Can You Go on Rooftops in Paris?

By Alice Nichols

Paris is a city known for its stunning architecture, picturesque streets, and iconic landmarks. One of the most popular ways to take in the beauty of Paris is by exploring its rooftops.

But can you actually go on rooftops in Paris? The answer is not straightforward, but we’ll try to break it down for you.

Roof Access in Paris

Accessing rooftops in Paris can be a complicated process due to strict safety regulations and legal restrictions. Most rooftops are private property, and going on them without permission can result in legal consequences. In addition, many buildings have restricted access to their roofs due to safety concerns.

That being said, there are still some ways to access rooftops legally and safely. Some buildings have rooftop terraces that are open to the public, while others offer guided tours that take visitors up to the roof. Keep in mind that these options may require a fee or reservation.

Public Rooftop Terraces

There are several public rooftop terraces in Paris that offer stunning views of the city. One of the most famous ones is located on top of the Galeries Lafayette department store. This rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and Opera Garnier.

Another popular public rooftop terrace is located on top of the Centre Pompidou museum. This terrace offers 360-degree views of Paris and is a great spot for taking photos.

Other public rooftop terraces include those at Printemps department store and Institut du Monde Arabe museum.

  • Galeries Lafayette department store
  • Centre Pompidou museum
  • Printemps department store
  • Institut du Monde Arabe museum

Guided Rooftop Tours

Some buildings offer guided tours that take visitors up to the roof. These tours are a great way to access rooftops legally and safely while also learning about the building’s history and architecture.

One example of a building that offers a rooftop tour is the Arc de Triomphe. The tour takes visitors up to the top of the Arc de Triomphe, where they can enjoy panoramic views of Paris.

Another option is the Tour Montparnasse, which has an observation deck on its 56th floor that offers 360-degree views of Paris.

Conclusion

In summary, accessing rooftops in Paris can be a complicated process due to strict safety regulations and legal restrictions. However, there are still some options available for those who want to enjoy stunning views of the city from above. Public rooftop terraces and guided rooftop tours are both great ways to access rooftops legally and safely while also learning more about Paris’ history and architecture.