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Top Paris Shopping Districts

For You to Explore

• Best Paris Shopping Districts

14 Top Paris Shopping Districts & Streets

Long known as the fashion capital of the world, Paris offers something for every shopper, regardless of your style, budget, and interests.  That's why so many millions of visitors come here each year to shop.

Beyond chic clothing boutiques, you'll find art galleries, home furnishing emporiums, books of all vintages, antiques, jewelry, and everything else you might desire. 

To be sure, you can easily spend your time and money at the most famous Paris shopping districts and emporiums:   the legendary department stores known as the grands magasins , the flagship showrooms along Avenue Montaigne and the "Golden Triangle" of luxury couture such as Hermès, Saint Laurent, and Louis Vuitton, the global brands up and down Champs-Élysées . 

You might easily spend a day or more in the immense glass-domed Galeries Lafayette  department store browsing the Valentino, Chloé, Gucci, and countless designer boutiques, picking out the perfect Longchamp or Chanel bag, and choosing a captivating Guerlain or Dior fragrance even if you weren't planning to buy any - because who can resist the scent of French perfume? 

But beyond these iconic Paris clothing stores and boutiques, the city offers plenty more areas where you can indulge your passion for Parisian style while seeking out chic French labels such as Maje, Sandro, Louboutin , and Zadig & Voltaire, trendy but (for now) unknown indie designers, fun and affordable European brands such as Camaïeu and Zara, and even discount and cheap prices on coveted items.

So here's the problem: with so much choice, where do you start?   Especially if you're here for just a short visit, how do you make the best use of your time?

We've narrowed down the choices to 14 shopping areas across Paris to give you a head start on finding the best fit for your interests. They include the city's famous luxury districts, budget-friendly options you might not find on your own, areas where you're likely to spot emerging designers and trends, flea markets, and even a couple of fascinating historical areas for one-of-a-kind finds. 

By all means shop in the famous places - they've earned their fame.  But if you have time and enjoy the experience of discovery, also explore a lesser-known Paris boutique, unique specialty shop, or jewelry maker's atelier and their surrounding neighborhoods, especially if your idea of "travel" means veering off the usual tourist path. 

Article Contents:  Champs Elysees & Golden Triangle   -  Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Place Vendôme, Rue Saint-Honoré -  La Vallée Village   -  Galeries Lafayette, Au Printemps, Rue de l'Opéra   -  Palais Royal Arcades   -   Covered Passages   -  Les Halles Kitchenware Stores   -  Marais   -  Saint-Martin   -  Les Puces Flea Market   -  Montmartre   -  Bastille   -  Village Saint-Paul   -  Saint-Germain des Pres

Top photo: Chanel showroom on Avenue Montaigne in Paris's Golden Triangle

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1. Champs Élysées & the Golden Triangle Shopping Tips

What you'll find:  Luxury designer boutiques and haute couture showrooms; on Champs-Élysées, also look for car showrooms and global chains .

Located between the Arc de Triomphe and the Franklin D. Roosevelt Metro Station, the commercial portion of Champs Élysées stretches for almost a mile through the swanky 8th arrondissement and is the most famous shopping avenue in Paris - a must-see destination for visitors from around the world.

With its broad sidewalks punctuated by outdoor cafes and rows of tall horse chestnut trees, Champs Elysees easily accommodates the masses of shoppers who flock here for the excellent selection of global brands:   Tiffany, Abercrombie & Fitch, the always-packed Disney Store, Cartier, Gap, Sephora, the Adidas Paris flagship store, French electronics store Fnac, Zara, Petit Bateau baby clothing boutique, and at the corner of Avenue George V, the spectacular Louis Vuitton flagship store where you can line up with other shoppers until it's your turn to be admitted.

If you're on the north side of the avenue, you can spot several entrances to surprisingly large hidden Paris shopping malls carved out of interior courtyards.

Les Arcades des Champs Elysees (at #78) is a particularly splendid historical covered passage with an Art Nouveau glass roof, lovely light fixtures and lanterns created by the famed jewelry designer and glass artist René Lalique, and 40 boutiques. 

Craving an American-style frappuccino?  Les Arcades is where you'll find Starbucks.

What to skip:  The Galeries Lafayette on Champs Elysees; instead, head to their far more magnificent flagship location (don't worry, we cover it further on in this article) on Boulevard Haussmann in the 9th arrondissement.

That's where you can see a spectacular stained glass dome, rooftop terrace with Eiffel Tower views, food hall, and almost every designer boutique you can imagine.

Find out more about shopping at Paris's other historical covered passages

For the crème de la crème of couture near Champs Elysees, turn onto Avenue Montaigne, part of the "Golden Triangle"  along with Avenue George V and Rue Francois 1er, and you'll suddenly be in more rarefied territory among the world's most famous fashion houses. 

Hermès, Saint Laurent, Ferragamo, Courrèges, Givenchy, Kenyo, Balmain, Prada, Gucci, Bulgari, Dior, Chanel, Valentine, and many, many more Grands Couturiers have created their flagship stores, haute couture showrooms, and by-invitation-only salons along this lovely enclave of shaded streets and pale marble mansions.

As you may guess from the unsmiling guards at most of the doors, you must have an appointment to enter many of these shrines to high fashion.  And even if you have one, there's no guarantee you'll go home with a Birkin bag or other coveted treasures.  Fortunately, window shopping is free, and quite superb in this neighborhood.

Bargain hunter's tip:   Return for the famous winter and summer sales when even the Golden Triangle boutiques mark down luxury goods as much as 70% off to make room for the new season.

How to Tour Champs-Elysees

City Highlights Bike Tour - Explore famous Paris streets and attractions, including Champs Elysees, the Arc de Triomphe, the Seine River, and the Eiffel Tower, and learn about the highlights of the city's history including the Second World War and French Revolution on this fascinating guided bike ride around the city.  Find out more

Vintage Citroën 2CV Tour for Two - Cruise down Champ Elysees in a cool classic Deux Chaveaux (Citroën 2CV) with a private driver at the wheel. With a private driver/guide at the wheel, you'll see all the most famous sights of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre.  Find out more

More to See & Do on Champs-Elysees

The renowned Lido de Paris cabaret offers dinner, Champagne, and burlesque every evening.  Find out more about Lido de Paris shows and make your reservations

Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Toyota, and Peugeot have fantastic showrooms where you can drool over fashions in car design; BMW is on a nearby side street. 

Near the Arc,  Publicis Drugstore's dazzling glass building contains an array of dining, entertainment, and shopping venues plus a cinema, quirky pop-up boutiques, and a riff on an American-style pharmacy/concept store where you can stock up on perfumes, French cosmetics, books, and other eclectic items.

Best time to stroll down Champs-Elysees:  Car-Free Day on the first Sunday of each month, when cars are banned from the streets of central Paris.  More info

Where to Eat on Champs-Elysees & in the Golden Triangle

Head to Le Fouquet or the brasseries in Le Drugstore for an upscale meal, Paul for a café crème and croissant, any of the sidewalk cafes for ice cream or a drink, Ladurée for a specialty macaroon. 

In the Golden Triangle:  Join the line outside Le Relais de l'Entrecôte (15 Rue Marbeuf) for steak-frites and a glass (or two) of their organic French wine.

Closest metro stations:   Georges V, Alma-Marceau, Franklin D Roosevelt, Charles de Gaulle/Étoile

2.  Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Rue Saint-Honoré, & Place Vendôme - Where to Shop for French Luxury Design

What you'll find:  Prestigious luxury designers, fabulous and fabulously expensive jewelry, specialty boutiques devoted fine leather gloves, designer bags, lust-worthy shoes - plus some of the best gourmet food shops in Paris as well as renowned 5-star hotels

Long considered the epicenter of French luxury design on the Right Bank, Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré boasts over 40 designer boutiques and showrooms .  (In case you're wondering, "faubourg" designates areas once outside the city before Paris annexed them in 1701.)

Although you'll see some overlap between Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré (or FSH , as many Parisians call it) and the Golden Triangle - for example, Hermès  and Chanel have boutiques in both places - others such as Sonia Rykiel, Lanvin, Louboutin, and Jun Ashida can be found only in FSH. 

Walk up Rue Royale past even more boutiques including another Chanel, Massimo Dutti, Ralph Lauren to Place de la Madeleine, dominated by the majestic Madeleine Church and its elaborate Corinthian Greek columns, originally a temple built by Napoleon to celebrate his army (and himself).  Filled with magnificent art, the church hosts popular classical music concerts several times a week. 

Walk around the square to sample its gourmet shops including Maille  for fancy mustards, Mariage Frères for specialty teas, Fauchon for fois gras and caviar, and Patrick Roger for specialty chocolates, and then head back to FSH.

Once you cross Rue Royale, you're just one block away from the 1st arrondissement , the historic center of Paris, where the street name changes to Rue Saint Honoré.  Look for jewelry stores, upper-drawer home decor displays, and gourmet chocolates mixed in with enough designer showrooms to make fashionistas swoon. 

You're also in Coco Chanel's storied neighborhood.  Detour at Rue Cambon to see her original boutique and couture salon (#31) and her apartment above (although she spent her nights in her private suite at the Ritz Hotel in nearby Place Vendôme).  While you're there, check out Zadig & Voltaire's new flagship store , part fashion and part art, at 2 Rue Cambon.

Place Vendôme, easily spotted by the soaring obelisk erected by Napoleon to celebrate his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz, is a large open square surrounded by stately 18th century arcaded mansions with showrooms for many of the world's most famous jewelers on their ground floors and coveted apartments on upper levels. 

Amid all the splendor of Place Vendôme, the dazzling 5-star palace hotel Ritz Paris offers 21st century luxury.  Follow Coco Chanel's example and pamper yourself with a stay, or savor a drink at the hotel's famous Bar Hemingway.

Chauffeured limos angling for curbside parking as other traffic speeds by distracts from Place Vendôme's beauty during the day but come evening, it is easily one of the loveliest squares in Paris, especially from mid-November through early January when dozens of dazzling lighted Christmas trees transform it into a sparkling jewel.

Will you discover an exciting new Paris boutique showcasing emerging (and affordable) designers in this neighborhood?   No, that's unlikely - high rents mean only well-established luxury brands can afford to be here.  But even if the price tags are beyond your budget, window shopping is superb - and free.

Rue Saint Honoré continues east with more designer boutiques including Max Mara, Michael Kors, Longchamp, Fendi, Tom Ford, Marc Jacobs, and Theory until finally ending at Avenue de l'Opéra with a flourish of touristy ice cream shops and a Starbucks - which is actually perfect, because after all that shopping, you will welcome a sugar and caffeine energy boost.

How to Experience Paris Fashion & Gourmet Treats on the Right Bank : Tours for Fashion, Shopping, Food, & Wine

• French Fashion History Walking Tour - As you stroll the streets of the Rue Saint-Honoré luxury fashion district, your guide will entertain you with famous stories about Paris fashion history including Coco Chanel, Hermès, Dior, and Louis Vuitton
• Small Group After-Hours Visit to the Yves Saint Laurent Museum - This VIP after-hours tour lets you explore the historical fashion house and studio of France's great couturier, Yves Saint Laurent, as well as learn about the process of creating an haute couture collection and see displays of his work from the museum's trove of 5,000 of his creations
• Chocolate Walking Tour - The glamorous fashion district around Madeleine Church and Rue Saint Honoré boasts numerous gourmet chocolatiers - and you'll visit 5 of them on this popular tour and sample their mouth-watering creations while you learn about French chocolates

3.  La Vallée Village - Where to Find Designer Fashion Discount Outlets

Where do Paris fashionistas shop for their Karl Lagerfeld little black dresses, their Gucci loafers, and their Zadig & Voltaire biker jackets? 

Not always in the expensive retail enclaves you might imagine. 

Instead, they bypass the pricey designer boutiques along Rue Saint Honoré or in the Golden Triangle and head straight to La Vallée Village, a sprawling discount designer fashion outlet mall just beyond the city outskirts - and you can too.

You won't find the most exclusive brands such as Hèrmes or Chanel here, but with 110+ shops filled with other sought-after French, European, and American designers - Givenchy, Isabel Marant, Carolina Herrera, Michael Kors, The Kooples, Burberry, Valentine, Ferragamo, Armani - you will find plenty to love. 

How much can you save?   It varies, and some items may only be available in a few sizes - but savings typically range from 20-30% up to well over 50% (we've spotted 70% reductions on a few items). You can usually find a few items with discounts on top of the regular marked down prices.  And don't forget about the annual summer and winter sales , when almost every boutique offers additional discounts for the sweetest deals of all.

La Vallée Village shops are open 7 days/week from 10am to 7pm (8pm in summer), and you can get there easily from Paris. 

How to Get to La Vallée Village by Train

Hop on the RER A train in Paris heading toward Marne-la-Vallée-Chessy-Parcs-Disney, and get off at the Val d'Europe station.  When you walk out of the station, turn right and walk through the large Val d'Europe shopping (you'll see a large map in case you're in doubt).  Walk all the way through it to reach the Vallée Village discount area. 

La Vallée Village Trips from Paris

4.  galeries lafayette, au printemps, & shopping along rue de l'opéra .

Galeries Lafayette and Au Printemps Haussmann, two legendary 19th century Belle Epoch Paris department stores or grands magasins , sit next to each other on Boulevard Haussmann and cover several city blocks just north of the Paris Opera House, Palais Garnier.

Both stores are packed with in-store boutiques featuring most of the same luxury designers you'll see in the Golden Triangle and along FSH/Rue Saint-Honoré, plus more affordable mid-range designers.  You'll also find many more affordable mid-range designers.  

But beyond shopping, there's much to admire in the ornate architecture and design of these shrines to retail:  their colored glass domes, grand staircases, and artistic details.  Galeries Lafayette sports a huge central atrium and renowned Art Nouveau staircase.  For an unforgettable experience plus fantastic panoramic views, take the elevator up to the 3rd floor and stroll across the glass walk spanning the atrium.

If you're in Paris in November, December, or early January, join the crowds admiring the elaborate holiday displays and animations in the stores' huge display windows and the huge Christmas tree suspended from the top of Galeries Lafayette's glass-dome.

More stores and boutiques line the broad avenues and smaller streets surrounding the department stores.   Avenue de l'Opéra offers an especially rich selection of shoes, bags, books, clothing, fashion accessories, chocolates, tea, bakeries, and gourmet foods on offer.  Although price ranges vary, many of the stores are surprisingly affordable.  

Camaïeu , for example, offers cute and trendy nicely-made clothing at relatively cheap prices - most of the separates cost less than 30 Euros.  If you're a fan of super-comfy Mephisto shoes, look for their shop at #12, on the corner of Rue Saint Anne, where you can sometimes happen upon a sale.  Shop in the large Monoprix (roughly similar to Target in the U.S.) near the end of the street for shampoo, small household items, and snacks - you'll find an excellent selection of French yogurts, chocolate bars, and fruit juices.

As a bonus, most stores in this area are open for shopping on Sundays.

Find the best places to stay in this lively shopping area

Where to Eat:  Galeries Lafayette and Printemps

• Galeries Lafayette - In the summer, the rooftop terrace can't be beat for its views across Paris - have drinks, or a light meal.  During other months, follow the crowds into Lafayette Maison and Gourmet across the street from the main store, and indulge in the take-away or eat-in specialties from around the world.
• Printemps - You'll find wonderful choices of food halls, gourmet items, and dining areas on the 7th and 8th floors of the Men's Store.  In the summer, dine on the Men's Store's 9th floor rooftop terrace and enjoy the sweeping views.  Or admire the incredible glass dome over Brasserie Printemps on the 6th floor of the Women's Store.
• Le Royal Opéra (#19 Avenue de l'Opéra) - A typical casual brasserie - good food for modest prices.  Go for a burger and fries or steak-frites with a glass of red wine.
• Paul (#25 Avenue de l'Opéra) - Buy a croissant and coffee to go in the front, or walk past the tantalizing display of confections to the small seating area in the back, or go upstairs.  Order a salad, sandwich, or quiche, a glass of wine, and a small fruit tart with espresso.

More Paris Shopping

Galeries lafayette and printemps flagship locations.

• Galeries Lafayette - 40 Blvd Haussmann; Metro: Chaussée d'Antin La Fayette
• Au Printemps - 64 Blvd Haussmann; Havre-Caumartin

More to know:  Galeries Lafayette will usually give non-EU residents a 10% discount, provided you have your passport with you, and they will also process a VAT refund if you meet the 175.01€ minimum purchase in a single store in a single day requirement - easy to do if you're buying luxury items.  But be aware:  the refund is not available on some designer brands such as Tiffany.

5.  Palais Royal Arcades:  Discover the Specialty Boutiques & Galleries

Across Rue de Rivoli from the Louvre but hidden from sight behind a  17th century palace, now office space for the Ministry of Culture, is an almost-secret oasis missed by most Paris visitors:  an inner courtyard filled with a whimsical sculpture display by Daniel Buren, a central passage with a large fountain filled with huge shiny chrome balls, rows of carefully shaped trees, and the serenely elegant Palais Royal Garden ( Jardin Palais Royal ) surrounded by covered arcades.  

Tucked away behind the arcades are boutiques, restaurants (including 2-Michelin star Le Grand Véfour ) , and theaters frequented by stylish Parisians since the early 18th century.

Aside from a couple of designers such as Stella McCartney and Marc Jacobs, most of the 40 or so boutiques focus on specialty items: antique silk kimonos, vintage Chanel and other clothing at Didier Ludot, antique coins and medals, perfume, hand-carved canes, exquisite jewelry, beautifully crafted handmade leather bags.  This is where you'll find some of the most exclusive shops in Paris for one-of-a-kind treasures.

Needless to say, prices reflect the quality and rarity of most items on display here, but if the cost doesn't make you flinch, this is a wonderful place to buy unique and precious gifts for others or for yourself.  Otherwise, enjoy window shopping and perhaps a meal in one of more casual restaurants, or just claim a spot on a bench and relax in the sun.

How to Visit Palais Royal Garden & Boutiques: Hours & Location

Palais Royal Garden opens at 7am from April 1 through September 30, and 7:30 from October 1 through March 31.  Closing time ranges from 8:30pm in the winter to as late as 11pm during the summer. 

Entrance is free. 

Look for almost-hidden entrances to the garden along Rue de Montpensier, Rue de Valois, and Rue de Beaujolais.  There is also one on Place Colette near Le Nemours cafe on Rue Saint Honoré.

Find more places to shop & things to do & see in the 1st srrondissement near the Louvre

6.  Historical Covered Passages

To experience some of the most charming remnants of the 19th century as well as one of the best but lesser-known shopping locations for unique gifts and artisan creations, spend an hour or even a day exploring Paris's covered passages.

Originally built to give shoppers a dry, safe, well-lighted place to walk, the passages are basically private lanes built between exisiting buildings and usually passing a cut-through between two major streets.  They feature soaring glass roof, shops, bistros, and sometimes theaters along both sides, and in the most luxurious examples, sumptuous decor. 

Of the 21 or so covered passages still remaining, a few have closed but most continue to thrive. 

Galerie Vero Dodat, Galerie VIvienne, Passage du Choiseul, Galerie de La Madeleine, Cour de Commerce Saint-André (which actually has medieval roots), Passage des Panoramas, Passage du Grand Cerf, and Passage Jouffroy stand out for their light-filled ambiance, lavish decorations and embellishments, appealing cafes, and unique boutiques spanning the spectrum from affordable to the high end of luxury.

You'll find most of the best covered passages in the city's 1st, 2nd and 9th arrondissements, with a couple more in the 6th and 8th.

Find out more about where to find covered passages in Paris, and the best ways to visit

6.  Shopping for French Kitchenware around Les Halles

Although the large centuries-old wholesale food market at Les Halles in the eastern end of the 1st arrondissement was demolished in 1971 to make way for an underground shopping mall, remnants of the area's food culture remain. 

If you love kitchenware in its many forms - copper pots, fancy cake baking tins, wooden spoons, Opinel knives, French wine openers, authentic macaroon baking pans, Le Creuset and Staub enameled cookware - head straight to Dehillerin (18 Rue Coquillière, 1st).  Be prepared for 2-3 hours to pass in a heartbeat as you explore all the narrow aisles in the store's two packed floors. 

You'll also find wonderful places to eat along Rue Coquillière plus more shops selling tableware items.  Other major food streets in the area include Rue Montmartre (1st) and market street Rue Montorgueil (1st).

More Food & Wine Experiences near Les Halles

Paris Wine & Cheese Lunch - Whether you're new to French wine or a connoisseur, you'll learn something new at this lunch with wine, cheese, and charcuterie (smoked ham and sausages).  You'll taste wines from 5 different regions of France, learn how to read a French wine label, and how to pair wine with food from a sommelier at a popular wine bar near Les Halles and the Louvre.  Find out more

French Wine Experience & Tasting - Taste 3 different wines, tour the wine cellars of former French kings next to the Louvre, and learn about French grapes and wine regions from a sommelier.  Find out more

More French Food Tasting Adventures

7.  shopping in the marais - fashion, food, design.

The Marais neighborhood's small cobbled streets and lanes attract fashionistas, home decor connoisseurs, and gourmands from around the world. 

Stroll along the narrow streets, and you'll find the boutiques of famous French and other European trend-setters such as Isabel Marant, Maje, Sandro, Zadig & Voltaire, Antoine & Lili, Claudie Pierlot, Lemaire, the small shops of up-and-coming designers , master chocolatiers and gourmet food purveyors, concept stores, and "stock" (discount) outlets,

The Marais covers parts of two arrondissements (districts):  the 3rd, known as the Upper Marais, and the 4th, the Lower Marais.  

As a generalization, better known brands and fashion houses cluster in the 4th, while younger French designers, smaller design studios and art galleries dot the 3rd, although you'll find plenty of exceptions such as Jean-Paul Gaultier's fashion atelier (325 Rue Saint-Martin) near the top of the Upper Marais.

Pick almost any spot in this picturesque neighborhood to begin your shopping excursion , and you really can't go wrong. 

But here are a few suggestions about where to start: Rue des Francs Bourgeois, Rue du Temple, Rue Ferdinand Duval, Rue des Rosiers, Rue du Parc Royal and Rue Elzevir near the Picasso Museum, Rue Vieille du Temple. 

Don't miss the antique, design, and luxury fashion shops under the arcades surrounding Place des Vosges, or the highly esteemed concept store Merci (111 Boulevard Beaumarchais) where you'll find a beautifully curated selection from home goods to fashion to books displayed on multiple floors.

Recommended Marais Shopping & Food Tours

• Walking Food Tour with Cheese, Wine, and Delicacies in Le Marais - This tour takes you past lively boutique-filled streets and quiet almost-hidden passages as you savor the best treats in the neighborhood.  Along the way, you'll sample fresh pastries, chocolates, cheese and wine, and a lot more as you learn about French culinary art.  Find out more
• Eat, Drink & Explore Medieval Neighborhood Le Marais - On this small group walking and tasting tour, you'll sample some of the best specialities in the Marais while exploring and learning about this gay-friendly district, its wonderful Jewish-influenced eateries, and its medieval architecture.  Find out more 
• Marais Pastry & Chocolate Tour - You'll explore small streets and hidden nooks of the Marais while learning about the neighborhood, visiting chocolate shops and bakeries, and enjoying tasting some samples.   Find out more

8.  Canal Saint-Martin:  Trendy Boutiques, Concept Stores, & Pop-Ups

One of the best places right now in Paris to shop for emerging trends and new designers is along Canal Saint Martin  in a swath between Place de la République and Gare de l'Ést and bordered by Boulevard de Magenta.  

This rapidly gentrifying, rapidly changing area in the 11th arrondissement offers relatively cheap rents (which doesn't mean they're actually cheap, just more affordable than the 1st, 8th, or even the 18th), lots of youthful energy, and a creative spirit you'll see reflected in the street art, small cafes and bars, and tiny boutiques, galleries, pop-ups, and concept stores showcasing emerging designers and artists. 

Good streets to explore include Rue des Vinaigriers, Rue de Lancy, Rue Beaurepaire - although with The Kooples, Maje, agnès b., Les Petites boutiques popping up along Rue de Marseille, the neighborhood is no longer off the radar of established designers.

9.  Les Puces - The Biggest Flea Market Village in the World

Don't think of the famous Les Puces Paris Flea Market at Saint-Ouen/Clignancourt as just one market - it's more like a large sprawling village where over 3,000 boutiques, shops, and stalls offer literally everything you can imagine plus a lot more.  It's the biggest flea market in the world.  Spend an entire day or even a weekend there, and you'll still barely scratch the surface of what's on offer. 

So what will you find?   An immense selection of mostly French and European furniture from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries, antique crystal chandeliers and brass candelabras, vintage clothing and jewelry, sculpture and architectural pieces such as fireplace mantles and entire staircases, larger-than-life-size statuary, vintage plumbing fixtures including brass and porcelain faucets, paintings and posters, knives, frames, silver and kitchenware, books, musical instruments, prints, maps, Asian art objects, porcelain, antique and vintage toys, antique linens and rugs - plus a lot more.

What's good to know:   From a practical perspective, of course any purchases you might make should ideally fit into your suitcase for the trip home.  But if you somehow fall in love with something huge - let's say an oversized 18th century gold-framed mirror, or perhaps a 12 foot tall marble giraffe statue - the flea market's onsite shipping services will crate it up and ship it home to you. 

Les Puces is on the Paris outskirts, easy to reach by metro - but there's also a  cool onsite hotel.

Find out more about shopping at the Paris Flea Market, plus where to stay nearby

Where to find smaller flea markets Paris

10.  Montmartre Shopping Destinations:  Rue des Abbesses & Marché Saint-Pierre District

What you'll find:  West of Sacre Coeur: merging designers, small boutiques with featuring mostly French clothing and accessories , antique shops, art galleries, vintage stores.  East of Sacre Coeur: Marché Saint-Pierre District for dozens of shops offering discount fabrics, linens, boots, clothing

Walk the length of Rue des Abbesses, starting near Cimetière des Montmartre, and you'll pass any number of interesting small shops selling everything from clothing to jewelry to leather, along with probably an even larger number of small cafes, bistros, and food markets.  Along with established Paris designers such as Sandro and Claudie Pierlot, you'll see even more names you don't recognize.

That's because this is the area to explore if you're interested in trendy fashion by new designers.  To find the latest newcomers to the Paris fashion scene, continue down Rue des Abbesses (which turns into Rue d'Orsel) and be sure to detour along the way - Rue Houdon, Rue des Trois Frères, Rue des Martyrs (which extends all the way down to the SoPi, or South of Pigalle, neighborhood in the 9th and is one of the most popular market streets in this part of Paris). 

Once you reach Rue Briquet and Rue Seveste, you're in the Saint-Pierre Market district and will begin to see fabric stores.  To reach the biggest and what many feel is the best of the individual stores, turn left at Rue Seveste, then right at Place Saint-Pierre.  In one short block, you will see Dreyfus - Marché Saint-Pierre, a huge 5-floor fabric emporium with prices ranging from discounted to affordable to cheap. 

Dreyfus is where professional stylists and designers shop.  Look for Hawaiian fabrics and specialty velvets on the ground floor, linen towels, table runners, and napkins on the 1st floor, delicate laces and drapery fabrics on the 2nd, Jouy toiles on the 3rd, and designer fabrics by Pierre Frey, Lacrois, Canovas, and more on the 4th.

