Everyone talks about croissants — and yes, they’re iconic. But if you’re asking what pastries should I try besides croissants in Paris, you’re about to unlock a much bigger world of flavor.

In Paris, pastry isn’t just breakfast. It’s craftsmanship, regional identity, and serious culinary art. Limiting yourself to croissants would be like visiting Italy and only eating plain bread.

Here’s what you should try instead — or at least in addition.

1. Pain au Chocolat

Let’s start with the obvious upgrade.

Pain au chocolat looks similar to a croissant but contains two bars of dark chocolate inside layered pastry.

Why try it:

• Balanced sweetness

• Crisp outside, molten center

• Perfect with espresso

It’s a morning classic. Some locals even prefer it over croissants.

2. Pain aux Raisins

Spiral-shaped and filled with pastry cream and raisins.

Texture:

• Soft interior

• Slight caramelization outside

• Creamy center

If you want something richer than a croissant but still traditional, this is a strong choice.

3. Chausson aux Pommes

A half-moon pastry filled with apple compote.

Think of it as the French version of an apple turnover — but lighter and less sugary.

Best enjoyed:

• Fresh in the morning

• Slightly warm

It’s simple, but when done well, exceptional.

4. Éclair

An elongated choux pastry filled with cream and topped with glaze.

Common flavors:

• Chocolate

• Coffee

• Vanilla

Modern pastry shops now experiment with pistachio, salted caramel, or seasonal fruits.

Near areas like Le Marais, you’ll find creative takes on the classic éclair.

5. Mille-Feuille

Literally “a thousand layers.”

It’s made of:

• Puff pastry layers

• Pastry cream

• Icing or powdered sugar

Crisp, creamy, and elegant. It’s less portable but deeply satisfying.

6. Paris-Brest

Created to honor a cycling race between Paris and Brest.

Shape:

• Circular

• Filled with praline cream

Rich, nutty, and indulgent.

This is not a light pastry — but it’s unforgettable.

7. Tarte au Citron

French lemon tart is refined and balanced.

Not overly sweet. Not aggressively sour.

Smooth lemon filling inside a crisp shell.

If you enjoy citrus desserts, this is a must.

8. Religieuse

Two stacked choux pastries filled with cream.

Visually striking. Flavor-forward.

It’s similar to an éclair but more decorative.

9. Flan Pâtissier

A thick custard tart with a firm texture.

Simple ingredients:

• Eggs

• Milk

• Sugar

It may look plain — but quality flan in Paris is incredibly satisfying.

10. Kouign-Amann

Originally from Brittany, but widely available in Paris.

What makes it special:

• Layers of butter and sugar

• Caramelized exterior

• Dense, rich texture

If you want intensity, this is your pastry.

11. Canelé

Small, dark, caramelized pastry from Bordeaux.

Crisp outside. Custardy inside.

Often flavored with vanilla and rum.

It’s compact but powerful.

12. Tarte aux Fruits

Fruit tart with pastry cream and seasonal fruit.

Light, fresh, and visually beautiful.

Perfect for spring or summer afternoons along the Seine River.

Morning vs. Afternoon Pastries

If you’re deciding what pastries should I try besides croissants in Paris, timing matters.

Morning:

• Pain au chocolat

• Pain aux raisins

• Chausson aux pommes

Afternoon:

• Éclair

• Mille-feuille

• Tarte au citron

• Paris-Brest

Locals rarely eat heavy cream pastries first thing in the morning.

Where Should You Buy Them?

Avoid random tourist spots near landmarks like Eiffel Tower.

Instead:

• Choose neighborhood boulangeries

• Look for golden crusts and clean displays

• Go early for freshness

Quality varies — but competition in Paris keeps standards high.

How Many Should You Try?

Don’t overload yourself in one visit.

Instead:

• Try one in the morning

• Try one in the afternoon

• Compare textures and balance

Turn it into an experience.

Final Answer: What Pastries Should I Try Besides Croissants in Paris?

Beyond croissants, you should try:

• Pain au chocolat

• Pain aux raisins

• Chausson aux pommes

• Éclair

• Mille-feuille

• Paris-Brest

• Tarte au citron

• Flan pâtissier

• Kouign-amann

• Canelé

Paris pastry culture is deep and diverse. Croissants are just the beginning.

Explore boldly — and taste thoughtfully.