The Best Rooftops in Paris to Cool Off This Summer

If you’re looking for Paris restaurants with a view, or just an apéritif to cool off as the city heats up, then read on for our pick of the best rooftops in Paris.

Mama Shelter

Not just a great location for drinks – although the sangria makes a very summery tipple – Mama Shelter is also a fantastic spot for dinner, with its own kitchen and rotisserie installed on the rooftop terrace.

Early evening guests can enjoy light snacks and nibbles, or make a reservation for dinner to tuck a set menu with not just one but two starters (the signature lentils are must-try), a main (chicken fresh from the rotisserie really hits the spot), and a dessert. 

Le Perchoir

When summer finally arrives, you’ll find most Parisians shading themselves on one of Le Perchoir’s famed rooftop terraces. Known for fantastic views and great cocktails, Le Perchoir has now grown to include four locations across Paris.

The original address, in the more local 20th arrondissement, boasts sweeping views of the city, while in Le Marais you can find a the rooftop hidden away on the top of BHV department store. Get there early to try and avoid the queues for this one, but the wait is worth it to get up close to architectural sights such as Hôtel de Ville.

Hotel Molitor

One of the most Instagrammable spots in Paris, the iconic pool at Hotel Molitor is also one of the most exclusive, with access reserved for hotel guests and members of the hotel’s sports club. However, there is away you can get a sneak peek of the famous piscine and soak up the glamour of the 1930s surroundings, and that’s by heading up to the hotel’s spacious rooftop terrace.

Here you have a perfect view of the pool’s Art Deco design and plenty of shade to sit back and enjoy tasty mezze dishes and chilled French wines, with DJs providing the soundtrack every weekend.

Printemps

With the recent addition of the new Printemps Du Goût food floors, which opened just last year, the 8th floor terrace at Printemps’ Haussmann department store now offers you the chance to enjoy a feast of fantastic French food with a view to match.

Choose your restaurant (we love the veggie options at Supernature) and head outside for dinner and drinks with a stunning vista of Paris and Printemps’ gilded gold domes. You might even spot the store’s beehives, which can also be found perched on the top of the building. 

Hôtel National Des Arts et Métiers

The rooftop bar at Hôtel National Des Arts et Métiers has been one of the most fashionable spots in Le Marais since hotel opened its doors back in 2017. A place to see and be seen, the terrace is decked out stylishly as its guests, with laidback sofas perfect for lounging and taking in the stunning views over Paris’ iconic grey rooftops.

The terrace is for drinks only, but once you’ve enjoyed the hotel’s signature cocktails you can always head downstairs to the restaurant for Italian fare courtesy served up by some of Paris’ top restaurateurs.

If you’re heading to Paris this summer, make sure to check out our suggestions of unique things to do while visiting the city.