Several other stores rival Dreyfus in scale and may offer even lower prices, but none quite match its quality and scope.  Dozens of smaller shops offer more fabrics, trim, drapery and other hardware, clothing, boots, and bags.

11.  Bastille:  Shopping in the Passages & Inner Courtyards

Behind Place de la Bastille in the 11th arrondissement lies a section of Paris favored by  furniture makers and woodworkers  since the 12th century.  Relatively cheap rents (for Paris) have continued to make this area attractive to artisans and craftspeople, independent fashion designers and quirky shops, although rising rents are changing the retail mix.

Rue de Faubourg Saint-Antoine provides the main access to this increasingly trendy area from Place de la Bastille.  In recent years, French and even global chain brands have popped along the first several blocks of this traditionally working class street.  Why, you may wonder, would anyone who doesn't live in the neighborhood come all the way out to East Paris just to visit another Sephora or Undiz lingerie store?

What makes this area interesting, especially if you're the type of shopper who enjoys surprise discoveries, is the maze of ancient passages, back alleys, and interior courtyards.  They may no longer house as many traditional workshops and ateliers - you're now more likely to find digital design studios - but they maintain their status as centers of creativity and commerce.   If you thrive on discovering new and emerging fashion trends, designers, and concepts, and perhaps even seeing artisans at work, these are the places you'll want to explore.

Start by walking east on Rue de Faubourg Saint-Antoine.  In between all the jeans stores, you may spot a few interesting places, including furniture stores and design studios.  At Rue de Charonne, turn right if you want. 

Look for unexpected gateways and small signs for places starting with "Passage" and "Cour" - for example, Cour Saint-Joseph off of Rue de Charonne, Passage du Cheval Blanc, Passage Jossett, Passage Saint-Antoine, Passage de la Main d'Or - and when you see them, explore.  Wander down side streets such as Rue de Charonne, Rue de Montreuil, Rue Saint-Bernard, Rue de Dahomey. 

This part of Paris is evolving all the time so it's hard to predict what you'll find.  Enjoy the adventure!

More Interesting Places to Shop in East Paris

• Rue d'Aligre Flea Market - One of the best smaller Paris flea markets, and only one block from Rue de Faubourg Saint-Antoine.  Walk down Rue de Cotte to Place d'Aligre, and you'll see it.
• Viaduct des Arts - Created from a decommissioned railway viaduct, with 62 beautifully arched spaces containing the workshops, showrooms, galleries, and boutiques of 40+ arts and crafts experts. You'll find fashion, design, decor, jewelry, and art.  More info: Viaduc des Arts website

12.  Village Saint-Paul

Artisans, galleries, boutiques, antique shops, and bistros make Village Saint-Paul one of the most charming places to shop for specialty items in Paris - but it's almost one of the hardest to find. 

This thriving enclave of independent artisans and boutique owners (no global brands or chain stores allow) is tucked away in a quiet corner of the 4th arrondissement's Saint Paul Quartier, originally the site of a women's monastery founded in 630.  

Like the rest of the Marais, the Village has protected heritage status which helps preserve its medieval atmosphere . 

Surrounded entirely by street-facing buildings, Village Saint Paul is accessed through narrow passages that you might easily miss.  However, once you enter the "village," you'll find a maze of interconnected courtyards and passages so tranquil that you may forget you're in Paris. 

Each boutique, workshop, and gallery offers unique items, and while prices for the most precious objects and art reflect the high quality, others are surprisingly affordable.  

Selections change frequently, so you never know what you will find - but if you're in this part of the Marais, don't miss the chance to explore.

How to Find Village Saint-Paul

Village Saint-Paul occupies the inner courtyards of a block surrounded by Rue Saint-Paul, Rue Charlemagne, Rue des Jardins Saint-Paul, and Rue de l'Ave Maria.  Entrances on Rue Saint-Paul and Rue Charlemagne are the easiest to spot - look for small signs saying "Passage Village Saint-Paul ."

More to See near Village Saint-Paul

• King Philippe-August's wall and rampart - Built between 1180 and 1210 by King Philippe-August to protect the French capital when he left the country to fight in the Third Crusade, little remains of the wall today - but you can see the longest portion still standing, including part of a tower along Rue Des Jardins Saint Paul at the back of a ball field
• Eglise Saint-Paul Saint-Louis, a 17th century church with a magnificent interior that's well worth visiting, backs onto Rue Charlemagne.  Although you can reach by cutting though a couple of narrow passages, the sanest approach to walk up to Rue de Rivoli and go in through the main entrance.  It's also a spectacular setting for occasional classical concerts - check our concert schedule to find dates.
• A chunk of the old Bastille Prison - If you're a historian or even have just a casual interest in the history of the French Revolution, you may have heard that the 14th century fortress that housed the infamous Bastille prison was totally destroyed in the aftermath.  That's not 100% accurate.  Construction workers discovered part of the base of one of its eight towers while excavating for the Paris Metro's Line 1.  They moved it to Square Henri Galli, a tiny green space overlooking the Seine about a block from Village Saint Paul.  If you're walking in that direction, stop by to see it.

What Else to Do in Village Saint-Paul

Visit the Museum of Magic ( Musée de la Magie , 1 Rue Saint-Paul), located in what the arched cellars of a 16th century inn (according to rumors, a former residence of the Marquis de Sade). 

You'll find it filled with the props of magic and illusionist shows including posters, costumes, automations such as a coin-operated fortune teller, distorting mirrors, crystal balls, skeletons, and even an Egyptian-style sarcophagus.  Guided tours end with a magic show.

The museum is a big favorite of Parisian children, but it's also interesting for all ages.

Location:  11 Rue Saint Paul, 4th Open: Usually Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday from 2pm-7pm, plus a few additional days and hours - so check the Museum of Magic's website before you go

13.  Saint-Germain Galleries, Boutiques, & Antiques

Almost the entire Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood in Paris's 6th arrondissement presents tantalizing shopping opportunities, especially if you buy at the high end of the price spectrum. 

You can easily spend a day or more visiting all the chic fashion boutiques around Saint-Sulpice Church , along Rue Bonaparte/Rue des Rennes , and Rue de Saint-Père where Vanessa Bruno, Barbara Bui, Saint Laurent, and numerous gourmet chocolate boutiques compete for shoppers' attention.

But if you want to zero in on something unique and special to this neighborhood, head to the area hugging the Seine River between École des Beaux Arts (School of Fine Arts) and Rue des Grands Augustins where dozens, possibly hundreds of antique stores, art galleries, rare book dealers, and design studios cluster along narrow streets lined with 16th and 17th century buildings. 

Prices in most places range from high to astronomical, but if your budget can accommodate the splurge, this is where to find something  rare and wonderful.

Frugal Shopper's Tip:   If you'd like to bring home a piece of art from Paris but can't afford an original Chagall sketch or signed Picasso lithograph, look through the bins of unframed prints by unknown artists in Saint Germain art galleries, particularly those near Beaux Arts and along the quai next to the Seine.  You may find something you love for less than you'd expect.

14.  Bonus Areas for Shopping in Paris

• Rue Saint-Dominique between Avenue Bosquet and Blvd de la Tour-Maubourg, 7th arr, metro: La Tour-Maubourg - Nice selection of boutiques featuring mostly French designer labels, ranging from affordable to very expensive
• Place des Victoires, between 1st and 2nd arr - Elegant luxury and high-end designer boutiques, with interesting small shops on the side streets, especially those north of the square
• Île Saint Louis -  Interesting and eclectic mix of art galleries, gift shops, chocolate and gourmet food shops, clothing boutiques, and antique dealers along this tiny island's main street, Rue Saint-Louis en Île
• Rue de Rivoli, between the Place de la Concorde and Louvre-Rivoli metro stations - Everything from souvenirs to global chains to high-end fashion and art
• Bercy Village - Former wine market, with 42 storehouses re-purposed as boutiques, restaurants, and cinemas.  Next to the Seine River in the 12th arr, nearest metros: Cour Saint Émilion, Bercy

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The 20 best places for shopping in Paris

By Monica de La Villardière

Spending the day shopping in Paris isn’t an experience reserved for A-listers. What could be more enticing than a weekend’s stroll around the city, with multiple purchasing pit stops? If you’re planning a visit, you might be looking forward to great meals, remarkable sightseeing, and of course, a mandatory stop (or two) at one of the best shops in Paris. From the world’s most tempting boutiques to sophisticated department stores, Paris has it all.

Locals in Paris are professionally adept at knowing when and where to “faire les boutiques” (preferably during the famous “soldes” if possible). Parisians also tend to pledge fervent loyalty to their favourite “grand magasin” or department store. Are you a classic Left Bank Le Bon Marche lover or a Right Bank devotee to the historic, newly revamped Samaritaine? Perhaps you’ll love the urban-cool selection and modern layout at the Galeries Lafayette Champs Elysees. Get up-to-date now and plan the most scenic and efficient shopping route. While you’re at it, take a look at our edit of the very best hotels in Paris for your trip, scan this list of the top cafés in Paris and book into one of these incredible Parisian restaurants you shouldn’t miss.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Renowned literary history meets some of the world’s best art, decor, antiques and fashion in this beloved Left Bank neighbourhood. A wander up the rue Bonaparte from the Seine will have any interior-lover drooling. Stop for a coffee at Café de Flore (it would be rude not to) before heading to landmark fashion institutions and curiosity-compelling new additions.

1. Le Bon Marche & Grande Epicerie

The Crown jewel of the St Germain shopping experience, Le Bon Marche is the one-stop-shop for everything and anything you could be after – at least as far as local Left Bank shoppers are concerned. From a meticulously selected array of high and contemporary fashion for women and men to a well-curated bookshop, a homeware section and floors devoted to cosmetics and things for kids, to the ultra-tempting Grande Epicerie fine food hall, Le Bon Marche is an institution. The famous escalators’ fairy light decor and windows during the holiday season are not to be missed.

Address: 24 rue de Sèvres 75006

2. Marin Montagut

Steps from the Luxembourg Gardens you’ll find illustrator, collector and all-round aesthete Marin Montagut’s cabinet of curiosities at his delightful Madame boutique. Both unique and uniquely Parisian, this treasure trove is a world unto itself, featuring walls of “secret books”, decorative plates, old-style pharmacy jars, embroidered cushions and smile-inducing stationery among other unusual objects, each of which tells a story.

Address: 48 rue Madame 75006

3. Collector Square

A temple for vintage-lovers, this European leader for sales of second-hand luxury bags, watches, jewellery, art and collector’s items has its showroom on Boulevard Raspail. Make an appointment with one of Collector Square’s vintage specialists or horologists to see an impressive array of vintage Hermès and Chanel bags, Cartier watches, rare jewellery pieces and sculptures.

Address: 36 Boulevard Raspail 75007

4. Smallable

Since 2008, Smallable has made a name for itself as Paris’s coolest family store, locally at its rue du Cherche-Midi locations (a large kids showroom sits across the road from the stylish women’s multi-brand boutique), and internationally on its beloved website for stylish in-the-know parents. Find a funky selection of children's and women’s clothing brands, homeware, accessories and toys to secure your place in your little ones good books when you get home.

Address: Concept Store, 81 rue du Cherche-Midi, Women’s Store, 82 rue du Cherche-Midi

1st & 2nd arrondissements

Walk through the famous colonnades of rue de Rivoli which runs from the Place de la Concorde along the Tuileries and Louvre. But don’t be let down by the many tourist trinket shops. World-class shopping destinations are just around the corner – if you know where to look.

5. Librairie Delamain

While Shakespeare and Company is the bookstore that comes to mind when thinking of bookstores in Paris, Librairie Delamin is the oldest in Paris. The business dates all the way back to 1708, and the current shop has been the base since 1906. Sat in between the cafés and stalls of Rue Saint-Honoré, come here to clamber up wooden ladders to browse the ancient shelves.

Address: 155 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris, France

6. Librairie Galignani

Word has it this venerable English-language bookstore is the oldest of its kind in Europe, founded in 1801 by the Venetian Giovanni Gagliani, a member of an illustrious publishing family whose work was first printed in 1520. The interiors are befitting of such a history, with tall mahogany bookshelves and wheeled ladders to help you reach the highest shelves. Find a range of English and French literature as well as a great selection of history, fashion, design and travel books, also in both languages.

Address: 224 rue de Rivoli 75001

7. White Bird

Paris’ home for jewellery lovers is curated by connoisseur Stephanie Rogers, who casts her net wide. Rogers’ selection includes many of the world’s best-loved contemporary artisans and designers, including Paris talents like Charlotte Chesnais and Vilter along with international design stars Sophie Buhai, Alighieri and Elhanati on display amongst bird cages and modern glass-cube cases.

Address: 38 rue du Mont Thabor 75001

8. La Samaritaine

After a 16-year wait, Parisians finally saw this 19th-century department store reopen its doors last Spring –a much-anticipated event. French luxury conglomerate LVMH is to thank for the original Art Nouveau building’s renovation, which was painstakingly restored while a new contemporary wing was built from scratch. Today the Belle-Epoque destination boasts seven floors of eclectic fashion products, jewellery and the largest department store beauty selection in Europe .

Address: 9 rue de la Monnaie 75001

This ultra-luxe Place Vendome shirtmaker has been in business since 1838, officially making it the oldest shirt shop in Paris. Reputed worldwide for its exceptional craftsmanship, illustrious customers through the ages have included many a royal, nobleman and president, but arguably some of the best Charvet-wearers to date are the elegant ladies who know how to sport a men’s shirt just so . Fine tie and slipper collectors are also welcome.

Address: 28 Place Vendôme 75001

10. La Nouvelle Chambre Claire

Technically, this shop’s latest iteration can be found in the 5th, but it is walking distance from the 1st. La Nouvelle Chambre Claire, a bookstore and photography gallery, places emphasis on creators and authors. They have been compiling amazing photography books and showcase beautiful work done by photographers around the world since 1980. As well as selling standard photography books, they offer limited edition releases and books signed by photographers.

Address: 3 Rue d'Arras, 75005 Paris, France

Laura Fowler

Charlie Hobbs

Olivia Morelli

Connor Sturges

The historic Marais, stretching the 3rd and 4th arrondissements of the Right Bank and is one of Paris’ best areas for shopping and has many shops open Sunday – a rare feat in France. Stroll the rue des Francs Bourgeois, rue de Saintonge, rue Vieille du Temple, and rue de Turenne, each packed with appealing boutiques, before heading over to Boulevard Beaumarchais to visit famed concept store, Merci.

You’ll know you’ve arrived at this iconic concept store when you see its beloved red Fiat parked in the courtyard on your way in. Showcasing current trends through real-life settings and installations, Merci offers everything from vintage furniture to modern fashion accessories, all chosen for their function as well as appearance. Be sure to visit the used book cafe on the ground floor for coffee and inspiration when you need a rest.

Address: 111 Boulevard Beaumarchais

12. Officine Universelle Buly

After a century of sleep, master perfumer Jean-Vincent Buly’s apothecary concept has been beautifully brought back to life, with products drawing on innovative modern cosmetic techniques from around the world. Respect for the French beauty heritage can be felt through the old-world pharmacy interiors, all glass cabinets and marble countertops, herbal tinctures, and beautifully scented moisturisers and soaps in painted porcelain bottles, all of which have earned Buly a cult following.

Address: 45 rue de Saintonge 75003 (open Sundays); 19 rue Vieille du Temple 75004 ; 6 rue Bonaparte 75006

13. Castor Fleuriste

Fashion’s favourite florist Louis-Geraud Castor is so in-demand that you need a password to access his website. But don’t be intimidated – his minimal Marais shop, hidden away in a courtyard, is well worth a visit for its seasonal, graphic and poetic bouquets.

Address: 14 rue Debelleyme 75003

9th and 10th arrondissements

Extending from the glorious Palais Garnier opera house to the foot of Montmartre, the 9th arrondissement has long been known for its Belle Epoque department stores Galeries Lafayette and Printemps and its grand Haussmann boulevards. But don’t miss the charming smaller streets of the Saint Georges neighbourhood, with its village feel, or the Canal Saint Martin District of the ultra-hip neighbouring 10th arrondissement just to the East, where quaint footbridges, international cuisine and quirky, independent boutiques abound.

14. Dealeuse

Interior decorator Alix Roblot is a lover of vintage objects, old stones and lamps. In her boutique and showroom Dealeuse, you’ll find a mix of antiques, designer pieces and vintage gems which she reconstructs to ultra-modern effect. Alix’s keen eye is immediately apparent – you’ll find yourself wanting to recreate her nonchalant elegance in your own space stat.

Address: 7 rue de Vintimille, 75009

15. De Beaulieu

Worthy of a contemporary art gallery status, this plant and decor shop proposes unexpected blooms and careful curation of vases. Founder Pierre Banchereau favours old-school flower arrangements – he named the shop after his grandparents – modernised in contemporary vases.

Address: 30 rue Henry Monnier (bouquets); 19 rue Victor Masse (plants and objects)

16. Centre Commercial

From the founders of ethical shoe brand Veja, this concept store sees itself less as a shopping destination than a movement, favouring menswear, womenswear and children’s pieces with one thing in common: transparency of production. Find an array of organic cotton and hand-stitched goodies at its minimalist rue de Marseille location.

Address: 2 rue de Marseille 75010

17. Bonjour Jacob

If your idea of a great morning means tucking into a cup of artisanal coffee and a rare magazine – both perfectly tailored to your tastes – don’t miss this modern take on the literary cafe, where you’ll find publications from all over the world, accompanied by a selection of vinyl and pastries. Bonjour Jacob also doubles as an exhibition space, with colourful artwork lining its walls.

Address: 38 rue Yves Toudic 75010

18. Thanx God I’m a VIP

Everyone is welcome at this hilariously named popular vintage clothing market. Founder Sylvie Chateigner has a keen eye for designer pieces, and unearths rare, premium finds, both classic and contemporary. You’ll certainly feel like a VIP in your iconic new Prada, Mugler and Hermes pieces.

Address: 12 rue de Lancry 75010

Golden Triangle

Known as the cradle of French luxury, this emblematic neighbourhood is outlined by Avenue George V, Champs-Elysées and Avenue Montagne, which meet in a neat triangle spanning a four-square-kilometre territory of the 8th arrondissement. Home to all the French Couture greats: Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Hermes and Balenciaga, this area has also seen the opening of a more urban, youth-focused take on French luxury at Galeries Lafayette Champs-Elysees.

If you only enter one luxury boutique on your trip, make it the recently-restored wood-panelled Hermes shop on Avenue George V, with its unmistakable gilded lettering. Inside, you’ll find three floors of the ultimate French heritage brand’s unmissable objects, maroquinerie, shoes, jewellery and pret-a-porter, with each floor boasting its particular style and atmosphere. Die-hard Hermes fans will also enjoy a peek ‘round the rue de Sevres and rue du Faubourg Saint Honore locations, if only for the decor and architecture…

Address: 42 Avenue George V, 75008

20. Galeries Lafayette Champs Elysées

Ever since mega-retailer Galeries Lafayette reclaimed this Art Deco landmark (formerly the Virgin Megastore) on the world’s most famous avenue, Parisians have been divided, debating its merits or lack thereof. The store creates a unique retail experience, mixing goods from multiple categories including emerging and a handful of accessible designers for men and women rather than partitioning pieces into dedicated corners, which is intended to create a more fluid shopping experience. Some say this is what modern bricks and mortar shopping should look like — others find it impossible to navigate. Either way, it's worth checking out.

Address: 60 Avenue des Champs-Elysées

Bastille Day in Paris

French Dishes to Try in Paris

The Best Restaurants in Paris

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Best Museums in Paris

Cabaret in Paris

Live Music in Paris

Shopping in Paris

The 7 Best Places for Shopping in Paris

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

For reasons that elude most of us, Parisians tend to make impeccable fashion sense look like a walk in the park. Even on modest budgets , they generally seem to just know how to pull it all together and create enviable and seemingly effortless looks. Call it "je ne sais quoi," if you must. 

It's no surprise that the French capital has held onto its reign as the global center of all things style-related. After museums and monuments , shopping alone attracts millions of visitors every year. 

While the city is studded with fabulous boutiques and stores, these seven ultra-popular shopping districts in Paris are gold mines for discount-hunters, designer divas, window shoppers, and fashion victims alike.

There's room for all budgets, too—so looking snappy doesn't have to rhyme with going broke. Make sure you take home a little  "je ne sais quoi" by clicking through our picks for the top centers of style in the French capital.

Louvre and Tuileries District

• Best for:   Crème de la crème  designer fashion, chic home furnishings, quality cosmetics
• Getting there:  Metro Concorde, Tuileries (Line 1), Pyramides (Line 7, 14)
• Main streets:  Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Rue Saint-Honoré, Rue de la Paix, Place Vendome

The Faubourg Saint-Honoré district is the pulse of Paris design and fashion. Part of the Louvre-Tuileries neighborhood, the Saint-Honoré fashion district is studded with flagship shops from classic designers like Versace, Hermes, and Saint Laurent but also houses resolutely trendy boutiques and concept stores. 

Also, make sure to check out the elegant boutiques lining the arcades (covered galleries) of the Palais Royal : from luxury perfumer Serge Lutens to upscale vintage shops, jewelry, and art, shopping in the Palais Royal's chic nooks is worlds away from the hustle-and-bustle of central Paris and offers a dose of authentic old-world chic. 

The Faubourg Honoré is only a hop, skip, and a jump away from the grandeur of the  Opera Garnier  and the Belle-Epoque  Paris department stores  dominating Boulevard Haussmann, including Galeries Lafayette and Printemps (click through to next page for more on these treasure troves). 

Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards

• Best for:  Getting lost in Paris' prestigious—and dizzying—Belle-Epoque department stores ( grands magasins )
• Getting there:  Metro Havre-Caumartin (Line 3 or 9), Opera (Lines 3, 7, 8), RER Auber(Line A)
• Main streets:  Boulevard Haussmann; Place de la Madeleine

The old Parisian department stores are famous for being worlds unto themselves.  Galeries Lafayette  and Printemps department stores dominate Boulevard Haussmann with real Belle Epoque grandeur, concentrating top designer collections for men and women, gourmet food shopping, home design, jewelry, and even hardware into a labyrinth of consumer delights. Of course, these "grands magasins" are decked out in the winter months with lights and elaborate decorations for the holiday season, so don't miss checking them out then. 

Covered Passageways ("Les Arcades")

Also make sure to check out the old-world elegance (and high-quality boutiques) of the old covered "arcades" (passageways) in the area, including the Galerie Vivienne, which houses luxury boutiques from top designers such as Jean-Paul Gaultier, as well as rare bookshops, old-fashioned artisan toy shops, and gifts. (Metro: Bourse or Palais-Royal Musee du Louvre)

Other "arcades" worth exploring nearby include the Passage Jouffroy, with its throwback-style shops, and the Passage du Grand Cerf (Metro: Etienne Marcel), well-known for its intricate antiques and fine old jewelry. Stop at the latter before exploring Rue Etienne Marcel and its trendy boutiques from designers including Kenzo and Thierry Mugler. 

• Best for:  Eclectic and high-fashion, high-quality chains, vintage stores, artisan and handcrafted jewelry, antiques and fine art galleries, cosmetics, and perfumeries.
• Getting there:  Metro Saint-Paul (Line 1) or Hotel de Ville (Line 1, 11)
• Main streets:  Rue des Francs-Bourgeois, Place des Vosges, Rue de Turenne, Rue des Rosiers

The historic  Marais quarter  is the prime stomping ground for shoppers with an eye for the unique and finely-crafted, not to mention antique and fine art lovers. Try antiques or fine-arts shopping on the Place des Vosges, jewelry, fragrance, and cosmetics shopping at boutiques like Diptyque and MAC on Rue des Francs-Bourgeois, or plunder fashionable but accessible chains such as COS on Rue des Rosiers. 

If you're a fan of excellent teas , chocolate, and other gourmet goods, the Marais is also an excellent area for foodie shopping. For high-quality French tea, head to Mariage Frères (and its adjoining tearoom) on Rue du Bourg-Tibourg, or Kusmi Tea on Rue des Rosiers. Meanwhile, Josephine Vannier (4 rue du pas de la Mule) is listed in our guide to the best chocolate makers in Paris . 

For a great concept shop in the general vicinity, Merci is one of the trendiest places in town to shop for men's and women's designer fashion, home decor, accessories and books, and more. The tearoom and cinema-inspired adjoining restaurant next door are perfect spots to perch, see, and be seen, too. 

Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées

• Best for:  Designer shopping, trendy chain stores, Sunday shopping
• Getting there:  Metro Alma Marceau (Line 9), Franklin D. Roosevelt (Lines 1 and 9), George V (Line 1), RER A (Charles de Gaulle-Etoile)

Avenue Montaigne and  Avenue des Champs-Elysées  form one of the city's most coveted fashion junctures. Avenue Montaigne is fast outstripping Saint Honoré in the arena of chic-cachet, with legendary designers like Chanel and Dior lining the street with flagship boutiques. The Champs-Elysées, for its part, features luxury names (Louis Vuitton) while also being a major spot for shopping in trendy global chains like Zara. Meanwhile, to keep the kids happy, the Disney Store dominates the "Champs" with fun window displays and enough toys to colonize the moon. 

St-Germain-des-Prés

• Best for:  Chic, classic design, books, and home furnishings
• Getting there:  Metro Saint-Germain-des-Prés (Line 4), Sèvres-Babylone (Line 10)
• Main streets:  Blvd. St.-Germain, Rue St. André-des-Arts, Rue de Sèvres

Once synonymous with the famous intellectuals who haunted local cafés, St.-Germain-des-Prés has acquired several shades of chic and is now a preferred spot of BCBG's (yuppies). Sonia Rykiel and Paco Rabanne have boutiques here:

Try Rue Saint-Andre des Arts for rare books, unique regional gifts, and vintage threads. 

Meanwhile, the Bon Marché is the consummate left-bank address for local department store shopping for classic chic. If you're a foodie or searching for gourmet goods to take home, make sure to whirl through the enormous food hall there, too. 

Les Halles and Rue de Rivoli

• Best for:  Major chain shops and trendy boutiques
• Getting there:  Metro Chatelet-Les Halles (Line 4, RER A,B)
• Main streets:  Rue de Rivoli, Rue Pierre-Lescot, Rue Etienne Marcel, Rue de Turbigo

Once the locus of "the guts of Paris"—an enormous outdoor food market, the area around Châtelet-Les Halles was transformed into a central shopping area in the 20th century. At metro Les Halles is a monstrous underground mall, "Le Forum des Halles," where global chain stores reign.

Running east to west from the Marais to the Louvre, Rue de Rivoli is much the same. Great deals can be made on this long shopping artery in the city center, even outside the Paris sales season. Chains such as H&M and Zara dominate the area, but closer to the Louvre, you'll find many antique shops and art galleries for those looking for special pieces to bring back home. 

Meanwhile, quirky contemporary boutiques abound in the adjoining (and much trendier)  Rue Montorgueil  area, including Barbara Bui and young cutting-edge designers.

Dig Around at a Paris Flea Market

TripSavvy / Leopoldine Bauer

• Best for:  Antiques and oddball items, discounted and vintage clothes and shoes
• Getting there:  Metro Porte de Clingancourt (Line 4) or Garibaldi (Line 13)

The Saint-Ouen flea market (or "puces"—literally, "fleas") is the city's largest and dates to the 19th century. Located at the northern tip of Paris,  les puces  are an essential shopping stop. Come here for a few hours to browse the antique furniture, odd objects, or vintage clothes. There are also many other flea markets around the city, and they're pretty much all worth spending an afternoon exploring.

