When one visits Paris, they usually have a list of things they simply must do, such as visit the Musée du Louvre, see the Eiffel Tower, climb the steps to the Sacré Coeur–and get a real French croissant from a Parisian bakery. One will never forget their first bite of a true Parisian croissant with its golden color and light, flaky layers shimmering with butter that seemingly melt in your mouth.
These delectable breakfast treats (or anytime of the day treats) have their origins in both France and Austria, and are made of layered yeast leavened dough and are named after their crescent moon shape. Croissants were born in Paris in 1839 when an Austrian artillery officer August Zang founded a Viennese bakery on Rue de Richelieu, selling traditional Viennese pastries which then inspired other bakeries in Paris to make their own French versions. By the end of the 19th century, the croissant had already become a Parisian breakfast staple and has been a symbol of France ever since.
One must know however that not every single boulangerie in Paris makes croissants worth the hype, so be sure to check out below our selection of the best croissant in Paris (in no particular order).
Laurent Duchêne
Winner of the title Meilleur Ouvrier de France, Laurent Duchêne proposes traditional butter croissants but also has a signature chocolate and hazelnut croissant that is to die for! The bakery has previously won the contest for the Best Croissant in Paris. There are two locations in Paris: 2 rue Wurtz in the 13th arrondissement and 238 rue de la Convention in the 15th arrondissement.
Bo&Mie
The croissants and pastries at the very trendy Bo&Mie are just as beautiful as they are delicious and are baked to perfection. In addition to the traditional butter croissants, customers rave about Bo&Mie’s Raspberry Croissant. The very cosy and cute bakery is located at 18 Rue du Turbigo in the 2nd arrondissement.
La Maison d’Isabelle
This little neighborhood bakery, La Maison d’Isabelle, was the winner of the Best Croissant in the Île-de-France region in 2018. Ever since winning the prize, La Maison d’Isabelle has been drawing crowds for their perfect croissants at their location at 47 boulevard Saint Germain in the 5th arrondissement.
Du Pain et Des Idées
Located in a traditional 19th-century French Bakery, Du Pain et Des Idées has been open since 2002 and is considered by many to be the best bakery in Paris. Du Pain et Des Idées uses the best organic ingredients for their bread and croissants. Parisians will come from all over the city to buy their croissants here. Du Pain et Des Idees is located in the 10th arrondissement at 34 Rue Yves Toudic.
Des Gateaux et Du Pain
With two locations In Paris at 89 rue du Bac in the 7th arrondissement and 63 boulevard Pasteur in the 15th arrondissement, the award winning chef Claire Damon’s croissants are sprinkled with Guérande salt crystals. These croissants are a must try for anyone who prefers a more savory style!
Looking for more of the best foodie stops in Paris? Book now our Private Paris Food Tour!
Planning a trip to Paris soon? Let us design your dream Paris vacation! Request a bespoke itinerary of Paris here: