9 Best Ice Cream Shops in Paris for Summer Treats
Looking for the best ice cream in Paris? I've found nine incredible spots you won't want to miss! Berthillon leads the pack with its legendary dark chocolate, while Une Glace à Paris dazzles with innovative flavors like smoked vanilla. You'll love Amorino's Instagram-worthy flower-shaped scoops and Glacier Pozzetto's authentic Italian gelato. From Martine Lambert's Normandy-style creations to Raimo's century-old recipes, each shop offers a unique frozen masterpiece. Let's explore these sweet havens beyond the typical tourist spots!
Berthillon: The Historic Heart of Parisian Ice Cream
Nestled on the charming Île Saint-Louis, Berthillon stands as Paris's most legendary ice cream parlor, crafting exceptional glacé since 1954. This family-owned institution has earned its reputation through an unwavering commitment to quality, using only natural ingredients and traditional French techniques to create intensely flavored ice creams and sorbets that have become synonymous with Parisian frozen treats.
What began as a small café-restaurant has evolved into a pilgrimage site for ice cream enthusiasts worldwide, with queues often stretching along rue Saint-Louis en l'Île regardless of season. Berthillon's signature flavors, from the intense dark chocolate to the delicate wild strawberry sorbet, showcase the pinnacle of French ice cream craftsmanship, making it an essential stop for anyone seeking to experience authentic Parisian gastronomy.
Quick Facts:
- Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 10:00-20:00 (closed Monday and Tuesday)
- Price Range: €3.50-7.50 per scoop
- Peak Times: 14:00-17:00 daily, especially weekends
- Seasonal Closures: Usually July-August
- Payment: Cash and credit cards accepted
- Seating: Limited indoor tea salon available
- Dietary Options: Dairy-free sorbets available
- Wait Times: 15-45 minutes during peak season
Signature Experience:
The original Berthillon shop at 31 rue Saint-Louis en l'Île offers the most authentic experience, featuring rotating seasonal flavors alongside classics like salted caramel and praline. The tea salon provides table service with elaborate sundaes and hot chocolate in winter. Their production facility, visible through windows at certain times, offers glimpses into their artisanal process using fresh, natural ingredients sourced from carefully selected producers.
Insider Tip: While many nearby cafés advertise "Berthillon ice cream," only the original location and a few authorized vendors serve the genuine product. The main shop's seasonal closures are legendary, so check their website before visiting during summer months.
Pro Tips:
Visit during shoulder season (March-April or September-October) to experience shorter lines and the full range of seasonal flavors. Early morning visits, just after opening, offer the freshest ice cream and minimal waiting times. Consider ordering a combination of classic flavors with seasonal specialties to experience the full spectrum of Berthillon's expertise.
Practical Advice:
When visiting Berthillon, combine your ice cream expedition with a leisurely walk around Île Saint-Louis to make the most of your visit. The shop's strict operating hours and closure days are religiously observed, so plan accordingly. Take advantage of the tea salon during inclement weather, but be prepared for higher prices compared to takeaway options. For the best experience, avoid the designated French lunch hours (12:00-14:00) when locals flood the area.
Une Glace À Paris: Modern Artistry Meets Traditional Technique
Nestled in the historic Marais district, Une Glace à Paris represents the pinnacle of French ice cream craftsmanship, where traditional techniques merge seamlessly with contemporary innovation. Founded by Emmanuel Ryon, a Meilleur Ouvrier de France, and Olivier Ménard, this boutique has revolutionized Paris's artisanal ice cream scene since its opening in 2015.
This exceptional glacerie distinguishes itself through its bold flavor combinations and architectural presentations that transform ice cream into edible art. Each creation reflects the founders' commitment to sourcing premium ingredients while pushing creative boundaries, resulting in unique offerings like their signature smoked vanilla and wasabi-pea ice creams that have earned them international recognition.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €4.50-€12 per serving
- Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 12:00-19:30 (closed Mondays)
- Seasonal Specialties: New flavors introduced monthly
- Dietary Options: Several dairy-free sorbets available
- Wait Times: 15-30 minutes during peak summer hours
- Indoor Seating: Limited (4 small tables)
- Payment: Credit cards accepted (minimum €10)
The Signature Experience:
Une Glace à Paris elevates ice cream from simple dessert to culinary art form. Located at 15 Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, the shop's minimalist interior allows the vibrant colors of their creations to take center stage. Their glacier's menu features both classic flavors and innovative combinations, with standout options including the caramel-miso ice cream and their award-winning chocolate sorbet. Insider tip: Visit between 2-4 PM on weekdays to watch the pastry chefs prepare their famous ice cream eclairs.
