slide slide slide slide

Galeries Lafayette & Printemps Rooftop Guide: Paris's Best Free Views

Boulevard Haussmann's iconic department stores offer more than world-class shopping—they provide some of Paris's most spectacular panoramic views, completely free. These rooftop terraces transform your shopping experience into a sightseeing adventure, offering breathtaking perspectives of the City of Light that rival paid observation decks.

Galeries Lafayette Rooftop Terrace: The Crown Jewel

Access & Location

Location: 8th floor, Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, 40 Boulevard Haussmann
Access: Take elevators to 7th floor, follow signs to "Terrasse" for final staircase to 8th floor
Opening Hours: Daily 10:00-20:30, Sundays 11:00-20:00 (same as store hours)
Cost: Completely FREE during store hours
Best Times: Early morning (10:00-11:30) or golden hour (18:00-19:30) for photography

What You'll See

360-Degree Panoramic Views: This spacious rooftop terrace offers unobstructed views in every direction, making it one of Paris's most comprehensive viewing experiences.

Iconic Landmarks Visible:

  • Opera Garnier: Stunning close-up view of the ornate Second Empire architecture
  • Eiffel Tower: Perfect western views, especially magical during evening illumination
  • Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Perched majestically on Montmartre hill to the north
  • Arc de Triomphe: Visible down the grand avenue perspective
  • Haussmann Architecture: Incredible bird's-eye view of Baron Haussmann's urban planning
  • Louvre Area: Eastern views toward the historic palace complex

Photography & Instagram Tips

Golden Hour Magic: Visit 30 minutes before sunset for warm light bathing the limestone buildings. The contrast between historic architecture and modern city creates stunning compositions.

Best Photo Spots:

  • Southeast Corner: Capture the Opera Garnier with Boulevard Haussmann leading to the horizon
  • West Side: Frame the Eiffel Tower between Haussmann buildings for that classic Paris shot
  • North Section: Sacré-Cœur rising above the Parisian rooftops creates dramatic skyline images
  • Central Area: 360-degree panoramic shots showing the vast scale of Paris

Instagram Hashtags: #GaleriesLafayetteRooftop #ParisViews #BoulevardHaussmann #FreeParisViews #OperaGarnier #EiffelTowerView

2025 Special Features

Air France Restaurant Pop-up (June 25-August 20): During summer 2025, the rooftop hosts an exclusive Air France restaurant featuring elevated French cuisine with panoramic dining. Reservations: +33 1 45 38 52 87

Photography Exhibitions: Rotating displays of photography work, including the Grand Prix Photography & Sustainability 2025 exhibit

Printemps Rooftop Experiences: Multiple Levels of Luxury

7th Heaven Terrace - Le Picnic by Veuve Clicquot

The ultimate luxury rooftop experience! From May 5 to September 30, 2025, this extraordinary terrace transforms into an ultra-stylish hanging garden.

Experience Details:
Location: 7th floor, Printemps Femme, 64 Boulevard Haussmann
Season: May 5 - September 30, 2025
Chef: Ella Aflalo (modern picnic cuisine)
Atmosphere: Vintage champagne service with panoramic Paris views and Eiffel Tower backdrop

Dining Highlights: Bold, contemporary dishes paired with Veuve Clicquot's Yellow Label and Brut Rosé champagnes, served on custom Veuve Clicquot x Souleiado tableware with flamboyant yellow parasols.

Perruche - 9th Floor Rooftop Bar & Restaurant

Paris's highest department store rooftop experience. Located on the 9th floor of Printemps Homme, this sophisticated venue offers the most elevated views from Boulevard Haussmann.

Details:
Opening Hours: 12:00 noon - 2:00 AM
Features: 360-degree views, garden-like terrace with summerish lounge sofas
Dining: Premium cocktail menu and refined cuisine
View: Complete panoramic perspective of Paris from the highest vantage point

Rooftop Access Guide

Getting There

Metro Stations:

  • Havre-Caumartin (Lines 3, 9): 1-minute walk to both department stores
  • Chaussée d'Antin–La Fayette (Lines 7, 9): Direct access to Galeries Lafayette
  • Opéra (Lines 3, 7, 8): 3-minute walk with scenic boulevard approach

Enhanced 2025 Transportation: Post-Olympic infrastructure improvements include better metro signage, improved accessibility, and real-time information displays at all major stations.

Insider Tips for Maximum Enjoyment

Timing Strategy:

  • Weekday Mornings (10:00-12:00): Fewer crowds, better photo opportunities
  • Golden Hour (18:00-19:30): Magical lighting for photography
  • Sunset Timing: Check Paris sunset times and arrive 45 minutes before

Combining Experiences:

  • Shopping + Views: Shop first, then head to rooftops to rest and enjoy views
  • Multiple Terraces: Visit both Galeries Lafayette and Printemps rooftops for different perspectives
  • Dining Experiences: Book seasonal dining for the complete luxury experience

What to Bring

  • Camera/Phone: Fully charged with extra storage for panoramic shots
  • Light Jacket: Rooftops can be windy, especially in shoulder seasons
  • Comfortable Shoes: You'll be standing and walking on outdoor terraces
  • Sunglasses: Essential for afternoon visits and photography

Seasonal Rooftop Calendar 2025

Spring (March-May)

Perfect Weather: Mild temperatures and clear skies make spring ideal for rooftop visits. Le Picnic by Veuve Clicquot opens May 5.

Summer (June-September)

Peak Season: All rooftop experiences operational, including special dining and events. Best for extended photography sessions and evening visits.

Autumn (September-November)

Golden Light: Spectacular lighting conditions as the season changes. Veuve Clicquot experience ends September 30.

Winter (December-February)

Crystal Clear Views: Cold weather often provides the clearest visibility. Fewer crowds but dress warmly.

Beyond the Views: Complete Boulevard Haussmann Experience

Your rooftop adventure represents just one aspect of Boulevard Haussmann's treasures. Enhance your visit with our comprehensive guides:

Practical Information Summary

Galeries Lafayette Rooftop: Free access during store hours (10:00-20:30, Sundays 11:00-20:00), 8th floor via 7th floor elevators

Printemps Rooftops: Multiple levels including 7th floor Veuve Clicquot terrace (seasonal) and 9th floor Perruche bar/restaurant

Best Overall Experience: Visit both rooftops for different perspectives, timing your visit for optimal lighting and fewer crowds

These rooftop terraces transform Boulevard Haussmann from a shopping destination into a complete Paris experience, offering some of the city's most spectacular views without any admission cost. Whether you're seeking the perfect Instagram shot, a romantic sunset moment, or simply want to appreciate Paris from above, these rooftops provide unforgettable perspectives of the City of Light.

FOOD AND SHOPPING

While often visited for the view the visitor should not forget that The Boulevard encompasses a wide range of shopping and dining options, from the casual to the sophisticated.  Within the Haussmann area are examples of many of Paris's most authentic and distinctive styles, as well as international choices to fit all palates and budgets.

more about food
 

  • Boulevard Haussmann
2014-2025, Boulevard Haussmann Paris Guide, All Rights Reserved.