You may not come away with a masterpiece painting (as once was the case), but a find you are likely to make. A word of advice, however: weekdays are preferable to avoid the inevitable crowds. Also make sure to watch out for pickpockets . 

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Best Shopping in Paris: From Budget-Friendly to Luxury

Brandon Shaw Last Updated: June 12, 2023

The French have been influencing fashion for centuries and shopping is considered serious business in Paris. Where are the best places to go shopping in the fashion capital of the world? We’ve put together a list of the best shopping in Paris to suit all styles and budgets, plus a few tips on how to make the most of your time.

Pro Tip: Planning what to do on your trip to Paris? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our guide to Paris for more planning resources, our top Paris tours for a memorable trip, and the best things to do in Paris .

A Guide To Shopping in Paris

Headed to the fashion capital of the world? You’ll want to know all the best places to shop from the main shopping streets of Paris to the architecturally beautiful galleries. However, Paris shopping isn’t only about fashion.

In this guide, we’ll also share tips on shopping the summer and winter sales, finding Paris’ shopping outlets, and where to shop for food and antiques. Paris is a shopper’s heaven! Here’s what we’ll cover:

• Main shopping streets in Paris
• Parisian shopping galleries
• Summer and winter sales
• Paris outlets
• Antique shopping
• Food shopping
• Budget-friendly shopping

Already in Paris?

Not ready to book a tour? See if Paris tours are worth it .

The Main Shopping Streets in Paris

Shopping was practically invented in Paris. It was the first city in Europe to be almost entirely illuminated at night, allowing people to go out to dinner and walk around at night safely under the moonlight—another reason Paris became famous for being romantic.

Paris was also allegedly the first city with large window displays to advertise textiles. At one point, the city asked shop owners to pitch in to illuminate the city by placing candles in their windows. Later, they must have added garments and viola! Window shopping was born.

Champs D’Élysées

Yes, Champs D’Élysées is arguably the most famous shopping street in Paris. It’s a beautiful street and the Arc de Triomphe is a majestic structure, but would I shop on Champs D’Élysées? I’d take my wife to LV if she wanted, but it’s probably not the place for one-of-a-kind things.

There are much nicer and less crowded streets where you’ll find the highest quality brands except with a better shopping experience. It really depends on what you want to do with your trip to Paris. If you want to hit Zara then it’s great.

If you’re looking to purchase expensive goods that you may not be able to find elsewhere on Earth while being served cucumber water and a light snack, I recommend these two other locations. 

Location: Av. des Champs-Élysées

Avenue Montaigne

I truly appreciate buying my wife an expensive purse if it means I get to stroll down Avenue Montaigne and enjoy the shopping experience. It may be the most luxurious-feeling street on Earth. 

It’s a beautiful street lined with incredible architecture. The stores vary from high-end designers we all know to high-end designers only fashionistas are familiar with—it’s a cool experience. 

Location: Avenue Montaigne

Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré

If you dream of walking through the fanciest streets in Paris and splurging on high-end brands, then Rue Faubourg Saint-Honoré is your place!

This street is lined with some of the world’s most famous brands including Hermés, Cartier, Prada, and Louboutin. Make no mistake, this is not for discount shoppers. But even if you’re not ready to drop some serious cash, this street is still worth a stroll.

Besides high-end clothing and jewelry boutiques, Rue Faubourg Saint-Honoré is home to renowned art galleries, embassies with beautiful architecture, and even the Élysée Palace, the official residence of the President of the French Republic.

Location: Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré

Our Best Versailles and Paris Louvre Tours

Top-Rated Tour

Secrets of the Louvre Museum Tour with Mona Lisa

The Louvre is the largest art museum on Earth and the crowning jewel of Paris, which is why it’s on everyone’s bucket list. Don’t miss out on an incredible opportunity! Join a passionate guide for a tour of the most famous artwork at the Louvre. Skip-the-line admissions included.

Likely to Sell Out

Skip-the-Line Palace of Versailles and Gardens Tour from Paris

Versailles isn’t that difficult to get to by train, but why stress over the logistics? Meet a local guide in central Paris who will purchase your train tickets and ensure you get off at the right stop. Then enjoy a guided tour of the palace and the unforgettable gardens. Skip-the-line admissions included to the palace and gardens.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Paris tours to take and why .

Parisian Shopping Galleries

Parisian architecture is among the most intricate and beautiful in the world. Passing through a Paris shopping gallery is a great way to shop and sightsee at the same time. These galleries scream luxury and, unfortunately, make spending your hard-earned money easier.

Galerie Vivienne

Located a few blocks from the Louvre, Galerie Vivienne is a gorgeous petite gallery with beautiful shops, a café, and incredible architecture. One of our top things to do in Paris , shopping in this gallery is for you if you’re looking for an unknown place to snap a picture or eat breakfast.

You’ll also find great shops with boutique designer fashion. Just a few blocks from the Louvre on the other side of Palais Royal, it’s a great place to come for a post-Louvre snack. Especially, if you walk through Palais Royal on the way!

Address: 5 Rue de lal Banque

Galerie Lafayettes

The historic Galeries Lafayette department store has been a Paris icon since it was established in 1912. If Galerie Vivienne is a petit boutique, then Galeries Lafayette is the opposite.

Composed of three buildings that house over 3,500 brands, one of the original founders of the store declared he dreamed of creating a luxury bazaar, and that’s exactly what he did.

Parisians and tourists alike flock here for the best clothes shopping in Paris. Even if you’re not a big shopper, it’s worth paying a visit.

The store is famous for its dome designed in the Art Nouveau style. On the 7th and final floor of the Coupole building, there’s a large viewing terrace that offers great views of the city.

Pro tip: If you visit Paris during Christmas time , don’t miss the Galeries Lafayette window displays, which have become a serious Parisian Christmas tradition.

Address: 40 Boulevard Haussmann

Paris Summer and Winter Sales

Massive sales happen twice a year in France: in July and January. Called les soldes in French, the sales normally last around four weeks and the discounts increase as the weeks pass.

Near the end of the sales, it’s not uncommon to find items as much as 75% off. Even if you’re not set on buying a new outfit while in France, you can still find great non-clothing items during the sales. One of the best things about Paris’  les soldes is that they apply for all kinds of merchandise, including furniture and electronics.

Paris Outlets

Looking for outlet shopping in Paris? About 40 minutes by train outside of the center of Paris, a mecca of shopping stores awaits you. With over 160 stores, Val d’Europe is a massive shopping outlet mall offering boutiques with a wide range of products.

Right behind the Val d’Europe center is La Vallée Village , another outlet center featuring 110 boutiques. The main difference between these two shopping centers is that La Vallée Village focuses on designer brands. So, while there will be discounts, expect prices to be fairly high still.

Both shopping centers are open seven days a week. One other cool fact about these outlets: they’re located about 5 minutes from Disneyland Paris!

Address: Val d’Europe | La Vallée Village

Antique Shopping in Paris

Flea market lovers, rejoice! Paris is home to the largest antique market in the world! Located near the Porte de Clignancourt metro station, the Les Puces de Saint-Ouen market (sometimes referred to as just ‘Les Puces’, which literally translates to “The Fleas”) is home to over 3,000 traders and welcomes an estimated 180,000 visitors per weekend.

This is your place to find antique furniture, toys, art, ceramics, books, and more. The market is open on weekends and Mondays, but we strongly recommend going on Saturday or Sunday, as some of the dealers choose to remain closed on Mondays.

Note that the area immediately surrounding the flea market is a less affluent area of Paris, and probably not one you’ll want to take a romantic stroll through.

If you head to the flea markets, do some research on the most direct way to get there from where you’re staying and (as with anywhere in a big city) keep a close eye on your belongings while shopping.

Location: Les Puces de Saint-Ouen market

Check Out Our Best Day Trips from Paris

Top Rated Tour

Loire Valley Day Trip with Castles & Wine from Paris

Castles, rolling hills, Amazing wine, and Authentic Food are what come to mind when you think of the French countryside and you will find them all in the Loire Valley! Join your fun and expert tour guide in a small group as you travel on a climate-controlled bus from Paris. Your knowledgeable tour guide will unveil the secrets of the French Loire Valley with funny stories throughout your day together.

Starting at €169

Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Day Trip with Cider Tasting and Lunch

Remember the victories and the losses of the D-Day landings during World War II with this Day Trip from Paris. Your fun and knowledgeable guide will unveil the secrets of this fateful period in history with insightful stories. You will also visit a museum in a real German bunker on Utah Beach. All Admissions & Lunch Included

Paris Food Shopping

One of the best things about France is its food, and a trip to Paris would not be complete without seeing or tasting some of the best bites France has to offer.

La Grande Epicerie is a fine food market that oozes Parisian gastronomy, featuring some of the best and most unique foods and alcohols that make for fun gifts to take back home for family and friends. If French food is really your scene, make sure to check out our Le Marais Food Tour. It’s a celebration of food and travel!

Another fun stop is Mariages Frères , a gourmet tea company founded in Paris in 1854. The tea is sold in multiple stores or you can enjoy a cup of tea in one of their five tearooms located in the capital.

Chocolate lovers should make a stop at La Maison du Chocolat , and anyone looking to try Paris’s best macaroons can’t miss one of the Pierre Hermé stores.

Budget-Friendly Shopping in Paris

Everyone enjoys shopping without breaking the bank. For more affordable shopping in Paris, try shopping in the Marais district, spread out over the 3rd and 4th arrondissements. Here, you can find many quality clothing and jewelry boutiques as well as bigger brand-name stores.

Another option is Rue de Rivoli. This street is home to dozens of clothing stores. Some you’ll most likely recognize from back homes , such as H&M or Gap, but also others that are only known domestically in France.

If you head down to Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, next to Paris’s City Hall building, you’ll also find another renowned department store called BHV. Enjoy shopping in Paris! Want to explore the City of Lights with people who know all her secrets? Check out our top-rated Paris tours and day trips .

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if Paris tours are worth it .

Where To Stay in Paris

With a city as magnificent as Paris, it can be hard to find the perfect hotel at the perfect price. Explore the best hotels and places to stay in these incredible neighborhoods in Paris.

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Shopping in Paris: A Complete Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, one of the things you’ll definitely want to do is go shopping! The City of Light is renowned for its fashion and style, so it’s no surprise that it’s also home to some of the best shopping in the world.

No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll be able to find it in Paris. From high-end designer boutiques to quaint vintage shops, there’s something for everyone. And of course, let’s not forget the famous French pharmacies, which are always worth a visit (if only to stock up on beauty products!).

To help you make the most of your shopping trip, we’ve put together a complete guide. Read on to find out where to shop, what to buy, and more!

Planning Your Shopping Trip to Paris

When it comes to planning your shopping trip to Paris, there are a few key things to consider. First and foremost, you will want to do some research ahead of time to identify your target retailers and the types of products they carry. From there, you’ll need to think about when you plan on visiting the city and how much time you have to spend shopping.

If possible, try to avoid heading into Paris during peak tourist season, as crowds, traffic, and long lines can quickly deplete your shopping time. Once you’ve got all this information sorted out, you should be able to map out a solid plan for your Parisian shopping excursion! With careful preparation and a little luck, you’re sure to find just what you’re looking for in the City of Lights. Bonne chance!

Where to Shop in Paris

There is no shortage of great shopping options in Paris, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Whether you are looking for high fashion, souvenirs, or just everyday essentials, there are many places in the city where you can find exactly what you need.

1. Department Stores

If you want to do some high-end shopping in Paris, then you’ll want to head to one of the city’s many department stores. These establishments are typically massive, carrying everything from clothing and accessories to home goods and cosmetics. Some of the most popular department stores in Paris include Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, and Le Bon Marché.

Galeries Lafayette

Address: 40 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris, France

For pictures, booking, and more information, click here .

Address: 64 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris, France

 Le Bon Marché

Address: 24 Rue de Sèvres, 75007 Paris, France

2. Boutiques

For a more intimate shopping experience, you can check out some of Paris’s many boutique shops. These stores typically specialize in a particular type of product, such as clothing, shoes, or handbags. You’ll find that many of the boutiques in Paris are located in the fashionable neighborhoods of Le Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Address: Saint-Germain-des-Prés75006 Paris, France

3. Pharmacies

No trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to one of the city’s famous pharmacies! These stores offer a wide variety of beauty products, including skincare, makeup, and perfume. Many of the products sold in pharmacies are unique to France, so they make for great souvenirs (or gifts!). Some of the most popular pharmacies in Paris include Citypharma and La Pharmacie Anglaise.

Citypharma 

Address: 26 Rue du Four, 75006 Paris, France

Aprium Pharmacie Anglaise

Address: 62 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Rue La Boétie, 75008 Paris, France

4. Vintage Stores

For a truly unique shopping experience, be sure to visit one of Paris’s many vintage stores. These shops offer a wide selection of second-hand clothing, furniture, and other items. You never know what you’ll find in a vintage store, so it’s always worth taking a look! Some of the most popular vintage stores in Paris include Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche and Les Puces de Saint-Ouen.

 Les Puces de Saint-Ouen

Address: 142 Rue des Rosiers, 93400 Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, France

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly shopping option, then you might want to head to one of Paris’s many markets. These outdoor spaces are typically filled with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to clothing and accessories. You’ll find that many of the markets in Paris are located in the city’s arrondissements (districts). Some of the most popular markets include the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen and the Marché d’Aligre.

Marché d’Aligre

Address: 25-11 Rue d’Aligre, 75012 Paris, France

The Best Time to Shop in Paris

If you are planning a trip to Paris and hoping to do some shopping while you’re there, however, the timing can make all the difference. That’s because different parts of Paris offer different benefits depending on when you visit. There is no definitive answer to the question of when the best time to shop in Paris is, as it depends on a number of different factors.

For example, if you want cash savings, head to Paris during off-peak months like January or June. Thanks to lower demand and fewer tourists compared to other seasons, merchants will often offer discounts on products as well as better deals on hotels and dining. However, if it’s designer labels that pique your interest, then autumn might be the best time to shop in Paris.

Throughout September and October, major retailers often showcase their latest fall fashions at discounted prices during seasonal sales events known as “soldes.” Whichever season you choose to visit Paris, just be sure to prepare by doing your research ahead of time so that you know where and when to get the best deals! After all, nothing completes a vacation like finding great bargains on must-have items!

What to Buy in Paris

If you are planning a trip to Paris, there are several key items that you should definitely consider purchasing while you are there. One of the most important is a quality pair of shoes. Whether you will be doing a lot of walking or simply want a fashionable accessory, good shoes can make all the difference when exploring the city.

Other essential purchases include attractive leather accessories, like handbags and wallets, as well as high-quality French perfume or beauty products. Additionally, if you would like to bring back unique souvenirs from your trip, consider picking up some local art or artisanal food items such as chocolates or wine. No matter what you choose to buy in Paris, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience shopping in this iconic city.

Tips for Shopping in Paris

When it comes to shopping in Paris, there are a few key tips that every traveler should keep in mind to make the experience as enjoyable and stress-free as possible:

First, be prepared with a budget in mind – this will help you determine your spending limits before heading into any shops or boutiques.

Second, if you’re interested in high-end designer labels and luxury goods, remember to bring along an extra suitcase or two.

Third, stay organized and pack light – this will make it easier to find what you need quickly while browsing through the racks and shelves at each store.

Fourth, do your research ahead of time so that you know where to find the best deals on the items you’re interested in.

And finally, enjoy yourself! Shopping in Paris is an experience that should be savored and enjoyed to the fullest.

How to Save Money While Shopping in Paris

To save money while shopping in Paris, it is important to be strategic with your purchases. One great way to save money while hunting for souvenirs or special items is to explore the many flea markets in and around the city. These open-air bazaars feature an eclectic mix of vendors, and it is often possible to find great bargains on beautifully handcrafted goods.

Additionally, many flea markets offer discounts for cash transactions, so it’s wise to bring adequate funds with you when shopping at these establishments. Another tip for frugal shoppers is to seek out secondhand stores and thrift shops, which are plentiful throughout Paris. By being selective about what you buy during a shopping trip in Paris, you can save money without compromising on quality or originality.

Avoiding Scams and Rip-offs

When shopping in Paris, it is important to be aware of scams and rip-offs that can occur. These often take the form of deceptive sales tactics or attempts to manipulate tourists into buying overpriced or poor-quality products. To avoid being scammed, it is important to stay alert and informed about the common tricks used by merchants.

For example, they may try to distract you with flashy displays or samples or offer rapid-fire sales pitches designed to rush you into buying something on impulse. It is also a good idea to do your research ahead of time and know the going rates for different products so that you can easily spot inflated prices. By being cautious and arming yourself with knowledge, you can avoid common scams and make the most of your shopping experience in Paris.

In conclusion

Shopping in Paris is an unforgettable experience, whether you’re looking for designer labels or vintage finds. Keep in mind a few key tips to make the most of your trip, such as staying organized and knowing where to find the best deals. With a little planning and preparation, you’re sure to enjoy every minute of your shopping spree in the City of Light.

We are here out of a desire to help and of course out of a great love for France. Our goal is to help you find everything you are looking for under one roof, to get the most out of your vacation in France, without having to travel all over the web.

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The 19 best shops in Paris

Get ready to rummage. These are the absolute best shops in Paris, from indie boutiques to department stores

We’re calling it: this is the best city for shopping in all of Europe. Away from the soulless glitz of international consumerism that’s slowly etching away at the Champs-Élysées , there are hundreds of one-of-a-kind boutiques totally worth checking out. You could spend weeks exploring them all (trust us, we have) and still come across undiscovered designers and covetable labels.

Forget Breton tees and Chanel bags – what’s à la mode these days is statement glasses and monochrome unisex staples. Sustainability also climbs ever higher on many brands’ agendas. And while the ‘buy less, buy quality’ mantra has always held sway here, you’re now just as likely to find beautiful vegan accessories as leather and luxe fabrics.

Of course, there are the traditional shops that’ll define your time in Paris, whatever side of town you’re on. Traiteurs where saucissons dangle from the ceiling. Tiny wine bar -shops where bottles are hand-delivered by the vignerons themselves. And bookshops that remain at the heart of the city’s Anglophone communities, much as they were during the années folles .

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Best shops in Paris

1.  Le Centre Commercial

• price 3 of 4

Best for:  Understated Parisian style

Where else to shop for the Parisian jeans-and-sneakers aesthetic than the concept store opened by the founders of Veja? There’s plenty more besides to discover from Sébastien Kopp and François-Ghislain Morillion’s impressive roll-call of designers. Pick up Oxford shirts, cosy sweatshirts and – obvs – some Veja high-tops. Their ranges include menswear and womenswear, plus small lifestyle and kids’ collections.

2.  Merci

Best for:  Fashion and homeware collabs

Wave goodbye to the crowds doing the department-store crawl along the Boulevard Haussmann. Merci might sell itself as a concept store but really it’s a mini- grand magasin – and one with some pretty impressive ethics (they help support an educational foundation in Madagascar). Their collections include fashion, design and homewares, but it’s the regular showcases of up-and-coming makers and collaborations with the likes of L/Uniform, Taion and Rizzoli that set this place apart.

3.  A La Ville de Rodez

Best for:  All things Auvergnat

Time-capsule shops are becoming ever rarer in Paris, making the 100-year reign of A La Ville de Rodez on Rue Vieille-du-Temple even more special. This traiteur specialises in all things from the Auvergne and Aveyron regions, particularly foie gras, cheese and saucisson. All sliced to order, bien sûr . Products from further afield include 24-month aged comté from the Jura, goats’ cheeses from the Loire and the legendary Prince de Paris ham.

4.  We Are Paris

Best for: Parisian-made marvels

Skip the Eiffel Tower statues, cheap berets and dry macarons, and take home something original instead. This boutique is the antithesis to throw-away culture, stocking keep-for-years pieces made by Parisian artisans. The brands are selected according to a strict code. Whether they make jewellery, cosmetics or candles, each must be based in the Île-de-France region, manufacture only in small quantities and follow environmentally sustainable practices. 

5.  Maison Plisson

• price 2 of 4

Best for:  Edible souvenirs fancy enough for your most gourmet friend

Even the simplest tins at this uber-gourmet grocers might come with hefty price tags, but there’s nowhere better to pick up a carry-on-sized gift for a fussy foodie. The ground floor, where you’ll find cheese, charcuterie and vegetables, is mostly worth browsing only if money is no object and you’re stocking the fridge of an adjacent mansion. Head downstairs for dried goods: gorgeous savoury pâtes à tartiner, single-origin chocolates and myriad herbs and spices.

6.  Monsieur

Best for: Delicate jewellery

Just like a bold red lipstick, there’s one accessory almost every Parisienne has in their fashion arsenal: a piece of delicate gold jewellery. Monsieur is among the best of the many designer-led boutiques in the Marais. Pieces range from statement stud earrings for around €100 to wedding-worthy rings and white-gold pendants inlaid with tiny precious stones. They’ll do custom engraving to order.

7.  Arty Dandy

• Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Best for:  Pocket squares and smart satchels

Great gifts (yes, including gifts for yourself) don’t get much more original than the bags, wallets, boots and watches in Arty Dandy’s curated collections. Brands, including RAINS, Lemon Jelly and Briston, are mid- to high-end but represent the kind of tough luxe that’s made to last. Find their two small but well-stocked boutiques in Saint-Germain and the Marais.

8.  Shakespeare & Company

• Quartier latin

Best for:  Unparalleled literary associations

Shakespeare & Co. might not be in the same location as it was during the roaring ’20s, but it’s no less influential on the city’s literary scene. Today the Left Bank’s bohemians still flock to events, signings and live podcasts at the bookshop, first founded by Sylvia Beach in 1919. Is it on the tourist map? Certainly. Is it deserving of its many, many accolades? Without a doubt.

9.  Le Bon Marché

• Department stores
• Rennes-Sèvres

Best for:  The Parisians’ department store

As Printemps and Galeries Lafayette become ever more geared to international tastes, LVMH-owned Le Bon Marché remains more of a Parisians’ department store. Away from the city centre in Saint-Germain, it’s been a bastion of Rive Gauche style since 1838. Even if you don’t come to buy, snapping a photo of the iconic escalators or the latest art installation is de rigueur.

10.  Paperdolls

Best for:  Raiding an imaginary friend’s wardrobe

The layout of this Pigalle ‘apartment boutique’ is designed to mimic a quirky Parisian home – meaning you can bring your dream of raiding a trendy friend’s wardrobe to life. Floaty, floral pieces are their mainstay. Think wrap skirts, frilly blouses and retro accessories, almost all French-made. Expect prices punchier than fast-fashion alternatives (but products with much more charm and originality, too).

11.  Aujourd’hui Demain

Best for:  The very, very vegan

Having been slow to support vegan and vegetarian lifestyles, Paris is making up for lost time. Yes, in many places you’re still likely to get chicken stock in your vegetarian soup and eggs in your ‘vegan’ salad, but others are flying the flag for change. Part-restaurant and part-concept store, Aujourd'hui Demain is one of the most appealing, selling as it does a range of hard-to-find ingredients, a small selection of plant-based cosmetics and more.

12.  Fleux’

Best for:  Bold home décor

Interior decoration with a touch of je ne sais quoi can be hard to find in a city that values muted colour palettes, elegance and tasteful fabrics over anything too outrageous. Fleux’ is a design and lifestyle store – actually, several stores within spitting distance of each other – that breaks the mould. Stop by to pick up quirky tableware, statement lamps and plenty of small gift-worthy bits such as purses, umbrellas and keyrings embossed with cheeky designs.

13.  Papier Tigre

• Things to do

Best for:  One-of-a-kind notebooks

A one-stop-shop for statement stationery: notebooks, diaries, pencil cases and more, all emblazoned with their signature bold colours and graphic designs. Many are produced in the Marais, thanks in part to their commitment to sustainability, and their prints are instantly recognisable. There’s nothing better to take home to brighten up your work desk.

14.  Red Wheelbarrow

Best for:  Lovers of English literature in France

Great bookstores form the heart of communities. And while The Red Wheelbarrow stocks French titles, it’s their range of English-language books – spanning poetry, travel, history, politics and more – that make this independent Left Bank shop such a firm favourite among the city’s expats. Events include book launches, readings and Q&As with a range of fascinating writers.

15.  L’Etiquette

Best for: Hervé’s latest discovery

A natural wine shop with a rebellious streak is the last thing you’d expect to find steps from Notre-Dame on Île Saint-Louis. Yet L’Etiquette is as original and authentic a tasting room as you could hope to find. Owner Hervé is a fount of knowledge and opinions, not just on the producers he stocks (who he often knows personally), but also on the benefits of organic and natural winemaking.

16.  La Trésorerie

Best for:  Appreciating the ‘art du table’

The word ‘chic’ gets bandied around too often in Paris, but this Rue du Château d’Eau boutique nails stylish minimalism like nowhere else. If you’ve spied exquisite tableware in a Parisian restaurant or fallen in love with pastel linen napkins, this is where to track them down. Their earth-tone ceramics are among the less suitcase-friendly options, but blimey, are they beautiful.

17.  L’Officine Universelle Buly

Best for:  A trip to the apothecary

What do you get if you cross a 19th-century French apothecary with an Italian-style espresso bar? There’s only one way to find out. Pop in to L'Officine Universelle Buly’s Marais store, which is partly occupied by Grand Café Tortoni. The old-fashioned styling of their perfume and skincare ranges is commercial and visual genius. It’s little wonder the brand’s popularity has exploded (they’ve even collaborated with the Louvre).

18.  Le Vin au Vert

Best for:  Mags, grower Champagne and all things Jura

Bar and caviste Le Vin au Vert is the kind of place wine geeks, er, geek out over. For the uninitiated, there are unusual and small-production grower Champagnes and lots of fun, fresh and drinkable natural wines. For the fanatics, there are Jura greats like Ganevat, a serious selection of magnums and plenty of options sans sulfites. Even better, it’s a handy stumble from the Eurostar at the Gare du Nord.

19.  Kiliwatch

Best for:  Those who don’t mind trawling the racks

Only a few vintage shops warrant mention year in and year out. Kiliwatch is one. You’ll need to dedicate at least a few hours to trawling the racks, but you might stumble on the perfect shearling aviator or one-of-a-kind sunglasses. On the cheaper end, think retro sweatshirts, lots of denim and worn-in backpacks. There’s a small ready-to-wear range, too.

After more solid recommendations?

50 unmissable attractions in Paris

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Whether you’re mad about museums, live music or shopping, our ultimate run-down of the city’s most charming spots should have you hooked.

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Paris Shopping Guide

Paris is famous for its fashion shops and trends. Where and what can you shop for in Paris? Check our list of the best shopping streets, shopping centers, shops, and markets in Paris.  

Shopping Tips

Paris is the shopping metropolis of France. Here, shopping centers, shopping streets, small boutiques and markets meet for the pleasure of shopping addicts and quality clothing lovers. Fashion is an essential part of the culture in Paris, it's even considered an art. Between freaky ideas, designer fashion, and luxury labels, you can find everything here.

Our first tip is definitely to bring  good shoes, if you will spend few hours shopping in Paris. Indeed, Paris has a very developed metro system but somehow, walking is very pleasant. The streets and even shopping malls are very well-designed, but may make you tired quickly.

Here are some places where you might walk a lot while shopping.

