Shopping in Paris is a journey through time, style, and elegance. The city of lights offers a dazzling array of shopping experiences, from opulent luxury boutiques to charming flea markets, catering to every taste and budget.
Begin your Parisian shopping adventure on the iconic Avenue des Champs-Élysées, home to world-renowned fashion houses such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior. Here, you can indulge in the latest haute couture collections and timeless pieces, ensuring a sophisticated addition to your wardrobe.
For a more eclectic and unique experience, explore the Marais district. This trendy neighbourhood is filled with chic boutiques, vintage shops, and artisan ateliers. Discover one-of-a-kind fashion finds, handmade jewellery, and bespoke accessories that reflect the avant-garde spirit of Paris.
No shopping trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the city’s famed flea markets. The Marche aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, one of the largest flea markets in the world, offers an enchanting mix of antiques, retro clothing, and quirky collectibles. Wander through its labyrinthine alleys and uncover hidden treasures that tell a story of Parisian history and culture.
From the high-end sophistication of luxury boutiques to the charming allure of flea markets, shopping in Paris is an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of this stylish city.
What to Shop in Paris: The Ultimate Guide
Paris, the city of lights and love, is also a shopper’s paradise. With its blend of high fashion, vintage treasures, artisanal crafts, and gourmet delights, Paris offers a shopping experience like no other. Whether you’re looking for luxury goods, unique finds, or authentic Parisian souvenirs, this guide will help you navigate the best of what to shop in Paris.
1. Luxury Fashion
Avenue des Champs-Elysees and Avenue Montaigne
When it comes to high-end fashion, Paris is synonymous with luxury. The Avenue des Champs-Elysees and Avenue Montaigne are home to some of the most prestigious fashion houses in the world. Here, you’ll find iconic brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Hermes. These boutiques offer the latest collections in haute couture, ready-to-wear, and accessories. Even if you’re just window-shopping, the experience is quintessentially Parisian.
Le Bon Marche
Located on the Left Bank, Le Bon Marche is the oldest department store in Paris. It offers a curated selection of high-end fashion, accessories, and beauty products. The store is known for its elegant atmosphere and exclusive designer collections.
2. Unique Boutiques and Concept Stores
Le Marais
Le Marais district is a treasure trove of unique boutiques and concept stores. This trendy neighbourhood is perfect for finding up-and-coming designers, vintage fashion, and handmade jewellery. Must-visit shops include Merci, a concept store that combines fashion, homewares, and a cafe, and The Broken Arm, which offers a mix of contemporary fashion and accessories.
3. Vintage and Second-Hand Finds
Les Puces de Saint-Ouen
The Marche aux Puces de Saint-Ouen is the largest flea market in Paris and one of the most famous in the world. Located just outside the city, it features a maze of stalls selling everything from antique furniture and vintage clothing to rare books and retro decor. It’s a paradise for treasure hunters looking for unique and historic items.
Kilo Shop and Free’P’Star
For affordable vintage fashion, head to Kilo Shop and Free’P’Star. These stores sell clothing by weight, offering a wide range of styles from different decades. You can find everything from 70s bohemian dresses to 90s grunge outfits.
4. Artisanal and Craft Markets
Marche Bastille
The Marche Bastille is one of the largest open-air markets in Paris. Held twice a week, it offers a variety of fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and seafood. But beyond the food, you’ll find stalls selling handmade crafts, jewellery, and textiles. It’s a great place to pick up unique, locally made items.
Marche des Enfants Rouges
Located in the Marais, this is the oldest covered market in Paris. While it’s known for its food stalls, you can also find a selection of artisanal products, including handmade soaps, candles, and ceramics.
5. Gourmet Food and Wine
La Grande Epicerie de Paris
Attached to Le Bon Marche, La Grande Epicerie is a food lover’s dream. It offers an extensive selection of gourmet products, from fine wines and champagnes to exotic spices and artisanal chocolates. It’s the perfect place to pick up gourmet gifts or to indulge in some culinary delights yourself.
Fauchon and Hediard
For luxury gourmet treats, visit Fauchon and Hediard. These iconic Parisian stores offer a range of delicacies, including foie gras, caviar, pastries, and speciality teas. Their beautifully packaged products make excellent gifts.
