Best Paris Cafes: Ultimate and Iconic Shops to Visit

In Paris, sitting at a café is just as important as visiting the main sights. It’s not only about the coffee, but also about the atmosphere, the history, and watching daily life go by. From old literary cafés to small neighborhood spots, the best Paris cafes are a big part of the city’s culture.

Café life is part of the daily routine in this French capital. Locals stop for a quick café crème, friends meet up and talk for hours, and visitors get to slow down and enjoy the city. Some cafés are famous and full of history, while others are new and focus on great coffee and design. This mix is what makes exploring Parisian cafes so much fun.

In this blog post, I will share my favorite places to visit in Paris. From famous literary cafés to cute coffee shops and specialty cafés, these places are worth the detour. They offer a real taste of Parisian café culture.

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Why the Best Paris Cafes Are a Must Visit

The best Paris cafes are more than just places to get a drink. This is where the City of Lights slows down. For centuries, writers, artists, and thinkers have spent hours at small tables with a coffee and a notebook, coming up with big ideas.

Parisian cafés are the perfect place to take a break between sightseeing. After a short walk along the River Seine, visiting Notre Dame, or just exploring the streets of Paris, it feels natural to stop at a café. You don’t need a plan. Just find a table, sit down, and enjoy a good cup of coffee.

One thing I love about Paris cafes is the variety. You can find historic cafés on the Left Bank, small places hidden in Le Marais, modern coffee shops with great beans, and classic cafés with big windows that are perfect when it rains.

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15 Best Paris Cafes to Put on Your List

1. Café de Flore – One of the Most Famous Cafes in Paris

Location: Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Left Bank

Café de Flore is one of the most famous cafés in Paris, and in my opinion, it’s a must-visit if you want to experience classic Parisian vibes. It’s located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés on the Left Bank.

This place has a long history and was a favorite hangout for writers and philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus, and James Joyce. The red seats, mirrored walls, and sidewalk tables are perfect for people-watching. Don’t rush your visit here. Order a coffee, sit back, and soak in the atmosphere.

If you visit Café de Flore, you have to try their hot chocolate. It’s rich and comforting, especially if you’re in Paris on a cold or rainy day. Even though it’s popular with tourists, it still feels like a real part of Paris café culture. I think it definitely deserves a spot on any list of the best cafes in Paris.

2. Les Deux Magots – A Historic Paris Cafe with Literary Roots

Location: Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Les Deux Magots is right next door to Café de Flore. This is another legendary Paris café that you shouldn’t miss, especially if you love history. Famous writers like Ernest Hemingway, Pablo Picasso, and James Joyce used to come here. The café even has its own literary prize.

The atmosphere at Les Deux Magots is both elegant and relaxed. If the weather is nice, you can sit outside and enjoy a slow coffee break. I recommend stopping here after you explore the Left Bank or wander through the nearby streets full of bookstores and galleries.

3. Ralph’s Coffee – A Cozy Cafe in Paris

Location: Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Ralph’s Coffee Paris café is inside the Ralph Lauren store in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. It has a cozy vibe with dark wood, comfortable seats, and that classic Ralph Lauren look. If you’re shopping or just walking around the area, it’s a great place to take a break and enjoy a coffee. I recommend it if you like stylish cafés that feel calm and welcoming.

4. Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole – A Charming Cafe Near Notre Dame

Location: 4th Arrondissement

Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole is just steps away from Notre Dame, right on Île de la Cité. You can’t miss it if you’re exploring the area.

I think it’s one of the most charming cafés in Paris. The inside is cozy and has a traditional vibe, but if the weather is nice, I recommend sitting outside. It’s often mentioned as one of the best cafés in Paris.

It’s the perfect place to relax after walking around Notre Dame or along the River Seine.

5. Le Consulat – A Classic Montmartre Cafe

Location: Rue Lepic, Montmartre

Le Consulat is probably the most recognizable café in Montmartre. You’ll find it on Rue Lepic, close to the Moulin Rouge, surrounded by narrow streets and old buildings that give the area its special charm.

Famous artists like Van Gogh and Pablo Picasso used to spend time in this neighborhood. Even though Le Consulat can get crowded now, it still has that old-world atmosphere. It’s a classic example of a traditional Paris cafe that makes Montmartre so special.

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6. Café des Deux Moulins – A Famous Paris Cafe

Location: Montmartre

Café des Deux Moulins is well-known for its appearance in the film Amélie, and it’s still one of the most famous cafes in Paris. It’s located in Montmartre, and if you like visiting places from movies, this is a fun stop.

Inside, the café still feels relaxed and local, so it’s more than just a spot for photos. It’s a good place to stop for delicious coffee or a sweet treat.

