5 beautiful terraces in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

The Saint-Germain-des-Prés district has always embodied a certain idea of Parisian life: literature, fashion, politics and gastronomy intersect around every corner. And it’s on the terraces that this atmosphere is best expressed. Here’s a selection of five must-visit addresses, perfect for a date, a coffee or a sunny lunch.

Les Éditeurs: the literary address par excellence

At the crossroads of the Odéon, Les Éditeurs pays tribute to the world of letters. With its book-covered walls and hushed ambience, this café-restaurant attracts book lovers, journalists and students alike. Its terrace, rather quiet despite the traffic, is ideal for chatting or working. The menu is traditional and well-mastered, and service is non-stop. In the evening, the atmosphere becomes more intimate.

📍Les Éditeurs, 4 Carr de l’Odéon, 75006 Paris

Les Deux Magots: a legendary terrace

It’s hard to talk about Saint-Germain without mentioning Les Deux Magots. This historic brasserie has seen the likes of Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir and Pablo Picasso. Its large terrace, overlooking the church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, is one of the busiest in the district. People come here as much for the decor as to watch the passers-by. The café remains a classic, but the prices are worthy of its prestige.

📍Les Deux Magots, 6 Pl. Saint-Germain des Prés, 75006 Paris

Ralph’s: American chic with a French twist

Located in an inner courtyard of the elegant Ralph Lauren store, Ralph’s offers a more confidential experience. With its leather armchairs, navy-blue cushions and waiters in suits, the terrace evokes a Hamptons atmosphere in the heart of Paris. Burgers and club sandwiches are served in impeccable surroundings. A popular spot for a lunch away from the hustle and bustle.

📍Ralph’s Restaurant, 173 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris

Café de Flore: the meeting place for the happy few

Along with Les Deux Magots, Café de Flore is another neighborhood landmark. Always crowded, always photographed, it remains a sure bet. Its corner terrace offers a perfect view of rue Saint-Benoît. It’s the ideal place for a morning coffee or an early evening drink. The bill is high, but you also pay for the decor and reputation.

📍Café de Flore, 172 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris

Le Bonaparte: discreet and charming

Less touristy but just as Parisian, the Bonaparte offers a sunny terrace on its namesake street. Quieter than its neighbors, it attracts a regular clientele, often local. The place is appreciated for its slightly lower prices and simpler atmosphere. People come here for a quiet coffee, away from the crowds of more high-profile spots.

📍LE BONAPARTE – RESTAURANT BISTROT PARIS 6, 42 Rue Bonaparte, 75006 Paris

Paris, a city of terraces

All these addresses embody a facet of Paris: its elegance, its intellectual past, its discreet modernity. In Saint-Germain-des-Prés, to sit on a terrace is to participate in an art of living. To extend the experience, explore the addresses mentioned in our selection of the best literary cafés in Paris, or the spots for a chic brunch in the 6th arrondissement.