20 Sidewalk Cafés to Sip, Relax, and People-Watch Like a Parisian

Paris is famous for its charming sidewalk cafés, where people can sit, relax, and watch the world go by. Here are some delightful cafés where you can experience this Parisian tradition.

 

Le Nemours

 

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Located near the Louvre Museum and the Palais Royal, Le Nemours is a classic Parisian café.

Its outdoor seating offers a perfect spot to enjoy a coffee while observing the bustling city life.

The café has been featured in movies, adding to its charm.

 

Carette (Place des Vosges)

Situated in the historic Place des Vosges, Carette is known for its elegant pastries and refined atmosphere.

The café’s location in one of Paris’s oldest squares provides a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely break.

 

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Le Bonaparte

 

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Found in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, Le Bonaparte offers a cozy ambiance with classic French décor.

It’s a great place to enjoy traditional French dishes and watch the lively street scenes.

 

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Le Select

This café in the Montparnasse area has a rich history as a gathering place for artists and writers.

With its Art Deco interior, Le Select continues to be a popular spot for those seeking inspiration or simply a good meal.

 

Le Hibou

 

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Located in the Odéon district, Le Hibou, which means “The Owl,” has a warm feeling and interesting decorations.

Inside, you can find cool vintage furniture, colorful artwork, and lamps shaped like owls.

Its outdoor terrace has plenty of seats where you can relax and watch people going by in this lively area full of shops, theaters, and students.

 

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Le Saint-Régis

Le Saint-Régis is on Île Saint-Louis, a quiet island right in the middle of Paris.

It looks like a classic Parisian café, with traditional chairs and tables.

Because it’s on an island, it feels calm and peaceful, even though you’re still in the center of the city.

You can enjoy hot chocolate, fresh pastries, or lunch while looking out at the historic streets and the river nearby.

 

Au Petit Fer à Cheval

This café in the Marais district is small but special because of its horseshoe-shaped bar, which gives it its name (“Petit Fer à Cheval” means “Little Horseshoe”).

It’s cozy inside, with room for just a few tables.

People visit it to feel what a real Parisian café is like.

It has stayed the same for many years, so you feel like you’re stepping back in time when you visit.

 

Le Bar du Marché

 

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Le Bar du Marché is on Rue de Buci, a busy street in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, a famous Paris neighborhood.

The café is always lively, filled with all kinds of people—locals, visitors, artists, and students.

Its big terrace faces right onto the street, making it a perfect spot to watch street performers, shoppers, and daily life.

It’s an exciting place to sit and feel the energy of Paris.

 

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La Favorite Saint-Paul

Located near the Saint-Paul metro station, this café offers a stylish setting with a spacious terrace.

It’s a wonderful place to enjoy a meal or drink while taking in the sights and sounds of the Marais district.

 

La Bohème

Found in the Montmartre area, La Bohème captures the artistic spirit of the neighborhood.

Its cozy interior and outdoor seating provide a relaxing environment to enjoy French cuisine and watch the world go by.

 

Maison Sauvage

Located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area, Maison Sauvage is known for its lush plant-covered façade.

The café offers a trendy atmosphere with a menu featuring fresh and seasonal dishes.

 

Café de Flore

Located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, Café de Flore is one of the oldest coffeehouses in Paris.

Since the late 19th century, it has been a gathering place for writers, philosophers, and artists.

The classic Art Deco interior, with red seating and mahogany accents, has changed little since World War II.

Famous patrons have included Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir.

 

Les Deux Magots

 

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Situated next to Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots is another historic café with a rich literary and artistic heritage.

Established in 1885, it was frequented by notable figures such as Ernest Hemingway and Pablo Picasso.

The name “Les Deux Magots” refers to two wooden statues of Chinese merchants that decorate the café’s interior.

 

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Le Sancerre

 

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Found in the Montmartre district, Le Sancerre offers a cozy atmosphere with a classic Parisian brasserie feel.

It’s a great spot to enjoy traditional French cuisine while observing the lively street scenes.

 

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Une publication partagée par Le Sancerre (@lesancerreparis)

 

Triadou Haussmann

Located on Boulevard Haussmann, Triadou Haussmann is a traditional Parisian brasserie known for its classic French dishes.

The café’s elegant interior and outdoor seating provide a pleasant environment to relax and watch the bustling city life.

 

La Halte

Situated in the Montmartre area, La Halte is a traditional French café known for its warm atmosphere.

It’s a wonderful place to enjoy a coffee or meal while taking in the sights and sounds of this historic neighborhood.

 

Café Panis

 

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Located near Notre-Dame Cathedral, Café Panis offers stunning views of the Seine River.

Its cozy interior and outdoor terrace make it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the Parisian ambiance.

 

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Café Le Piquet

 

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Found in the 7th arrondissement, Café Le Piquet is a traditional Parisian café known for its classic French dishes.

Its inviting atmosphere and outdoor seating provide a pleasant environment to relax and watch the bustling city life.

 

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Une publication partagée par Le Piquet (@cafe_le_piquet)

 

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    Café Marly

     

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    Une publication partagée par Le Café Marly (@cafe_marly)

    Located right next to the famous Louvre Museum, Café Marly is a café with a truly unique atmosphere.

    From its terrace, you can admire the beautiful glass pyramid and watch people from all over the world exploring Paris’s most famous museum.

    Café Marly is not just special for its amazing views; it is also known for its elegant décor and tasty dishes, making it a favorite place for both Parisians and tourists who want a memorable café experience.

     

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    Chez Prune

    Chez Prune is a lively café-bar in the trendy Canal Saint-Martin area.

    It’s a favorite spot for locals to grab a coffee during the day or enjoy drinks and classic French snacks in the evening.

    With its laid-back vibe and people-watching opportunities, it’s a great place to experience everyday Parisian life.