13 Best Places to Shop in Paris
Galeries Lafayette
Paris shopping isn’t about hauling bags back to your hotel or ticking off luxury flagships. The real magic is in places that feel rooted in Paris—shops where locals browse, designers obsess over details, and everything feels intentional. After years of traveling through Paris and living in Europe, these are the 12 shopping stops I consistently recommend to clients who want items that travel well, age beautifully, and feel unmistakably French.
Citypharma
Citypharma is chaotic, crowded, and absolutely worth it. This Left Bank pharmacy is famous for deeply discounted French skincare—often 20–40% less than U.S. prices. Bioderma, La Roche-Posay, Avène, Embryolisse, Nuxe, and sunscreens you can’t easily find at home line the shelves. This is not leisurely shopping; it’s strategic. Go with a list, buy multiples, and don’t expect charm. What you get instead is access to some of the best skincare in the world at prices that make stocking up logical rather than indulgent.
Fragonard
Fragonard is classic French perfumery without the attitude. Their Paris boutiques are elegant but approachable, offering perfumes, soaps, creams, and beautifully boxed gift sets that make ideal souvenirs. The scents lean timeless rather than trendy, and the prices are refreshingly reasonable for something made in France. This is where you buy fragrance for yourself and gifts for others without feeling overwhelmed or upsold. It’s old-school in the best way and very easy to love.
Diptyque
Yes, Diptyque exists everywhere now—but shopping it in Paris still feels different. The boutiques are calmer, better stocked, and often carry limited editions you won’t find in the U.S. Beyond the cult candles, the fragrances and home scents feel more considered when bought at the source. If you already love Diptyque, Paris is the place to splurge. If you don’t yet, this is where you’ll understand the obsession.
Mélodies Graphiques
Tucked into the Marais, Mélodies Graphiques is a dream for anyone who loves paper, design, and understated beauty. The shop specializes in stationery, prints, notebooks, and small gifts that feel artistic without being precious. Nothing screams “souvenir,” yet everything feels unmistakably Parisian. This is the kind of place where you buy something you didn’t plan to—and end up using for years. Perfect for thoughtful gifts or something personal that fits easily into your suitcase.
Officine Universelle Buly 1803
Buly is part shop, part theatrical experience. Modeled after a 19th-century apothecary, it sells water-based perfumes, oils, grooming products, and accessories—many of which can be personalized on the spot. The packaging alone is extraordinary. Shopping here is slow, sensory, and indulgent in a way that feels very Paris. This is where you buy something memorable, not practical—and that’s exactly the point.
Astier de Villatte
Astier de Villatte is beloved for its hand-crafted ceramics and incense, all made with intentional imperfections. The shop feels like stepping into an eccentric Parisian apartment—objects stacked, nothing matching, everything beautiful. The incense scents are especially special and hard to find outside France. This is shopping for people who appreciate craftsmanship over polish and want objects with soul.
Merci
Merci is a Paris concept store done right—stylish without being exhausting. Clothing, home goods, books, and gifts are carefully curated, not trend-driven. Prices range from reasonable to aspirational, and everything feels usable rather than decorative. It’s a great stop when you want to browse without pressure and inevitably leave with something smart.
A.P.C.
A.P.C. represents effortless Parisian style: clean lines, neutral palettes, and clothing that works year after year. Their Paris stores feel unfussy and confident, offering denim, outerwear, and basics that age beautifully. If you want to buy clothing in Paris that you’ll actually wear at home, this is a safe—and stylish—bet.
Galeries Lafayette
Galeries Lafayette is the grand dame of Paris department stores—an iconic shopping destination with both breadth and beauty. The flagship on Boulevard Haussmann is more than fashion; it’s an experience. From luxury designers to accessible French brands, accessories, beauty counters, and an incredible gourmet food hall, this place has something for everyone. The architecture alone—especially the stained-glass dome—is worth a stop. It’s perfect for one big shopping day when you want options all under one roof.
Le Bon Marché
Le Bon Marché is the anti-department store department store. Elegant, curated, and refreshingly calm, it’s where Parisians actually shop. Fashion, beauty, and home goods are thoughtfully selected, and the food hall (La Grande Épicerie) is a destination in itself. This is luxury shopping without chaos or crowds.
Nose
Nose is a niche perfume lover’s dream. Instead of pushing brands, staff help you discover scents based on preferences and mood. You can test widely and learn without pressure. If fragrance overwhelms you, this shop makes it enjoyable—and surprisingly efficient.
Sézane
Sézane is modern Parisian femininity done well. Thoughtful fabrics, flattering cuts, and just enough trend to feel current. The Paris boutiques feel more special than shopping online, and trying pieces on in person makes a difference. It’s a great stop for wearable, polished clothing.
Debauve & Gallais
Founded in the early 1800s, Debauve & Gallais is one of Paris’s most historic chocolatiers. The packaging is elegant, the chocolates refined, and the experience distinctly old-world. This is chocolate as a proper souvenir—beautiful, giftable, and deeply Parisian.
Final Thoughts
Paris shopping is best when it’s intentional. Fewer stores. Better choices. Things that remind you why Paris is Paris.
If you want help designing a Paris trip that includes the right neighborhoods, hotels, pacing, and shopping stops, I offer personalized travel consultations. Paris rewards travelers who plan it properly.
About Krista
I’m a Virtuoso travel advisor based in West Palm Beach, Florida. I attended the University of Notre Dame for undergrad and I have my MBA from the University of Chicago. Before building my travel business, I spent 20 years in the investment management industry and over a decade living and working in London, England. I’ve personally traveled to 75+ countries and now design thoughtful, highly customized trips for travelers who value expertise, access, and a seamless experience.
I offer a complimentary 30-minute consultation for travelers considering a custom itinerary or luxury cruise. Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.
For travel inspiration and real-time updates, you can follow along on Instagram or connect with me on Facebook. I also share a curated list of travel products I genuinely use and recommend in my online store.
What I Offer…
Custom itinerary design for complex, multi-stop trips
VIP hotel benefits through Virtuoso and preferred partner programs (including complimentary breakfast, hotel credits, and priority for upgrades where available)
Luxury ocean, river, and expedition cruises with added onboard credits
Vetted villa rentals with concierge services worldwide
Private guides, small-group touring, and unique local experiences
Private aviation and yacht charters through trusted partners
Airport transfers, VIP arrival and departure services, and full ground logistics
Travel protection and support when plans change
I work best with travelers who want expert planning, trusted partnerships, and someone in their corner from start to finish. That’s what I am best at! Ready to talk travel? Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.