• The Avenue de Champs-Élysées shopping mile, the Les Galeries LaFayette shopping center and the market in Le Marais Quarter are famous.
• Luxury labels have settled in the golden triangle, the area between the streets of Avenue Montaigne, Avenue George V, and Rue François 1, which is the ultimate place for luxury shopping in Paris.
• Close to the center is the Printemps shopping center and Westfield Forum des Halles. Unique fashion is mainly sold in boutiques around Boulevard Saint-Germain and in the Le Marais district.
• The Marché des Enfants Rouges is famous for its stands, cafés, and restaurants. 

Shopping Tours in Paris

Opening hours in paris.

Shops in Paris are generally open from Monday to Saturday from 9:00 to 20:00, Sunday is a holiday. Grocery stores are open on Sundays at certain hours depending on the district. Some smaller shops close for one or two hours at lunchtime. However, the large shopping centers are usually open on Sundays. 

Weekends:  Since the easing of the store-closing law, shops in tourist areas may also open on Sundays. This affects around 3,000 shops in Paris. Especially in the well-known shopping streets such as Champs-Élysées, Rue Saint-Honoré, and in Le Marais. In these places there are many shops open on Sundays. All major shopping centers, including LaFayette, Les Halles and many more, are also open on Sundays.  

Typical Places for Shopping 

An overview of shopping streets, shopping centers, and markets

Paris is filled with good shops all over the city. However, you can distinguish  2 types of shopping places : shopping centers and shopping streets. Both have advantages and inconveniences and appeal to different kinds of people. Do you prefer to have all the shops available in one big center? Or do you like to be in the fresh air and walk-by shops on a street? 

In a shopping center, you know what is inside thanks to the mall plan at the entrance and it can be practical on a  rainy day in Paris . The shopping street are more open for surprises and  help you discover the city at the same time. To get all the good addresses, we prepared two articles for you that guide you through the shopping areas in Paris.

7 Best Shopping Streets in Paris [with Map]

10 best shopping centers in paris, souvenirs from paris.

What can I take home from Paris?

There are as many ideas of presents to bring from Paris as there are shops. Here, we prepared a list of 11 ideas of things to bring home from Paris. Check out typical Parisian clothing, food, special Parisian items and many more ideas that will make you and your loved ones very happy!

What to Buy in Paris: 11 Must-Have Souvenirs and Where to Find Them

Brands to Shop For

What brand to buy in Paris?

Paris is a wonderful paradise of French and international brands. From luxurious to average price, you can find a shop for every desire and every budget in the capital of France. There are some "must-shop in" places only available in Paris or big cities around the world. Let's take you through them.

A Few Shops to Visit in Paris

• Luxury Brands: Chanel, Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Gucci, Hermès, Versace, Balmain, Céline, YSL...
• Cosmetics:  Guerlain, Mac Cosmetics, Clarins, Esther Lauder, Chanel, Lancôme, Bourgeois, Vichy, Nuxe...
• Clothing for Women:  The Kooples, Sezane, Maje, Sandro, Comptoire des cotonniers, Isabel Marant...
• Clothing for Men:  Celio, Kenzo, Ami Paris, Armand Thiery, Bexley, Calvin Klein, Chevignon, De Fursac, Hugo Boss...
• Jewelry: Cartier, Chaumet, Tiffany&Co, Myriades, Swarow, Mauboussin, Bulgari, Breguet...
• Accessories: Chloé, Jaquemus, Chanel, Dior, Lancel, Longchamps, Louis Vuitton, Lanvin, Lancaster...
• Sports: Adidas, Nike, Magasin Fifa...
• Malls: La Fayette, BHV, Le Bon Marché, Le Printemps
• Other Stores: Disney Store, Apple Store, Marks&Spencer, Banana Republic, Ferrari Store

3 Well-Known Places for Shopping

The Largest Shopping Street. The Most Famous Shopping Center. The Most Important Market.

Avenue de Champs-Élysées

The most famous shopping street in Paris and far beyond is the Avenue de Champs-Élysées, with its luxury boutiques, flagship stores, designer labels, and small boutiques along the side streets. More than 300,000 people walk along this magnificent, almost 2-kilometer-long boulevard every day. A must-see, even if you don't plan to buy much, at least the Arc de Triomphe .

• Check the Top-Rated Arc de Triomphe Tickets compared for you here!
• Check our article on things to do on Champs-Élysées Avenue in Paris.

Les Galeries LaFayette Shopping Center 

The Les Galeries LaFayette shopping center has all types of shops, from budget shops to top-of-the-line luxury brands, over a total surface area of 70,000 m². The roof terrace of Galeries LaFayette is famous for its champagne bar called the Ice Cube Bar, which offers a magnificent view of Paris.

Marché des Enfants Rouges

The oldest market in Paris, Marché des Enfants Rouges, "Market of the Red Children", dates back to 1615. The children from the nearby orphanage used to be dressed in red, the color of charity, which gave the market its name. The lively market atmosphere and the numerous gastronomic offerings attract visitors from all over the world. The market is located in the Le Marais neighborhood and it is easy to combine a visit to the market with a visit to some sights.  

What Can I Combine with Shopping?

Paris is a capital city with about 12.5 million citizens. That is why the shopping streets, districts and centers are spread out all over the city and there are numerous pedestrian zones in Paris. This makes it easy to combine a visit to the main sights with a short shopping break.

Such examples are the Avenue de Champs-Élysées, which stretches from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe , and Rue Saint-Honoré, which extends to the Le Marais quarter with the Picasso Museum, as well as Pompidou Center and the National Museum of Modern Art . Additionally, you can visit the Parisian weekly markets.

Places to Shop Near the Sights

• Avenue de Champs-Élysées: The most famous shopping street in Paris is almost 2 kilometers long. Its location in the heart of the city center makes this magnificent boulevard the ideal place for a shopping break during a city break. If you like, you can stroll from the Arc de Triomphe along the Camps-Élysées to the Place de la Concorde. Alternatives to international brand name shops can be found in the side streets.
• Le Bon Marché:  Le Bon Marché department store is located just a few minutes' walk from the famous Saint-Germain district. Even though its name means "good business", you will find shops in the upscale range. Saint-Germain, on the other hand, with its boutiques and art galleries was a popular meeting place for artists, writers and politicians at the beginning of the 20th century, that is why it is now known as the intellectual quarter of Paris.  
• Rue de Rivoli: If you want to visit all the shops, you have to spend at least one whole day here. Rue de Rivoli stretches between the old, authentic Le Marais district and the former Palace, which is now the Louvre Museum. It's a good alternative if you want to combine shopping with sightseeing. 

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What are the normal SHOP HOURS IN PARIS?

Shops are open in Paris between 9:00 and 20:00. Supermarkets often open earlier and stay open until 20:30 at the latest. Shopping centers and fashion stores sometimes do not open until 10:00 a.m. It is always advisable to check the exact opening hours of the shops on the Internet.

Can I shop on the weekend?

Since the easing of the store-closing law, shops in tourist areas may also open on Sundays. This affects around 3,000 shops in Paris. Especially in the well-known shopping streets such as the Champs-Élysées, the Rue Saint-Honoré or in Le Marais there are many shops open on Sundays. All major shopping centers, including LaFayette, Les Halles and many more, are also open on Sundays.   

IS PAYMENT BY CARD POSSIBLE EVERYWHERE IN PARIS?

Supermarket chains, shopping centers and shops almost always accept debit and credit cards. Small cafes, restaurants and market stands sometimes do not accept cards. The question of accepting cards before ordering is therefore a recommendation in Paris.

ARE THERE ALTERNATIVE QUARTERS WITH Unique FASHION?

Unique fashion is mainly sold in the boutiques around Boulevard Saint-Germain and in the Le Marais district.

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What to Buy in Paris: 25+ Best Paris Souvenirs

From admiring the Eiffel Tower to exploring world-class art in the Louvre to buying your first croissant in a true Parisian boulangerie , there are countless wonderful things to be excited about when planning a trip to Paris–and that includes shopping for the best Paris souvenirs!

The City of Light is synonymous with fashion, art, and all things très chic , making deciding what to buy in Paris, France absolutely delightful to contemplate.

We’re lucky enough to get to visit Paris semi-regularly and hope to continue enjoying the city for the rest of our lives.

Our budget has changed a bit since our first trip to Paris in our early twenties–but our enthusiasm for both exploring the French capital and collecting trinkets to remind us of our travels there has not.

If you’re hoping to brainstorm memorable things to buy in Paris, here are some of the best options to add to your Paris shopping list!

Table of Contents

The Best Foodie Souvenirs From Paris

Decor + collectibles to buy in paris, best paris souvenirs to wear, miscellaneous things to buy in paris, inexpensive (but fun) souvenirs from paris, tips for shopping in paris, france.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

French food is rightfully famous worldwide–and when shopping for souvenirs in Paris, you can bring a small taste of it home with you!

Of all the French foods to bring home from Paris, perhaps none is as iconic as the macaron!

Delicious, beautiful, and fairly easy to transport, a gorgeous box of macarons makes for the perfect souvenir (and they make great gifts from Paris to bring back for loved ones, too!).

You can find tasty macarons all over the city, but some of the most beloved can be found at Jean-Paul Hévin, Pierre Hermé, Fauchon, or the ever-famous Ladurée (though of course, this list is far from exhaustive).

Want to bring home the skill to be able to make your own French macarons instead of just a box?

We loved this macaron baking class and can highly recommend it!

French Cookware

If you love to cook at home, there may be no better souvenir to buy in Paris than a piece of quality French cookware!

Le Creuset is an iconic option, of course, but brands like Staub, De Buyer, and Mauviel, are just a few of the many other incredible options for cookware to buy in France.

What’s a trip to Paris without sampling France’s famous wine?

While you can buy delicious French wine everywhere from a supermarket to a charming cave à vins , if you want to learn a bit about local wine before deciding what to buy, a wine-tasting class like this is a fun addition to any trip to Paris!

Technically, if you want to go hyper-local, you can even buy wine made right in Paris.

Le Clos Montmartre is the last vineyard left in Paris, and while you can’t typically tour it, you can pick up a bottle of their wine in the gift shop of the Montmartre Museum.

The grounds of the museum (which is one of the best small museums in Paris) also have a beautiful view of the small vineyard.

A French Cookbook

If you fall in love with Parisian food, consider picking up a French cookbook as a souvenir from Paris!

Learning the ins and outs of French cooking is definitely a marathon, not a sprint (as Julia Child famously showed a generation ), but for the right person, it’s definitely a challenge worth taking on.

And, where better to be inspired to start the journey than Paris?

Luxurious and delicious while still being easy to transport, artisan French chocolate definitely belongs on your list of what to buy in Paris!

French cuisine (rightfully, in my opinion) elevates cheese from a food to an entire food group–what else would you expect from a country with literally hundreds of cheeses to choose from?

From iconic options like camembert and brie to hyper-local favorites, French cheese (traditionally served as a separate course with dinner) is unforgettable.

Any Parisian fromagerie will be happy to help you pick out a few cheeses to bring home as souvenirs, and the experience of buying them will also be a delightful travel experience!

Angelina Hot Chocolate Mix

Angelina is rightfully famous for its delicious hot chocolate, and in addition to serving it in-store and to go/for takeaway, they also sell mix!

For a cozy Paris souvenir, pick up a hot chocolate mix at Angelina to bring a taste of Paris home with you to warm up on a cold winter’s day.

Does your idea of the perfect gift or souvenir run more toward home decor than anything else?

If so, these souvenirs from Paris might be right for you!

Small Antiques

There is no shortage of fun and funky antiques to go shopping for in Paris!

From perusing small antique shops to hitting up one of the many brocantes (flea markets) that visit the city, Paris is a great place to seek out vintage decor.

If something larger than your suitcase catches your eye, be sure to ask about shipping, too–many sellers are happy to help.

A Portrait from Montmartre

Having your portrait drawn in Montmartre is a classic Paris souvenir option!

While you’ll see artists of varying skill levels roaming around, for the best results, carefully choose one of the artists that are seated in Place du Tertre whose work you like.

And, of course, be sure to confirm the price beforehand!

Original Art

Hoping to bring home a memorable piece of artwork from your trip to Paris, but don’t necessarily want it to be of yourself?

You can find beautiful and unique original art all over the city, at all price points.

Montmartre, with its tradition of playing host to artists of all kinds, is a popular place to shop, though far from the only one!

In a city as famous for being fashionable as Paris is, it’s safe to say that shopping for Paris souvenirs that you can wear is an excellent choice!

Here are a few popular options.

A bit cheesy? Yes, absolutely.

… But there’s also a no more iconic souvenir from Paris than a traditional beret!

Available in all colors, qualities, and price points, virtually anyone who’s looking for one will be able to find the perfect beret for themselves (or to give as gifts) when shopping in Paris.

Easy to pack and available in infinite styles and price points, scarves are one most versatile options for mixing up your outfits in the City of Light (and they’re great to bring home, too).

French Beauty + Skincare Products

Caudalie, L’Occitane, La Roche-Posay, Yves Roche… the list of beloved French beauty and skincare brands is a mile long!

And, if you have any French products in your beauty repertoire (or want to try some out), there’s no better place to stock up than in Paris, where the availability is high and the prices (comparatively) low.

Paris has a long tradition of crafting exquisite perfume, and you can find an incredibly wide variety of beautiful scents when visiting the City of Light.

For a truly unique souvenir from Paris, you can also consider having your very own scent created!

Signing up for a perfume creation workshop can be an excellent complement to shopping for perfume in Paris, too, and teach you a lot about the work that goes into gorgeous scents.

French Clothes + Shoes

French fashion is iconic, and you can find beautiful clothes and accessories at all price points in Paris.

Luxury Goods from French Designers

From household names like Chanel and Dior to more niche labels, it’s safe to say that France does luxury fashion exceptionally well.

If you’re looking to splurge on any items by French designers soon, from clothing to shoes to bags, consider waiting and buying them in Paris!

French luxury goods are significantly cheaper in France than outside of it (and especially outside the EU).

Add in the fact that non-EU residents can get a tax rebate, and you can get amazing deals as compared to shopping at home, with the added bonus of getting to remember shopping in Paris every time you reach for your new Chanel bag.

French Jewelry

If you’re looking for luxury gifts from Paris for yourself or someone special, a timeless piece of jewelry from a famous French brand like Van Cleef & Arpels or Cartier may be just the ticket!

You don’t have to opt for luxury prices to shop for beautiful jewelry in Paris, though: the City of Light offers gorgeous pieces at all price points to those looking to splurge.

Whether you buy vintage books at a brocante or a brand new book, there’s no doubt that books are among the best things to buy in Paris!

Shakespeare & Company is the most famous English language bookstore in Paris, and visiting is a travel destination in its own right.

Books purchased here will be stamped with the store’s seal, making them an extra-special option for shopping for books in Paris.

Buying books by Lost Generation authors like Hemingway and Fitzgerald that once spent significant time in Paris is a popular option, as are books set in Paris and in France overall, but any book that catches your eye will work as a souvenir from Paris.

Other beautiful English-language bookstores in Paris include Abbey Bookshop and San Francisco Book Company.

Souvenirs from Les Bouquinistes

Les bouquinistes , the traditional Parisian booksellers that line the banks of the Seine, make for the perfect place to shop for souvenirs in Paris!

While they traditionally sell books, you’ll also find lots of vintage posters, postcards, and advertisements here, which are easy to transport and can make for delightful souvenirs.

Le Chat Noir-Themed Items

The famous Le Chat Noir club in Montmartre has gone through many iterations over the last 100+ years, but the iconic images of black cats perched against the sky have remained associated with the club throughout all of its changes!

A nod to the “shadow theater” that the original Le Chat Noir was famous for, these charming cats can be found printed on all kinds of Paris gifts and souvenirs.

If you’re a cat lover or have one in your life, Le Chat Noir-themed items might make the perfect purchase to remember your trip to Paris by!

The Little Prince-Themed Items

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s classic story is beloved all over the world, and you’ll see that reflected in things to buy in Paris!

From mugs to placemats to, of course, beautiful copies of The Little Prince , you’ll find all kinds of variations on the classic for sale throughout the city.

Looking for something small, affordable, and easy to transport that you can bring home from Paris?

These easy-to-find items might belong on your Paris shopping list!

A Model Eiffel Tower

Sure, it’s kitschy, but it’s also practically a travel right of passage to buy a small model of the Eiffel Tower on your first trip to Paris !

You can buy small versions of the tower from just about any hawker or souvenir shop in the city, often for as little as a few Euro.

We wouldn’t necessarily recommend buying a large or expensive one, but a small rendition can be a fun addition to your collection of souvenirs from Paris.

A ubiquitous souvenir choice all over the world, Paris-themed magnets are inexpensive, extremely easy to find, and very simple to pack on your way home.

There is a huge variety of magnets for sale in Paris, so if you’d like to buy one, I’d recommend waiting until you see one that really sticks out to you.

Easy to find, easy to pack, and highly visible in your day-to-day life, tea towels can make a fun option for remembering your trip to the City of Light.

What better way is there to reminisce about your vacation than to be reminded of it every time you go to make a hot drink and pull your mug from Paris out of the cabinet?

(It’s the perfect way to enjoy hot chocolate made with a mix bought from Angelina, too).

Postcards are the ultimate combination of inexpensive, easy to pack, and easily personalized, making them one of the best budget souvenirs from Paris!

They tend to run .50 to 1 Euro each, but if you’re up to spending an extra couple of Euro on top of that, consider filling a postcard out with your memories of the day right then and there.

Then, you can send it to yourself so you can relive your Paris memories as you return home.

Placemats are easy to pack and easy to find uses for at home, making them an excellent option when looking for the best souvenirs from Paris.

Though we listed them in the budget souvenirs section, really, you can find placemats in Paris at all price points, from cheap plastic ones at souvenir shops to beautifully made linen ones in boutiques.

Reusable Shopping Bags

Want to be reminded of your trip to the City of Light every time you go to the grocery store?

Pick up a couple of Paris-themed reusable bags when shopping for souvenirs in Paris!

Christmas Ornaments

Obviously, if you’re visiting Paris at Christmas and hoping to visit the Christmas markets, this is a must-buy souvenir!

You’ll find ornaments for sale year-round in Paris, though, and they make excellent small souvenirs.

We tend to pick up Christmas ornaments around the world, including on our very first trip to Paris many years ago, and it always makes us smile to unpack them once a year.

Stock up on French brands you love.

From skincare brands like Caudalie to luxury designers like Chanel and everywhere in between, one thing holds true: it’s almost always cheaper to buy French brands in France than anywhere else (especially anywhere outside the EU).

Whether you want to stock up on soap from L’Occitane, splurge on a Louis Vuitton bag, shop for clothes at Sandro, or even buy Maille mustard, France is the place to shop.

Have a plan for what to buy in Paris before you arrive.

You won’t need to stick to your plan exactly, of course–shopping spontaneously can be part of the fun of travel!

But, that being said, having a general idea of what you want to look for when shopping in Paris can help add structure to your browsing, and in some cases, help limit indecisiveness (for me, anyway!).

Always greet the shopkeeper when shopping in Paris.

When walking into a Parisian shop (or anywhere in France and throughout much of Europe), it’s considered polite to greet the person working the store.

A simple “ Bonjour, monsieur ” or “ Bonjour, madame ” as you step inside can go a long way to receiving the best customer service when shopping in Paris.

This is less of a factor when in large stores like Galeries Lafayette (though you should always greet the person behind a particular cosmetics counter you’re perusing, etc), but for small shops, it’s absolutely the best practice.

Don’t necessarily touch the merchandise.

In small boutiques, particularly in upscale areas, it’s impolite to touch the items for sale before being asked to do so.

In the USA, for example, it’s very normal for shoppers to collect an armful of clothing to haul to the dressing rooms, but this is not the norm in France (except perhaps in large department stores, though that can vary).

The shopkeeper will be happy to help you choose sizes and items, whether you’re shopping for sweaters or cheese.

Consider quality over quantity.

When deciding what to buy in Paris, less can be more.

It’s incredibly easy to end up buying more French souvenirs than expected, and ending up with more knick-knacks than you really need.

In our experience, it’s much better to buy 1-2 truly memorable souvenirs than a whole slew of less memorable ones!

Check transportation regulations where applicable.

If you’re traveling outside the EU after your trip to Paris, you’ll need to keep an eye on any import regulations–especially for food.

For the majority of these souvenirs from Paris, there is absolutely no issue with bringing them back yourself in your checked luggage.

For food items, though, be sure to double-check any necessary regulations before packing up to leave France (and for anything not allowed, well–now you have a good excuse to eat them during your trip!).

For Americans like us,  check the USDA regulations here .

Note the date of purchase on your Paris souvenirs.

Of, course, this won’t work for every item cataloged in this guide to what to buy in Paris, but where it makes sense, this sort of in-place journaling is a fun way to remember your trip.

You may find it easy to remember when and where you purchased your beautiful souvenirs from Paris now–but give it a decade or 3, and you may be very glad you noted the year of purchase with the item!

We tend to add these details to the bottom of home decor pieces or Christmas ornaments and love the tradition of it (especially now that we’re almost a decade out and counting from our first Paris trip).

Remember that you can ship things you buy in Paris back home.

If any of the things you buy in Paris are particularly fragile, heavy, or potentially regulated, it’s definitely worth at least inquiring about the cost of shipping!

Many small businesses and artisans in France are able and willing to ship their goods abroad.

… but still, leave extra space in your luggage for souvenirs from Paris!

It’s hard to imagine a trip to the City of Light that doesn’t involve at least a little bit of shopping temptation along the way, whether you’re in the market for luxury goods, affordable trinkets, or both.

It’s definitely worth leaving an extra outfit or two at home to make sure that you have enough room in your luggage to accommodate a couple of the best souvenirs from Paris on your way back!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

4 thoughts on “What to Buy in Paris: 25+ Best Paris Souvenirs”

Thank you for the information. I have a friend that will be travelling to Paris in the summer. I wanted to give her a list of a few items to bring back to me.

Hope she has a great time in Paris!

Congratulations on reaching your goals. Ranger is adorable. Thanks for the great content. I’m heading to Paris in a few days for the first time.

Thank you so much, Susan! Enjoy Paris! 🙂

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1. hermès rue du faubourg saint-honoré.

Photo by Paris Selct on Wikimedia Ccommons

practical information:

Hermès – 24 rue du faubourg saint-honoré 75008 paris, metro station: madeleine or concorde, opening hours: monday – friday 10:30am//7pm, saturday 10:30am//6:30pm, sunday 11am//6pm, 2. patrick roger chocolate shop.

Life-size chocolate Orangutan by Patrick Roger – Sourced from Wikimedia Commons

patrick roger – 91 Rue de Rennes, 75006 Paris

Metro station: rennes or saint-placide, opening hours: monday – saturday 10:30am//1:30pm and 2pm//7:30pm, 3. deyrolle.

Photo by Marc Dantan – Sourced from Deyrolle official website

deyrolle – 46 rue du bac 75007 paris

Metro station: rue du bac, opening hours: monday – saturday 10am//7pm, 4. galeries lafayette haussmann.

Photo by Benh Lieu Song- Sourced from Wikimedia Commons

galeries lafayette – 40 boulevard haussmann 75009 paris

Metro station: grands boulevards or chausée d’antin lafayette, opening hours: monday – saturday 9:30am//8:30pm, open sunday 11am//7pm.

merci – 111 Boulevard Beaumarchais, 75003 Paris

Metro station: saint-sebastien froissart, opening hours: monday – saturday 10am//8pm, 6. the broken arm.

Photo courtesy of the Broken Arm, uploaded by them

the broken arm – 12 Rue Perrée, 75003 Paris

Metro station: temple, opening hours: tuesday – saturday 11am//7pm, 7. l’appartement sézane.

Photo courtesy of Sézane – Sourced from their offcial website

l’appartement sézane – 1 Rue Saint-Fiacre, 75002 Paris

Metro station: grands boulevards, opening hours: tuesday – saturday 11am//8pm, 8. la grande epicerie, la grande epicerie – 38 rue de sevres 75007 paris, metro station: sevres-babylone or varenne, opening hours: monday – saturday 8:30am//9pm, open sunday 10am//8pm, 9. shakespeare and company.

Photo by ShadowGate on Wikimedia Commons

shakespeare and company bookstore – 37 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris

Metro station: saint-michel, opening hours: monday – saturday 10am//10pm, open sunday 12:30pm//8pm.

Photo courtesy of Fleux – Sourced from their website

fleux – 52 Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, 75004

Paris metro station: châtelet, opening hours: tuesday – sunday 10:30am//8:45pm, open monday 11am//8pm.

Planning a trip to Paris ? Get ready !

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• The best travel book : Rick Steves – Paris 2023 –  Learn more here
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Check Amazon’s best-seller list for the most popular travel accessories. We sometimes read this list just to find out what new travel products people are buying.

Jordan has been writing a Paris blog for two years and became a Discover Walks writer in early 2018. While most of our Paris writers are born and raised Parisians, Jordan is not. She is a Californian who moved to Paris in 2013. We like her different point of view when she writes - of course our tour guides are a great source of tips and inspiration in her articles. We hope you enjoy all of them.

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32 Best Things to Do in Paris, France

If it's your first visit to Paris, you'll probably want to spend some time at the world-renowned  Eiffel Tower , the Louvre (home of the "Mona Lisa") and the Notre-Dame. Don't miss out on other notable city jewels either, such as the Musée

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Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel) Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel)

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For the best photo opportunities of the Eiffel Tower, head to Place du Trocadéro. (Just expect to contend with some crowds!) – Nicola Wood, Senior Editor

Designed and constructed for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (the World's Fair), the Eiffel Tower was always meant to be a temporary structure, but it has skirted demolition twice. The first time, in 1909, the tower was kept around because of its potential as a transmission tower (an antenna was installed atop the tower). Gustav Eiffel, chief architect of the Eiffel Tower, had a variety of scientific experiments tested on the tower with the hope that any discoveries would help prolong its lifespan. One of these included a wireless transmissions test, which the tower passed with flying colors. During World War I, the Eiffel Tower's transmission capabilities enabled it to intercept communications from enemies as well as relay intel to troops on the ground. The second time the Eiffel Tower was almost destroyed was during the German occupation of France during World War II. Hitler planned to get rid of the tower, but never ended up going through with his plan.

Musée du Louvre Musée du Louvre

U.S. News Insider Tip:  The Louvre is free for all visitors on the first Friday of the month after 6 p.m. (except in July and August), and all day on Bastille Day (July 14). – Laura French  

If you only had time to visit one museum in Paris, it should undoubtedly be the Musée du Louvre. That's because the Louvre is not only widely considered to be one of the best art museums in Europe, but one of the best in the world. The museum first opened its doors in 1793 and features more than 35,000 works of art on display. Here, you can get up close to a variety of art from different time periods and cultures. The Louvre features everything from Egyptian mummy tombs to ancient Grecian sculptures (including the renowned Winged Victory of Samothrace and curvaceous Venus de Milo). There are also thousands of paintings to peruse as well. Masterpieces such as "Liberty Leading the People" by Eugene Delacroix, "The Raft of the Medusa" by Théodore Géricault and Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa," the museum's biggest star, can be found here.

Notre-Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame de Paris) Notre-Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame de Paris) free

Note that the cathedral sustained significant damage as a result of a fire on April 15, 2019. Its wooden roof and spire collapsed during the fire. The interior of the cathedral remains closed to the public until further notice. It is set to reopen in December 2024. In the meantime, visitors can peruse a new exhibit that debuted in March 2023. It's located in an underground facility in front of the cathedral, the free exhibit highlights the ongoing construction work at the site, including the expertise of the workers, as well as some remains from the fire and works of art from the cathedral. There are also free, volunteer-led informational tours around the outside of the cathedral select days of the week. Consult this online calendar to see when English tours are offered.

