Coffee Shops in Paris with a Parisian Vibe
Paris is often called “The City of Love,” but it should also be known as “The City of Coffee.” Whether you’re strolling through cobblestone streets or relaxing by the Seine, Paris offers countless charming coffee shops that capture the city’s elegant and timeless vibe. These coffee spots are more than just places to drink a hot beverage—they’re small windows into the culture and lifestyle of Parisians.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best coffee shops in Paris that deliver a true Parisian experience. From vintage interiors to croissants that melt in your mouth, these cafes can transport you to a postcard-perfect Paris moment.
1. Café de Flore
Café de Flore is one of the most iconic coffee shops in Paris. Located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, this café has been serving its guests since the late 1800s. Famous writers and philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir used to gather here, giving the café a historical and intellectual charm.
The interior of Café de Flore has a classic Parisian design with red leather benches, round marble tabletops, and mirrored walls. It feels like stepping back in time while enjoying freshly brewed coffee. Pair your drink with their buttery croissants or a rich slice of chocolate cake, and you’ll truly feel the Parisian vibe.
2. Les Deux Magots
Just around the corner from Café de Flore is another legendary spot: Les Deux Magots. This coffee shop is also steeped in history, having once been a meeting place for artists, writers, and thinkers like Ernest Hemingway and Pablo Picasso.
Les Deux Magots serves excellent coffee and delicious pastries, but it’s the view that makes it special. Sitting outside on the terrace, you can watch Parisians go about their day as the iconic Parisian architecture surrounds you in every direction. Don’t forget to sip your coffee slowly—it’s all about savoring the moment.
3. Shakespeare and Company Café
This coffee shop is perfect for book lovers. Located near Notre-Dame Cathedral, Shakespeare and Company Café is attached to one of the most famous English-language bookstores in the world. The vibe here combines Parisian charm with a love for literature.
Inside the café, you’ll find a cozy and artistic atmosphere with stacks of books, wooden furniture, and warm lighting. The food menu often features organic ingredients, and their coffee is beautifully presented. Grab a cup and sit outside on the benches while admiring the view of the Seine. If you’re lucky, you might even spot locals reading or having quiet conversations.
4. Boot Café
Boot Café is one of the smallest coffee shops in Paris, but its size is part of its charm. Located in Le Marais, this café is tucked away in what used to be a cobbler’s shop. The quirky storefront still has the original “cordonnerie” (cobbler) sign, adding to its eccentric vibe.
Inside, the café offers a welcoming space with pastel colors and simple decor. It’s a modern spot for coffee lovers, with a focus on high-quality espresso and flat whites. You can sit near the window and watch the world go by, or grab your coffee to-go and explore the trendy streets of Le Marais.
5. Café Oberkampf
Café Oberkampf feels like the cool younger sibling of traditional Parisian coffee shops. Located in the hip Oberkampf area, this café mixes the old-world vibe of Paris with a modern twist.
The coffee here is fantastic, and their food options are equally impressive. Try one of their hearty avocado toast plates or their granola bowls alongside your cappuccino. The interiors are minimalistic yet warm, with stylish decor that appeals to young locals. This coffee shop is perfect for anyone looking for a modern touch in the heart of Paris.
6. Breizh Café (Bonus: Coffee and Crepes!)
While Breizh Café is technically famous for its crepes, its coffee is equally good—and the combination of coffee and French crepes captures the Paris experience perfectly. This café has a welcoming and cheerful vibe, blending Parisian and Breton traditions.
Located in several spots around Paris, including Le Marais, Breizh Café offers sweet and savory crepes that pair wonderfully with a cup of espresso or café au lait. Its wooden furniture and casual style make it ideal for a relaxing coffee break before you continue exploring the city.
Tips for Enjoying Parisian Coffee Shops
-
Savor the Atmosphere: In Paris, coffee shops are not just about the coffee. They are about taking your time to enjoy the ambiance, people-watch, and feel the city’s rhythm. Don’t rush your visit; sit back, relax, and let the vibe soak in.
-
Try a Traditional Café Noir: Parisians love their coffee simple and strong. A traditional café noir (black coffee) is rich and flavorful. If you prefer something creamier, order a café crème (a coffee with steamed milk).
-
Pair Coffee with Pastries: No Parisian coffee experience is complete without a pastry. Try a croissant, pain au chocolat, or even a tarte citron to complement your coffee.
-
Visit in the Morning: Coffee shops in Paris have a special charm during the morning hours. Watching the city wake up while sipping coffee feels magical.
Conclusion
Paris is a city filled with beauty, history, and unforgettable coffee shops. Whether you’re looking for old-world elegance or modern flair, there’s a coffee spot for everyone. Each café offers a unique experience, but all share the same Parisian essence: a love for coffee, good conversation, and taking life slow.
Next time you’re in Paris, make sure to visit a few of these coffee shops and let yourself be swept away by the charms of the city. Who knows? That simple cup of coffee might end up being one of your favorite Parisian memories.