6. Books and Stationery
Shakespeare and Company
This legendary English-language bookstore, located near Notre-Dame, is a haven for book lovers. Shakespeare and Company offer a wide range of books, from classic literature to contemporary fiction. The store itself is steeped in literary history, having been a gathering place for writers like Ernest Hemingway and James Joyce.
Librairie Galignani
Established in 1801, Librairie Galignani is the oldest English-language bookstore on the continent. It offers a curated selection of books in both French and English, with a focus on art, fashion, and history. The store’s elegant interior makes it a pleasure to browse.
7. Perfumes and Cosmetics
Fragonard
Founded in 1926, Fragonard is one of the oldest perfume houses in France. Their boutique near Opera Garnier offers a wide range of fragrances, soaps, and scented candles. You can even take a guided tour to learn about the history and art of perfume-making.
Guerlain
Located on the Champs-Elysees, Guerlain is a legendary name in the world of perfumes and cosmetics. The flagship store offers an extensive selection of their luxurious products, including their iconic fragrances like Shalimar and Mitsouko.
8. Home Decor and Antiques
Merci
Merci, located in Le Marais, is a concept store that offers a curated selection of home decor items, from contemporary furniture to vintage finds. The store also has a delightful café and bookstore, making it a perfect place to spend an afternoon.
Galerie Vivienne
One of Paris’s most beautiful covered passages, Galerie Vivienne is home to antique shops, bookshops, and boutiques selling fine art and collectibles. It’s a charming spot to find unique decorative items and gifts.
9. Souvenirs and Gifts
Carrousel du Louvre
For a range of Paris-themed souvenirs, head to the Carrousel du Louvre shopping mall. You’ll find shops selling everything from miniature Eiffel Towers and keychains to luxury gifts and artworks inspired by the Louvre’s collections.
La Maison du Chocolat
For chocolate lovers, La Maison du Chocolat offers exquisite handmade chocolates and truffles. Their beautifully packaged assortments make perfect gifts to take home.
10. Jewellery
Place Vendome
Place Vendome is synonymous with luxury jewellery. Here, you’ll find flagship stores of prestigious brands like Cartier, Boucheron, and Van Cleef & Arpels. Whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring or a timeless piece of jewellery, Place Vendome offers unparalleled craftsmanship and elegance.
Bijoux Blues
For unique, handmade jewellery, visit Bijoux Blues in Le Marais. This boutique offers a range of contemporary and artistic pieces created by local designers. It’s a great place to find something truly unique.
Conclusion
Shopping in Paris is more than just a pastime; it’s an exploration of the city’s rich culture, history, and style. Whether you’re indulging in luxury fashion on the Champs-Elysees, hunting for vintage treasures at the flea markets, or sampling gourmet delights at La Grande Epicerie, Paris offers a shopping experience like no other. With this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to discover the best that Paris has to offer, making your shopping adventure both memorable and rewarding.
Tips to Maximise the Benefits of Shopping in Paris
Paris, with its unparalleled fashion, exquisite boutiques, and charming markets, offers a shopping experience like no other. To truly benefit from shopping in Paris, it’s essential to approach your shopping adventure with a mix of strategy and spontaneity. Here are some comprehensive tips to help you make the most of your Parisian shopping experience.
1. Plan Your Shopping Itinerary
Research and Prioritise
Before you embark on your shopping journey, research the areas and stores you want to visit. Make a list of must-see boutiques, department stores, and markets. Prioritise these locations based on your interests—whether it’s luxury fashion, vintage finds, or artisanal crafts.
Map Out Your Route
Paris is a large city, and efficient planning can save you time and energy. Group your shopping destinations by neighbourhood to minimise travel time. For example, dedicate a day to exploring the Marais district for unique boutiques and another day for the luxury shops on Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Élysées.
2. Timing Is Everything
Shop During Sales
Paris is famous for its biannual sales, known as “les soldes,” which take place in January and July. These sales offer significant discounts on both high-end and high-street fashion. Plan your trip around these periods to take advantage of the best deals.
Visit Early or Late
To avoid crowds and have a more relaxed shopping experience, visit popular stores and markets early in the morning or late in the afternoon. This is especially important for busy spots like the Galeries Lafayette and Le Bon Marché.
