The best spots on the quai de Seine

For an aperitif with friends, there’s nothing better than relaxing on the banks of the Seine. Here’s a selection of our best places to enjoy a convivial moment right in the middle of one of Paris’s most beautiful spots.

Quai de la Tournelle

The Quai de la Tournelle, just opposite the Île Saint-Louis, offers a breathtaking view of Notre-Dame. It’s an ideal place to spread out a tablecloth and share a moment of relaxation. The tranquility of the place and the beauty of the surrounding monuments make it the perfect spot for a waterside aperitif.

Port de l’Arsenal

The Jardin de l’Arsenal, which links the Canal Saint-Martin to the Seine, is a green and soothing space. There are plenty of shady spots and sunny pergolas for comfortable seating. It’s a popular spot for Parisians to enjoy lunch on the grass or an impromptu aperitif at the end of the day.

Square du Vert-Galant

Located at the western end of the Ile de la Cité, the Square du Vert-Galant is a small haven of peace in the heart of Paris. With your feet almost in the water, you can admire the panoramic view of the Seine and the Parisian bridges. It’s a romantic and peaceful spot, perfect for a simple aperitif with friends or a more intimate get-together.

The banks of the Seine

The banks of the Seine have been laid out as a leisure and relaxation area, offering plenty of spots for a convivial aperitif. From the left bank to the right, you’ll find areas with deckchairs, benches and lawns to relax on. It’s a lively and animated place, ideal for enjoying the fine weather and relaxing in good company.

Quai de la Gare

Close to the Bibliothèque Nationale de France, the Quai de la Gare is a quiet, spacious spot, perfect for relaxing at the end of the day. With an unobstructed view over the Seine and plenty of green space to settle in, it’s a popular spot for its relaxed atmosphere and proximity to cultural venues.

Quai des Célestins

The Quai des Célestins, in the 4th arrondissement, is a less-frequented spot offering a quiet, restful atmosphere. With its benches and steps leading down to the water, it’s a charming spot for an aperitif by the Seine, away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist trade.

Quai de l’Hôtel de Ville

The Quai de l’Hôtel de Ville, with its green spaces and accessible platform, is an ideal place to settle down with a group and enjoy an open-air aperitif. The view over Ile Saint-Louis and the surrounding bridges adds a picturesque touch to this already pleasant spot.

Quai Saint-Bernard

The Quai Saint-Bernard, near the Jardin des Plantes, is another perfect spot for an aperitif with friends. With its vast lawns and open-air sculptures, it offers a lush, cultural setting for a good time on the banks of the Seine. Enjoy the view of the river while sipping a few drinks and snacks.

Pont Alexandre III

The Pont Alexandre III is not only one of the most emblematic bridges in Paris, but also an exceptional venue for an aperitif. Its sumptuous decoration, with sculptures and golden lampposts, creates a unique atmosphere. The quais under the bridge offer peaceful spaces where you can sit comfortably with a breathtaking view of the Invalides on one side and the Grand Palais on the other. At the end of the day, the golden lights of sunset are reflected on the Seine, making the moment even more magical.

These open-access spots on the banks of the Seine offer the perfect setting for an aperitif with friends, combining breathtaking views, peaceful atmospheres and verdant surroundings. Pack your picnic baskets, choose your favorite spot and enjoy summer in Paris with ease!