FranceFriends

10 Best Cafés in Paris for People Watching and Croissants

22 June, 2025

In Paris, people watching is practically a pastime. In addition to being watched, Parisians enjoy being watched as well. Getting a glass of wine or a café crème in a café and taking in the scenery is one of the locals' favorite things to do in the romantic city. For travelers and locals alike, the best cafes in Paris offer more than just exceptional coffee and pastries—they provide a front-row seat to the city’s vibrant street life.

Paris is a city where café culture is not just a tradition, but a way of life. Whether you’re seeking the best cafe in Paris for breakfast or simply want to savor a flaky croissant while watching the world go by, the city’s legendary terraces and cozy interiors deliver a quintessentially Parisian experience.

From the bustling boulevards of Saint-Germain to the artistic corners of Montmartre, these cafés are perfect for people-watching, indulging in buttery croissants, and soaking up the unique atmosphere that makes Paris unforgettable. In this guide, discover the best cafes in Paris for people watching, the best croissants, and the most iconic spots to start your day or linger into the afternoon on your next France trip.

Café Charlot

Café Charlot is a popular Sunday brunch place in Le Marais. The terrace is always buzzing, making it one of the best cafes in Paris for people watching. On a bright day, it's the ideal spot to spend an afternoon. To share with guests, get a charcuterie platter, cheese, and a glass of wine.

A traditional chevre chaud salad is also available, making it an ideal midday snack while sightseeing. The oldest covered market in Paris, the Marché des Enfants Rouge, is located nearby. The two main landmarks in the neighborhood are the Place des Vosges and the Picasso Museum.

Location: 38 Rue de Bretagne, 75003 Paris
Timings: Daily, 7:00 am – 2:00 am
What to eat: Enjoy a glass of wine, a cheese and charcuterie board, or their classic chevre chaud salad. The croissants here are fresh and pair perfectly with a morning coffee.

Les Deux Magots

Les Deux Magots is located close to Café de Flore. Another place on the must-see list is this iconic Parisian café. Although the food is expensive, you get to enjoy an experience and first-class seating. Indulge in a traditional Parisian breakfast consisting of coffee, croissants, and orange juice. Picasso, Hemingway, and Julia Child have all been to Les Deux Magots.

On weekends, a jazz band performs across from the café, right in front of the church. The café’s terrace is legendary for observing Parisian life, making it a contender for the best café in Paris for breakfast.

Location: 6 Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés, 75006 Paris
Timings: 7:30 am – 12:45 am
What to eat: For breakfast, order the classic croissant, toast with Poitou-Charentes butter, and fresh orange juice.

Café de Flore

One of the best cafés in Paris is Café de Flore, which you should check out. Even in cold or wet weather, people like to sit outside on the patio. The atmosphere is different indoors, and residents love the upstairs.

You can sneak a peek while you're there because this is also where the restroom is. During the colder months, you can try the covered terrace before going inside.

Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris
Timings: 7:30 am – 1:30 am
What to eat: Their croissants and butter brioche are must-tries, and the hot chocolate is among the best in the city.

Café Nemours

Nestled between the Louvre and the Palais Royal is Café Nemours. In between visiting museums and touring Paris, it's a terrific location to relax and enjoy some people-watching. In the morning, grab a coffee and croissant or a drink here.

It's a great place to start or finish your day at a café in the heart of Paris. Depending on the hour, the terrace may be crowded with tourists and Parisians. You should arrive early if you want a nice seat.

Location: 2 Place Colette, 75001 Paris, France—right by the Palais Royal and steps from the Louvre.
Timings: Monday to Friday: 8:00 am – 12:00 am; Saturday: 9:00 am – 12:00 am; Sunday: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
What to eat: The breakfast set is a highlight, featuring a beautifully buttered baguette, croissant with jam, and your choice of beverages like orange juice and hot chocolate.

Other must-tries include the Croque Monsieur, quiche, salads, and classic French pastries. The café also offers vegetarian and vegan options, making it accessible for a variety of tastes.

