Where To Shop (And What To Buy!) In Paris

Monuments, museums, fine wine and cuisine—these are all great reasons to visit the City of Lights.  However, what also draws millions of tourists to the best hotels in Paris is the city’s world-famous shopping.  From multi-level department stores to unique markets and boutiques, there is something for everyone.  Below, the best places to go to indulge in some retail therapy:

Boulevard Haussmann

Also commonly referred to as the Department Store District, Boulevard Haussmann is home to two important retail centres: Galeries Lafayette and Printemps. Both brimming with Belle Epoque grandeur and style, the lavish landmarks of consumerism are truly impressive.  Unlike American department stores, these grand magasins offer so much more than clothing and jewelry.  Locals and tourists alike flock here for everything from gourmet groceries to hardware and home furnishings.

Louvre-Tuileries

The main thoroughfare of this fashionable neighborhood is one of the most famous shopping streets in the entire world: Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. A hub for all things haute couture, the Louvre-Tuileries/Faubourg Saint-Honoré district is where the most celebrated names in fashion have taken up shop.  This is where you will find the grand showrooms of Versace, Yves Saint Laurent and Hermes.  Not in your budget?  Don’t worry—the neighborhood is also home to trendy concept stores like Colette.

Avenues Montaigne and des Champs-Elysées

The busy intersection of Avenue Montaigne and Avenue des Champs-Elysées marks another of Paris’ most important fashion hubs.  With storefronts advertising the likes of Dior and Chanel, Montaigne is now giving Saint Honoré a run for its money.  Among its most iconic residents are Louis Vuitton, Jimmy Choo, Chloé, Zara and the famous macaroon shop, Laduree.  All tastes and budgets are catered to here.

The Marais

A haven for those with an eye for the offbeat and unique, the historic Marais quarter attracts the chicest of Parisian shoppers.  Craftsman workshops and antique shops mingle with high-end fashion boutiques, creating an artsy and eclectic neighborhood.  Pick up a piece of costume jewelry at Satellite on Rue des Francs-Bourgeois, or browse the collection of fine art prints on the stylish Place des Vosges.  This is also a great place in which to find clothing by up-and-coming fashion labels.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Long preferred by Paris’ intellectual elite, the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area still retains an air of sophistication.  Trendy sidewalk cafés, expensive homes, ancient trees, and an array of stylish boutiques line the streets of this exclusive neighborhood. Famous fashion labels like Sonia Rykiel and Paco Rabanne, rare books and antique trinkets along Rue Saint-Andre des Arts, and the incredible gourmet market at Le Bon Marché may tempt your fancy.

Les Halles

Originally a sprawling outdoor food market, the neighborhood around the Châtelet-les Halles has since been transformed.  Taking the place of 19^th-century produce and meat vendors are the outlets of major fashion labels and global chains.  The focal point is a massive underground mall near the Les Halles metro stop.  However, the shops spill out onto Rue de Rivoli and Rue Montorguil.  The latter is where you will find more cutting-edge, contemporary fashions.

The Saint-Ouen Flea Market

Are you looking for something quirky and different to take as a souvenir?  If so, hit up the Saint-Ouen Flea Market!  Dating all the way back to the 19^th century, the sprawling market is still the largest in the city.  Stalls overflow with antique furnishings, vintage clothing, original works of art, and other oddball items.  The bustling atmosphere and treasure trove of wares make the market a quintessential Parisian experience.  To avoid the rowdiest crowds, go on weekdays.