Don’t Miss It: Paris Summer Terraces Are BACK—And Staying Open Way Later!
Remember the eerily quiet spring of 2020, when Parisian sidewalks felt deserted and the familiar clink of café cups faded away? In response, the city introduced temporary terraces that seemed to pop up everywhere—a quick fix that, honestly, just felt right.
By 2021, the city had decided to make those outdoor spaces permanent fixtures. What started out of necessity somehow became a new Parisian ritual.
Now, there’s a fresh policy: terraces can stay open until 11 PM every night from June 21st to September 14th, 2025. More time for that evening vin rouge, or maybe to sit and watch the city unravel as the sun goes down.
By the Numbers: Fewer New Applications, Tighter Rules
Let’s talk numbers for a second. Summer terrace applications in Paris used to hit wild highs—at one point, there were 9,600 requests.
This year? Just 306. Did everyone suddenly fall out of love with terraces? Doubt it. The real reason: stricter guidelines.
Officials say the process has “reached maturity.” Basically, it’s no longer a free-for-all—there are tighter rules on noise, closing hours, and terrace setup.
Of all those hopeful applicants, only 83 new permits got the green light. So you’ll spot fewer new terraces, but the ones that stick around are following the rules.
What This Means for Visitors and Locals Alike
With summer terraces open later, you can actually enjoy café culture after sunset. No more rushing your dessert or cutting a conversation short just as it gets interesting.
Visitors get more flexibility, too. You can join locals for a late meal, watch the world go by, or just nurse a drink while the city glows a little longer.
Tip: Try wandering outside the usual tourist spots. Some of the most charming terraces are hidden on smaller avenues, and the ambiance can be surprising.
Where to Enjoy the Paris Summer Terrace Scene in 2025
Warm evenings, clear skies, and cafés open later than ever—2025 feels like a golden age for Paris terraces. The Marais and Saint-Germain are classic picks if you’re after people-watching and a cold glass of rosé.
Want something more laid-back? Head to the Canal Saint-Martin quays. Locals bring snacks, drift from bar to bar, and sometimes end up dangling their feet over the water – definitely one of the most romantic things to do in Paris.
Restaurants have squeezed in extra chairs for river breezes along the Seine, especially near Pont Alexandre III. It’s hard to beat that view with a drink in hand.
If you’re after a more Parisian crowd (and maybe fewer tourists), check out Belleville or Batignolles. Tables spill onto the boulevards and the regulars chat like old friends. You might even get a tip about the best tarte au citron in the neighborhood.
If you’re new to these neighborhoods, try to arrive early to snag a spot. The extra hours allow you to take your time and soak in the gentle chaos.
Whether you’re there for an espresso or a full meal, you’re part of a long-standing Paris evening tradition—no reservation or secret password required.
Final Word: Terrace Life Grows Up and Gets Organized
If you’ve strolled down a Parisian street recently, you might’ve noticed fewer wobbly chairs cluttering the sidewalk. There are more neat ironwork tables now—finally, somewhere you can actually sit and sip.
The city’s push for better-managed summer terraces is starting to make a difference, even if it’s subtle. Longer hours mean you get extra time for that citron pressé or glass of rosé.