Like the Eiffel Tower , the Notre-Dame Cathedral is seen as a Parisian icon. Located along the picturesque River Seine , the Notre-Dame Cathedral is considered a Gothic masterpiece and is often regarded as one of the best Gothic cathedrals of its kind in the world. Construction of the famous cathedral started in the late 12th century and final touches weren't made until nearly 200 years later. Once you get an eyeful of the cathedral yourself, you'll start to understand why it took so long.

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Champs-Élysées Champs-Élysées free

Musician Joe Dassin once sang "Il y a tout ce que vous voulez aux Champs-Élysées," which translates to "There's everything you could want along the Champs-Élysées." And he's right. Paris' most famous boulevard – stretching more than a mile from the glittering obelisk at Place de la Concorde to the foot of the Arc de Triomphe – is a shopper's mecca. Along its wide, tree-lined sidewalks, you'll find such luxury stores as Louis Vuitton and Chanel rubbing elbows with less-pricey establishments like Adidas and Zara.

While the Champs-Élysées is no doubt a shopping paradise, recent travelers noticed the price tags at most stores can be pretty high. And the more affordable options are constantly swamped with people. The Champs-Élysées itself is no different. Because this is such a famous street in Paris, expect there to be crowds galore, both during the day and the nighttime. Still, many travelers enjoyed taking in the Champs-Élysées' bustling atmosphere and observing both locals and tourists come and go. Some recent visitors said a trip to the Champs-Élysées is not complete without a stop at Ladurée, the city's famous macaron shop.

Arc de Triomphe Arc de Triomphe

Situated at the western end of the Champs-Élysées , the towering Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoléon to honor the Grande Armee during the Napoleonic Wars. The arch, which is the largest of its kind in the world, is adorned with several impressive, intricately carved sculptures. Underneath the arch, travelers will find the names of the battles fought during the first French Republic and Napolean's Empire, as well as generals who fought in them. Travelers will also find the famous tomb of The Unknown Soldier. The unknown soldier currently buried there is meant to represent all the unidentified or unaccounted for soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. The flame that was lit when the soldier was laid to rest has not extinguished since it was initially lit in the 1920s, and is rekindled every night at 6:30 p.m. by a member of the armed services.

Aside from admiring the arch, visitors can climb to the top and take in the Parisian panorama. Most visitors are wowed by the immense size of the structure and recommend ascending to the top for the spectacular Paris views. Visitors caution that you'll have to wait in line to get to the top and the climb, which is made up of hundreds of stairs, can be a serious workout. Others strongly cautioned against trying to cross the roundabout to get to the Arc. Instead, take the underground tunnel near the metro that leads directly to the base of the structure.

Latin Quarter Latin Quarter free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're in the area, check out the Grand Mosquée de Paris, next to the Jardin des Plantes. It's a beautiful mosque with a hidden-away courtyard, and there's an atmospheric tearoom attached that serves Middle Eastern sweet treats. – Laura French

Architecture lovers should not miss the Latin Quarter. Also known as the 5th arrondissement, the Latin Quarter is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris. Its narrow cobblestone streets, winding whimsically through the larger city grid, recall its medieval history. Why does this densely packed neighborhood of attractions, shops and restaurants retain this unique character? It escaped Baron Haussmann's planning reform of the city, thus retaining a more ancient ambience.

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Seine River Seine River free

You won’t have much trouble finding the Seine, as it flows directly through the heart of Paris. The river is perhaps one of the most famous waterways in the world and an attraction in itself. It's also useful for more practical reasons: It flows from east to west, dividing the city into the Left Bank and the Right Bank. Knowing where you are in relation to the Seine can help you find your way around during your trip.

For tourists, the waterway mostly serves as a photo backdrop, but it is a lifeline for locals. It's a reliable water supply, a major transportation route and vital for many kinds of commerce. It has also served as a source of sustenance for many fishermen dating back to the third century. In 1991, the Seine River was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its cultural significance in both the past and the present.

Musée d'Orsay Musée d'Orsay

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free entry (when it’s also free to enter the Centre Pompidou, Musée de l'Orangerie, Musée du Rodin, Musée Picasso and several other attractions). – Laura French

Although the extensive Louvre may appear to get most of the Parisian limelight, recent travelers seem to enjoy the Musée d'Orsay more. Travelers say the museum is much more manageable than the often-overwhelming Louvre and note that there are also significantly fewer crowds here. Many visitors confidently report that you can easily get through this museum in a few hours. As for the art, travelers loved the museum's colorful collection of paintings as well as the building itself, with many calling the Belle Epoque architecture of the d'Orsay a work of art on its own.

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Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Pick up picnic provisions at a nearby farmer's market, such as Marché Raspail, to enjoy in the gardens. –  Ann Henson, Assistant Managing Editor

A warm-weather oasis that offers the simplest of pleasures, the Luxembourg Gardens provide ample green space (60 acres) for sun-soaking and people-watching, plus there are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. When the city bustle becomes too overwhelming, meander around the paths and formal gardens, or just relax with a picnic. Kids can float sailboats at the Grand Basin, ride ponies, take a spin on the merry-go-round, or catch a puppet show at the on-site Theatre des Marionnettes. Adults might delight in the on-site Musée du Luxembourg, the first French museum that was opened to the public. Though with 106 sculptures to its name, including a replica of the Statue of Liberty, the Luxembourg Gardens could easily be considered an open-air museum itself.

Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre (Sacre-Coeur) Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre (Sacre-Coeur) free

Rising high above Paris, the Sacré-Coeur (meaning "Sacred Heart") looks more like a white castle than a basilica. Towering over the eclectic neighborhood of Montmartre (once a hangout for Paris' bohemian crowd), this Roman-Byzantine, 19th-century masterpiece is easily recognized by its ornate ivory domes. As blanched as it may appear on the outside, the basilica's interior is a sight worth beholding: The ceilings glitter with France's largest mosaic, which depicts Jesus rising alongside the Virgin Mary and Joan of Arc.

You'll also likely be left in awe with the panoramic views found from atop the Sacré-Coeur's outdoor staircase. But for an even better photo-op, climb all 300 steps to the top of the dome. The dome is accessible to visitors every day from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Mass is held multiple times a day every day.

Centre Pompidou Centre Pompidou

The Centre Pompidou is one of the most visited cultural sites in Paris. But keep this in mind – and recent travelers attest to this – if you're not a fan of modern art, you probably won't enjoy this museum. The Pompidou is all modern and contemporary art (think cubist, surrealist and pop art, among others). Even its exterior is a little "out there," with its insides (piping, plumbing, elevators, escalators, etc.) exposed on the outside.

Inside the inside-out museum, you'll find one of the largest collections of modern and contemporary art in the world (more than 120,000 pieces of art are in its complete collection). The most notable attraction within is France's National Museum of Modern Art, which features works from 20th and 21st-century artists. Here, you can find big names such as Matisse, Picasso and even Andy Warhol. Also within the Centre Pompidou is additional exhibition and entertainment spaces as well as a library, rooftop restaurant and cinemas.

Jardin des Tuileries Jardin des Tuileries free

U.S. News Insider Tip: While you’re here, don’t miss Angelina, just across the street on Rue de Rivoli. This historic, belle epoque-style salon de thé opened in 1903 and serves excellent French delicacies and pastries alongside its famous, indulgently rich hot chocolate. – Laura French

Centrally located between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde, the Jardin des Tuileries is a free public garden that spans approximately 55 acres. Though it was initially designed solely for the use of the royal family and court, the park was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1991 (as part of the Banks of the Seine) and has been open to the public since the 17th century.

Sainte-Chapelle Sainte-Chapelle

Nowhere in Paris does stained-glass windows quite as well as Sainte-Chapelle. The panes – dating back to the chapel's construction in the 13th century – depict 1,113 scenes from the Old and New Testaments of the Bible in vivid color. Sainte-Chapelle, which took just seven years to build, is a treasured example of French Gothic architecture and originally held Christian artifacts acquired by Louis IX. The building underwent a rigorous restoration between 2008 and 2014 and now welcomes visitors every day of the year except Christmas Day, New Year's Day and May 1 (France's Labor Day). Admission costs 13 euros (about $14) per person ages 18 and older. Audio guides are available in English (among other languages) for an additional 3 euros (about $3.50). 

Recent travelers say the chapel is a true masterpiece and not to be missed, though some visitors did note it was smaller than they anticipated. Still, they say it's worth taking your time to have a closer look at each of the stained-glass windows, as they all tell a different story. Some travelers also recommended touring the Conciergerie next door, a palace turned prison that was erected in the 14th century. If you plan to tour both sites, consider purchasing a joint ticket for 20 euros (about $22).   

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Pantheon Pantheon

Situated in the Latin Quarter – or the 5th arrondissement – of Paris, the Panthéon is a large church and burial ground with a storied history. The structure was completed in 1790 at the start of the French Revolution, and it served as a mausoleum, a church and an art gallery throughout its early years. In 1851, scientist Leon Foucault installed the Foucault pendulum within the building to demonstrate the rotation of the Earth. The pendulum was removed and replaced a number of times, and a replica was installed in 1995 and is still in operation today. The Panthéon also contains a crypt where a number of important historians, philosophers, scientists and writers are buried, including Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Marie Curie.

Most recent travelers loved seeing the museum's noteworthy gravesites and Foucault's pendulum. They also recommended taking a dome tour for exceptional views of Paris; you’ll see the Eiffel Tower from the top, as well as many other well-known landmarks. Still, some visitors said the admission fee is too high.

Palais Garnier - Opera National de Paris Palais Garnier - Opera National de Paris

A masterpiece of architectural opulence, the Opéra Garnier – also known as the Palais Garnier – still exudes the opulence it radiated in the late 1800s. This palpable sense of intrigue and mystery that permeates the opera is due in part to its awe-inspiring Old-World interiors as well as Gaston Leroux, the author of "Phantom of the Opera," for which the Garnier served as his inspiration. Leroux claimed the phantom was indeed real, successfully incorporating real life opera occurrences (such as the chandelier falling and killing a bystander) into his fiction. The Garnier's lack of a robust historical record, as well as Leroux's writing talents, have left many wondering if there really was a dweller that lurked beneath the opera. Staff have claimed otherwise, but say with the opera's very real underground "lake" (water tank), it's easy to see how the story could be so convincing. Without Napoleon III, who was responsible for commissioning the opera, Leroux's tale may never have never come to fruition.

The best way to fully experience the Palais Garnier is by purchasing a ballet or opera ticket. Remember to book your tickets several months in advance, as performances are highly coveted. If you won't be in town for a performance or aren't up for forking over the oftentimes high price of a performance, you can explore the building's magnificent interiors on your own.

Le Marais Le Marais free

U.S. News Insider Tip: On Place des Vosges, Paris’s oldest square, you’ll find the former house of Victor Hugo, which is now a museum that’s free to enter. – Laura French

Straddling the 3rd and 4th arrondissements (districts), Le Marais is one of Paris' oldest and coolest districts – so cool, in fact, that French writer Victor Hugo (author of "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" and "Les Misérables") called it home. With all of its cobblestone streets, stately stone architecture and tucked away courtyards, it's easy to feel as if you're strolling through medieval Paris. Back in the day, Le Marais housed some notable French royalty. King Henry IV was the one responsible for the construction of the Place des Vosges, Paris' oldest square. And Louis XIV called this neighborhood home for a while until he decided to move his family and court to Versailles . Much of Le Marais also survived the destruction of the French Revolution.

Versailles Palace (Chateau de Versailles) Versailles Palace (Chateau de Versailles)

U.S. News Insider Tip: In summer, the palace hosts weekend fountain shows in the gardens, featuring music and special effects; come on a Saturday night to see the best, with grounds lit up to magical effect and a firework display at the end. – Laura French

The Château de Versailles, the sprawling palace and former seat of power, is located 10 miles southwest of Paris in Versailles. Every year, nearly 10 million travelers make the trek from Paris to bear witness to the chateau's world-famous grandeur in person. But between all of the gold figurines, dramatic frescoes and cascading crystal chandeliers you'll no doubt find in bulk throughout the chateau, you might be surprised to learn that King Louis XIV's extravagant former residence had pretty humble-ish beginnings.

Musée Rodin Musée Rodin

A hidden jewel in the city, the Musée Rodin is actually the former residence of famed 19th-century sculptor Auguste Rodin. But in the place of furniture and kitschy lawn ornaments are Rodin's emotive sculptures, including The Walking Man, The Kiss and The Thinker, among many more. In addition to the sculptures, the museum houses 8,000 of the artist's drawings in its collection – a fraction of those are on display –  as well as an area dedicated to the work of his muse and mistress, artist Camille Claudel. Visitors will also get to view pieces from the Rodin's personal art collection, including paintings by Van Gogh.

Recent travelers found Rodin's sculptures to be nothing short of stunning, and highly recommend a visit even if you don't consider yourself an art buff. Another big favorite, and for some visitors as much of a highlight as the art, were the beautiful on-site gardens. To travelers, the gardens, in combination with the museum's manageable size, created a serene and peaceful atmosphere not easily found at other top Parisian museums.

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Saint-Germain-des-Prés Saint-Germain-des-Prés free

The arts abound in Paris. Although visual art gets the most attention here, the city is also a historic literary center. Saint-Germain, in the 6th arrondissement, is known as a 19th- and 20th-century intellectual hub. Here, great writers, thinkers and artists mixed and mingled in their homes and nearby establishments. Anyone battling writer's block will want to spend an afternoon wandering its picturesque streets, stopping by famous literary cafes or enjoying one of the museums located in the neighborhood's borders.

After filling your mind at the Musée Delacroix, Musée du Luxembourg or Musée de Mineralogie, unwind at Les Deux Magots or Café de Flore. The former was visited by everyone from Ernest Hemingway, Simone de Beauvoir, James Joyce, Jean-Paul Sartre, and more recently, Julia Child. Nearby Café de Flore opened in the 1800s as well, and claims visitors from Leon Trotsky to Albert Camus to Picasso. Sartre worked from here – using the space as a historical Starbucks – while New Wave celebrities like Bridget Bardot or fashionista Karl Lagerfeld graced its seats later on, in the 1960s. There are plenty of mouthwatering pastry shops and bridge views, too. Recent visitors noted that this is a perfect neighborhood for strolling, shopping or staying – there are plenty of upscale hotels . Many of the best Paris tours also include guided walks through the neighborhood.

Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann free

Whether or not you plan to shop, the Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann department store is a sight to be seen. What started as a small novelty shop in 1893 has since grown into an approximately 750,000-square-foot megastore containing hundreds of brands, from budget-friendly options like Levi's and Carhartt to high-end labels like Prada and Cartier. And while you might be dazzled by the unending collection of fashionable goods, don’t forget to look up. The pièce de résistance of the luxury bazaar is the stunning neo-Byzantine glass dome 141 feet above the ground. There's also a glass walkway on the top floor of the building that allows the bravest of visitors to stand above all the action below. 

Several recent visitors called Galeries Lafayette the most beautiful shopping center in the world, pointing out that even if you aren't there to buy luxury products, the stunning building is a destination in itself. They also recommend going up to the roof of the complex (accessible from the eighth floor), which is open to visitors free of charge, to take in breathtaking views of the city below. From the roof, you'll be able to spot the Eiffel Tower , Sacré Cœur and Notre Dame .

Paris Catacombs (Les Catacombes de Paris) Paris Catacombs (Les Catacombes de Paris)

Not every inch of Paris is as romantic as you think – in fact, the Catacombs are downright chilling. Prior to the creation of the Catacombs in the late 18th century, Parisians buried their dead in cemeteries. But as the city continued to grow, burial grounds ran out of space, graves started to become exposed and stunk up surrounding neighborhoods. The limestone quarries located 65 feet beneath Paris eventually became the solution, providing ample and safe space for the city's deceased loved ones. It took years to move millions of bodies from all the Parisian graves.

Today, the solemn, skull-and-boned lined tunnels weave beneath the heart of the City of Love, beckoning to visitors with an interest in the departed. The catacombs stretch for miles all over the city, but visitors are only allowed to access about a mile's worth for 45 minutes at the Denfert-Rochereau (lines 4,6 and RER B) metro station. Trying to access the catacombs at any other entrance throughout the city is illegal. You'll want to wear sturdy footwear as the paths inside are full of gravel, uneven and even slippery in some sections. What's more, you'll have to descend 131 steps and climb 112 steps back up. As such, the catacombs are not wheelchair-accessible. And because of the attraction's unique nature and popularity, expect a queue.

Pere-Lachaise Cemetery (Cimetiere du Pere-Lachaise) Pere-Lachaise Cemetery (Cimetiere du Pere-Lachaise) free

A cemetery as a tourist attraction? If any city can pull it off, it's Paris. Covering nearly 110 acres of the 20th arrondissement (district), the Père-Lachaise Cemetery is considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the world. It's also Paris' largest green space. Père-Lachaise is a maze of cobblestone pathways lined with leafy, cascading trees which perfectly shade the striking 19th-century burial chambers that permeate the grounds. Aesthetics aside, Père-Lachaise is one of the world's most famous burial grounds: Everyone from Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison to Edith Piaf and Gertrude Stein can be found here. Make sure to pick up a map before you venture in, there are more than 100,000 burial plots here (exact estimates vary dramatically).

Travelers admitted the main reason they made the trek to Père-Lachaise was to visit the famous faces buried here, though after discovering the enchanting grounds, they were happy to stay and wander. Visitors found the architecture of the individual tombstones and burial chambers to be stunning, especially with the many dramatic statues included with the plots. Others particularly appreciate the overall peaceful atmosphere of Père-Lachaise. Because the cemetery is so big, visitors say it's unlikely you'll be sharing lots of space with fellow visitors or tourists at any given time.

Bateaux Mouches Bateaux Mouches

For those who want to cruise down the Seine River , hopping on one of the six Bateaux-Mouches boats is a go-to option. Just about any meal you can think of is offered as you glide along the river – or as the company puts it, Paris's "most beautiful avenue." There are also hourlong cruise-only trips, for those who want to efficiently view some of the city's most iconic sights, including Notre Dame and the Musée d'Orsay . These cruises are among the best Paris tours . Combo tickets that include a bus tour or a cabaret show are also available.

Travelers who recently took a cruise loved the views from the boat and the informational nature of the tour. Many people took a night cruise, which was frequently lauded for its romantic atmosphere. However, a few visitors expressed disappointment with meal portions and the check-in process.

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Musee de l'Orangerie Musee de l'Orangerie

An extension of Musée d'Orsay , Musée de l'Orangerie features a wide selection of impressionist and post-impressionist art. It is best known for its enlarged "Water Lilies" paintings by Claude Monet. The eight massive paintings are divided across two oval rooms that are filled with natural light from a glass roof. Monet increased the size of these paintings with the intention of fully immersing viewers in their beauty, especially after the hardships of World War I. Beyond the "Water Lilies" series, Musée de l'Orangerie houses the Jean Walter-Paul Guillaume collection, which features works by artists like Renoir, Cézanne, Picasso, Matisse and more.  

Museum visitors – especially Monet fans – said this gallery is a must-see. They were pleased to discover it was a relatively small building, meaning it can be seen fairly quickly if you short on time. The smaller space also translates to less crowds, which many museumgoers appreciated.

Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck

U.S. News Insider Tip: Walk about 10 minutes around the corner and you’ll find the Montparnasse Cemetery – a fascinating alternative to Père Lachaise , home to the burial places of artists and intellectuals, including Jean-Paul Sartre, Samuel Beckett, Guy de Maupassant and Charles Baudelaire. – Laura French

The Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck claims to have the best views in Paris – and once you reach the top, it's easy to see why. The lower deck stands more than 650 feet high and overlooks major attractions, like the Eiffel Tower , through floor-to-ceiling windows. Travel another 32 feet upward to the rooftop terrace, and you'll find panoramic vistas of the City of Lights 365 days a year. On a clear day, you can see as far as 25 miles in every direction.

Moulin Rouge Moulin Rouge

If you're looking for the famed Parisian nightlife experience, Moulin Rouge will likely fit the bill. The legendary cabaret club opened in 1889, wowing crowds with dazzling dancers, free-flowing Champagne and outrageous elements like a gigantic model elephant in the garden. With its rich history and extravagant performances, Moulin Rouge has become an important staple in the City of Lights.

On a night at the Moulin Rouge, visitors can be wined and dined while watching talented burlesque dancers adorned in feathers, rhinestones and sequins. (The costumes are known to be a bit risqué, so travelers should note that the venue may not be the most suitable for children.) While many recent travelers felt that the show was a spectacular must-see while vacationing in Paris, others felt it was overhyped and overcrowded. However, those who opted for the dinner show said the food was fantastic with top-notch service to match.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont Parc des Buttes-Chaumont free

Paris is home to many beautiful public parks, where visitors and locals alike relax in grassy squares during periods of pleasant weather. Parc de Buttes-Chaumont's 61 acres boasts this – plus a lake, a suspension bridge and walking paths – and a dark history. Its name comes from the bare hill once occupying the site. Stone was mined here, sewage dumped and even horse carcasses discarded. When Napoleon III renovated Paris in the 19th century, it was selected as a large park site, and the artificial lake created. That transformation also washed away its medieval reputation as a gallows. Known as Gibbet of Montfaucon at that time, the bodies of people executed in the city were sometimes displayed here for months on end.

If you can put that history behind you, cross the Gustave Eiffel-designed suspension bridge, or ascend the hill with the Temple de la Sybille for beautiful views of Montmartre. Inside the hillside, quarrying created a cavern. Napoleon's park builders took the opportunity to add a human-made waterfall to the 65-foot-tall space. Summer visitors will especially enjoy the misty reprieve from Paris's heat and humidity.

Conciergerie Conciergerie

Located next to Sainte-Chapelle , the Conciergerie was once a royal residence for various French leaders. At the end of the 14th century, King Charles V and the rest of the palace's inhabitants moved to new residences at the Louvre . The abandoned building was then turned into a new parliament and office space for the kingdom. However, during the French Revolution (and for many decades thereafter), the Conciergerie served as a prison compound to hold both political and common criminals. Most famously, it held Marie Antoinette, the fallen queen of France, in the weeks before she was executed by guillotine in October 1793. In the 19th century, Antoinette's cell was transformed into a chapel, and in 1914 the entire building was deemed a historic monument and opened to the public.

Recent travelers said the site is a delight for history buffs. Still, others noted that if you aren’t particularly interested in the French Revolution or Marie Antoinette, you may find the empty jail cells and barren halls a bit dull. All visitors are given a "HistoPad" (available in six languages) to help enhance their experience. The iPad allows visitors to see what the rooms would've looked like centuries ago with the help of augmented reality, 3D reconstructions and interactive functionalities.What everyone seemed to agree on was the medieval architecture, which is said to be stunning both inside and out.

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Rue de Rivoli Rue de Rivoli free

One of the most famous shopping streets in Paris, the elegant Rue de Rivoli is lined with neoclassical buildings housing designer boutiques, galleries, cafes and restaurants built into historic arcades. Named after Napoleon's victory at the Battle of Rivoli and stretching from Place de la Bastille in the east to Place de la Concorde, it's where you'll find the Louvre , the Jardin des Tuileries , Hôtel de Ville (Paris's elaborate city hall) and other attractions. It's also home to the Musée des Arts Décoratifs and the Bazar de l'Hôtel de Ville – an elaborate department store founded in 1856. Other shops range from affordable brands like Sephora, L'Occitane and Mango to high-end designer stores and local French boutiques.

Recent travelers highly recommended strolling along the street to browse its historic arcades and shops, and many were impressed by the elaborate architecture. They also enjoyed the quiet atmosphere; the street went car-free in 2020, with only pedestrians, cyclists, buses and taxis now allowed here (its former lanes have been turned into a wide bike path, so it provides a welcome respite from the city's at-times hectic traffic). Others said it was a great spot for people-watching, although some said the shops can feel a little commercial.

Bois de Vincennes Bois de Vincennes free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come in the summer to catch the Paris Jazz Festival, when the Parc Floral hosts performers from Paris and beyond. – Laura French

Used as a royal hunting ground from the 12th century, this scenic, easterly refuge is Paris's biggest park, sprawling nearly 2,500 acres (making it nearly three times larger than New York's Central Park , and slightly bigger than its westerly sister, the Bois de Boulogne). It's home to verdant woodland as well as the Parc Floral, a botanical garden with its own mini golf course and various other family-friendly attractions. You'll also find four artificial lakes in the park – boats are available to rent on the Lac Daumesnil – alongside the Parc Zoologique de Paris, several cafes and restaurants and the Château de Vincennes, a lavish former royal residence built in the medieval era.

Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen free

Set on the northern edge of Paris and home to the highest concentration of antiques dealers in the world, this famous flea market is a must for anyone looking to browse and buy vintage treasures. Spread across twelve covered markets and five streets, the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen houses everything from 17th-century furnishings to vintage jewelry, designer clothes, art, books and beyond. When your feet need a break, there are also a handful of restaurants.

At its heart is the Marché Vernaison, an eclectic mishmash of nearly a million objects, spread across nearly 100,000 square feet and selling pretty much anything you can think of. Equally unmissable is the Marché Dauphine, which sells books, vintage records, clothes and more in a huge pavilion, and the Marché Paul Bert Serpette, an upmarket spot specializing in avant-garde interior design that's seen everyone from Julia Roberts to Mick Jagger grace its floors.

Louis Vuitton Foundation Louis Vuitton Foundation

Open to the public since October 2014, the Louis Vuitton Foundation is the brainchild of the LVMH Group (which owns luxury fashion brand Louis Vuitton) and famed American architect Frank Gehry. In addition to the art gallery, Gehry also designed the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in Spain and the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles , among other renowned museums, university buildings and residences. Outfitted with curved panels of glass and smooth concrete, the foundation's daring and modern design stands out among Paris' abundance of centuries-old buildings. Inside, you'll find collections of modern and contemporary art housed in both permanent and temporary exhibits. The museum's goal is to promote art and culture on the outskirts of Paris, and it succeeds by attracting more than 1 million visitors each year. 

Though the museum is a bit off the beaten path in the Bois de Boulogne in the 16th arrondissement, visitors loved taking in the architectural wonder and its surrounding gardens, as well as the unique exhibits inside. One common criticism was that the building was a bit far from the nearest metro station (about a 15-minute walk), so keep that in mind when planning your visit.

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What to buy in paris — 25+ must buy souvenirs, gifts & best things to buy in paris.

Not only famous for its romance, elegant, quaint the French capital is also known as a great place for shopping. However, with countless diverse items from fashion clothes, cosmetics to local products, food and drinks… what should I buy in Paris as the most meaningful and valuable gift and what is Paris famous for shopping, what souvenirs to buy in Paris, what to bring home from Paris, what to buy in Paris, what to buy in Paris for gifts and where to buy cheap souvenirs in Paris? Let’s check out our Paris shopping guide with the suggested 25+ best Paris souvenirs, must buy in Paris, best things to buy in Paris, top things to buy in Paris, must buy items in Paris as well as where to buy in Paris, where to shop in Paris as below!

