Café Culture
"Parisian café culture is about lingering over a single espresso ('un café') or glass of wine for hours, watching life pass by from a terrace table. It's a social institution, not just coffee service. Seating is strategic: 'en terrasse' (outside sidewalk) costs more than 'en salle' (inside), and 'au comptoir' (standing at the bar) is cheapest. The café is your office, living room, and people-watching theater. Ordering once buys you hours of space—no one rushes you."
Logistics
Moderate
Vibe
Leisurely, social
Duration
1-3 hours
Best For
People watching
The Backstory
Parisian cafés emerged in the 1600s-1700s, becoming intellectual hubs in the 1800s-1900s (Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots hosted Sartre, Hemingway, Picasso). The terrace culture exploded after WWII when sidewalk seating was permitted. Cafés became democratic spaces where everyone—from workers to intellectuals—could afford to sit. They're protected by law: cafés cannot be turned into banks or chain stores.
Local Secret
"Order 'un café' (espresso), 'un crème' (espresso with milk), or 'un café allongé' (americano). Sitting at the terrace costs 20-50% more than standing at the bar. You pay when you leave, not when you order—this allows lingering. Waiters won't rush you; you can sit for hours over one drink. Prime people-watching spots: Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots, Café de la Paix (tourist prices but iconic). Locals use neighborhood cafés in non-touristy areas (cheaper, authentic)."