VERDICT: We gave 4 out of 5 tickets and here’s why!
Windy weather in Paris wasn’t going to stop us… because today, we were heading somewhere unexpected, one of the best free rooftop views in the city. And what we found inside Galeries Lafayette completely caught us off guard.
Luxury shopping, panoramic views, and a hidden rooftop experience you don’t want to miss
With a windy day in the forecast, we decided to change plans and head indoors to Galeries Lafayette, one of the most famous department stores in Paris. We’d heard the rooftop views were some of the best in the city… and even better completely free.
Getting there was simple. From our apartment, we walked to Ternes Metro Station, connected to a second train, and arrived at Havre–Caumartin, just a short walk from the store. Within minutes, we were standing in front of it… and immediately impressed by the scale. This place is massive.
Stepping inside, you’re surrounded by global luxury brands from Dior, Tiffany & Co to Louis Vuitton, spread across multiple levels that just keep going.
We jumped on the escalator… and honestly, lost count of how many floors we passed. Each level felt like its own world. Then… we reached the rooftop.
And despite the gusty wind it was amazing. A glass barrier lines the edge, and beyond it… sweeping views across Paris, including the Eiffel Tower. It felt you had accessed somewhere you were not supposed to be! We spent some time up there just taking it all in. It’s one of those moments where you realize, this costs nothing, and yet it’s one of the better views in the city.
On the way down, we stopped for lunch at the in-house restaurant. We went with the buffet, a bit on the pricey side, however the quality was less than excellent. A little disappointed to be honest.
After that, we made our way back through the store and headed for the Metro. Even with the weather not fully cooperating, this was absolutely worth the visit.
And on a sunny day? This would easily be one of the best stops in Paris.
It was One of the BEST Free Views in Paris (Galeries Lafayette Rooftop)
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is more than just a department store, it’s an experience. Opened in 1912, the building is famous for its stunning glass dome, which is worth stepping back to admire before heading up. The rooftop terrace is completely free and offers 360-degree views across Paris, including clear sightlines to the Eiffel Tower, Opéra Garnier, and Montmartre.
Top Tip
Go early or later in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons. Escalators can get busy, so allow extra time. If the rooftop is windy (which it often is), bring a light jacket even in warmer months.
The Metro stop Havre–Caumartin is the most convenient access point, connecting multiple lines and making this an easy stop to add into any Paris itinerary.
🎟️ TOP 10 REASONS FOR A RETURN TICKET
- One of the best free rooftop views in Paris
- Direct sightline to the Eiffel Tower
- Iconic glass dome architecture inside
- Easy Metro access, very central location
- Massive range of luxury brands
- Food options including buffet dining / Perhaps better than our experience
- Perfect indoor option on poor weather days
- Ideal stop to combine shopping + sightseeing
- Multiple floors to explore, every visit feels different
- Even better experience on a sunny day
With every trip, we offer feedback to travel companies along with honest views for you, the reader. We rate adventures on a scale of one to five tickets, judged on quality, service, memorability, and price. A perfect ‘Ticket Rating’ of a five-ticket score means the experience was flawless and we’d eagerly return. Your desire to go back is the ultimate measure of a trip’s worth. Exclusive to My Return Ticket.
