Rooftop Views in Paris, Part I

Opera House seen from the rooftop at Galeries Lafayette

There are some great views to be had in Paris- like that of the Eiffel Tower and la Tour Montparnasse.  There are also some great views that are gratuit- including the top of the Pompidou Museum and the Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre which is a great place for a sunset picnic on the steps.  My latest trip to Paris in June included an unexpected view that I never took advantage of during my two years in the city.  At the top of the Galeries Lafayette department store, 40 bld Haussmann, 75009, Paris, is a magnificent roof deck that includes the cafe La Terrasse des Galeries Lafayette and wonderful 360-degree views.  The prices are not easy on the wallet, but you are getting a wonderful view with your cafe or glass of wine, and the menu even features some unique and tasty desserts.  I enjoyed a delicious (and beautiful!) French twist on an ice cream sandwich that included passion-fruit ice cream sandwiched in between two vibrantly-colored green macaron cookies.