Imagine yourself on a charming secret rooftop terrace, drinking coffee and admiring the view which is made even better when you are gazing at Eiffel Tower while sun heat warms up your face and immerses you into the Paris beauty.
The good news is that you don’t have to dream more as you can turn this into reality by visiting the famous French gardens in Paris. In my recent visit to the City of Light, I was fortunate to come across some charming and less popular rooftop gardens and secret terraces that bounded the beauty of Paris.
These are wonderful places to relax and escape the noise and traffic of the city making them an ideal part of the trip for those looking for something different. So, grab your favorite cup and allow me to take you around Paris’ best-kept green secrets!
Top Hidden Rooftop Gardens and Secret Terraces
- Le Ciel de Paris
- Rooftop Bar at Galeries Lafayette
- The Terrass’’ Hotel
- The Roof at the Hôtel de Crillon
- Rooftop at Le Perchoir
- Secret Garden at Musée Jacquemart-André
- Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil
- La Terrasse at Hôtel La Comtesse
- Jardin du Palais-Royal
- Hidden Terraces in Le Marais
Overview of Top Picks
These hidden gems in Paris will not only impress you with the views they bring but also their absolute quietness will spoil you no less, making them ideal places to escape after a full day of visiting.
From rooftop bars to peaceful gardens, every place has its own beauty and ambience.
1. Le Ciel de Paris
Location: Montparnasse
Description: It is located on the 56-th floor and it is a roof top restaurant with a wonderful bird eye view of the city. The place is stylish and decorated well enough to hold a dinner on anniversaries and dates.
Pricing: Moderate to High
Standout Features: Incredible perspectives of the Eiffel Tower and a fine selection of French cuisine are amongst many other stupendous aspects of the restaurant.
2. Rooftop Bar at Galeries Lafayette
Location: Boulevard Haussmann
Description: Apart from being one of the best places to shop in Paris, the Galeries Lafayette has a rooftop bar which is great for enjoying the views that the city of Paris has to offer. After shopping the whole day, it becomes a good place to drink a cocktail.
Pricing: Moderate
Standout Features: From the bar patrons can enjoy the views of La Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, the Eiffel Tower and many other monuments all within a single span covering the city at 360 degree angles.
3. The Terrass’’ Hotel
Location: Montmartre
Description: The hotel is equipped with a rooftop terrace that allows the guests to have a drink while watching the beautiful views of Montmartre and the entire city. The atmosphere there is chill and the service is outstanding.
Pricing: Moderate to High
Standout Features: It gives a homely feel and allows for breathtaking views of the sunset, over the city.
4. The Roof at the Hôtel de Crillon
Location: Place de la Concorde
Description: With a warm touch, this terrace is privately owned and priced for special events. Perfect for a unique experience with impeccable service.
Pricing: Always at the high end
Standout Features: Touch of elegance and a great selection of wines.
5. Rooftop at Le Perchoir
Location: Oberkampf
Description: This modern space has such great diversity and offerings. Many locals love to go here so it’s fun to socialize.
Pricing: Moderate range
Standout Features: Chic cocktails in an elegant restaurant and lively service.
6. Secret Garden at Musée Jacquemart-André
Location: 8th Arrondissement
Description: This thoroughly concealed corner sits right inside the confines of the museum. It’s an escape of sorts where art and nature blend beautifully.
Pricing: The museum charges entry fee
Standout Features: Great combination of well manicured gardens decorated with artworks.
7. Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil
Location: Bois de Boulogne
Description: Includes plants of a number of species with one or more greenhouses, botanical garden. It is a beautiful place where one can take a simple walk.
Pricing: Free of charge for visitors
Standout Features: A great place away from the city commotion.
8. La Terrasse: Hotel La Comtesse
Location: Close to the Eiffel Tower
Description: This hotel terrace allows one to have a perfect view of the Eiffel Tower while lounging and sipping some drinks and having light bites.
Pricing: A low to a medium Pricing.
Standout Features: A perfect view of the Eiffel Tower, best to see it at night.
9. Jardin du Palais-Royal
Location: 1st Arrondissement
Description: One of the most popular tourist destinations in the first arrondissement of the city of Paris is the Palais Royal and its garden. The Palais Royal is surrounded by beautiful buildings, and the gardens themselves are more peaceful in the center of the city.
Pricing: Absolutely free of charge.
