No matter the season, and even in the depths of winter, you can find people savoring towering, elaborate cones of Italian-style gelato in various flavors throughout Paris. Whether indulging at the city’s renowned traditional ice cream parlor, Berthillon, or exploring numerous other glaciers, a big cup of this exquisite dessert followed by a strong espresso is a delight not to be missed.

During the summer, ice cream transforms into a favored meal replacement for both locals and tourists alike. Gelato, in particular, has surged in popularity, thanks to a growing number of specialty shops creating it fresh on-site with only natural flavors and ingredients, without stabilizers. Below are some top recommendations for enjoying frozen treats, whether you lean towards a traditional, icy-cream variety or the delightfully dense yet airy texture of Italian gelato.

Berthillon: For Native French Gourmet “Glaces”

Regarded by many as the epitome of French ice cream, Berthillon has roots tracing back to its establishment as a restaurant and tearoom on the charming Ile St Louis in 1928. Today, almost 90 years later, it draws throngs of tourists and locals, particularly during warmer months, for its creamy yet relatively light and refreshing ice cream (creme glacée) and often exotic fruit sorbets. While you can purchase the ice cream from authorized vendors, this is the sole official shop and tearoom in the city.

Berthillon takes pride in crafting their ice cream with a simple blend of heavy cream, creme fraiche (a lighter variant), eggs, sugar, and natural flavors, absolutely avoiding artificial colors, flavors, or stabilizers. Ice cream is produced on-site daily, and while some of the 60+ flavors remain constant, including vanilla, chocolate, pistachio, and caramel with salted butter, expect whimsical varieties such as praliné with coriander and lemon, foie gras, Earl Grey tea, Gianduja with orange, and Grand Marnier.

If you’re leaning towards something lighter, the sorbet options include cassis, lime, lychee, peach with mint leaves, lemon-thyme, and raspberry with rose extract. Those celebrating Christmas in Paris should not miss the opportunity to try a traditional Christmas log filled with ice cream and cake.

Getting There: 29-31 rue saint Louis en l’ile, 4th arrondissement

Metro: Pont Marie or Sully-Morland

Tel: +33 (0)143543161

Hours: Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10 am to 10 pm. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays, and for several weeks in mid-July and August. It’s advisable to call ahead if unsure.

Pozzetto: My Favorite Gelato, Hands-Down

This delightful gelato shop, nestled in the heart of the Marais, is my ultimate pick for Italian ice cream in Paris. Ever since I discovered it, I have developed a ritual of enjoying a serving after relishing a fantastic falafel from the nearby L’As du Fallafel. My favorite frozen indulgence? The intensely nutty and creamy pistachio paired with the subtly sweet chocolate-hazelnut flavors of Gianduja.

Offering just twelve flavors at any time, emphasizing quality over quantity, all ice cream is made fresh daily in the adjoining kitchen. The term “Pozzetto” translates to “little well,” referencing the metal-lidded containers in which gelato is stored and served directly. Rather than displaying their ice cream in towering mounds, the team at Pozzetto preserves flavors and consistency by keeping it stored in wells.

I typically order a cup or cone to go from the quaint little window and enjoy a blissful stroll. However, if you prefer dining in, the cozy cafe lets you savor an authentic Italian espresso or rich hot chocolate too.

Getting There: 39 rue du roi de sicile, 4th arrondissement (there’s a second location around the corner at 16, rue vieille du temple)

Metro: Hotel de Ville or St Paul

Tel: +33 (0)1 42 77 08 64

Hours: Open daily from 12:15 pm to 11:45 pm (Mon-Thurs and Sunday), 12:15 pm to 12:45 am (Fridays and Saturdays)

Deliziefolle Gelato

Deliziefolle competes fiercely in the gelato realm, nestled in the charmingly cobbled Rue Montorgueil district, merely a block from the bustling Les Halles shopping center. Their ice cream is crafted from all-natural ingredients, including flavors such as fresh melon, mojito mint, and timeless favorites like stracciatella. With recipes created by award-winning glacier Pellegrino Gaeta, who won the international “Maitre Glacier” prize in 2007, Deliziefolle excels in delivering subdued sweetness, ideal for those who prefer their ice cream less sugary.

The only drawback? This delightful place tends to close its doors for most of the winter. It is wise to call ahead to check operational hours.

Amorino: Excellent Gelato With Several Locations

Amorino is a gelato chain offering a solid selection of Italian-style ice cream across multiple locations in the city. This option is great for family outings with kids, allowing you to select from an extensive range of flavors (as many as desired), artfully arranged on a cone or in a cup.

Getting There: 119/121 Rue St Martin, 3rd arrondissement

Metro: Rambuteau

Explore the official website for more locations.