• Top shopping streets in Paris — 7 best, famous & main shopping streets in Paris
• Paris travel blog — The fullest Paris travel guide for first-timers
• Where to take best photos in Paris? — 17+ good spots & best places to take pictures in Paris you should know
• What to buy in France? — 25+ must-buy souvenirs, gifts & best things to buy in France
• What to know before traveling to Paris? — 13 things to know before traveling to Paris

If you are planning a trip to Paris and you still don’t know what to buy in Paris, this article is for you. Your family and relatives will definitely feel excited and happy when receiving these gifts, because they will not only feel the love you have for them, but will also have the opportunity to learn more about the cities and famous landmarks you have passed through.

Paris is famous as a “mecca” for shoppers around the world, not just the French, with leading fashion trends and seemingly endless bustling shopping boulevards. Many people think that the “city of lights” is only for expensive, lavish shopping experiences, but that is not entirely true.

Traveling to France especially Paris, is not only about exploring wonderful landscapes and enjoying delicious food, but also about shopping! Paris is the capital of Cosmetics, Fashion, Perfume, luxury items… Shopping is part of the experience of life in Paris, especially when traveling, you can save more thanks to tax refunds. Finally, this is also a good occasion to prepare wonderful gifts for your loved ones.

Cosmetics (# what to buy in paris)

Choosing to buy souvenirs in Paris for women would be great if it was cosmetic products. If you love cosmetics, then you should definitely visit some cosmetic stores in Paris. Some rare perfumes can only be purchased there, possibly some of the best souvenirs from Paris.

Branded cosmetics are always the top choice of many tourists when coming to France. As the cradle of fashionistas, the cosmetic brands here are also extremely high quality and sought after by many tourists. Cosmetic products in France are often made from nature, organic ingredients which are quite safe and suitable for use on many skin types. In particular, this is also one of the tax-free items in France, so on a trip to Paris, when shopping for cosmetics, visitors will definitely be able to buy them at a much cheaper price.

France is a world leader in cosmetics and has some of the world’s most famous beauty brands. Therefore, buying cosmetics in France is often much cheaper than in other countries, with a wide variety of choices suitable for different skin types.

Monge Pharmacy is a famous Paris brand for skin care and cosmetics with very competitive prices and many incentives for tourists, 15% tax refund. You can find there all the famous cosmetic brands such as Bioderma, Avène, La Roche-Posay, Nuxe, Darphin, Sisley… but there are also new and famous brands in Paris.

• Address and direction: 78 rue Monge, 75005 Paris, Metro 7 stop Place Monge.
• Opening hours: Monday -Saturday 8:30-20:00 and some Sundays.

Perfumes (# what to buy in paris for gifts)

France is also a country famous for its diverse perfumes. For that reason, when coming here, visitors can search for a variety of perfume brands. One more special thing, perfume is also a duty-free item in France. Therefore, when coming here, visitors can buy at cheaper prices and with better quality than other places.

Popular to luxurious perfumes from world-famous brands such as Chanel, Sephora or Gallery de Lafayette. Carrying many luxurious scents that are especially refined, this is definitely a product that visitors should shop in France in general and in Paris in particular.

If you are looking for perfume and makeup products, the perfume store opposite Monge pharmacy, Burdin, has many brands to choose from.

Fashion and accesories (# what should i buy in paris)

Defintely, fashion items and accessories are mus buy in Paris. Coming here, you can find yourself the most trendy fashion clothes from budget to luxury.

If you are looking for high-end brands, luxury fashion labels and designer shopping, there are many stores near Champs-Elysées and the “Triangle d’Or” (Golden Triangle formed by Avenue Montaigne, Avenue George V and Rue Francois), with legendary designer brands such as Chanel and Dior with top fashion brands.

Directions: Alma Marceau metro stop 9, Franklin D. Roosevelt Metro 1 and 9, George V Metro 1, Charles de Gaulle-Etoile RER A.

Rue Saint-Honoré, Rue de la Paix and Place Vendôme also have many flagship stores of famous designers, many high-end watch stores (around Vendôme, such as Rolex, Hublot, Blancpain, Boucheron , Patek Phillippe, Breguet…) as well as jewelry.

Directions: Concorde, Tuileries Metro 1, Pyramides Metro 7, 14

Leather goods (bags, wallets, belts) and jewelry (# must buy in paris)

It is the cradle of branded wallets, purses and jewelry with sophisticated, classy and beautiful designs. When coming here, brand lovers can freely choose between high-end brands. Therefore, a trip to France will be a waste if tourists do not take advantage of owning a few branded items here.

These branded items are often sold mainly in shopping malls. In addition, in large central areas, you will also easily see large stores of these brands. So, don’t miss the good opportunity when shopping in Paris is a wonderful experience for tourists with these high-quality items.

Antiques, second hand, vintage goods (# best things to buy in paris)

Although Paris’s most famous ancient place, the Louvre Des Antiquaires with countless of its antiques and jewellery shops is about to close, there are many interesting antiques worth seeing in Paris. If you have time to visit and shop, look for unique antique items only available in Paris. You can buy them at flea markets, or in many antique shops on the streets of Paris.

France is also a great country for bargain hunters! There are many places where you can find used or antique products, second-hand goods and you can find Vintage items at good prices. Second-hand stores can be found anywhere in Paris, but are more concentrated in certain areas, such as Le Marais. There are some that focus on high-end vintage products and others that sell more casual vintage items, such as Kilos stores (where you pay according to the weight of the clothes you buy).

You can also explore and find great treats in the “Brocante” and “Vide-greniers”. Brocante are flea markets (attended by professional vendors) and open-air “mess” vide-greniers (with individual vendors). These events usually take place outdoors, mainly in the spring and summer. Each town and each neighborhood organizes its own flea market, usually lasting one day and mainly on weekends.

In addition to temporary summer flea markets, there are also regular open flea markets in Paris. The most famous is the “Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen”, the largest in the world, found in 1870. You can find almost everything there, from rare and expensive antiques to trinkets . However, because the sellers are all professionals, it’s difficult to get a good deal (and you’ll need to bargain).

Transportation: Metro 4 Porte de Clingancourt or Metro 13 Garibaldi Opening hours: Friday 08:00 – 12:00, Sat-Mon 10:00 – 18:00.

Another option is the Vanves market (Puces de Vanves) and its 300 stalls, located south of the District 14, Paris. The flea market in Vanves is where you can find vintage sundries and tableware, all kinds of collectibles, old photos and some vintage clothing.

Transportation: Tram 3 stops Didot, Metro 13 stops Porte de Vanves. Opening hours: Sat-Feb 07:00 14:00.

Made in France souvenirs (# what is paris famous for shopping)

Finding souvenirs in Paris is easy: there are hundreds of shops around the tourist areas, selling the same products: the Eiffel Tower, beret hats, Parisian tote bags… but most of them are usually not made in France. That’s why Made in France souvenirs are more meaningful. There are very few stores that only focus on selling products made in France. “Paris est toujours Paris” is one of those very few rare names.

Located in one of Paris’s most beautiful covered passages, Passage Jouffroy. The shop has a wide variety of souvenirs, from traditional items related to the Eiffel Tower (but made in France!) to porcelain, clothes, umbrellas… This is the ideal place to find souvenirs concept if you don’t have a clear idea.

Location and direction: 47 Passage Jouffroy, 75009 Paris, Metro 8 Grands Boulevards. Opening hours: Daily, 11:00-19:00.

The beret is also a symbol of France, but most of the cheap berets sold in Paris are made abroad. The only brand that produces Berets in France, near the Pyrenees Mountains, is Laulhere.

Location and direction: 7 Rue la Vieuville, 75018 Paris, Metro 12 Abbesses station. Opening hours: Daily, 11:00-19:00.

Cake baking tools (# what to bring home from paris)

Known as the paradise of cakes, Paris has many cake shops with many delicious and delicate flavors. If you can’t buy cakes as gifts, think about buying baking kits and tools as gifts for your loved ones. This tool set includes many parts, can meet the needs of simple baking in the family.

Miniature model of the Eiffel Tower (# what souvenirs to buy in paris)

As a famous souvenir chosen by many tourists, the miniature Eiffel Tower model is an extremely interesting suggestion that you should not miss. Considered a symbol of the beautiful capital Paris, the Eiffel Tower is one of the famous attractions that any visitor to Paris wants to visit. If you have the opportunity to come here, look to buy this souvenir, because for sure, this will be a typical gift that you can only buy in Paris.

The city of lights of Paris is a source of inspiration for many artists, illustrators and writers. And you might enjoy taking home something of the Parisian atmosphere, through the words of some of the very famous writers who once lived there. Shakespeare & Company bookstore has a large selection of books about Paris in English. You can find them on the left hand side when you enter the bookstore.

Not only is this the easiest gift to bring back, but it is also very useful and wonderful, especially for those who love books and magazines. You can buy them at the legendary bookstore Shakespeare & Company, collect antique books at stalls along the Seine River or secondhand books in Merci.

If you want to buy books about art and pictures, go to the bookstores of famous museums such as the Louvre, Pompidou Center, Palais de Tokyo or Fondation Louis Vuitton.

Paintings at Place du Tertre (# what to buy in paris)

Place du Tertre is a square located in the Montmartre neighborhood of Paris. This place is filled with restaurants and shops, but the main reason why it attracts tourists is the presence of artists who painting here and sell unique works of art. In particular, here, if you want, you can also own your own portrait paintings done by artists to take home as souvenirs!

If you’re looking for a souvenir to bring home from your trip, buy a painting at Place du Tertre. One advantage is that during your stay in Paris, Montmartre is a destination you must definitely visit because this is the most charming and artistic neighborhood here. While walking around Montmartre, you can visit Place du Tertre. Visitors will easily see images of true artists, making money from their creative artistic activities. Buy paintings here and feel the unique culture of this beautiful capital!

Other artworks

Buying souvenirs in Paris is not difficult, but to choose an artistic gift you have to look everywhere. Paris is known as a city of art and its museums are a great place to find some artistic souvenirs.

You can also choose to buy a map of France that can be colored and very cute postcards with comic-style drawings of some of the symbols of the country and cities. One of the best travel tips when visiting Paris is to go shopping at the city’s flea markets. You can choose all kinds of gifts: luxurious vintage fashion, antique treasures and works of art that will adorn your home.

Musée D’Orsay is also a great place to shop – the souvenir shop is huge and often quieter than those in the Louvre museum, while the gifts are reasonable in quantity without being too expensive.

Scented candles

What to buy in Paris? Another interesting gift you can find is scented candles. In Paris in particular and France in general, candles have many typical scents for many different types of flowers that you certainly can’t find in other places. In today’s modern life, when bright, shimmering lights have completely replaced candles, scented candles are considered an extremely meaningful gift, contributing to creating a romantic atmosphere. Romantic, sophisticated and equally cozy for important events!

The capital of lights, Paris, is home to very good quality candles, and the designs are especially beautiful. The oldest candle manufacturer is Claude Trudon, which started selling candles in Paris in 1643. You can choose candles to suit your mood with different scents, or candles that create rainbow colors or wax candles of Marie Antoinette…

Eiffel Tower keychains (# best things to buy in paris)

Buying souvenirs in Paris that fit your budget is neither too nor too difficult if the recipient likes a symbolic gift.

Instead of riding around with a heavy metal models, grab a keychain instead. They’re cheaper, come in a variety of styles and colors, and you can easily wear it on the outside of a handbag or backpack to show off that I visited Paris!

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From dollars to euros: navigating currency exchange in paris, airbnb vs hotels – which is the better option for your next visit, the best haute couture boutiques in paris, parisian etiquette: what americans need to know, a tourist’s guide to luxury shopping in paris.

Paris, the City of Light, is synonymous with fashion and luxury. As one of the world’s premier fashion capitals, Paris offers some of the most luxurious shopping experiences to be found anywhere on the planet. From haute couture to high-end boutiques and department stores, Paris has everything a luxury shopper could want. In this article, we will explore some of the best shopping destinations for luxury goods in Paris.

Galeries Lafayette Haussmann

Located on Boulevard Haussmann, Galeries Lafayette is one of Paris’s most famous department stores. It has been a fixture in the city since 1895 and is an essential destination for anyone interested in luxury shopping. The store is home to more than 3,500 brands and has more than 70,000 square meters of retail space. Galeries Lafayette Haussmann offers a wide range of luxury goods, from high-end fashion to jewelry, accessories, and homeware.

The store’s beauty department is particularly impressive, with over 100 beauty brands available. If you are looking for the latest fragrances, skincare products, or makeup, you will find everything you need at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann.

In addition to its retail offerings, the store also has a variety of dining options, including a gourmet food hall and a rooftop restaurant with views of the city. The store’s Art Nouveau architecture is also worth a visit.

Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche

Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche is another iconic department store in Paris. It has been around since 1852 and was the first department store in the world. Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche is known for its high-end fashion offerings, including brands like Gucci, Saint Laurent, and Celine.

The store is spread over three buildings and has a vast selection of luxury goods. It is particularly well-known for its homeware and accessories departments, which feature some of the most exclusive brands in the world.

Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche also has a gourmet food hall, La Grande Épicerie de Paris, which is a paradise for foodies. The food hall has a vast selection of high-end products, including cheese, wine, and chocolate.

Printemps Haussmann

Printemps Haussmann is another famous department store on Boulevard Haussmann. It was founded in 1865 and has been a shopping destination for luxury goods ever since. The store has a wide range of products, from high-end fashion to accessories, beauty products, and homeware.

Printemps Haussmann is known for its vast shoe department, which has more than 30,000 pairs of shoes from over 250 brands. If you are a shoe lover, this is the place to be.

The store’s beauty department is also worth a visit, with more than 200 brands available. Printemps Haussmann also has several dining options, including a gourmet food hall and a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city.

Champs-Élysées

The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous streets in Paris, and it is lined with luxury boutiques and high-end stores. From Louis Vuitton to Guerlain, you will find some of the most exclusive brands in the world here.

One of the most impressive stores on the Champs-Élysées is the Louis Vuitton flagship store. The store has four floors of luxury goods, including handbags, shoes, and accessories. The store’s architecture is also impressive, with a glass façade and a central atrium that allows natural light to flood the interior.

Another must-visit boutique on the Champs-Élysées is Guerlain. The store has a vast selection of beauty products, including fragrances, skincare, and makeup, as well as a spa where you can indulge in luxurious treatments.

If you are looking for high-end fashion, you will find plenty of options on the Champs-Élysées. Stores like Dior, Chanel, and Valentino have flagship stores here, offering the latest in haute couture and ready-to-wear fashion.

Avenue Montaigne

Avenue Montaigne is another street in Paris that is famous for its luxury shopping. Located in the 8th arrondissement, Avenue Montaigne is home to some of the most exclusive boutiques in the world.

One of the most famous stores on Avenue Montaigne is the Christian Dior flagship store. The store has four floors of luxury goods, including clothing, accessories, and fragrances. The store’s architecture is also stunning, with a grand staircase and a central atrium.

Other notable boutiques on Avenue Montaigne include Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci. If you are looking for high-end jewelry, you will find plenty of options here as well, including stores like Bulgari and Van Cleef & Arpels.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a neighborhood in Paris that is known for its artistic and intellectual history. It is also a great place to go if you are looking for luxury shopping.

One of the most famous stores in Saint-Germain-des-Prés is Le Bon Marché, which we mentioned earlier. However, the neighborhood also has plenty of boutique shops that are worth exploring.

One of the most impressive boutiques in Saint-Germain-des-Prés is Hermès. The store has a beautiful façade and a luxurious interior, with a wide selection of products, including handbags, scarves, and accessories.

Other notable boutiques in the neighborhood include Cartier, which has a selection of high-end jewelry and watches, and Louboutin, which is famous for its luxury shoes.

Le Marais is a historic neighborhood in Paris that is known for its narrow streets and beautiful architecture. It is also a great place to go if you are looking for luxury shopping.

One of the most famous stores in Le Marais is Merci. The store is a unique concept that combines fashion, homeware, and accessories, with a focus on sustainable and ethical products. Merci is known for its beautiful interior and selection of exclusive brands.

Le Marais also has plenty of boutique shops that are worth exploring, including stores like Isabel Marant, A.P.C., and Maje.

Paris is a city that is synonymous with luxury and fashion, and it offers some of the most exclusive shopping experiences in the world. From iconic department stores to high-end boutiques and designer flagship stores, Paris has something to offer every luxury shopper.

Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche, and Printemps Haussmann are all iconic department stores that are worth visiting, while the Champs-Élysées, Avenue Montaigne, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and Le Marais offer a wide range of luxury boutiques and high-end stores.

Whether you are looking for fashion, accessories, beauty products, homeware, or jewelry, you will find everything you need in Paris. So why not plan a trip to the City of Light and indulge in some luxurious shopping experiences?

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The 11 Best Shopping Streets in Paris

“Shopping” is an expression we often use and actually encompasses multiple activities.

It is not only about going to a place to buy something but, above all, about going around, walking, getting to know, exploring, comparing, observing, opening our senses, and playing to be different, to dress differently, to become someone new for a while.

Even more so if they are streets that invite us to visit them both for their stores, atmosphere, environments, and unique aesthetics.

• Paris: Vallée Village Outlet Shopping Day
• Book a Fashion walking tour around Paris

Champs Élysées

The name of this avenue is not accidental. The Elysian Fields were, in Greek mythology, one of the parts of the underworld where the virtuous and the heroes went. It is a place of happiness and enjoyment, whose Christian equivalent would be heaven.

The Avenue des Champs Elysées covers almost 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) of this blessing: the pastimes. Getting carried away among shop windows becomes second nature.

The avenue is surrounded by rows of trees that provide shade and a natural frame to the urban paradise.

The Champs Elysées stretch from the Place de la Concorde to the Place Charles de Gaulle (formerly known as the Place de l’Etoile). Tourism, luxury, elegance, culture, architecture: everything is combined in its postcard beauty, day or night.

As for shopping, there is practically no brand that is not on the Avenue. They all have their own (beautiful) store, from French classics such as Louis Vuitton, Dior, or Cartier to international brands such as Nike, Adidas, Zara, and Sephora, among many others.

You can find urban clothing, elegance, luxury, watch and jewelry stores, sportswear, and perfumes… But also gastronomy, from cafes, bars, and brasseries to recharge your batteries to exclusive restaurants.

You can also appreciate the architecture and cultural vein of the Avenue. Theaters like the Rond-Point, the Marigny, or the des Champs-Élysées; galleries like the Grand and the Petit Palais; or cinemas like the UGC and the Gaumont certainly deserve mention.

• Choose your free walking tour of Paris with an English-speaking guide.

Montaigne Avenue

Continuing with the names, sometimes they correspond, and other times, not so much. Avenue Montaigne is named after Michel de Montaigne, the Renaissance writer known for creating the essay and leading a secluded life.

Curiously, it is an avenue where jewelry and haute couture boutiques converge exclusively. No asceticism, but luxury and elegance are the main attractions of this privileged capital artery.

Avenue Montaigne connects the Champs Elysées with the Pont de l’Alma. It offers the quintessential postcards of Paris as a city of fashion and light. The view of the Eiffel Tower, the stores, and the architecture is incredible.

Among the brands that can be found on the Avenue, it is worth mentioning: Vuitton, Saint Laurent, Prada, Christian Dior, Chanel, Gucci, Chloé, Céline… The quintessential street of fashion brilliance, no doubt.

• Secret places in Paris you’ll want to know

Rue Saint-Honoré

Near the Avenue Montagne and the Champs Elysées is the rue Saint-Honoré, narrower but no less splendid than the previous ones. The saying “good things come in small packages” applies perfectly to this street.

Along 2 kilometers long and about 14 meters wide, the Rue Saint-Honoré is synonymous with luxury. Great brands of perfumes, jewelry, leather goods, and haute couture follow one another in a framework of total elegance.

In addition, you can find numerous restaurants, bars, and brasseries to rest, have a drink or a snack and recharge your batteries on the promenade.

Finally, you will have the opportunity to admire many of the iconic monuments of Paris, such as the Louvre, the Comédie Française, the Palais Royal, the Place Vendôme… Light, camera, action!

It is not by chance that the famous Parisian song Ou est ma tete? (Where’s my head?) by Pink Martini starts like this: “J’ai perdu ma tête/ dans la rue St. Honoré” (I lost my head in the Rue Saint-Honoré).

And this street is not for less.

Triangle d’Or

Between Avenue George V, the Champs Elysées, and Avenue Montaigne is the famous Triangle d’Or (Golden Triangle), located in the 8th arrondissement of the French capital.

The golden triangle is so called because it shines and is worth as much as the metal that names it. The Champs Elysées and Avenue Montaigne are synonymous with exclusivity, and the Triangle reaffirms that style.

In addition to the haute couture stores, clothing, perfumes, and jewelry stores, in the Triangle area, you can appreciate the architecture and splendor of buildings like the Hôtel Fouquet’s Barrière, Place Athénée or the Artcurial, among others.

To the brands already mentioned on Avenue Montaigne and the Champs Elysées, we can add Levi’s, Hermès, Swarovski, Valentino, Nina Ricci, Fnac, H&M, Tommy Hilfiger, Versace… And the list is just beginning.

Haussmann Boulevard

The Boulevard Haussmann extends its elegance along more than 2.5 kilometers, from Avenue Friedland (near the Champs Elysées) to Boulevard Montmartre (near the Musée Grévin).

In addition to points of interest such as Marcel Proust’s house (at number 102), Boulevard Haussmann has enormous department stores for shopping.

The Printemps Haussmann is one of them, located between 64 and 70 Boulevard Haussmann. Its imposing surface area of 43,500 m² is attractive and extensive, spread over three buildings and 27 floors.

The three buildings of this store are Printemps de la Mode (of fashion: nine floors), Printemps de la Beauté et de la Maison (Beauty and Home, eleven floors), and Printemps de l’Homme (of Man, seven floors).

The Galleries Lafayette Haussmann is the other unmissable shopping spot on the Boulevard. Emblematic and monumental, these 10-story galleries form one of the largest shopping malls in the West.

Also, on the Boulevard, to alternate between shopping and resting, you can visit buildings such as the Opera Garnier and the Jacquemart-André museum or walk along its length and admire the beautiful facades.

• Visit the impressionist museums of Paris

Rue de Rivoli

Between the 3rd and 4th arrondissements and for 3 kilometers stretches the very Parisian and attractive Rue de Rivoli. This street invites you to go shopping and strolling, admire the surroundings, let yourself go, and have a drink and a snack day or night.

Picturesque, hectic, busy, glamorous, bustling, lively… There are not enough adjectives to describe the movement of the Rue de Rivoli. Stores, restaurants, bars, everything you can think of can be found there.

The street is ideal for last-minute shopping, for gifts, for free time for improvisation, or the simple pleasure of giving something as a gift. At the very least, a busy walk or a quiet coffee among the people.

Along the Rue de Rivoli, between shopping and strolling, we can enjoy views and visits to the Louvre, the Medieval Quarter of Saint Paul, the City Hall or Hotel de Ville, or a leisurely stroll through the Tuileries Gardens.

What more could you ask for?

Outfit Planner

EXTRA TIP : plan what you will take in advance so you take everything you need and do not have to make extra expenses at the destination. You can download the PDF here; the price is up to you!

Boulevad Saint Germain

On each side, trees in perfect symmetry, historic buildings, and stores of all kinds. Along three districts, more than 3 kilometers of the Boulevard Saint Germain offer an urban landscape and points of interest for all tastes.

Fashion, books, furniture, gastronomy, museums, and monuments follow one another on the Boulevard Saint Germain, from the Pont de Sully to the Pont de la Concorde.

Stores such as Louis Vuitton or Hugo Boss, and mythical cafes such as Cafe de Flore and Les Deux Magots are some of the unmissable of this glamorous Boulevard.

In addition to extending to the height of monuments and museums such as the Orsay and the Abbey Saint-Germain-des-Prés, for book lovers, there is Shakespeare&company near the Boulevard scenography of Midnight in Paris (Allen, 2011).

• READ : What to see in Paris in March

Rue du Commerce

One of the best shopping streets in Paris, a few meters from the Eiffel Tower in the Grenelle area. The rue de Commerce, or street of commerce, bears a name that is no coincidence. It is synonymous with stores, trade, supply, and demand.

From the Boulevard de Grenelle to the rue des Entrepreneurs, the rue de Commerce offers both stores for shopping and cafes with terraces to take a breath of fresh air and rest from the walk.

Among the most outstanding stores and products, everything that has to do with clothing varieties is worth mentioning. Shoes, shirts, dresses, socks, accessories, t-shirts. For all tastes and ages.

In addition to the stores and terraces, it is worth mentioning the low houses of the nineteenth century that set the street and gave it the charming touch of another time. Parisian street par excellence, allows its visitors to feel local.

Rue Vieille du Temple

Along the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, the rue Vieille-du-Temple runs through the heart of the Marais district. Ancient and narrow, its origins date back to the 13th century, and its present-day nature allows you to walk through various attractions.

It is ideal for shopping in an area whose charm lies in particular rather than the massive. It is advisable to visit it for tea time or lunch between purchases, as the cafes are charming.

In the rue Vieille du Temple we find small stores and young or independent designers coexisting with traditional fashion stores, jewelry stores, galleries, perfumeries, perfume shops, and established firms.

Also noteworthy is the curious, beautiful architecture surrounding the street. Classic buildings from the 20th century coexist with some houses from previous centuries. All around, Parisians and tourists pass by. Ideal for photos.

Rue des Rosiers

Cobblestone, pedestrian, colorful, welcoming, anachronistic, and unique, the Rue des Rosiers or Street of Rosal Trees, is located in the Marais district. Very close to the Rue Vieille du Temple, in a route that we recommend to unify.

Rue des Rosiers is located in the center of the neighborhood unofficially called “the Pletzl” (Yiddish for “little place”), the unofficial Jewish quarter. From its name, it radiates the intimate exterior character of a historic street.

It was relatively recently that this street started to become known for fashion. However, it does not only house classic stores but mainly small boutiques and minimalist showrooms.

It is worth mentioning, at this point, another peculiarity of the street. As its stores do not follow the Christian calendar but the Jewish one, the Rue des Rosiers becomes a meeting point on Sundays and Christmas.

Place Vendôme

Place Vendôme means jewelry, perfumery, fashion, gifts, books, luxury, and exclusivity. Located in the center of Paris, centered on the Vendôme column or obelisk, in the square, we can find the most famous jewelers, such as Cartier and Chanel, among others.

Square and open, surrounded by buildings typical of Parisian urbanism, Place Vendôme invites you to breathe Paris in all its splendor of fashion city.

Next to the rue Saint-Honoré, Place Vendôme offers shop windows, stained glass windows, and product exhibitions to fill our senses. It is ideal for a clear day to breathe fresh air and stroll through the various stores taking in the square and its architecture.

Plan Your Trip to Paris

• The best free walking tours of Paris
• What to take to Paris according to the weather
• The museums of the 16th arrondissement of Paris
• Secret places in Paris that you want to know

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Hi there! I’m Vero! I’ve always loved traveling! I have been living in France since 2018. And traveling around this awesome country. I love road trips and traveling by van, and also, some comfy getaways :) Check out: Touristear.com

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Home > Paris Itineraries > Paris Chocolate Tour (with 10 of the Best Chocolate Shops in Paris!)

Paris Chocolate Tour (with 10 of the Best Chocolate Shops in Paris!)

Best chocolate in paris.

From a Mayan royal drink to a 20th-century luxury product, the cocoa bean has come a long way to find its second home in Europe!