3. Explore Beyond the Main Streets
Hidden Gems in the Marais
While the Marais district is well-known, many of its best boutiques are tucked away in side streets. Spend time wandering the smaller roads to discover unique shops like Tom Greyhound and quirky vintage stores.
Discover the Covered Passages
Paris’s covered passages, such as Galerie Vivienne and Passage des Panoramas, are historic shopping arcades filled with charming boutiques, antique shops, and cafés. These passages offer a delightful respite from the busy streets and are perfect for finding unique items.
4. Know Your Sizes and Preferences
Understand European Sizing
European clothing sizes can differ from those in other parts of the world. Familiarise yourself with European size charts for clothing and shoes to ensure you pick the right fit. Many stores offer size conversion charts, so don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.
Try Before You Buy
Sizes and fits can vary significantly between brands, especially in high fashion. Always try on clothes before purchasing to ensure they fit well and meet your expectations. This is particularly important for tailored or high-priced items.
5. Take Advantage of Tax-Free Shopping
VAT Refund
Non-EU residents can benefit from tax-free shopping in Paris. If you spend over a certain amount (currently around €100.01) in a single store, you are eligible for a VAT refund, which is typically around 12-20%. Ask the store for a tax refund form (detaxe) and keep your receipts.
Claim Your Refund at the Airport
To claim your VAT refund, present your completed tax refund forms and purchases at the detaxe counter in the airport before you leave the EU. Allow extra time at the airport to complete this process, especially during peak travel periods.
6. Engage with the Locals
Learn Basic French Phrases
While many Parisians speak English, learning a few basic French phrases can enhance your shopping experience. Simple greetings and polite phrases can go a long way in building rapport with shopkeepers and getting better service.
Ask for Recommendations
Don’t hesitate to ask locals for their favourite shopping spots. Parisians can provide insider tips on hidden gems, new boutiques, and local markets that might not be in the guidebooks.
7. Immerse Yourself in the Market Culture
Visit Flea Markets Early
Paris’s flea markets, like the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, are best visited early in the day. Arriving early gives you the best chance to find unique items and negotiate better prices. Be prepared to haggle, as bargaining is part of the flea market culture.
Explore Food Markets
In addition to fashion and antiques, Paris is known for its food markets. Visit markets like Marche Bastille and Marché des Enfants Rouges to sample local delicacies, pick up fresh produce, and buy artisanal food products. These markets offer a taste of local culture and make for a delightful shopping experience.
8. Stay Informed on Trends and Events
Follow Fashion Blogs and Magazines
Keep up with the latest fashion trends and events in Paris by following fashion blogs, magazines, and social media influencers. This will help you discover new designers, pop-up shops, and exclusive events.
Attend Fashion Week
If your visit coincides with Paris Fashion Week, try to attend some of the shows or events. Even if you can’t get into the main shows, the city buzzes with fashion-related activities and parties that offer a glimpse into the latest trends.
9. Pack Smart and Light
Leave Room in Your Luggage
Plan your packing with shopping in mind. Leave extra space in your luggage for your new purchases. Alternatively, consider bringing an extra foldable bag or suitcase to accommodate your shopping finds.
Comfortable Shoes
Paris is a city best explored on foot, so bring comfortable walking shoes. You’ll be covering a lot of ground, especially in areas like Le Marais and Montmartre, where cobblestone streets can be hard on your feet.
10. Stay Safe and Savvy
Be Aware of Pickpockets
Popular shopping areas and markets can attract pickpockets. Keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings. Use a crossbody bag with a zipper and avoid carrying too much cash.
Check Return Policies
Before making a purchase, especially for high-ticket items, ask about the store’s return policy. Policies can vary, and knowing your options can save you hassle if you change your mind or encounter issues with your purchase.
Conclusion
Shopping in Paris is an exhilarating experience that combines fashion, culture, and history. By planning your itinerary, exploring beyond the main streets, understanding European sizes, and taking advantage of tax-free shopping, you can maximise the benefits of your Parisian shopping adventure. Engage with locals, immerse yourself in the market culture, stay informed on trends, and pack smart to make the most of your trip. With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the best that Paris has to offer and return home with treasured finds and unforgettable memories.
