In Paris, when the mercury rises, Parisians and visitors alike seek to cool off and escape without leaving the capital. The quest for the ideal terrace becomes a sport in its own right, far from the hustle and bustle of the boulevards and overcrowded venues. In addition to a breath of fresh air or some shade, it offers a luxury that has become rare: privacy. While rooftops dominate the trend with their panoramic views and festive atmosphere, hidden terraces appeal for their discretion, greenery, and intimate atmosphere. Far from the hustle and bustle, they offer a rare respite in the city.
Secret terraces have a unique charm: nestled in courtyards, hotel gardens or behind nondescript facades, they offer discreet and hushed luxury. People come here for lunch in the shade of a hundred-year-old tree, a quiet drink, or to read in the sun, as if sheltered from the world. The French garden in the courtyard of the Bristol Paris hotel, the leafy terrace of the Frida at the Maison Vendôme Barrière, and the terrace at the Maison Bréguet are just some of the terraces that invite you to disconnect. Here, there is no loud music or crowds, just the rustling of leaves and the pleasure of a moment stolen from the Parisian rhythm.
In contrast, Parisian rooftops play the view and spectacle card. Perched atop hotels or converted buildings, they offer spectacular panoramas of the city, from the Sacré-Cœur to the Eiffel Tower. More festive and “Instagrammable,” they attract a clientele in search of visual and social experiences. The Eylau rooftops at the Hilton Canopy, the Villa M Paris and Han at the Guimet Museum are examples of this new vertical scene. Between green introspection and urban thrills, Paris now offers two complementary visions of summer luxury.
Between panoramic views and intimacy, urban fiesta or bucolic escape, there’s a terrace for everyone. What if true Parisian chic was all about knowing how to alternate between the two?
Luxus Magazine presents its selection.
Hidden Terraces
FRIDA – MAISON BARRIÈRE VENDÔME – 1st arrondissement
A secret address, La Frida is home to a green terrace in the heart of the Maison Barrière hotel. Chef Claudia Rivera offers sunny cuisine with Mediterranean influences. Ideal for a chic lunch or romantic dinner in a bohemian and cozy atmosphere.
CHARLES PATIO – HÔTEL LE BURGUNDY – 1st arrondissement
Le Charles restaurant boasts an elegant and cozy open-air patio. Chef Mylo Levin, formerly of Le Meurice, serves up precise and poetic gourmet cuisine. A peaceful interlude in the heart of bustling Paris.
BAMBOU – 2nd arrondissement
Nestled in the heart of the Sentier district, BAMBOU charms with its vast green terrace and chic Thai charm. The chef revisits classic Southeast Asian dishes with precision and freshness. A secret refuge, sheltered from the hustle and bustle of the city, ideal for an exotic getaway in the heart of Paris.
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Featured photo: From left to right, the terrace at BAMBOU (Paris, 2nd arrondissement) © Bambou Paris and Villa Minuty, rooftop of Le Brach (Paris, 16th arrondissement) © Canon Expériences/Chloé Maitrerobert
