Rooftop des Galeries Lafayette
Free rooftop terrace overlooking the Opéra and the Eiffel Tower.
The story of the place
In 1894 Théophile Bader and his cousin Alphonse Kahn opened a fashion shop on the corner of rue La Fayette and the chaussée d'Antin: the Galeries Lafayette were born. In October 1912 the architect Ferdinand Chanut crowned the store with a neo-Byzantine glass dome. The roof, for its part, owes its fame to a wager: 25,000 francs to the first aviator who managed to land on it. On 19 January 1919 Jules Védrines pulled it off in a Caudron G3, wrecked his plane and pocketed the prize.
Getting there
Nearest metro station: Chaussée d'Antin – La Fayette (7/9). The spot is in the 9th arrondissement of Paris. Open walking directions.
The light
Excellent golden hour (4/5): sunrise and sunset light is warm and very usable here.
Where to go after the shoot
A few addresses within a short walk, to make the moment last.
Tea room in the passage Jouffroy arcade, pastries made on site, open every day: about ten minutes from the rooftop.
An 1896 dining hall with listed decor, simple French cooking, mains from €7 and no bookings: ten minutes down the Grands Boulevards.
An 1890 Lyon-style bouchon, quenelles and pâté en croûte, open Tuesday to Saturday: a fifteen-minute walk, better to book.
Addresses checked in 07/2026. Places change — check opening hours before you head out.
Photo spots nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Rooftop des Galeries Lafayette?
Nearest metro station: Chaussée d'Antin – La Fayette (7/9). The spot is in the 9th arrondissement of Paris.
When is the best time to photograph Rooftop des Galeries Lafayette?
Excellent golden hour (4/5): sunrise and sunset light is warm and very usable here. Free access during store hours — golden hour in summer.
Can I book a photographer for a shoot at Rooftop des Galeries Lafayette?
Yes. SnapSpot Paris connects you with Paris-based photographers who know the location. A single session can cover several nearby spots — the photographer adapts the route to the light of the day. Opéra Garnier, Colonnes de Buren, Moulin Rouge, Le mur des Je t'aime.