Pro Tips:
The best strategy for experiencing Une Glace à Paris is to visit during shoulder season (March-April or September-October) when lines are shorter but the full range of flavors is still available. Consider pre-ordering their signature ice cream cakes 48 hours in advance for special occasions, as these elaborate creations often sell out quickly during peak seasons.
Practical Advice:
While the shop offers takeaway containers with dry ice for transport, it's best to enjoy their creations immediately to experience the ideal texture and temperature. During summer months, arrive early in the day to secure a spot at one of their coveted outdoor tables, perfect for people-watching along the charming Marais streets. Remember that flavors rotate frequently, so check their social media accounts for the latest offerings before visiting.
Amorino: Flower-Shaped Scoops in the Latin Quarter
Nestled in the heart of Paris's historic Latin Quarter, Amorino has revolutionized the art of gelato presentation with their signature flower-shaped scoops. Each cone emerges as a blooming rose, crafted petal by petal from different flavors of authentic Italian-style gelato, creating an experience that's as visually stunning as it is delicious. This innovative approach to ice cream presentation has made Amorino a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking a unique dessert experience.
The original Latin Quarter location, opened in 2002 by childhood friends Cristiano Sereni and Paolo Benassi, remains one of the brand's most popular outlets. While Amorino has since expanded globally, this particular shop maintains its charm and authenticity, offering a genuine Parisian ice cream experience complete with outdoor seating perfect for people-watching along the bustling streets.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €4.50-€8.50 per serving
- Peak Hours: 2-6 PM daily, especially weekends
- Wait Times: 15-30 minutes during peak summer season
- Dietary Options: Vegan flavors available
- Payment Methods: Cash, credit cards, mobile payments
- Languages: Staff speaks French and English
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings or after 8 PM
The shop's signature offering is the gelato rose, where skilled servers carefully craft each scoop into delicate petals using a specialized spatula. Customers can choose unlimited flavors for their creation, with standout options including Sicilian pistachio, Madagascar vanilla, and organic Ecuadorian chocolate. The store is located at 4 Rue de Buci, 75006 Paris, operating daily from 11 AM to midnight. Insider tip: Ask for a "macaron gelato" – a lesser-known option where your chosen flavors are sandwiched between authentic French macarons.
Pro Tips:
During summer months, visit during off-peak hours (before noon or after 8 PM) to avoid the longest queues. Consider ordering your gelato in a cup rather than a cone if you plan to photograph your creation, as the summer heat can quickly affect the presentation. For the perfect Instagram shot, position yourself near the shop's window where natural light creates the most appetizing images of your flower-shaped masterpiece.
Practical Advice:
While Amorino offers seating, the authentic Parisian experience involves taking your gelato for a stroll through the charming Latin Quarter streets. Be aware that prices are slightly higher than standard ice cream shops, but the quality and presentation justify the cost. Consider purchasing a loyalty card if you plan multiple visits during your stay, as it offers worthwhile discounts and occasional special flavors for members.
Glacier Pozzetto: Authentic Italian Gelato in Le Marais
Tucked away in the historic Le Marais district, Glacier Pozzetto stands as a proof of authentic Italian gelato craftsmanship in the heart of Paris. This intimate gelateria brings the time-honored traditions of Milan to the French capital, offering a carefully curated selection of artisanal gelatos made fresh daily using premium ingredients imported directly from Italy.
What sets Pozzetto apart from other Parisian ice cream establishments is their unwavering commitment to traditional Italian methods, including storing their gelato in covered metal pozzetti containers that maintain ideal temperature and texture. This technique, rarely seen outside Italy, guarantees each scoop delivers the perfect consistency and intense flavor that true gelato aficionados seek.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €3.50-7.00 per serving
- Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 12:00-22:30 (Closed Mondays)
- Seasonal Variations: Open year-round, new flavors monthly
- Payment Methods: Cash and cards accepted
- Seating: Limited standing room only
- Dietary Options: Several dairy-free sorbets available
- Languages: Staff speaks French, English, and Italian
The Gelato Experience
Pozzetto's master gelato makers craft approximately 12-16 flavors daily, with standouts including their renowned pistachio (made with Sicilian nuts), rich chocolate (sourced from single-origin cacao), and seasonal fruit variations. Located at 39 Rue du Roi de Sicile in the 4th arrondissement, the shop's modest storefront belies the exceptional quality within. Their signature serving style includes the option to combine two flavors in a single cup or cone, with the unique possibility of adding a dollop of fresh whipped cream made in-house.
