Alluring terraces for people watching

In a newly built greenhouse in the middle of Westbroekpark, you can enjoy coffee, drinks and organic dishes made with veggies from the vegetable garden, also to be found on the property. The lush secluded terrace is one of the best places to relax. Greens also organises ‘green’ events, like organic theatre dinners, barbecues with garden salads, and garden days.

This local favourite is popular for its charming little plaza-type terrace. It’s a great place to hang out, be it day or night, and it’s always packed in the evenings with a buzzing yet relaxed atmosphere. There’s a great selection of wine, beer and small dishes at very reasonable prices.

Inspired by Australia’s coffee culture, Kobe van Gaveren runs a relaxed coffee bar with a bare industrial interior in southern Antwerp. He opened a spacious second branch called Kolonel & Reede in the harbour quarter in 2019 where he serves coffee from his own small roastery during the day and craft beers in the evening.

This French-owned little restaurant, two minutes from the Santa María del Mar church, is deliciously dynamic. Lunch here is so good, it’s actually underpriced. Try it for lunch, then come back later in the day for their selection of oysters.

This old orangerie is located in Bergius Botanic Garden. Its many windows emit a soft glow on rainy days but they also have a lovely terrace. This organic cafe is the perfect spot for a meal, a sandwich, something sweet from their artisanal bakery or a place to relax and enjoy nature.

No matter what time of day or night you decide to stop at this little bacaro, it is always packed with tourists and Venetians alike. That’s because the cicchetti and spritz are excellent, but, above all, because you can take your plate and glasses outside and enjoy your aperitif with a view of the canal and the gondola shipyard on the other side. Particularly nice during the summer.

The bar’s perfect location on the corner of Rue de Seine and Rue de Buci, in the heart of Saint­-Germain­-des­-Prés, has made it a great local institution. Although it is sometimes difficult to find a table on the terrace, winter and summer alike, once you do score one your patience will be rewarded by the excellent people watching in this bustling neighbourhood.