7. La Maison Rose – One of the Cutest Cafes in Paris

Location: Montmartre

La Maison Rose is, in my opinion, one of the cutest coffee shops in Paris. The soft pink exterior and corner location make it feel peaceful, especially when you compare it to the busier parts of Montmartre.

This café is famous for being photographed, but it’s also a great spot to actually sit down and enjoy a coffee or a snack. I recommend coming here earlier in the day, before the crowds show up, so you can really enjoy the peaceful vibe.

If you’re looking for favorite Parisian cafés that feel charming and relaxed, La Maison Rose should definitely be on your list.

8. Le vrai Paris – A Classic Bistro in Montmartre

Location: Montmartre

Le Vrai Paris is a classic Parisian café-bistro on Rue des Abbesses in Montmartre. The first thing you notice is the green awning and the terrace full of flowers. The tables are packed close together and spill out onto the sidewalk. This gives the cafe that authentic Parisian vibe. Inside, it feels cozy and traditional. I recommend grabbing a coffee here and just watching the neighborhood go by. 

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9. KB Coffee Roasters – A Specialty Coffee Shop Worth Visiting

Location: Right Bank

If you’re serious about coffee, KB Coffee Roasters is one of the best coffee shops in Paris. This specialty coffee shop puts a lot of focus on quality and flavor, and you can order everything from flat whites to perfectly brewed espresso.

The vibe here is casual, and you’ll see plenty of locals stopping by. If you care more about a great cup of coffee than a historic setting, this is one of the Best Paris Cafes to visit.

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10. Carette – A Parisian Cafe for Hot Chocolate Lovers

Location: Place des Vosges & Trocadéro

Carette is one of those famous French cafes that has become very popular on social media, but I think it really lives up to the hype. Their hot chocolate is rich, creamy, and perfect for a chilly or rainy day in Paris. I loved sitting at their Trocadéro location because it’s very close to the Eiffel Tower.

There’s also a Place des Vosges location, where you can have your coffee and enjoy the view of one of the prettiest squares in Paris. It really feels like a classic Paris experience.

Carette is also a perfect spot for breakfast or a light meal, not just for drinks. I recommend trying their whipped cream and strawberries, pastries, and desserts. Everything I had was delicious and beautifully presented.

TIP: The Trocadéro location is very popular, so I recommend getting there before 9AM. After that, the line gets really long. Once you sit down, you can take your time because no one will rush you to leave.

11. Angelina – Most Iconic Paris Coffee Shop

Location: Rue de Rivoli, 1st Arrondissement

Angelina is probably the most iconic café in Paris and it’s a place you really shouldn’t miss if you love sweets. It is located on Rue de Rivoli, right in the 1st arrondissement. Their hot chocolate is legendary – it’s thick, rich, and comes with a generous serving of whipped cream. If you have a sweet tooth, this is the spot for you.

Angelina has an elegant and timeless interior, with big windows and classic décor that make you feel like you’re in old Paris. I recommend coming here early in the morning because there’s usually a line later in the day. It’s worth the wait though. You get to experience a traditional Paris café that still has its original charm.

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12. Café Kitsuné – A Modern Parisian Coffee Shop

Location: Multiple locations, including Jardin du Palais Royal

Café Kitsuné is all about the modern Paris coffee scene. They use great coffee beans, and the interior is simple and stylish. If you care about a good cup of coffee, you’ll love this  Parisian coffee shop.

There are a few locations, including one near Jardin du Palais Royal. It’s the perfect place to grab a coffee before you explore the area or take a walk along Rue de Rivoli.

13. La Favorite Saint-Paul – A Lively Café in Le Marais

La Favorite is a lively café-brasserie right in the heart of the Marais, just steps from the Saint-Paul metro. You can’t miss it—the pink floral exterior and striped awnings make it stand out immediately. The inside has a classic Parisian brasserie vibe, and the atmosphere is very lively. I recommend grabbing a café crème or a drink outside so you can people-watch on Rue de Rivoli.

14. Café des Deux Moulins – A Famous Paris Cafe

Location: Montmartre

Café des Deux Moulins became famous after it was featured in the movie Amélie. It’s in Montmartre and is still one of the most popular cafes in Paris. If you like visiting movie locations, this is a fun place to check out.

Inside, the café still has a relaxed, local vibe, so it’s more than just a place for photos. You can stop here for a good coffee or try one of their desserts.

15. Le Train Bleu – An Iconic Cafe Experience

Location: Gare de Lyon

Le Train Bleu is one of the most iconic places to experience French café and dining culture. It’s inside Gare de Lyon, and the grand interiors and historic details are really beautiful.

Even though it’s more of a restaurant, it’s worth stopping in for a drink or coffee just to be in the atmosphere. Le Train Bleu is a unique place that I recommend adding to your Paris café list.