Standout Features: There are nice lawns and plants and several statues of importance.
10. Terrasses Cachées: Rue De Rosiers Le Marais
Location: Le Marais
Description: These hidden terraces are located throughout the area and are excellent for a peaceful afternoon. Tourists don’t always stop by a lot of cafés because they have small terraces. This area contains the cynical part of me.
Pricing: The prices differ from one cafe to the other.
Standout Features: Cute environment and Tangy.
My Personal Memories
As I explored the famous gardens of France, I was wiped off my feet by the scenery that Paris had to offer. A memorable moment for me was when I was at Le Ciel de Paris, which is a meal I will happily cherish my whole life.
I saw the colors orange and pink filling up the sky as the sun slowly hid itself. The delight was accompanied not only by enjoyment but also light laughter and the clinking of glasses while maintaining a certain treasured intimacy.
In another case, I was at the Rooftop at Le Perchoir and to my surprise, I came across a couple who were locals and were glad to let me in on some information about the hidden beauty of this city.
They stressed on the fact that these places are not preferences among tourists but also areas where residents of Paris go to enjoy. It was touching to witness first-hand how much pride the people take in the beauty of their city and it made me feel like I am part of the real thing.
My Recommandations
To help you plan your visit to the enchanting rooftop gardens and secret terraces in Paris, I’ve compiled a handy table summarizing each location, including its features, pricing, and highlights. This will make it easier for you to choose the perfect spot for your Parisian adventure.
| Location | Description | Pricing | Highlight |
| Le Ciel de Paris | Rooftop restaurant with stunning panoramic views of the city. | Moderate to High | Breathtaking sunset views over the Eiffel Tower. |
| Rooftop Bar at Galeries Lafayette | Bar offering 360-degree views after a day of shopping. | Moderate | Iconic landmarks view, including the Sacré-Cœur. |
| The Terrass’’ Hotel | Hotel rooftop terrace with views of Montmartre and the skyline. | Moderate to High | Cozy vibe and stunning sunset views. |
| The Roof at the Hôtel de Crillon | Upscale terrace providing a luxurious experience with excellent service. | High | Exclusive atmosphere with a curated cocktail menu. |
| Rooftop at Le Perchoir | Trendy bar with vibrant atmosphere and greenery. | Moderate | Creative cocktails and lively ambiance. |
| Secret Garden at Musée Jacquemart-André | Hidden oasis within the museum grounds. | Entry fee for museum | Artistic sculptures in a tranquil setting. |
| Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil | Botanical garden with beautiful greenhouses and exotic plants. | Free | Serene escape from the city hustle. |
| La Terrasse at Hôtel La Comtesse | Hotel terrace with stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. | Moderate to High | Direct views of the Eiffel Tower, especially at night. |
| Jardin du Palais-Royal | Lesser-known garden surrounded by stunning architecture. | Free | Peaceful atmosphere with historic statues. |
| Hidden Terraces in Le Marais | Quaint terraces scattered throughout the charming neighborhood. | Varies by café | Local charm and a perfect spot for a quiet afternoon. |
Those who are planning their holidays in Paris, the beauty of hidden rooftops in Paris can be a remedy for your travel bug. These elusive places not only offer stunning panoramas and tranquil settings but also an interesting aspect of local life.
So if you’re heading out on your next trip, you might as well add these gems to your list. Pack your camera, and a good book, or go out to get some coffee and get a stunning view of the city from the rooftop. You will not regret the decision.
FAQs:
Do you have to have a membership to visit rooftops in Paris?
Not every rooftop has free public access, There are especially a few built on top of hotels or restaurants. Always check beforehand.
Are rooftop restaurants open?
It always helps to call and check and make a reservation as well, especially during the holiday seasons, so you can get a good seat.
Are there any entrance costs for the gardens?
Most gardens in Paris can be accessed without any entry fees, However, occasional museums might require a nominal fee to enter.
4. Are we allowed to eat and drink at the gardens?
However, it is always better to confirm with each garden’s specific rules, since in many, eating lunch at the gardens is allowed. Just ensure that you dispose of your waste properly!
5. When is the ideal time of day to visit these rooftop gardens?
Pouring over the skyline and enjoying the soothing ambience is best done between late afternoon and twilight.
Perhaps this is worth repeating: These are the basic directions that one needs to follow in order to find the rooftop gardens and the concealed terraces of Paris. Happy exploring!
