0% French Drinks: Non-Alcoholic Beverages You’ll Enjoy 100%

Are you looking for French non-alcoholic drinks to sip on a terrace of a Parisian street café? Or are you keen on adding a few non-alcoholic french beverages to your French Apéritif?

Then you don’t need to worry because in France, we have a whole range of non-boozy drinks, that are perfect, if a glass of water or diet coke is just not cutting in.

And in this article, I introduce you to refreshing and non-alcoholic drink options that fit every occasion and that are a welcome change, sans alcool.

The 7 Best French Alcohol-Free Drinks

From classic sodas to herbal syrups, these beverages are great alternatives if you are looking for a local drink to enjoy. So, here’s for you and without further ado, my list of non-alcoholic French Drinks that you surely will enjoy.

(And yes, I totally went to my local supermarket to take the photos for this article)

#1 Perrier Menthe

A refreshing blend of sparkling Perrier water and a hint of mint syrup, Perrier Menthe is perfect for a hot day. It is actually my go-to drink when taking a break on a Parisian terrace, and it’s too late for coffee and too early for booze.

And I am not alone here. Its crisp, cool flavor makes it a very popular choice among French non-alcoholic drinks. And it is easy to recreate at home: Just get a bottle of the sparkling water of your choice, mint syrup (I buy Monin or Teisseire ), if you like, some ice et voilà.

#2 Diabolo

Diabolo is a fun, sweet, fizzy mix of lemonade and flavored syrup, often mint or grenadine, though strawberry, lemon, and peach are also popular choices. It’s an all-time favorite of French kids, enjoyed during visits to typical cafés and brasseries with their parents.

The Diabolo has been a favorite for decades, often associated with childhood memories and summer afternoons. Why not order one when you are with your kids in Paris?

If you order one for yourself, be prepared: the mix of sweet lemonade and sugary syrup guarantees a solid sugar rush.

Are you keen on serving a Diablo at your next party? Just get some fizzy lemonade like Sprite and mix it with your favorite syrup. Top it up with some ice if you like, and you are all set to enjoy one of the most popular french non-alcoholic beverages.

#3 Orangina

Orangina is a famous French drink without alcohol that is known for its iconic bottle. And for being one of the very few sodas that actually contain 2% pulp.

Orangina is a citrusy soda with a natural orange and lemon flavor. It’s a classic, enjoyed for its refreshing and slightly tangy taste.

But its origins aren’t French. Orangina was created in the 1930s by a Spanish chemist, who presented his drink at the Marseilles Trade Fair. A French businessman bought the concept and Orangina gained popularity in France.

It grew into a real symbol of French soda culture that you find on most menus of cafés and restaurants.

#4 Sirop à l’eau

Sirop à l’eau is a simple yet versatile drink, that consists only of two ingredients: water and flavored syrup. And I would argue that it is probably one of the most consumed French drinks without alcohol, and a bottle of syrup is a staple in French households.

If you’d come to my house, I could serve you a glass of water with lemon, grenadine, mint and often also verbena.

Traditionally served in French households, this drink is especially popular with children and is a staple at family gatherings.

But you can also order it in most cafés – sometimes and if the patron is especially nice, kids will get a glass of grenadine for free. So if you are visiting Paris with your family, this is with a bit of luck a good budget-friendly and authentic Parisian drink.

#5 Gini

Gini is a lemon-flavored soda with a zesty kick. It has a slightly bitter yet refreshing taste. Launched in the 1970s by Perrier, Gini quickly became a popular choice for its distinctive taste and is marketed as ‘The hottest of cold drinks’.

You don’t find it that often in bars or restaurants, but in most supermarkets.

#6 Breizh Cola

Hailing from Brittany, Breizh Cola is France’s answer to the classic cola. It’s crafted with local ingredients, providing a familiar yet distinct flavor that stands out among French drinks. Introduced in 2002 as a regional alternative to international colas, Breizh Cola has garnered a loyal following, particularly among those proud of their Breton heritage.

Tip: Most Crêperies – which are great places to eat in Paris for families – usually have Breizh Cola.

#7 Champomy

No kid’s birthday party is complete without a bottle of bubbly, sweet Champomy. This sparkling apple juice, presented in a Champagne bottle, is perfect for celebrating and clinking glasses.

However, you won’t find it on a Parisian terrace—it’s typically bought in supermarkets. And since a bit they offer it as well in pink with apple and grape juice.

#8 Tourtel Twist

Tourtel Twist is a French classic for refreshing summer drinks, containing zero alcohol. It’s based on alcohol-free beer, blended with juice or plant aromas, offering a slight malty bitterness with fruity flavors or herbal notes.

Like Champomy, it’s not typically sipped on a terrace, but rather bought at grocery stores.

Even though the French are known for their love of wine, enjoying French drinks doesn’t always mean indulging in alcohol. These non-alcoholic French beverages offer a delightful taste of France, perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re at a café or relaxing at home, these French non-alcoholic drinks will refresh and satisfy you year-round.