The best open-air cafés in Paris for a drink by the water this summer 2026

When August rolls around, the capital slows down, temperatures rise and a sudden craving for fresh air takes hold of Parisians and visitors alike. The solution? Swap the scorching tarmac for the banks of the Seine and the canals. Fairy lights, deckchairs, craft beers and sunsets over the water: here’s the ultimate selection of the most beautiful open-air cafés and pop-up terraces where you can enjoy Paris with your feet almost in the water. 

Must-see spots along the Seine 

Photo : Amandine Goetz

Rosa Bonheur sur Seine (7th arrondissement): The classic party spot at the foot of the bridge. Moored opposite the Grand Palais, this legendary barge is a haven of conviviality. People flock here from late afternoon to share Camargue-style tapas, a glass of chilled rosé and dance to DJ sets with the Alexandre III Bridge in the background.

La Guinguette FFA x Pont-Marie (4th arrondissement): A 100% local aperitif on the riverbanks Set up on the banks of the Seine near the Pont Marie, the Fédération Française de l’Apéro has set up its summer guinguette. Here you can sample delicious artisanal produce (fine charcuterie, regional cheeses, rillettes) paired with local wines or beers, whilst enjoying a breathtaking view of Île Saint-Louis.

La Javelle (15th arrondissement): A lively open-air café vibe in western Paris. Set at the Port de Javel Bas, La Javelle features a large, colourful terrace dotted with lanterns. With a variety of food trucks, live brass bands, creative workshops and a large dance floor, it’s the perfect spot to transition from a laid-back family afternoon to a lively atmosphere once night falls.

Le Cargo Food Club (13th arrondissement): Street food and electronic vibes Head to the Port de Bercy to discover this open-air spot. Le Cargo offers a clever mix of gourmet street food, signature cocktails and a carefully curated music line-up (house, disco, funk) right by the river.

 

Canal Saint-Martin & Bassin de la Villette: A laid-back summer 

Photo : Amandine Goetz

Paname Brewing Company (19th arrondissement): Craft beers and a suspended terrace For lovers of a good beer, the PBC is a must-visit. Its large wooden terrace juts out directly over the Bassin de la Villette. Here you can enjoy craft beers brewed on the premises, accompanied by street food and artisanal pizzas.

Le Pavillon des Canaux (19th arrondissement): The capital’s cosiest canal house A unique and socially conscious venue, this fully fitted-out house lets you sip a lemonade or a cocktail on its spacious, sun-drenched quay or explore its quirky interior, from the lounge to the vintage bath.

Chez Prune and the Canal Spirit (10th arrondissement): The unmissable spot by the locks. Around the Canal Saint-Martin, the bistro-style atmosphere is decidedly relaxed. You can grab a drink to take away and settle down right on the cobblestones, or try to snag a table on the terrace to watch the boats go by.

 

Whether you’re looking for a wild dance floor under the stars, a platter of top-quality salami or a deckchair in the shade of the plane trees, the Parisian quays have plenty of summer getaways in store in August. All you have to do is choose your riverside spot and enjoy the capital’s gentle charm. 

 

Featured photo: Amandine Goetz