Although Switzerland and Belgium are best known for their famous chocolate brands, there’s no denying that some of the world’s best chocolatiers are found in France. Bayonne is the capital of chocolate in France, but as one of the world’s great culinary capitals, Paris also has many magnificent chocolate shops worth exploring.

Learn about chocolate in Paris and France and taste the finest chocolate in town during this self-guided Paris chocolate tour in the Le Marais neighborhood .

Workshops and guided chocolate tours in Paris

• Buy your ticket to the Musée du Chocolat (Choco-Story Paris)
• 45-minute chocolate-making workshop at Choco-Story Paris
• Pure chocolate guided walking tour in Paris
• Saint-Germain-des-Près chocolate and pastry walking tour
• Private wine and chocolate wine experience

The Little History of Chocolate in Paris and France

Brought to Spain by Hernan Cortés in 1524, cocoa beans remained under the Habsbourg’s hands until the beginning of the XVIIth century.

In France, chocolate arrived in the luggage of Anne of Austria , daughter of Philip III of Spain, who left her homeland to marry King Louis XIII of France. Simply, Anne and her Court were not ready to renounce their favorite drink!

The taste for chocolate only spread in the Royal Court at the King’s death, at the beginning of Anne of Austria’s regency in 1643. Chocolate, as an imported material, remained a luxury product for a long time, a very rare commodity unknown in the provinces.

Under Louis XIV’s reign, the popularity of drinking chocolate spread to Versailles mainly thanks to his wife, Marie-Thérèse of Austria , also born in Spain. She was a total chocolate fan and used to drink 4 to 5 cups of chocolate daily!

King Louis XIV was not a chocolate amateur, which did not prevent him from ordering the cultivation of beans in the French Antilles. The first official French shipment of cocoa beans arrived in Brest in 1679.

Chocolate’s fame subsequently spread beyond the avant-garde streets of Paris to the rest of France, and it became the beverage of choice for the French upper classes.

In 1770, Marie-Antoinette arrived in Versailles with her chocolate maker, who later received the title of “Chocolatier de la Reine.” Queen Marie-Antoinette liked to drink hot chocolate with a bit of brioche right after waking up and before the toilette. The Queen’s chocolate maker invented new recipes that were softer and more digestible than what was available at the time, mixing chocolate with orange blossoms or sweet almonds. But what Marie-Antoinettte preferred above all was simplicity: chocolate with sugar and vanilla.

It was only in the XIXth century, with the appearance of large factories, that chocolate was democratized, and people began to consume it in the form of bars.

Self-Guided Chocolate Tour in Paris Le Marais

Click here to view this map on Google My Maps

Where to buy chocolate in Paris? This Paris chocolate walking tour is a gentle two-hour stroll through the Le Marais neighborhood, with its beautiful galleries, historical private mansions, and secluded gardens. Not only will you taste the best chocolates in Paris, but every shop you’ll visit is an attraction in itself!

The closest metro stops to the starting point are Oberkampf (lines 5 and 9) and Filles du Calvaire (line 8)

GOOD TO KNOW:

• In France, you need a minimum of 32% cocoa beans to be called chocolate
• With more than 90 gr per person per year, France is one of the biggest chocolate consumers in Europe
• Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) concentrates 60% of the chocolate’s worldwide production
• In Africa, more than 500,000 children work on chocolate. They touch 1 USD per day for their work.

1. Chocolaterie Jacques Genin

Jacques Genin is one of the best artisan chocolatiers in Paris. His chocolate shop in the heart of Le Marais offers a very warm decor with exposed beams, wood floors, and leather armchairs.

Enjoy some of the chocolates prepared by the supplier of the greatest Parisian palaces and restaurants: caramels, nougats, marrons glacés, and more. 

Address: 133 Rue de Turenne, Paris 3

2. La Maison du Chocolat

Founded in Paris by chocolate maker Robert Linxe in 1977, the Maison du Chocolat  shares with the world its love of confectionery and quest for perfection. Now headed by acclaimed Nicolas Cloiseau – Meilleur Ouvrier de France Chocolatier – his team of chocolatiers only uses the best ingredients to create their ganache, pralines, and other treats.

The Maison du Chocolat is well-known for its delicious éclairs: beautiful, delicious, and not expensive.

Address: 14 Rue de Bretagne, Paris 3 (but they have other shops in Paris)

3. Jean-Paul Hévin

Jean-Paul Hévin is one of the best French chocolate makers. He has a long list of awards, including the title of Meilleur Ouvrier de France in pastries and confectionery.

His Chocolate Bar(re) shop in Le Marais is like walking into a fine jewelry shop, a place dedicated to the cacao Grand Cru. Discover chocolate in tabs, macarons, and pastries of all kinds!

Address: 41 Rue de Bretagne, Paris 3 (but he has other shops in Paris)

4. Chez Mary

Chez Mary , by Mary Quarta, is best known as an ice cream shop. The ice cream is all homemade, prepared directly in the back shop, and only with the best products. And Mary knows how to do it! In 2008, she even won the “cono d’oro,” first prize in an Italian ice cream competition, beating all the big names in the profession.

Apart from her delicious ice cream, which I recommend, Mary has a special place in this list of the best chocolate shops in Paris for her delicious hot chocolate. After the order, it takes her around 10 minutes to come back with your glass of hot chocolate, which can only be a synonym for good quality! She prepares it in the back shop in a simple and artisanal way.

Address: Mary Gelato – Pastrelli – 60 Rue du Temple, Paris 3

5. A La Mère de Famille

This is the oldest chocolate shop in Paris, opening at 35 Rue Faubourg Montmartre in 1761! Since then, A La Mère de Famille has opened other shops in Paris, and its products are also available online.

Among the house specialties, don’t miss the famous praline rocks, the Folies de l’Écureuil, the chocolate to spread, and the Florentins.

Address: 23 Rue Rambuteau, Paris 4 (but they have other shops in Paris)

6. Chocolats François Pralus

The Maison Pralus was founded in Roanne, where Auguste Pralus opened a patisserie in 1948. Actually, he was the inventor of the brioche au pink praline so typical today in Roanne and Lyon!

When he retired, his son François took over the family business, created the chocolate factory, and established a network of stores to sell his range of chocolates and the famous brioche au praline.

François Pralus is one of the few chocolate makers who grows and roasts his own beans to make chocolate from the grown-ups. He also works with the best cocoa beans in the world, so all you have to do is choose a destination for a journey full of flavors.

When you visit François Pralus’ shop, don’t miss his flagship products: the Praluline ©, the Tropical Pyramid, and the Barre Infernale. No spoilers here; you need to try them!

Address: 35 Rue Rambuteau, Paris 4

7. Jadis et Gourmande

Jadis et Gourmande is one of the local’s favorite chocolate shops in Paris, offering delicious and beautiful designs at reasonable prices. The products created by its team of chocolatiers are distinguished by their originality and particularity. Jadis et Gourmande also specializes in custom-made chocolate designs that you can order for special occasions.

In their pretty shops with red façades, there’s also a fountain of hot chocolate, ideal for a quick stop when it is too cold. Yum!

Address: 39 Rue des Archives, Paris 4

8. Patrick Roger

Patrick Roger is a rockstar in the chocolate world who needs no introduction. His striking, atmospheric chocolate shops in Paris offer a glimpse into the imagination of their creator. 

Each Patrick Roger boutique has its own theme and given that this particular address is in the “gay area” of Le Marais, you may spot a few details worked into the design.

Indulge in a box of delicious chocolates made with cocoa beans meticulously sourced by Patrick Roger himself. And because wine is never far from chocolate, Patrick Roger also owns a small vineyard in the Corbières region that you can buy in the same shop to create perfect wine and chocolate pairings.

Address: 43 Rue des Archives, Paris 4

9. Pierre Hermé

Pierre Hermé ’s chocolate shop in Le Marais is like a little gem where you are invited to indulge yourself. Pierre Hermé is curious about everything, and everything inspires him. But Japan has a special place in his heart, so it’s not unusual to find unexpected mixes, shapes, or flavors that are an ode to the Japanese culture.

Welcome to a gourmet journey where macaron boxes, cakes, and chocolates are at the heart of your desires.

Address: 18 Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, Paris 3 (but he has other shops in Paris)

10. Maison Georges Larnicol

Born and raised in Brittany, Georges Larnicol (Meilleur Ouvrier de France – Pâtissier in 1993) is best known for its chocolate sculptures and some of its flagship products like the Kouignette (c) and the Boule à Jojo (c)

Its beautiful chocolate shop in Le Marais is worth a deep exploration. It offers a wonderful selection of chocolates, macarons, fudges, candies, and cakes. Of course, the cakes and sweets from Brittany also have a special place at Georges Larnicol!

Address: 14 Rue de Rivoli, Paris 4

And there you have it, a self-guided chocolate tour in Paris to explore some of the best chocolate shops in Paris. Along this walking tour, you will also pass by Pierre Marcolini – Bruxelles (5 Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie) and Elisabeth Chocolatier Belge (22 Rue Vieille du Temple) in case you also want to try Belgian chocolate.

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Quirky parisian explorers with a preference for lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about us ., we’re elisa, norbert, valérie, and cédric, four travel bloggers and friends living in paris. quirky explorers with a preference for the local side of our city and its lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & our best tips learn more about us.

What to Wear in Paris: Packing List (2024 Update)

Europe Packing List , Packing Lists , Travel Packing Lists

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Wondering what to wear in Paris? Need inspiration for a Paris outfit? This packing list will help you plan for your dream trip. With a stylish Parisian capsule wardrobe, you won’t look out of place with these tips!

What to Pack for Paris

Table of contents.

We want you to have a stress-free travel experience, and the main goal of this article is to help you plan your packing choices in an efficient way so you won’t be unprepared for your trip and know how to dress in Paris.

You’ll find insight on general Parisian attire, in addition to visual examples of the type of clothing you might want to wear based on the weather and how to build a Paris wardrobe.

As a bonus, you will also learn some general travel tips including safety precautions such as using anti-theft products like this that  can help you feel less stressed during your travels.

Please use the visuals in this post as a guideline to help you create Paris outfits and choose corresponding items based on your own style and clothing preferences.

Travelon Anti-theft Signature 3 Compartment Crossbody Bag  | Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack

What do people wear in Paris?

When considering how to dress in Paris, it is important to remember that the city style is tailored and chic, yet conservative with an edge. Parisians love neutral colors and adhere to the “No more than 3 colors” rule.

To avoid standing out as a tourist on the Parisian streets, avoid items like original UGG boots, clunky tennis shoes, flip flops, and baggy sweatpants. Paris clothes look presentable at all times; your goal is to maintain a comfortable look, while exuding femininity and edge.

These are some popular shoes for Paris !

As with most destinations, practical sense applies and choosing clothing based on the weather should always be a priority over fashion. 

In general, Paris everyday fashion is more dressy than American style. This DOES NOT mean business clothing. For Paris clothing styles, think dressy top (or the type of top you’d wear to work) plus nice jeans (dark colors are always a good choice). In general, relaxed but polished pants are seen everywhere, specifically wide leg pants or wide leg jeans , or opt for comfortable jeans to complete your Paris attire.

When choosing Paris outfits for girls and women, leave the beachwear on the beach because it doesn’t translate well to streetwear in the city. The same goes for gym wear; unless you’re actually headed to the gym, don’t dress in your gym attire as the locals will instantly recognize you as a tourist for the lack of effort that has been put into your wardrobe.

Eddie Bauer Girl On The Go Trench Coat (Plus)  |  Cole Haan Hooded Coat with Detatchable Faux Fur Trim

What should I wear in Paris?

The most important factors in planning and packing for Paris are the activities you’ll be doing on your trip AND the weather.

Always, always, always check the weather forecast before your trip. What to wear in Paris now could be different a week later. Nothing will ruin your trip faster than being unprepared with the wrong clothing for the weather. Paris summer fashion is very different than winter fashion.

Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a capsule travel wardrobe , which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of  packing cubes  to compress your clothing.

Vionic Uptown Hybrid Penny Loafer  |  Sorel Joan Now Chelsea Boots

What are the best shoes for Paris?

One unexpected issue that many travelers discover once they get to Europe are the cobblestone streets.

While great to look at, stone streets aren’t always the easiest to walk on and can make for sore feet even if you don’t normally have discomfort. Depending on the city, these streets can also be hilly, slippery when wet, and uneven.

White sneakers and sneakers in general are being seen everywhere, as are chunkier heeled boots and chunky loafers. Something with a more sturdy, thicker heel would be good for the cobblestones.

  Veja Recife Logo Sneakers |  Vionic Copal Kirra Sandals

In addition, we all love to dress up, but avoid heels because they’ll leave you feeling uncomfortable. Opt for wedges if you must bring a heel. Do include one pair of shoes and one outfit that can be worn for dining out or experiencing the local nightlife.

As with your clothes, plan your shoes based on the weather and your planned activities. Choose no more than two to three pairs of shoe in neutral colors that can mix and match with all your clothing.

Make sure your sightseeing shoes are broken in properly. Opt for a pair that is comfortable and you can wear it for hours without discomfort.

Popular shoe options include (click each item below for suggested styles):

• Ankle Boots for spring and autumn
• Ballet Flats to dress up or for warm weather
• Waterproof Boots for rain and snow
• Comfortable Sightseeing shoes for year round visits
• Cute Comfortable Summer Sandals

Read this post about the how to choose the best walking shoes for Europe .

Below you’ll find helpful seasonal clothing tips and suggested packing lists that you can use as a guideline to prepare for a trip to Paris:

Longsleeve | Tee | Shirt | Cardigan | Pants |  Dress  | Trench Coat | Jeans | Bag | Scarf | Boots | Shoes

What to Wear in Paris in Spring (March, April, May)?

Spring in Paris is always unpredictable, so be prepared for anything and pack an item for all the elements. Always check the weather before you travel. What to wear in Paris in March may still reflect winter styles, as will what to wear in Paris  in April. Paris May weather is when it finally starts to warm up. 

If you’re wondering what to wear in Paris in May, bring a mixture of styles for warm and cool days.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for spring travel:

• How to Pack for Trips with Mixed Weather
• How to Layer a Summer Dress for Spring
• How to Pack for Europe in Spring
• Best Shoes for Traveling in Spring and Fall

Shop Sizes XXS-3X: J.Crew Perfect Fit Longsleeve Crewneck T-Shirt

Tops for Spring

Readers say that the weather in spring can from the 50 to 70 °F, so the key is to layer, layer, layer! Because in the morning it can be a bit chilly, but turn warm in the afternoon, and also, the occasional rain shower is possible without notice, too.

Opt for l ong sleeve tops or t-shirts because they’re great to mix and match with your bottoms and they can be layered with a sweater or cardigan. A reader fave is the J. Crew long sleeve tee . It’s versatile to dress up or down, and ideal for layering!

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Spanx Low Maintenance Silk Button Down

Since Paris is the city of classic tailoring, a functional white button shirt is chic, and also layer-able. This Spanx low maintenance silk shirt is made from Bombay and is able to be washed with no problem! 

Shop Sizes XXXS-3X: J.Crew Cashmere Patch-Pocket Cardigan Sweater

Add a cardigan sweater or a pullover sweater to layer up your outfits and remove them and tuck them in your day bag if you get too hot during a day of sightseeing. 

Read these tips on how to pack for transitional weather .

Shop Sizes 6-18: Kut from the Kloth Meg Fab Ab High Waist Ankle Wide Leg Jeans

Bottoms for Spring

Remember to choose your travel pants based on the sightseeing  you have planned. Overall, wide leg pants or jeans are seen on the streets of Paris, so choose a comfy pair that are breathable and durable. 

The KUT From the Kloth soft and stretchy and even has a bit of ab compression for sleek styling! Plus, they are super stylish.

Shop Sizes 00-26: Athleta Brooklyn Mid Rise Ankle Pants

If you want something a bit slimmer and chicer, still remember to invest in pants that are functional.

The Athleta Brooklyn ankle pants are an elevated take on a classic jogger, with a more tailored fit and sleek fabric. But these pants are perfect for any traveler: they’re lightweight and breathable!

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince Comfort Stretch Trench Coat

Jackets for Spring

While some days can be sunny and moderately warm, springtime in Paris still has rain showers. So, aim for a waterproof rain jacket or one that’s at least water resistant. In fact, the most popular type to wear in the city of romance is a trench coat .

Quince water resistant trench has classic styling with all the modern details, and can keep the rain away. Users say it’s super comfortable and the fabric stretches and doesn’t constrict, plus it looks so sleek! 

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Orvis Pack-And-Go Jacket

If you want a jacket that isn’t a trench, a lightweight, packable rain jacket is perfect for Paris spring weather. 

TFG readers love this jacket by Orvis. You can tighten it at the waist for a more fitted look or you can wear it more cinched and still be able to add plenty of layers underneath. This is great for when temperatures start to dip a little lower than expected and the material will dry fast for the next thing you have on your agenda. Even if you take a rain jacket, still pack a travel umbrella , as it’ll keep you extra dry.

Find out why ankle boots are perfect for Europe in Spring!

Shop Sizes 1X-4X: Caslon Tie Front Cotton Gauze Maxi Dress

Dresses for Spring

Maxi dresses are perfect to wear under a light jacket on warmer days. Opt for a dress in figure-flattering black. Parisians love neutral colors, especially wearing black, so try to produce a capsule wardrobe in black, to which you can add a touch of color with your accessories (your scarf, belts, or handbag.)

And if you want to feel a little more French, pack your prettiest undergarments into your wardrobe. It will leave you feeling glamorous!

Be prepared for anything with these stylish travel raincoats for women !

Blondo Dakota Waterproof Bootie

What shoes should I wear in Paris in spring?

Since showers are possible, wearing waterproof shoes is recommended but don’t buy ones made of rubber; instead choose leather ankle boots , which are the best shoe option for travel to Europe in spring. 

The Blondo Dakota waterproof ankle boots repel rain (and even splash from puddles), have a lot of support, and look chic with long skirts or dresses .

Sorel ONA 503 Everyday Low Shoes

Cute sneakers have been spotted on numerous women in Paris, so if you go for one, choose something chic but waterproof (in case of rain). The Sorel ONA waterproof sneakers are fashion forward, sleek looking, comfortable and will keep your feet dry while out and about.

Readers have also packed the Vessi waterproof sneakers and the On Cloud waterproof sneakers for spring in Paris, too!

While not recommended for all day sightseeing, ballet flats are also a good option should you want a dressier pair of shoes on your trip for warmer days or evenings. 

Paris Packing List for Spring

• Two short sleeve tops
• Two long sleeve tops
• Two additional tops
• One pair of blue jeans
• One pair of black ponte pants
• One additional bottom
• One rain or winter jacket
• One warm layer
• Thermals (if very cold)
• Three socks
• Ten underwear
• One versatile sleep set
• Waterproof ankle boots (sightseeing)
• Sneakers or Slip on sneakers (sightseeing)
• Ballet flat (dressing up)
• Wedges : (optional)

Blouse |  Shirt | Tank | Jacket | Pants | Skirt | Shorts | Dress | Crossbody | Hat | Sandals | Sneaker

What to Wear in Paris in Summer (June, July, August)?

Paris in the summertime can get very hot, but the weather is unpredictable and it can turn chilly. What to wear in Paris in June will definitely differ from July and August. The hottest time of day is mid to late afternoon. Check the weather and bring a light jacket if you need to.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for summer travel:

• Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
• Top Summer Dresses Perfect for Europe
• Lightweight Jackets for Easy Layers
• Best Walking Shoes for Europe’s Cobblestone Streets

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince 100% European Linen Tank

Tops for Summer

While a nice black tee is great for June, when it does get a bit hotter in July and August, fabrics like linen, cotton, and rayon will keep you cooled off and are breathable as temperatures rise. Summers in Europe have become hotter and hotter! 

This Quince European linen tank is soft, airy, and versatile enough to go with anything!

Shop Sizes XS-XL Loveappella Faux Wrap Top

To add a bit of Parisian style, choose more elevated, but breathable tops. This timeless Loveappella faux wrap top is light enough for day excursions and can be dressed up for evenings out.  You could also add merino wool t-shirts and tank tops as great basics.

Shop Anthropologie: Sizes 23-34 (Regular, Tall, & Petite) | 16W-26W Plus

Bottoms for Summer

The best travel pants for Paris ought to be lightweight and durable enough to handle sightseeing and more elegant outings at night. Wide leg pants are on trend, and readers adore the Anthropologie Colette wide leg pants feel just as lovely as they look, made from a dreamy linen blend that’s both elegant and comfortable. The cropped, wide leg design is modern and flattering, too.

Shop Sizes XXS-3X J.Crew Gwyneth Slip Skirt

Readers also highly suggest linen pants for Paris because they’re practical for the weather and effortlessly elevated. But also, add in maxi or mid skirts to your packing list. 

The J .Crew Gwyneth slip skirt is chic, but versatile enough to go with fashion sneakers or sandals .

Sizes XXS-XL: Carve Designs Macy Dress

Dresses or Jumpsuits for Summer

Bring out your dresses–they will be airy and elegant  in Paris during this season! Cotton, rayon, and linen are the most comfortable in the heat. Add a belt for a feminine, polished fit. If you prefer maxi dresses or midi dresses , those all work and are a matter of style and preference.

Take, the Carve Macy dress ! It’s breathable at 100% rayon, very light, yet has a cute tie belt to add more polish. 

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince 100% European Linen Button Front Dress

One reader swears by the Quince washable silk maxi dress as something she wore constantly in Paris. And because it’s easy to clean, it will also make it a breeze to travel with! 

If you don’t want to wear silk or rayon, linen dresses is truly the best choice for the heat, which is why TFGs also recommend the Quince Linen Button Front dress is one of the most popular picks.

Shop Sizes 0-16: Athleta Brooklyn Heights Wide Leg Jumpsuit

And, of course, don’t discount rompers or jumpsuits . They make instant outfits, and if you’re choosing the right fabrics, you won’t overheat. Stick to technical fabrics, cotton, or linen.

The newest fave is the Athleta Brooklyn wide leg jumpsuit , which can be dressed up with white sneakers or comfy walking sandals and is very breathable, moisture wicking, quick drying, and has UPF 50.  

Shop Sizes XXXS-3X: J.Crew New Classic Denim Jacket

Jackets for Summer

To ensure you are prepared for unpredictable weather, don’t forget a light summer jacket or compact umbrella. Save museums for rainy days to make the most out of your trip.

A jean jacket is a timeless option that goes with everything and is the perfect weight for summer nights. The J. Crew classic denim jacket is high quality and tailored to perfection, with a stylishly relaxed fit.  

Shop Sizes XXS-2X: Tommy Bahama Two Palms Linen Raw-Edge Jacket

Readers love linen blazers and linen jackets for their Parisian summer travels, as they offer coverage and a bit of warmth without feeling too hot. 

Tommy Bahama’s gorgeous linen jacket is super popular and features stylish raw edges, a comfy, lightweight feel, and a polished fit. 

Lastly, accessorize with sunglasses, a summer scarf, and jewelry–subtle yet stylish–to give you a touch of color. Choose minimalist jewelry (not too expensive or flashy) that reflects your own individuality and sense of style. Less is more.

Aetrex Jess Orthopedic Adjustable Quarter Strap Sandals

What shoes should I wear in Paris in summer?

Pack a pair of comfortable summer sandals or canvas sneakers for all-day sightseeing and a pair of open-toe heeled wedges for a fancy night out. Note that locals don’t appreciate flip-flops being worn anywhere but seaside.

In summer, many events are outside as many venues have gardens and al fresco spaces with evening cocktail parties and happy hours. These are the best times to wear your favorite cocktail dress and enjoy the summer breeze.

SOUL Naturalizer Turner Platform Slip On Fashion Sneaker

A Paris summer calls for slip on sneakers , because they’re a little less formal, but still polished enough to go with pocket dresses or long shorts . 

The SOUL Naturalizer Turner slip ons have custhioning, style, and a chic side zip that makes them easy to wear, plus they come in a variety of sizes, such as narrow, wide, and extra wide.

Ballet flats are also a good option should you want a dressier pair of shoes on your trip for warmer days or evenings.  

This is a selection of the best sandals for travel in summer – our top recommendation for a summer trip to Paris!

Paris Packing List for Summer

• Three short sleeve and/or sleeveless tops
• One ¾ sleeve top
• One additional top
• Two bottoms
• One maxi dress
• Two summer dresses
• One light rain jacket
• One light layer
• Comfortable sandals (sightseeing)

Tee  | Sweater 1 | Sweater 2 | Jacket |  Pants | Dress | Rain Jacket | Jeans | Scarf | Bag  | Loafer | Boot

What to Wear in Paris in Fall (September, October, November)?

In autumn, the weather is cool and Paris is beautiful. If you’re wondering what to wear in Paris in September, bring a few summer clothes for leftover summer weather. Autumn colors create a picturesque setting; however, as in spring, the seasons are unpredictable.

For what to wear in Paris in October, take advantage of grey skies and pack a vivid pink or red coat for a beautiful picture in front of the Eiffel Tower!

Start by reading these general tips on packing for autumn travel:

• How to Layer Clothes
• Use a Summer Dress to Pack Light in Fall

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Wool& Morgan V-Neck Tee

Tops for Fall 

Thought the weather starts to cool down in the fall in Paris, there are warm moments in September when you can still wear a tee. The key is to layer with a cardigan or a sweater, especially at night when the temperature can drop. A good balance of warmth and breathability is this Wool& Morgan v-neck t-shirt . It won’t retain odors and it will add a bit more heat to your core, while also being moisture wicking.

Shop Sizes XXS-XXXL: Everlane The Cashmere Classic Crew Sweater

You can pair your tees with a cute cashmere sweater , like this Classic Cashmere from Everlane. Put it over a tee, or wear it solo or just stow it in your backpack and take it out if the weather turns colder.  

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Spanx The Perfect Pant in Wide Leg

Bottoms for Fall

Fall in Paris means shorter days are coming, so it’s best to be prepared by going for a longer length pant, which will look fabulous with ankle boots or chunky sneakers.

The Spanx Perfect wide leg pants are made of a stretch ponte fabric and are pull on, so super easy to wear on flights or when out. If you want a more casual look, the Spanx AirEssentials wide leg pants are equally popular, or if you want to go more glam the Spanx faux leather leggings always stand out but are uber comfy. 

Shop Quince: Sizes  XS-XL | 1X-3X

Ponte pants are really great for fall in Paris because they can adapt to the weather and look polished or look fab dressed casually, too!

The Quince Ultra-Strech ponte straigh leg pants are recommended by readers as a perfect catch-all pair that can take you from a flight to the Louvre without fuss and you’ll arrive in a comfy style. Check out Quince’s whole category of ponte pants, as they have different types (flare to wide leg) to suit anyone’s personality.

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Wool& Fiona Fit and Flare

Dresses for Fall

Can you wear dresses in the fall in Paris? Of course! Stick to something that you can layer. Long sleeve dresse s can cover the arms, but short sleeve is also great for when there are warm spots to a sightseeing day. The Wool& Fiona dress is made of merino wool and can handle both cold or warm weather changes, and it’s so versatile to wear with boots or sneakers!  

To cover your legs, tights or stockings are ideal to wear underneath dresses. They provide some protection from the elements and modesty in the Parisian streets.

Shop Sizes S-XL: Fraiche by J Tie Waist Long Sleeve Jumpsuit

Pant jumpsuits are feminine and chic. Pair them with a travel blazer or a trench coat for an extra touch of sophistication. We love this Fraiche by J long sleeve jumpsuit for its versatility and soft texture. 