Insider Tip: Visit between 14:00-16:00 to catch the afternoon production of fresh batches, when you might sample flavors moments after they're made.
Pro Tips
The best strategy for experiencing Pozzetto is to visit during shoulder hours (15:00-17:00) to avoid the post-lunch and dinner rushes. True connoisseurs should ask about the "flavor of the week," which often features experimental combinations not listed on the regular menu. For photography enthusiasts, the morning light hitting the historic storefront creates ideal conditions for capturing both the shop's charm and the vibrant colors of the gelato.
Practical Advice
Given the shop's popularity and limited space, expect to wait during peak hours, particularly on weekends and summer evenings. Consider taking your gelato to the nearby Place des Vosges for a quintessential Parisian experience. While the shop doesn't offer seating, this historic square provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying your artisanal treat. Remember that flavors can sell out during busy periods, so arriving earlier in the day guarantees access to the full selection.
La Glacerie Paris by David Wesmaël: Innovation in Every Scoop
Nestled in the trendy Marais district, La Glacerie Paris by David Wesmaël represents the pinnacle of French ice cream craftsmanship. This MOF (Meilleur Ouvrier de France) glacierist has revolutionized the Parisian ice cream scene with his architectural approach to frozen desserts, combining classic French techniques with modern gastronomy.
Beyond traditional ice cream making, Wesmaël's creations are edible works of art that challenge conventional expectations. Each flavor is meticulously developed through a process that can take months to perfect, incorporating seasonal ingredients and unexpected texture combinations that have earned the shop numerous accolades and a devoted following among both locals and tourists.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €5-15 per serving
- Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11:00-19:00 (closed Mondays)
- Seasonal Menu: Changes quarterly
- Dietary Options: Dairy-free and vegan options available
- Wait Times: 15-30 minutes during peak summer hours
- Indoor Seating: Limited (6 seats)
- Payment: Credit cards accepted, contactless preferred
Signature Experience
The shop's crown jewel is the "Architectural Collection," featuring geometrically precise ice cream creations that showcase Wesmaël's innovative techniques. Each dessert is assembled to order, combining multiple textures and temperatures in a single serving. Located at 13 Rue du Temple, the boutique's minimalist design allows the colorful creations to take center stage. The must-try experience is the "Tasting Flight," offering four miniature versions of signature flavors for €12.
Insider Tip: Visit between 14:00-16:00 on weekdays to catch the afternoon production session, where you might glimpse the team crafting new designs through the kitchen's viewing window.
Pro Tips
The ideal time to visit is mid-morning on weekdays when fresh batches are just being set out, and the crowds haven't yet arrived. For photography enthusiasts, the shop's northern exposure provides excellent natural lighting between 11:00-13:00, perfect for capturing the stunning presentations. Request your ice cream "à emporter" (to go) and enjoy it in the nearby Place des Vosges for a quintessential Parisian experience.
Practical Advice
During summer months, La Glacerie offers insulated bags for €5, allowing customers to transport their purchases for up to 30 minutes without melting. For the full experience, book a tasting workshop (available monthly) through their website two months in advance. The shop can accommodate special dietary requirements with 24-hour notice, though their dairy-free selection is typically limited to 3-4 flavors daily.
Martine Lambert: Normandy-Style Ice Cream Excellence
Tucked away in the charming Marais district, Martine Lambert's ice cream boutique brings authentic Normandy-style glacerie to the heart of Paris. Since establishing her first shop in Deauville in 1975, Lambert has built a reputation for creating exceptionally creamy ice creams using fresh milk and cream from Norman cattle, along with carefully selected seasonal ingredients.
