Christmas Drinks with Paris Rooftop Views

A quick Google search or checking your favourite Paris blogs reveals a number of bars, cafés, restaurants and terraces that have wonderful rooftop views. I am not sure if it is a new trend but there are a couple of temporary 'popup' additions to existing terraces that are worth considering if you are fortunate enough to be visiting Paris over Christmas and New Year.

Angelina's, a rue de Rivoli institution famous for its hot chocolate and Mont Blanc patisserie, has taken over one end of the 8th floor terrace at Galeries Lafayette. It is free to go up to the terrace and enjoy the views of Paris. With heating provided in the café you can enjoy the view of Opera Garnier, Madeleine and through to the Eiffel Tower for a little longer. It still does get quite chilly. You do need to make a bit of a sprint if it is raining. I think from memory we paid about 7-8 €uros each for our hot chocolate. Not exactly cheap - but it is delicious and the view is stunning.

View towards Madeleine and Eiffel Tower

View back towards Sacre Coeur

Le Bar Etoilé à BHV: I was just planning on taking in the view from the restaurant lower down in BHV early one evening. I love reading signs. As soon as I saw the sign I was interested in spite of not knowing that it was a bar sponsored by Grey Goose vodka. Technically you are supposed to book ahead via their facebook page but we just turned up. You pay 10€ for your cocktail. They are vodka-based although a non-alcoholic one is available. The area is very exposed and not much seating.

Enjoying a cocktail (just for the photo of course)

Hôtel de Ville from BHV rooftop bar

Angelina's (12 November to 31 December 2012)

8th Floor Galeries Lafayette

40 bd Haussmann

PARIS 75009

11.00am to 6.00pm 

Le Bar Etoilé (12 November to 23 December 2012)

BHV

52, rue de Rivoli

PARIS 75001 

5.30pm to 7.45pm Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri and Satu

5.30pm to 8.45pm Wed

5.30pm to 7.15pm Sun