Best Cafés in Paris

Visiting Paris without touring the city’s numerous cafes is like traveling to Italy and not trying the pizza — you just don’t do it. There are too many great coffee shops to choose from in this city, so here are a few of the best Paris has to offer.

Le Select

While the coffee here is superb, tourists really flock to Le Select for the prestige. This quaint café played host to the likes of Picasso and Hemingway hoping to be inspired by the creative atmosphere. The mosaic-tiled floor and wicker chairs harken back to classic French cafes.

Le Cafes de Chats

Chats are cats, my friends, and they’re the pièce de résistance at this adorable café in the Marais neighborhood of Paris. Not only will you be treated to delicious coffee and treats, you’ll dine in the presence of at least a dozen cats who call the place their home. It’s a unique experience you aren’t likely to find back home.

Le Procope

Le Procope is the oldest café in Paris, founded in 1686, and thus it merits at least an hour of your time. The walls are lined with antique paintings and chandeliers hang from the ceilings in this cozy piece of history. It was also once a favorite spot of Benjamin Franklin.

Le Café Tournon

Hidden in the heart of Paris’ Saint-Germain neighborhood, Le Café Tournon is where the city’s bustling jazz scene got its start. This popular spot was once frequented by Duke Ellington and is still a great place to go to connect with local celebrities.