Pack one or two basic tees and long sleeve tops to create layers to mix and match your outfits. And finally, your scarves can add a pop of color to an otherwise neutral wardrobe.

Shop Sizes XS-L: Blanknyc Faux Leather Moto Jacket

Jackets for Fall

Parisians love wearing leather, so use the autumn season to make faux leather your base. It’s not only waterproof, but warm, so you will have added protection from the chill. Consider adding a well-fitted, not boxy faux leather jacket to your wardrobe. 

The BlankNYC faux leather jacket pictured here would look fab with comfortable jeans or pants. And you could top off the look with trendy combat boots (but make sure those boots are comfortable).

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Cole Haan Packable Hooded Rain Jacket

Once October hits, it can definitely rain in Paris then, so having a raincoat on hand is probably wise. This Cole Haan hooded packable rain jacket can be stored in your bag and brought out if it starts to drizzle. It literally packs into a pocket!

If you think you can’t pack light with leather clothing, check out my post on How to Pack for Europe’s Budget Airlines , where I squeezed in my leather and still flew carryon only!

Naturalizer Rena Knee High Riding Boot

What shoes should I wear in Paris in fall?

Readers on the ground report that long boots are alive and well in Paris. Knee high boots can add elegance to a dress or slim pants. 

The Naturalizer Rena tall boot is ideal for anyone who needs extra room in the calf area—with a 13” opening. It has a solid outsole for walking, good cushioning, and a breathable lining, so your feet and legs don’t feel stuffy. Always break in a pair of shoes before traveling, as walking on cobblestones can be hard on the feet. 

Sorel Joan of Arctic Wedge III Zip Boot

Waterproof ankle boots  are another fall must for Paris, so look for ones that have good cushioning, a sturdy heel, and won’t slip on surfaces. 

The very stylish S orel Arctic wedge boots have amazing traction and will stay dry if it pours. If you want something edgier, the Sorel Hi-line combat boots are a TFG fave and would look chic with a faux leather jacket.

Rothy’s The Loafer

Fall is a good time for comfortable loafers , and the Loafer from Rothy’s is the ultimate travel friendly loafer to add polish to your look while keeping your feet happy as you explore Paris. 

Readers can’t get enough of this shoe, lauding its lightweight and flexible fit, durability, and overall amazing comfort.

Paris Packing List for Fall

• Waterproof leather boots or long leather boots (sightseeing)
• Canvas or leather sneakers (sightseeing)
• Ballet flat  or loafers (dressing up)

Turtleneck  | Sweater 1 | Sweater 2 | Thermal Top | Coat | Jeans | Down Jacket | Thermal Pants | Gloves  |  Beanie |  Sneakers | Bootie

What to Wear in Paris in Winter (December, January, February)?

You can expect cold and wet weather during the winter, with occasional days of sun. The weather will definitely impact your choices for what to wear when traveling to Paris.  Layering is essential for colder climates, so pack long sleeve tops, a few sweaters, and even a t-shirt or two to wear underneath your heavy fitted jacket or warm coat.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for winter travel:

• Capsule Wardrobe for Winter
• How to Pack for Cold Weather
• How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather (without the bulk)
• The Best Travel Shoes for Winter

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Uniqlo Extra Fine Merino Ribbed Turtleneck Long-Sleeve Sweater

Tops for Winter 

It can snow in Paris between January and March, so don’t be unprepared! Turtleneck sweaters or tunics make the ideal warm accompaniment to your winter capsule. 

TFGs highly recommend the Uniqlo extra fine merino wool turtleneck for its economic cost, softness, and warmth. You can wear a packable down jacket over it and wear chic waterproof moto boots to top off your look. 

Shop Sizes XXS-3X: Nadaam Lightweight Cashmere V-Neck Sweater

Merino wool sweaters , cashmere sweaters , and alpaca sweaters are big favorites amongst readers to tackle the chilly winters of Paris.

A reader recommendation for Europe is the Naadam cashmere v-neck . It has a relaxed yet classic look, is uber warm, and will go with literally anything!

Shop Sizes 0-18: prAna Kara Jean

Bottoms for Winter

For winter in Paris, comfortable jeans are perfect, and when tucked into your boots to create the perfect winter look. The PrAna Kara jeans are soft and breathable and move with the body, so you never feel constricted. You could also opt for winter pants that have a more casual look.

Shop Sizes 00-16: J.Crew No. 2 Pencil Skirt in Italian Stretch Wool

Just because you’re visiting Paris in winter doesn’t mean you shouldn’t wear a skirt! A winter skirt is an elegant option that can work day or night, as long as it’s made of a warm material. 

You can’t go wrong with the J.Crew No. 2 Pencil Skirt , which is made of wool. A pencil is classically stylish and will look divine with brown long boots or mid length boots . Just remember to wear tights to stay extra warm. 

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince Mongolian Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater Dress

Dresses for Winter

In terms of winter dresses , choose something made of cashmere, polyester, merino wool, or alpaca.

The Quince Mongolian cashmere dress comes in numerous colors and will look fab with fleece lined leggings or merino wool leggings , and, of course, boots!

ibex Woolies Tech Long Sleeve Shirt | ibex Woolies Tech Layer Bottoms

Thermals for Winter

To make sure you stay warm, it’s wise to bring some thermal underwear . The Woolies Tech Long Sleeve Shirt not only works as an excellent base layer under midweights but it can be worn solo as a shirt. While the Woolies Tech Layer Bottoms are described as lightweight and work well under trousers or a dress, so not as heavy as typical tights.   

Terramar Silk Thermasilk Pointelle Scoop Shirt and Pointelle Pants

If you want more lightweight options, try silk thermal underwear . The ones from Terramar are made with 100% silk pointelle knit. Their anti-microbial comfort technology is a plus when you want to re-wear your clothing. The fabric offers optimal warmth but is ultra lightweight. Stay warm without the bulk!

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Steve Madden Women’s Long Chevron Maxi Puffer Coat

Jackets for Winter

While having a down parka is recommended for Paris’ winter months, you may want a non-down option . 

This Steve Madden Chevron long puffer coat is dripping with style, and users say its fleece lining and wind-resistant exterior make this beauty extra cozy. 

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Eddie Bauer Microlight Traveler Down Parka

A down-filled option is considered easier to pack (if you’re not wearing your jacket on the flight), so if that’s what you’d prefer fo Paris, this Eddie Bauer Microlight Traveler parka fits the bill! It has 650 fill Responsible Down Standard (RDS), and is uber packable 

Don’t forget to add accessories. They not only add style to your outfit, but warmth! Opt for long, cashmere or silk scarves in the colors of your choice as well as a stylish hat and fingerless gloves. A pair of black leather gloves can look chic as well.

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince Italian Wool Classic Single-Breasted Coat

A lot of readers say wool coats are seen frequently in Paris during the winter and while that may seem impractical, wool is fairly sturdy, and unlike other fabrics, wool doesn’t absorb water, so they are more water-resistant.

This pretty Quince Italian classic  wool jacket has a convertible zip up collar to turn into a cowl and act as a scarf. Its asymmetrical line is modern, and so beautifully chic for the romantic setting of the city.  

Cougar Villa Lug Platform Bootie

What shoes should I wear in Paris in winter?

If it snows during your trip, opt for a pair of warm winter boots . If it will be cold and rainy without snow, so opt for cute and versatile waterproof leather boots instead.

These Cougar Villa boots has a cheeky lug sole heel, so they’re a great combination of high fashion and practicality—a super elegant choice!  Wearers gush about the cushioned insole, slip resistant, and cold protection from the fleece lining that’ll keep your feet super happy in the cold!

ECCO Soft 7 Chelsea Sneakers

Leather sneakers are also an option for mild days. (Tip: wear skin colored stockings underneath for discreet warmth around your ankles.). High top sneakers have been sighted on the cobblestone streets. 

The ECCO Chelsea high tops are made of smooth nappa leather, with light cushioning, and can be worn with pants or dresses. Use some waterproofing spray to treat them for the weather, and still wear some lightweight merino wool socks .

Paris Packing List for Winter

• Three long sleeve sweaters
• One long sleeve dress
• One winter jacket
• Three winter socks
• Waterproof tall or ankle leather boots (sightseeing)
• Leather sneakers (sightseeing)
• Ballet flat or heeled ankle boot (dressing up)
• Closed toe wedges : (optional)

Away The Carry-On 21″ Suitcase

What is the Best Luggage for Paris?

So the hard part’s out of the way; after much turmoil you’ve finally perfected your packing list for Paris and created a chic capsule collection – now it’s time to get packing! Which luggage will work best for you?

There are various things to consider when choosing the best luggage for Europe including a difference in carry on size, strict weight restrictions, mobility on the cobblestone streets, and long flights of stairs. 

The Away the Carry On 21” fits in overhead compartments and is a clamshell design so you can pack on both sides! It’s durable, pretty, and so functional that readers truly adore it! 

Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable 20″ Carry on Luggage

The best suitcase to have when traveling Paris is a rigid trolley case, ideally with four castors. The trolley should be divided into two compartments (not just one big compartment) for easy packing. These are easy to travel with on bumpy terrain.

If you want a softside option, the ultimate reader favorite brand is Travelpro . Their Platinum Elite soft luggage 20” has spinner wheels, organizational pockets on the front, has a USB port, can even hold a laptop, and is expandable.  

Read these tips on how to pick a suitcase and consider one of these top brands . Make your life easy by choosing from the most recommended carry on suitcases for Europe .

WANDF 18″ Foldable Travel Duffle Bag

For a European carry on size bag, a backpack is always a good option for those of us who prefer to travel hands-free. Learn how to choose the best travel backpack .

A travel tip for souvenir shopping is to bring a   packable duffle bag to store all your goodies. Readers swear by the Wandf packable duffle and say it’s so easy to transport and is useful for other things like hauling laundry, not just gifts or souvenirs. 

Compass Rose Compression Packing Cubes

Depending on how many days or weeks you’re traveling, you may want to use luggage organizers such as packing cubes , which allow optimum use of the space in your luggage, keeping everything organized and in place during your travels, and making the task of unpacking and repacking simple and stress-free. Check out this video  on how to organize using packing cubes, it’s incredibly easy! 

Keep in mind that most of Europe’s budget airlines have a carry-on bag allowance of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airlines’ individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.

If you want more resources on what type of suitcase to choose for Paris, start here:

• Best lightweight luggage under 5 lbs
• Best Hardside Luggage 
• Best Softside Luggage 
• Find the Best Carry On Suitcase to Suit Your Trip 
• Best International Carry On Luggage 
• Best Expandable Luggage That’s Lightweight
• Backpack Vs Suitcase: Which is Right for My Trip to Europe?

Sherpani Soleil Convertible Travel Backpack

What is the Best Personal Item for Paris?

Among your summer essentials for Paris is a cut e day bag that’s comfortable to carry for hours on end and will securely hold your essentials. A lot of readers highly recommend an anti-theft travel purse or a cross body purse , as pickpocketing can be an issue in Paris, especially in crowded areas. 

If you like to keep things light and compact, opt for a small crossbody purse like the Sherpani Soleil convertible backpack . Readers adore Sherpani’s anti-theft purses , and this cute little option is durable yet stylish and affordable, too! 

Slightly larger but still light and compact, Travelon’s Classic Messenger bag is a consistent TFG favorite. It’s neutral in design, so it’ll look great with all of your outfits, and its excellent organization and top-notch security features make it a stellar travel companion. 

Lo & Sons Pearl Crossbody

Another TFG fave is the Lo & Sons Pearl crossbody . It’s made of gorgeous, high-quality leather and boasts great organization and a chic look. Readers say it feels super secure to carry, too. You can’t go wrong with a chic leather purse in Paris! 

If you need some extra space for the day’s essentials or you plan on doing some shopping, opt for an anti-theft backpack to store all you need while deterring any risk of theft. 

BAGSMART Toiletry Bag Travel Bag with Hanging Hook

When traveling to Paris, you’ll need some of the standard, essential toiletries, including:

• Shampoo and conditioner
• Moisturizer (face and body)
• Makeup (we recommend keeping it simple: mascara, concealer, and a lip tint that doubles as a blush)
• Hair ties and bobby pins
• Dry shampoo

Worried that all your toiletries, makeup, skincare, and hair styling tools won’t fit into your suitcase? Read these tips on how to travel size toiletries to learn how to make the most of limited space without sacrificing your routine!

We recommend you take the most important products in travel containers like these and try to either buy basics like shampoo and shower gel in Europe or use the items provided by hotels.

Dual Voltage Plavogue Styling Brush

Also, consider your makeup–in many European cities, women opt for natural makeup focusing on a well groomed but not over-the-top appearance.

While a daily salon blow out isn’t necessary, be mindful of your hair and makeup. Find out if it’s necessary to bring a travel blow dryer here or a another popular choices is a blow dryer brush .

When choosing your styling tools, choose items that have dual voltage and bring along a travel adapter for all your electronics. Just make sure to add all these items to your backpacking packing list for Europe so you don’t forget them.

Check out our guide to toiletries for more tips!

What Should I NOT Pack for Paris?

While great to look at, stone streets aren’t always the easiest to walk on and can make for sore feet even if you don’t normally have discomfort. Depending on the city, these streets can also be hilly, slippery when wet, and uneven. So, it’s not recommended to pack heels. If you want some more dressy shoes, readers advise bringing wedges . 

Are Jeans Appropriate to Wear in Paris?

While Europeans tend to dress up more than Americans, you still can wear jeans in Paris. However, avoid acid wash and extremely distressed denim and opt for medium-dark blues and blacks. 

Our readers voted for the best skinny jeans for travel!

Are Leggings Okay to Wear in Paris?

Some travelers love wearing leggings for comfort, but they’re often too casual looking as pants for Paris. If you’re a big fan of leggings, consider pairing a black pair with long tunics during the spring, or wearing them under Paris style dresses and skirts in fall and winter.

Our readers voted for the best leggings for women that travel!

Paris Travel Tips

Before you head on your tour of Paris , check out these frequently asked questions on traveling to Paris.

What’s the best time of year to visit Paris?

While summer offers perfect temperatures, it’s also the busiest time of year for visiting Paris. For this very reason, many experts say fall is the best season to visit Paris because the temperatures are still comfortable but there are fewer tourists.

Weather in Paris

In summer, you can expect sunny days in the 70s and 80s, with temperatures dropping a little into fall. While it doesn’t snow in winter, it gets very cold, and December is the rainiest month.

Never travel without checking the weather forecast as this will be your ultimate packing guide for Paris. Remember that each city will have its own weather pattern so check the forecast for all the destinations you plan to visit.

Use websites such as Accuweather or Holiday Weather for advanced forecasts and don’t forget to check the weather one week and three days before your trip as mother nature doesn’t run on a tight schedule.

What are the best accommodations in Paris?

We love Airbnb for accommodation in Paris. Sign up here for a free $40 credit!

I prefer to book “the entire home” instead of opting for shared accommodation on Airbnb. Aside from safety, I also like to feel like I’m living in the destination. It’s a small taste of local life plus you get more amenities than you would at a hotel such as a kitchen and washing machine.

Read these Airbnb tips for more info!

If you prefer the convenience and comfort of a hotel room, I like using both Agoda.com and Hotels.com . Tip: Hotels.com gives you a free night for every ten nights you book!

For hostels, we recommend Hostelworld and Hostelbookers . Always read the reviews before booking to get the best idea if the hostel is right for you. Some are quiet and family friendly while others are known for their party atmosphere.

Not sure about staying at a hostel? Read this.

What’s the Best Way to Get to Paris?

For flights, I like booking through Travelocity or Cheapoair (whichever one’s cheapest). Although I prefer Travelocity because they have a 24 hour money back guarantee.

To maximize your vacation time, fly into the city where you’re starting your trip and out of the city where your trip ends. Many times it’s the same price and saves you from having to spend extra time and money to go back to where you started your trip.

How to Get Around Paris

Paris has a fantastic metro that makes it easy to get around the city and travel throughout the arrondissements. It’s affordable, reliable, and quick.

There is also a bus and train system to get you to and from the airport, as well as to other cities if you expand your travels outside of Paris.

Paris is a very walkable city, and walking allows you to see all the beautiful and old architecture as you explore the city.

Things to Do in Paris

Paris is one of the most amazing cities to visit because there are so many beautiful sites to take in. Follow our recommendations before you travel to Paris .

What are the best sites in Paris to see?

• Eiffel Tower
• Arc de Triomphe
• Luxembourg Gardens
• Musée d’Orsay
• Centre Pompidou
• Champs-Élysées

What are the best tours in Paris?

Some travelers prefer the guidance of professionals for planning their trip. If you’re a fan of tours, check out these top tours for Paris.

• Rick Steves’ Tours
• Secret Food Tours
• Local Paris Tours
• Wine Day Tours

Where’s the best shopping in Paris?

Paris is synonymous with fashion. It’s a city filled with luxurious designer fashion houses, but if you are looking for more budget-friendly shops, try these: Monoprix, Tati, and City Pharma, where you can get all your basic travel essentials.

For more tips, read this post on shopping in Paris !

Compass Rose Secret Bra Wallet

Safety is a big concern whenever you travel, and in busy, touristy areas like Paris, pickpocketing can be a common occurrence. Taking a few safety precautions can help you feel less stressed during your travels.

How can I stay safe while traveling in Paris?

Be cautious about where you stash your cash so you don’t fall prey to muggings and pickpocketing. Make your clothing theft-proof and choose items with strong zippers. Jeans are handy for this reason: you can put important items, like your wallet and phone, in your front pockets, where it’s very difficult for a wandering hand to snatch it. Add items like the Secret Bra Pocket and Underwear with Pockets to your packing list. You could also buy clothing with hidden pockets to hide valuables even deeper! 

And be mindful of purse snatchers! They either slash the bottom of your bag so the content fall out or slash the strap. Wear your purse strap across your body and the zipper towards the front. For extra security, check out the “theft-proof” bags featured in this post about crossbody purses .

These are articles with other suggested anti-theft products:

• Money Belts and Anti-theft Accessories
• Best Anti-theft Bags for Women
• 6 Tools to Protect Your From Pickpockets in Europe

Remember, the safest place for your passport is locked in your accommodation. Carry a photocopy or other ID when you’re sightseeing or are out at night.

Read these tips on how to keep your passport safe when you travel!

Suggested Anti-Theft Accessories for Paris

• Bra stash ,  neck pouch , or  money belt  with RFID protection
• Anti-theft crossbody bag
• Passport case
• TSA-approved luggage lock
• Clothing with hidden pockets (like  underwear ,  tops , and  scarves )

Key Takeaways:

• In general, day-to-day European style is more dressy than American style, but this does not mean business clothing. A nice blouse and well designed denim is a timeless uniform that can work in Paris just as well as any other part of Europe.
• Ultimately, choose comfortable, classic clothing that will transcend trends so you can look back at the pictures from your trip with fond memories.
• With shoes, always choose comfort over fashion as you’ll spend long hours on your feet – don’t forget to break them in!
• Elevators are not prevalent in local accommodation; be prepared to lift your own luggage up many flights of stairs and steep cobblestone hills.
• Avoid oversized, heavy luggage if you plan to use trains, buses, or budget flights as storage space is limited. You should be able to maneuver through train stations (and trains) with ease.
• Pickpockets are prevalent in all tourist cities, be aware of your surroundings and be practical about your belongings.
• ALWAYS check the weather before you travel.

For more ideas on what to wear in Paris, please read this  10 Step Paris Packing Guide !

What’s in your packing list for Paris? Share in the comment section below!

Please note: Most of Europe’s budget airlines have this carryon bag allowance: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airline’s individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.

For more tips, please read these Europe packing lists:

Suggested travel resources:

• Lonely Planet Europe on a Shoestring
• Lonely Planet Paris (Travel Guide)
• Travel Shoes for Europe
• The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe

Please read our Ultimate  Packing List for Europe  featuring stylish outfits and travel tips for 9 countries.

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We hope this packing list helps you plan what to wear in Paris. Don’t forget to share the love on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Loved this article!!

Great article.. Will keep in mind all your tips for my visit to Paris this May

Thanks! Hope it helps 🙂

What is appropriate dress code for a 70 year old woman who is a little ‘hip’?

Thanks Sophie

Hi Sophie, thanks for your question! I will post it on our Facebook page to get the best feedback for you 🙂

What a well thought out blog, alas I have been to paris many times, but being 50 and a little chunky, still find it very difficult to pack, all the clothing you have recommended are lovely but a bit young for me, still I can admire the young uns wearing them! Thanks.

Thank you Sue!

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Duty free shopping at Paris Aéroport

Inspiration

Reading time: 0 min Published on 4 January 2023, updated on 16 April 2024

Paris is one of the world’s shopping capitals – but you don’t even need to leave the airport to indulge in retail therapy. At Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport, make the most of duty free shopping and soak up a range of authentic Parisian experiences at the same time!

The best of French fashion and luxury

Shop renowned French and international designers, iconic pieces and artisan jewellery. The airport boutiques are just like the boutiques in the city, ultra stylish and reflecting the vibrant spirit of our times.

Limited-edition beauty brands

Every season ushers in a new range of limited-edition high-end skincare, fragrances and cosmetics. Browse the beauty boutiques and enjoy free services and personalised advice at the salons and make-up counters.

Gourmet gifts

Get your tastebuds going with a range of classic Parisian edible treats: macarons, truffles, flavoured teas, local handmade produce and a selection of Grands Crus, gins, cognacs and champagnes* * Drink responsibly

The French foodie lifestyle

Got an hour to spare? Take a break at the airport and satisfy any craving – from a simple snack to a classy cocktail or meal prepared by Michelin-starred chef. It’s all here for the taking!

Find out more: - Discover Paris Aéroport experiences - Browse boutiques and restaurants , open from the first to the last flight of the day at your departure terminal - Know more about tax refund instructions and duty free conditions at the aiport

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The 5 Best European Cities To Visit: Where To Go and When

E urope is a hotspot for tourism due to its impressive diversity and access. There are a multitude of cultures, cuisines and landmarks in Europe. The continent is also relatively easy to get around, since public transportation there is efficient. Some travelers may even opt to travel around Europe all at once since there are jaw dropping views within close proximity. The continent is a traveler’s paradise since the infrastructure is well designed for commuting . There are so many popular destinations within Europe, so it may be difficult for travelers to determine where exactly they should go. These are the best European cities to visit and the ideal season for travel in each. 

London 

London, the capital city of England and the United Kingdom, is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe. Travelers visiting London can experience the top attractions in the bustling urban metropolis. It is a cultural capital with a plethora of historical sites that travelers can witness. This metropolitan city has plenty for travelers to explore. Some of the most popular things to do and see are the Big Ben clock tower, Westminster Abbey, The British Museum, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London. Foodies can indulge in some English delicacies like fish and chips, traditional English breakfast and bangers and mash. There are many other cuisines that travelers can try in London, including Indian, Italian, Chinese, Thai, French and many other cultural foods. 

Best Times To Visit

The best time to visit London, England depends on the traveler. For the best sightseeing weather, travelers should make their way there between March and May. The temperature in this season is around 60 degrees, so travelers should dress themselves in layers. The high season for travel in London is in the summer and winter. If travelers want to avoid crowds, they should not visit London between June to August or December to January. 

Paris 

Paris, France is a major tourism destination that has plenty of globally recognizable monuments and cultural hallmarks. Even the cityscape of Paris is quite popular due to its iconic landmarks. French culture is all around very influential, but beyond that Paris is a remarkable city with plenty to see. The architectural wonders of Paris are a big appeal of the city. In fact, over 30 million travelers enjoy the picturesque city of light each year. The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Versailles Palace, Paris Catacombs, Luxembourg Gardens and the Champs-Elysees are among the best attractions in the city. Tourists can enjoy the cheeses, soups, macarons and fresh breads of Paris while visiting Paris. 

The best times to visit Paris are either in the spring or autumn. During these times travelers can expect better temperatures. This weather allows them to comfortably sit outside and enjoy things like Parisian cafe tables. The weather is nice and moderate in the city between April to May and September to October. Travelers will even notice that there are less crowds in the tourist areas.

Rome is the capital city of Italy and it has certainly made its mark on the globe. It is among one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Some of the art, architecture and cuisine of Rome dates back 3,000 years. The city offers travelers a deep dive into ancient history and culture. There are plenty of famous sightseeing attractions in Rome that travelers should visit during their Europe trip. Some of the most popular ancient buildings for tourists to view in Rome include The Colosseum, Arch of Constantine, The Pantheon and St. Peter’s Basilica. There are a large number of famous remnants of the Roman Empire that have historical significance in this city. Some other things that tourists can do in Rome include guided walking tours, countryside trips, shopping, indulging in delicious Italian food and strolls around the city.  

Travelers visiting Italy should expect bigger crowds in areas like Rome. Although crowds are somewhat consistent, travelers can plan their trip so that it is as convenient as possible. Between October and April travelers will experience the least amount of crowds. The costs of accomodations are lower during this time too, but travelers may have to tolerate the chilly weather in exchange for price. Travelers should be sure to pack a jacket since weather can be around 50 and 70 degrees in Rome during this season. 

Barcelona 

Barcelona, Spain is an artistic looking and charming city with plenty for visitors to experience. The city overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and is a modern hub as well as one of Spain’s most popular cities. It has a wide range of leisure activities and is a walkable city, so plenty of travelers love Barcelona. The unique architecture, beaches, culinary options and art of Barcelona keep travelers coming back. Travelers can enjoy the food of Barcelona while in the bustling city. Paella, croquettes, potato bombas and escalivada are just a few of the most popular dishes of Barcelona. Tourists commonly enjoy the Picasso Museum, the Cathedral of Barcelona, Casa Milá, Park Güell, Las Ramblas and Barceloneta Beach while in the city. Some of the most popular attractions of Barcelona are the buildings and shopping areas. Alternative activities for travelers include hot air balloon tours, walking tours, food and wine tours, private sailing tours and immersive museum experiences. 

Best Times To Visit 

The best time to travel to Barcelona is between April and July. During this time travelers will experience the best weather. Temperatures are around the mid 70’s during this season which means that the outdoor conditions are manageable. This is particularly important for travelers depending on public transportation. If sightseeing is a priority travelers should visit in early spring or autumn since there are less crowds. During the spring there is some rainfall, especially during April. Since a lot of the attractions in Barcelona are outdoors, this will definitely impact a trip. 

Amsterdam 

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and it is a quite popular city. It has a vibrant culture, rich history and stunning landscapes. The picturesque canals, historic homes, creative spirit, liberal appeal and shopping opportunities are the top features of the city. Tourists looking to immerse themselves in this European city can try the local cuisine. Pannenkoeken, haring, oliebollen, kaas and stamppot are some of the top Dutch comfort foods. These traditional food items are popular among locals but travelers should try them while they are exploring abroad. Stamppot, a dish made from potatoes and vegetables, is the national dish. Other than cuisine, travelers can visit the top attractions of the area to learn more about Amsterdam. The Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Heineken brewery tour, red light district, Body Worlds Museum and local parks are the top things to see. 

The best months to visit Amsterdam are spring and autumn. Between April and May or September and November is the most ideal time to visit. There are less crowds and more mild weather during these seasons. Although the weather is not particularly dependable, these months provide pleasant temperatures of around 60 degrees. If travelers prefer to travel during the most affordable time to go to Amsterdam, the winter may be best. Temperatures generally are around 30 or 40 degrees during the winter, but hotel rates are low.