Final Thoughts on the Best Paris Cafes

One of my favorite ways to experience Paris is by exploring its cafes. You can try a historic literary café on the Left Bank or a modern coffee shop on the Right Bank, there’s something for every coffee lover here.

The beauty of Paris café life is that there’s no rush. Sit by the window, order a café crème, and watch the city move around you. 

Every time I visit Paris, I find a new favorite café or a different street to explore. It’s the perfect excuse to slow down and enjoy the moment.

I hope this guide helps you discover new cafés you’ll really enjoy and makes it easier to experience Paris at its best.

Travel Tips/Things to Know Before Visiting Paris

Paris is one of the most magical cities in the world—but like any major destination, it helps to arrive with the right mindset and some preparation. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning again, these tips will help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Make sure to set realistic expectations

Paris is dreamy, yes—but it’s also a real city. That means traffic, noise, crowds, and heat with tourists, especially during the summer. Don’t let that take away from the experience—just be prepared. Bring comfy walking shoes, pack a water bottle, and know that sometimes the Eiffel Tower just might not sparkle exactly on cue. That’s okay. The magic is still there.

Don’t try to do everything

Trying to cram every museum, landmark, and photo op into four days is a fast track to burnout. Prioritize a few must-sees each day, and leave time to simply wander, relax at a café, or sit by the Seine with a baguette in hand. 

Book major attractions in advance

We all know that Paris is very busy, especially in peak seasons. Which means, booking in advance is not optional, but essential. Some spots sell out months ahead, especially timed entries.

I really recommend getting tickets ahead of time for the below to avoid them being sold out or having to wait in a long line:

• The Orangerie Museum
• Versailles Palace and Gardens Skip the Line
• The Louvre Museum
• Musee d’Orsay
• Arc de Triomphe
• Sainte Chapelle
• Notre Dame Cathedral Tour
• Top of the Eiffel Tower
• The Picasso Museum

Travel tip: I started looking for Louvre tickets three months ahead of my trip, and some time slots were already gone. Plan early!

If you are a museum lover, a great way to make the most of your visit is getting the Paris Museum Pass for 2, 4, or 6 Days. It gives you skip-the-line access to over 60 museums and monuments in and around the city, including the Louvre Museum, Orsay Museum, and Centre Pompidou. It’s especially useful if you’re planning to spend a few days Paris, since it fits perfectly with the highlights most visitors want to see.

When is the best time to visit Paris?

Paris is always a good idea—but depending on what kind of experience you’re after, some seasons might suit you better than others. There’s really no wrong time to go, but here’s a breakdown to help you decide the best time to plan your trip:

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Paris is truly magical. The city starts to bloom—cherry blossoms decorate the streets, gardens come to life, and the weather is mild and fresh. It’s a wonderful time to stroll through neighborhoods, picnic in parks, and sip coffee outside a café. This is one of the best times to visit if you want that romantic, postcard-perfect Paris vibe without the summer crowds.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the high season and brings warm temperatures, longer days, and lots of energy. The city has many outdoor events, riverside pop-ups along the Seine, and people everywhere enjoying the sun. It’s also peak season, so popular spots like the Louvre Museum and Eiffel Tower will be busier. Since its busy, watch out for pickpockets, especially when in the metro station! If you don’t like the crowds and city heat then summer may not be the best time for you.

Fall (September to November)

Great time to visit! Fall in Paris is cozy and golden. The trees change color, the air is crisp, and the city feels a little calmer after summer. It’s a lovely time for museum-hopping, wine bars, and scenic walks through gardens like the Jardin des Tuileries. Early fall, especially September, is a sweet spot—fewer crowds but still great weather. The city becomes a great place to slow down and take it all in.

Winter (December to February)

Winter brings a quieter, more local side of Paris. It gets chilly, but there’s something so charming about the city lit up for the holidays. Christmas markets, cozy cafés, and fewer tourists make this an underrated but beautiful season to visit. If you’re looking for fewer lines (except the holiday season) and a more relaxed vibe, this could be the best time for you.

How to get to Paris?

From the airport

If you’re flying into Paris, you’ll most likely arrive at Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY). Both airports are well-connected to the city center.

From CDG, the easiest options are the RER B train, it will take around 35 minutes to central Paris for€13 or Uber 55–65€.

From Orly, you can take the Orlyval light rail and connect to the RER B, or hop in a taxi (around 35–45€).

If you’re arriving with lots of luggage or after a long flight, a taxi or Uber might be worth the splurge—especially if you’re heading straight to your hotel or apartment.

Getting to Paris by train

Paris is incredibly well connected by train. If you’re coming from cities like London, Brussels, or Amsterdam, you can book here the Eurostar or Thalys high-speed trains which are super convenient and drop you off right in the heart of the city at Gare du Nord or Gare de Lyon. Train travel in Europe is often faster and more relaxing than flying—plus, no airport hassle.