This artisanal ice cream maker stands out in Paris's competitive dessert scene by maintaining strict quality standards and refusing to use any artificial preservatives or stabilizers. Each flavor is crafted in small batches, highlighting the pure taste of premium ingredients like Madagascar vanilla beans, Sicilian pistachios, and locally sourced fruits at their peak ripeness.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €4-7 per scoop, €15-25 for take-home containers
- Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11:00-19:00 (closed Mondays)
- Seating: Limited outdoor seating only (4 tables)
- Payment Methods: Cash and major credit cards accepted
- Dietary Options: Several dairy-free sorbets available
- Peak Times: 14:00-17:00 during summer months
The Signature Experience
The shop's most celebrated offering is their vanilla ice cream, made with individually scraped Madagascar vanilla pods and cream from heritage-breed Norman cows. This flagship flavor showcases Lambert's commitment to quality, requiring a three-day production process to achieve its distinctive smooth texture and complex flavor profile. Located at 39 Rue Cler in the 7th arrondissement, the boutique's historic storefront features original 1920s tilework. Insider tip: Visit between 11:00-12:00 to watch fresh batches being hand-churned through the kitchen's viewing window.
Pro Tips
For the fullest flavor experience, allow the ice cream to soften slightly for 2-3 minutes before eating, as extremely cold temperatures can dull the taste buds. During summer months, consider pre-ordering special flavors or larger quantities, as daily batches often sell out by late afternoon. The shop also offers specialized tasting flights on weekday mornings, allowing customers to sample five different flavors for the price of two regular scoops.
Practical Advice
While the shop can get crowded during peak tourist season, the quality justifies any wait. Bring an insulated bag if planning to transport ice cream more than 15 minutes, as the all-natural ingredients mean these creations melt faster than commercial alternatives. The shop is located just a 5-minute walk from the Rue Cler market street, making it an ideal dessert stop after exploring one of Paris's most famous food markets.
Grom: Mediterranean Flavors Near the Seine
Nestled along the romantic banks of the Seine River, Grom brings authentic Italian gelato craftsmanship to the heart of Paris. This gelateria stands out for its commitment to using premium Mediterranean ingredients and traditional Italian techniques, creating gelato that rivals the finest ice cream establishments in the City of Light.
What began as a Turin-based gelato shop has evolved into an international sensation, with its Paris location capturing the essence of both Italian and French culinary excellence. The shop's strategic location near the Seine makes it a perfect stop for tourists and locals alike, offering a revitalizing respite during warm Parisian afternoons or a sweet finale to an evening stroll.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €4-8 per serving
- Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily
- Seating: Limited outdoor seating available
- Payment: Credit cards accepted, contactless payments welcome
- Dietary Options: Dairy-free sorbets available
- Peak Times: 2:00-5:00 PM and after dinner (8:00-10:00 PM)
- Lines: Typically 5-15 minutes during peak season
Signature Flavors and Experience:
The heart of Grom's appeal lies in its commitment to authenticity and quality. Their pistachio gelato, made with nuts from Sicily, has become legendary among Paris's dessert enthusiasts. The shop features rotating seasonal flavors alongside classics, all made without artificial preservatives or colors. Located at 81 Rue de Seine, 75006 Paris, the shop's corner position offers excellent people-watching opportunities while enjoying your gelato. Insider tip: Ask about their "flavor of the month" – these limited-edition creations often feature unique combinations not found in their regular menu.
Pro Tips:
Visit during the shoulder hours (11:00 AM-1:00 PM or 6:00-7:00 PM) to avoid the longest queues. For the best experience, combine flavors that complement each other – try pairing their intense dark chocolate with fresh fruit sorbets for a perfect balance. Photography enthusiasts should position themselves near the shop's exterior during golden hour, when the setting sun creates a magical glow on the historic building's facade.
Practical Advice:
While Grom offers take-away containers for multiple scoops, the gelato is best enjoyed immediately in a cone or cup. During summer months, consider timing your visit to coincide with sunset walks along the Seine – the shop is just a three-minute walk from the river. Keep in mind that the space around the shop can get crowded, so have your flavor choices ready when reaching the counter, and be prepared to enjoy your treat while standing or walking if all seats are taken.
Glazed: Contemporary Creations in Canal Saint-Martin
Best Ice Cream Shops in Paris: Glazed
Contemporary Creations in Canal Saint-Martin
Tucked away in the trendy Canal Saint-Martin neighborhood, Glazed has revolutionized Paris's artisanal ice cream scene since its opening in 2018. This modern glacier combines traditional French ice cream-making techniques with innovative flavor combinations and striking visual presentations that have made it a social media sensation and local favorite alike.
