Galeries Lafayette | Rooftop — Attraction in Paris

Galeries Lafayette is undeniably beautiful but overwhelmingly busy, especially during peak seasons. While the building itself is a stunning showcase of architecture and design, the shopping experience leaves much to be desired. It feels more like a spectacle than a practical or enjoyable place to shop.

When I visited in late December, it was chaotic, with crowds and long lines taking away any sense of luxury or exclusivity. Instead of browsing the stores, it felt like I spent more time navigating escalators and weaving through crowds. If you’re visiting during the Christmas or New Year period, it’s worth stopping by only to admire the building’s beauty, particularly its iconic dome and holiday decorations. However, as a destination for actual shopping, it’s not ideal.

For a more relaxed and enjoyable shopping experience, I’d recommend exploring other locations, especially during the holiday rush. Perhaps during quieter months, the experience might be more pleasant, but during busy periods, it’s all show and...

If you’re in Paris and want an amazing view without spending a cent, the Galeries Lafayette rooftop is the spot. You just head through the store, take the escalators all the way up (past that stunning glass dome) and then a final set of stairs or lift to the terrace. Suddenly you’re looking out over the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur, Opéra Garnier, and rooftops stretching for miles.

What I loved most was that it felt calm compared to other famous viewpoints—no ticket queues, no rush, just space to breathe and take it all in. It’s especially beautiful in the late afternoon when the light gets soft and golden.

They sometimes have little cafés or pop-up restaurants up there in summer, which can be nice, but honestly, the food and drinks are on the pricey side and reviews are mixed. I’d say go for the view, not the dining.

Overall, it’s a quick, easy, and totally free way to get one of the best panoramas of Paris. Perfect for photos, a short break in between sightseeing, or just a little “wow” moment in the middle...

The Galeries Lafayette rooftop terrace is a hidden gem in Paris, offering stunning panoramic views of the city for free. Located on the 8th floor of the Haussmann flagship store, the terrace boasts breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower, the Opéra Garnier, and the Sacré-Coeur. It's a perfect spot to take a break from shopping and enjoy the Parisian skyline.

Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect:

Free access: The rooftop terrace is free and open to the public during store hours.

Panoramic views: Enjoy stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, the Opéra Garnier, the Sacré-Coeur, and other Parisian landmarks.

Seasonal restaurant: The rooftop terrace houses a seasonal restaurant, Créatures, which offers delicious vegetarian and vegan cuisine.

Relaxing atmosphere: Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and soak up the views.

Overall, the Galeries Lafayette rooftop terrace is a must-visit for any visitor to Paris. It's a great place to relax, take in the sights, and enjoy a...