How to get around Paris?

Paris is a great place to explore on foot. You’ll find so many cute streets, hidden courtyards, and little surprises around every corner. That said, the city is huge, and your feet will feel it. Mix walking with public transportation (super efficient) or a short Uber when needed.

Walking

Paris is a very walkable city, and honestly, one of the best ways to take it all in is on foot. Each neighborhood (or arrondissement) has its own feel, and you’ll notice charming details you might miss otherwise—like hidden courtyards, small bakeries, or art tucked into the streets. Pack comfy shoes because you’ll be doing plenty of walking on your three days Paris itinerary!

Taking the metro

The Paris Metro is efficient, affordable, and easy to use once you get the hang of it. It can take you pretty much anywhere in the city.

Tickets can be bought individually, but it’s cheaper and easier to grab a carnet (a pack of 10) or use a Navigo Easy card.

Google Maps works well for metro directions, but I also like the Bonjour RATP app to help with routes and live updates.

Taking Uber or taxis

Uber works pretty well in Paris and is often more affordable than traditional taxis. It’s especially great late at night or when your feet are completely done for the day (which, trust me, happens fast in Paris!).

That said, be prepared for a little patience—sometimes it takes a while for a driver to accept your ride, and it’s not uncommon for your request to be canceled mid-wait, which can be frustrating if you’re in a rush. This happened to us a couple of times, especially early in the morning or during busier hours.

Travel tip: If you’re heading to the airport or need to be somewhere at a specific time, request your ride early to allow time for delays or cancellations (if any). We booked an Uber to the airport for an early morning flight and gave ourselves extra buffer time—definitely recommend doing the same!

Also worth noting: while taxis are always an option, they tend to cost more, and there is a chance of getting ripped off.  I would use Uber to be safe.

Is Paris safe to visit? What’s the story with pickpockets & scams?

Unfortunately, like many major European cities, pickpocketing and tourist scams are pretty common in Paris—especially near popular landmarks like the Musée du Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Sacre Coeur, and busy metro stations. Stay aware and don’t let your guard down just because you’re caught up in the beauty of it all.

A lot of these scams are well-rehearsed, and some even work in groups—while one person distracts you, another is already going through your bag or slipping your phone from your pocket.

Common scams to watch out for:

• The Petition Scam: Someone asks you to sign a petition (often pretending to be deaf or working for a charity). While you’re distracted, someone else may pickpocket you—or they’ll demand a “donation” after you sign.
• The Bracelet Trick: Someone grabs your wrist and quickly ties a friendship bracelet on it—then asks you to pay for it. Sometimes it’s just a distraction while someone else checks your bag or pockets.
• Dropped Ring Scam: A person pretends to find a gold ring on the ground and tries to convince you it’s real, offering it to you and asking for money in return.
• “Found” Wallet or Lost Item Scam: A stranger points out a wallet or item “you dropped,” making a scene—again, it’s often a distraction technique.
• Street Games or Performers: While not all are scams, many use crowds to create opportunities for pickpockets to get close unnoticed.

Being aware doesn’t mean being paranoid—just stay alert, trust your instincts, and enjoy the city without the stress. A crossbody bag, worn in front, with a zipper is a simple but powerful defense!

Language: Do I need to speak French?

While some Parisians, especially those in restaurants, hotels, museums, etc.. speak English, making an effort to speak French goes a long way. Even a simple bonjour, merci, or parlez-vous anglais? can completely change the interaction. It shows respect and helps break the stereotype that visitors expect locals to adjust to them. Also, everyone was very nice and polite; we didn’t get any negative attitude or unpleasant vibes. 

How many days do you need in Paris?

If you’re wondering how much time to spend in Paris, the honest answer is—as much as you can. The ideal time to truly experience the Parisian lifestyle is at least a week. That gives you enough time to explore beyond the big landmarks, linger at outdoor cafés, wander through quiet neighborhoods, and enjoy the slower moments that make Paris so magical.

That said, I know most travelers don’t always have a full week to spare—especially first time visitors trying to fit in other European cities. On average, people spend around three to four days in Paris, which is actually a great amount of time to hit the highlights while still getting a feel for the city’s charm. That’s exactly why I put together this three days Paris Itinerary—to help you experience the best of Paris in a short trip without feeling rushed.

In four days, you’ll be able to visit iconic spots like the Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, and Musee d’Orsay, catch a sunset at the Eiffel Tower, walk through Montmartre, and maybe even see a show at the Moulin Rouge.

You might not see everything, but with the right plan, you’ll see the best things and still have moments to pause, take it in, and fall in love with Paris—just like I did.

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