Beyond its Instagram-worthy creations, Glazed stands out for its commitment to seasonal ingredients and collaborative approach with local producers. Each month brings new experimental flavors that challenge conventional ice cream boundaries, from herb-infused sorbets to savory-sweet combinations that reflect founder Marie Palot's culinary training at prestigious Parisian restaurants.
Quick Facts:
- Price range: €4.50-8.50 per serving
- Peak hours: 2-6 PM weekends, 3-5 PM weekdays
- Seasonal operation: Open year-round, limited hours November-March
- Dietary options: Vegan alternatives available
- Payment: Cards accepted, contactless preferred
- Seating: Limited outdoor seating (4 tables)
Signature Creation:
The shop's most celebrated offering is the "Saint-Martin Sunset" – a carefully constructed combination of blood orange sorbet, vanilla bean ice cream, and preserved rose petals, finished with a house-made caramel tuile. This architectural creation perfectly embodies Glazed's modern approach to traditional ice cream craftsmanship. Located at 54 Rue de Lancry, the shop operates Tuesday through Sunday, 12 PM to 8 PM (closed Mondays). Insider tip: Ask about their "creative hour" between 4-5 PM when new experimental flavors are often tested and offered at reduced prices.
Pro Tips:
Visit during mid-morning hours (11 AM-1 PM) to avoid the after-lunch rush and ascertain the best selection of daily flavors. For photography enthusiasts, the natural light through the shop's large windows is ideal during early afternoon hours, and the staff is particularly accommodating to photographers before the busy period begins. Consider pre-ordering special flavors during holiday seasons, as limited-edition creations often sell out quickly.
Practical Advice:
While Glazed accepts walk-ins, their unique flavor combinations can generate significant queues during summer months and weekends. Consider using their mobile app for pre-ordering, especially for groups larger than four people. The shop is a 5-minute walk from République metro station, making it easily accessible via lines 3, 5, 8, 9, and 11. During winter months, take advantage of their hot chocolate pairings, which complement their cold offerings and provide a perfect balance during chilly Paris afternoons.
Raimo: A Century of Frozen Perfection in the 12th
A Parisian Institution: Raimo's Legendary Ice Cream
————————————————
Nestled in the charming 12th arrondissement, Raimo has been crafting exceptional gelato and sorbet since 1947, making it one of Paris's oldest ice cream establishments. This family-owned glacier has maintained its reputation for excellence through four generations, combining traditional Italian techniques with French culinary refinement.
The shop's elegant Art Deco interior and historic storefront transport visitors back to mid-century Paris, while their constantly evolving flavor selection keeps the experience fresh and contemporary. With over 60 flavors made fresh on-site using natural ingredients, Raimo represents the perfect marriage of traditional craftsmanship and modern gastronomy.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €3.50-€8.50 per serving
- Peak Hours: 2:00-6:00 PM, especially weekends
- Seating: Limited indoor café space available
- Payment: Cash and cards accepted
- Dietary Options: Several dairy-free sorbets available
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds
- Seasonal Operation: Open year-round, with reduced hours in winter
The Raimo Experience
The shop's signature offerings include their celebrated pistachio gelato, made with Sicilian nuts, and their dark chocolate sorbet, which has won multiple awards. The current location at 59-61 Boulevard de Reuilly features both a production laboratory where visitors can watch ice cream being made and a comfortable salon de thé for sit-down service.
Inside Tip: Visit between 10:00-11:00 AM to watch the daily production process through the workshop's viewing window, and you might be invited to taste test new flavors being developed.
Pro Tips
For the fullest experience, combine flavors that complement each other – try the shop's recommended pairings like dark chocolate with orange blossom, or pistachio with cherry. Consider visiting during shoulder season (March-April or September-October) when lines are shorter but the full range of seasonal flavors is still available.
Practical Advice
While Raimo offers take-away containers for home enjoyment, their special insulated bags are recommended for purchases intended to travel more than 15 minutes. The shop is easily accessible via Metro line 8 (Montgallet station) and offers bicycle parking outside. Consider pre-ordering for special occasions, as their celebrated ice cream cakes require 48-hour advance notice.