Nothing says Paris like a perfectly baked croissant — crisp on the outside, tender and buttery on the inside, with just the right amount of flake. Whether you’re chasing the classic croissant au beurre or a creative twist filled with pistachio cream or praline, Paris delivers croissants at a level only locals would expect.
This guide shares where to find the very best croissants in Paris — plus insider tips on when to go, how to eat them like a Parisian, and how to tell if a croissant is truly top-tier.
🥐 What Makes a Great Croissant?
A real Parisian croissant:
- Crackles when you bite into it
- Has a deep golden color (not pale)
- Smells rich and buttery (not oily)
- Shows visible layers of lamination
- Is made with beurre AOP (protected designation butter)
You want a croissant au beurre — not the cheaper margarine version (croissant ordinaire). Always ask if unsure!
🕗 Best Time to Get a Fresh Croissant
- Ideal window: Between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM
- Many bakeries bake in batches — early morning is best for peak freshness
- Weekends may sell out faster — go early for the good stuff
💡 Pro tip: If the bakery smells of warm butter from the street, you’re in the right place.
🏆 Best Croissants in Paris
1. La Maison d’Isabelle (5th Arrondissement)
🏅 Winner of Best Croissant in Paris (Concours 2018)
Hand-rolled, organic ingredients, and a deeply satisfying crunch.
📍 47ter Boulevard Saint-Germain
🕘 From 6:00 AM
2. Des Gâteaux et du Pain (15th & 7th Arrondissements)
Ultra-refined bakery known for buttery croissants and elegant viennoiserie.
📍 89 Rue du Bac (7th) or 63 Boulevard Pasteur (15th)
🕘 From 8:00 AM
3. Du Pain et des Idées (10th Arrondissement)
Old-world charm and cult-favorite croissant au beurre with a caramelized crust.
📍 34 Rue Yves Toudic
🕘 From 6:45 AM — closed weekends!
4. Maison Pichard (15th Arrondissement)
Regularly featured in Paris pastry rankings — flaky perfection, every time.
📍 88 Rue Cambronne
🕘 From 7:00 AM
5. Stohrer (2nd Arrondissement)
The oldest pâtisserie in Paris (since 1730!) — home to traditional pastries and excellent croissants.
📍 51 Rue Montorgueil
🕘 From 7:30 AM
6. Pain Pain (18th Arrondissement – Montmartre)
Trendy spot with beautifully layered croissants — crisp, light, and often served warm.
📍 88 Rue des Martyrs
🕘 From 7:00 AM
7. Boulangerie Utopie (11th Arrondissement)
Famous for both classic and creative croissants — try their charcoal sesame または matcha cream versions.
📍 20 Rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud
🕘 From 7:00 AM — closed Monday
8. Le Grenier à Pain (Multiple Locations)
Multiple-time winner of the Best Croissant in Paris award. Dependable and delightful.
📍 38 Rue des Abbesses (Montmartre location)
🕘 From 6:30 AM
☕ How to Eat a Croissant Like a Parisian
- No forks and knives — pick it up and break off pieces
- No butter or jam on it (unless it’s served on the side with a café breakfast)
- Best paired with a カフェクレーム または エスプレッソ
- Eat on the go or in a standing café bar — Parisians don’t linger over croissants unless it’s brunch
📍 Map Tip: Cluster Your Visits
You can create your own croissant crawl by exploring neighborhoods with 2–3 top bakeries close together. For example:
Montmartre:
- Pain Pain
- Le Grenier à Pain
Left Bank:
- La Maison d’Isabelle
- Des Gâteaux et du Pain (Rue du Bac)
🧭 Final Tips for Croissant Lovers
- Don’t settle for the hotel buffet version — go to a real bakery
- Croissants are often cheaper than €2, even at award-winning spots
- Many bakeries also offer croissant aux amandes (almond-filled), perfect for an afternoon treat
A trip to Paris isn’t complete without the perfect croissant. From time-honored boulangeries to bold new takes, these bakeries are where your Parisian breakfast dreams come true.