Brasserie Lipp

Brasserie Lipp is a legendary Parisian institution, renowned for its vibrant Art Nouveau décor, storied literary and political history, and bustling Saint-Germain-des-Prés location. Although it doesn't have as much of an outside as other Parisian cafes, the interior is decorated like a French restaurant in a movie and is well worth a visit and a drink.

The Parisian terrace makes it one of the best cafes in Paris for breakfast, especially given its proximity to other iconic cafés like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore.

Location: 151 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris (Saint-Germain-des-Prés)
Timings: Daily: 9:00 am – 12:30 pm or 2:00 pm (hours may vary slightly by source)
What to eat: Brasserie Lipp specializes in traditional French and Alsatian cuisine. Standout dishes include Choucroute Garnie (Alsatian sauerkraut with assorted meats), Andouillette AAAAA, Confit de Canard, and Sole Meunière. For dessert, the Mille-Feuille and Tarte Tatin are favorites.

Bar du Marché

Bar du Marché, located at the intersection of Rue de Seine and Rue de Bucci, is a great place for Left Bank drinkers. It goes well with wine, soda, or a drink in the afternoon. For those who don't drink, you can adore citron pressé, which is lemonade in French.

They will send a little jar of fresh lemon juice, sugar, and a pitcher of water. You may choose the way you mix your lemonade. The café’s energetic atmosphere and prime corner location make it one of the best cafes in Paris for people watching, especially during the morning rush or late afternoon.

Location: 75 Rue de Seine, 75006 Paris (corner of Rue de Seine and Rue de Buci, Saint-Germain-des-Prés)
Timings: Daily: 7:00 am – 2:00 am
What to eat: Start your day with a classic Parisian breakfast—freshly baked croissants, baguettes with butter and jam, and a café crème. The menu also features light salads, charcuterie, and a wide selection of wines and cocktails for later in the day.

Le Saint Regis Île St. Louis Parisian Café

This café is an excellent place to see the sunset at Notre Dame and is situated at the end of Île St Louis. There aren't many tables outside, but you can find a spot during off-peak hours and remain for a while.

You can have breakfast, brunch, lunch, drinks, or dinner at this café, both alone and with companions. It would be difficult to decline a friend's invitation to have a glass of wine and catch up at Saint Regis, making it the best cafe in Paris.

Location: 6 Rue Jean du Bellay, 75004 Paris (Île Saint-Louis, just steps from Notre-Dame and the Seine).
Timings: Daily: 7:30 am – 2:00 am.
What to eat: Le Saint-Régis offers a classic French menu from breakfast through late-night, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. For breakfast, enjoy their prix fixe menu featuring a hot drink, fresh croissant, toast or yogurt, and orange juice—many guests rave about the croissant’s buttery, flaky perfection.

Other highlights include French onion soup, omelettes, escargots, steak tartare, and a variety of pastries and desserts.

Le Bonaparte Paris

Behind Les Deux Magots on the Left Bank is Le Bonaparte. You can dine or drink here, and people-watching is great. Although the menu is expensive, the ideal location just off Boulevard Saint Germain des Prés on Paris' Left Bank and the opportunity to observe people are worth it.

You may go to Le Bon Marché for shopping or spend a day exploring Jardin du Luxembourg, which is nearby. The terrace is perfect for enjoying a fresh pastry and coffee while watching the world go by, making it a top contender for the best cafe in Paris for breakfast and people-watching.

Location: 42 Rue Bonaparte, 75006 Paris, France (Saint-Germain-des-Prés, 6th arrondissement)
Timings: Monday to Friday: 6:30 am – 2:00 am; Saturday- Sunday: 8:00 am – 2:00 am.
What to eat: Le Bonaparte offers a classic French café menu, including buttery croissants, café crème, French onion soup, croque madame, cheese plates, and daily dessert specials like strawberry tart. Their breakfast sets are popular, and the café is vegetarian-friendly.

