pm and 5pm to 11pm, and weekends 1pm to 11pm.