Looking for the best croissants in Paris? Ah Paris, the city of the Eiffel Tower, love and the famous croissant. Starting your day with a warm, freshly baked croissant at an artisanal Parisian boulangerie is a must-do. Croissants are more than just delicious to eat, they are a cultural experience in France. A good croissant is made with yeast, flour, sugar, salt, water and butter. They should be crispy and flaky on the outside, soft and tender on the inside. With a texture that allows you to pull the croissant apart bit by bit (the right way to eat a croissant). Traditionally, croissants are served for breakfast in Paris with butter and jam. Since last year, Philippe Conticini also introduced the largest croissant in Paris. A mega croissant that is a hit on Instagram.
There are two types of croissants in Paris: the croissant au beurre (with butter) and the croissant ordinaire (with margarine). If you go to a regular bakery, definitely ask for a croissant au beurre. It is made with only butter and is much richer in taste. Many bakeries also offer croissants with different flavors such as raspberry, pistachio, almond and even with chocolate filling. In addition to the sweet ones, there are also savory varieties filled with cheese, spinach or ham. Where can you find the best croissants in Paris? We went in search of the tastiest croissants.
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1. La Maison d’Isabelle: awarded best croissant in Paris (5th)
La Maison d’Isabelle is one of our favorite bakeries in Paris. This artisanal bakery is known for its award-winning croissants, which were voted the best in Paris in 2018. Everything is made fresh daily using organic ingredients, which takes the quality and taste to the next level. La Maison d’Isabelle makes croissants that are deep golden brown and crispy, with a soft and fluffy interior. It’s a very popular boulangerie and you often have to be patient.
47ter Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75005 Paris | Instagram.com/maison_isabelle_paris/ →
2. Philippe Conticini: famous for the largest croissant (XXL) in Paris
The largest croissant in Paris belongs to the famous pastry chef Philippe Conticini. This gigantic croissant, available in his patisserie in Paris, combines the perfect balance of airy layers and a buttery, crispy crust. With unparalleled attention to detail and quality, without compromising on taste or texture. Philippe Conticini’s XXL butter croissant is not only an eye-catcher, but also undoubtedly one of the best croissants in Paris. You can order one for 30 euros. Big gourmets, curious people and influencers have now fully discovered this mega croissant.
Various locations | Philippeconticini.fr →
3. Boulangerie Utopie: for lovers of soft croissants (11th)
Located in the 11th arrondissement, Boulangerie Utopie is a haven for croissant connoisseurs. The biggest difference between their croissants and others in Paris is that Boulangerie Utopie makes fluffy croissants that we are fans of. They only make 150 to 200 croissants per day to ensure their quality, so be sure to get there early. They were also awarded the title of best baguette in Paris in 2024!
20 Rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud, 75011 Paris | Boulangerieutopie.com →
4. Du Pain et des Idées: a favourite with both locals and tourists (10th)
Du Pain et Des Idées is also known as one of the best croissants in Paris. This boulangerie is a favorite with locals and tourists alike and is located a short walk from the charming Canal Saint-Martin. Their croissants are crispy and flaky on the outside, super tender and buttery on the inside. The master baker (chef Christophe Vasseur) uses the best organic ingredients.
34 Rue Yves Toudic, 75010 Paris | Dupainetdesidees.com →
5. The French Bastards: playful name and innovative interpretations
Known for their playful name and innovative takes on classics, The French Bastards have several locations in Paris where you can enjoy the most delicious croissants. The butter croissants are light and flaky with a perfect golden color. They also have other unique pastries, such as pain au chocolat with a salted caramel filling and pistachio cream. What more could you want?
Various locations | Thefrenchbastards.fr →
6. La Pâtisserie Cyril Lignac: croissant from the popular French TV chef
The hugely popular French TV chef makes croissants and other sweet treats that are heavenly. Head to his chic bakery for stylish and delicious pastries and chocolates. The croissants here are a delectable treat that combine classic craftsmanship with a new elegance. Cyril Lignac is known for using Charentes-Poitou butter and Minoterie Viron flour for his croissants. Oh, and don’t forget to try the fantastic pain au chocolat.
Various locations | Lapatisseriecyrillignac.com →
These were the best croissants to try asap during your next city trip to Paris. Did you know that the croissant is not French at all? According to tradition, bakers in Vienna baked the oval bun after they defeated the Ottomans in 1683. The croissant would then have ended up in France via Marie-Antoinette (wife of Louis XVI).
Maybe also something for you: 7x Best coffee shops in Paris: top famous hotspots or 6x Best terraces in Paris for a cool summer drink.
FAQ about where to find the best croissants in Paris
1. Why are croissants in Paris so much better than anywhere else?
It’s all about quality French butter, skilled bakers, and centuries-old techniques. The layers are airy, the crust shatters, and the flavor is rich without being heavy.
2. Are all Parisian croissants the same?
No! Some are crisp and light, others are more buttery and dense. Each bakery (boulangerie) has its own style, part of the fun is taste-testing.
3. Should I get a croissant or a croissant au beurre?
Always go for croissant au beurre, it’s made with pure butter instead of margarine. You’ll taste the difference in the richness and aroma.
4. What’s the best time of day to buy a croissant?
Early morning, right after they come out of the oven (usually between 7–9 AM). The smell alone will guide you to the right bakery.
5. How can I tell if a bakery makes great croissants?
Look for:
– Locals queuing outside
– A golden, slightly glossy crust
– Visible layers when you break it open
If the bakery has won Meilleur Ouvrier de France or Best Croissant in Paris awards, that’s a good sign too.
6. Are croissants expensive in Paris?
Not at all! A top-quality croissant usually costs €1.20–€2.20. Some artisan bakeries might be a bit more, but it’s still one of Paris’ most affordable luxuries.
7. What’s the difference between a croissant and a pain au chocolat?
Croissant: pure buttery pastry.
Pain au chocolat: same dough, but with two sticks of dark chocolate inside. (You might need both.)
8. Can I find vegan croissants in Paris?
Yes! A growing number of bakeries offer plant-based versions made with vegan butter. They’re not everywhere, but in trendy districts you’ll have good luck.
9. Do Parisians eat croissants every day?
Not really. Croissants are more of a weekend treat for locals, but tourists tend to indulge daily, and who could blame them?
10. What’s the ultimate croissant-eating experience in Paris?
Buy one fresh from a bakery, grab a takeaway coffee, and enjoy it while sitting by the Seine or in a quiet square. Pure Parisian magic.