Au Petit Fer à Cheval

Au Petit Fer à Cheval (“The Little Horseshoe”) is a beloved and historic Parisian café-bistro nestled in the heart of Le Marais. Famous for its unique horseshoe-shaped zinc bar and vintage décor, this tiny spot has charmed locals and visitors for over a century. The atmosphere is authentically Parisian, with dark wood, vintage Métro benches, and a lively, friendly vibe.

Its small size means it fills up quickly, but the intimate setting adds to its appeal, making it one of the best cafes in Paris for people watching and soaking up the neighborhood’s energy.

Location: 30 rue Vieille du Temple, 75004 Paris (Le Marais, near Musée Carnavalet and Place des Vosges).
Timings: Wednesday to Sunday: 9:00 am – 2:00 am
What to eat: The menu features classic French bistro fare—think duck confit, beef bourguignon, steak, fresh salads, quiches, and sandwiches, plus desserts like crème brûlée and tarte Tatin. For breakfast, enjoy a croissant and café crème at one of the postcard-sized outdoor tables, perfect for people-watching in the bustling Marais.

Café de la Paix

The well-known French bistro Café de la Paix has just undergone renovations. The terrace offers great views of the Opera and is situated outside the Place de L'opéra. You have the option of sitting indoors or on the terrace.

Since they fill up fast, we advise making reservations for a table in advance if you intend to attend. The terrace is perfect for enjoying your meal while watching the bustling Opéra district, making Café de la Paix a top contender for the best café in Paris for breakfast and people-watching.

Location: 5 Place de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris (across from Palais Garnier, 9th arrondissement)
Timings: Daily: 7:00 am – 11:30 pm
What to eat: Start your day with a classic Parisian breakfast—flaky croissants, pain au chocolat, and a café crème. The menu also features French classics like onion soup, foie gras, seafood platters, and exquisite pastries and desserts.

FAQs

1. Which are the best cafes in Paris with an Eiffel Tower view?

Ans: Some of the best cafes in Paris with a view of the Eiffel Tower include O Coffeeshop, Zia, and Petibon Café. These spots are within walking distance of the landmark and offer both excellent food and the chance to enjoy the city’s most iconic view while sipping your coffee.

2. Which are some of the best cafes in Paris with View?

Ans: Beyond those near the Eiffel Tower, Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore offer beautiful views of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, while Café Charlot provides a lively scene on Rue de Bretagne. Many Parisian cafés feature terraces overlooking bustling streets or historic squares, making them perfect for people-watching and soaking up the city’s atmosphere.

3. What are some of the best dishes to try in Paris?

Ans: Paris is renowned for its buttery croissants, crisp baguettes, and classic café fare like croque-monsieur, quiche, and pain au chocolat. Don’t miss a fresh croissant from Du Pain et des Idées or a cheese and charcuterie board at Café Charlot. For breakfast, try the Parisian breakfast sets at Les Deux Magots or Café de Flore, which often include croissants, toast, eggs, and fresh juice.

4. What is the most iconic Paris café?

Ans: Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots are arguably the most iconic cafés in Paris. Both have rich histories, having hosted famous writers, artists, and intellectuals. Their terraces are legendary for people-watching and offer a quintessential Parisian experience.

5. What is the best street in Paris for cafés?

Ans: Boulevard Saint-Germain is famous for its concentration of historic cafés, including Café de Flore and

Les Deux Magots. Rue de Bretagne in Le Marais and Rue des Abbesses in Montmartre are also celebrated for their vibrant café scenes, making them some of the best streets in Paris for cafés and people-watching.

6. Which are some of the best cafes in Paris for couples?

Ans: Le Café de Luce in Montmartre, Café Berry x Panache, and Petibon Café are all excellent choices for couples seeking a romantic atmosphere. Their charming interiors, beautiful terraces, and relaxed vibes make them perfect for a leisurely breakfast or intimate afternoon coffee.

7. Which are some of the best places to visit in Paris?

Ans: Besides exploring the best cafes in Paris, don’t miss iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Montmartre’s Sacré-Cœur. Stroll along the Seine, visit the historic Marais district, and enjoy the vibrant markets and gardens throughout the city. Pairing sightseeing with café stops is the perfect way to experience Paris like a local.