10 Best Places to Shop in Paris

Say "Paris" and Shop: A Guide for the Clueless Traveler

Say "Paris," and three things come to mind: romance, food, and fashion. Shopping in Paris can be a heady and overwhelming experience for tourists. With so many shopping districts, concept shops, and department stores to choose from, here’s a guide to help you navigate the city’s best spots.

Avenue des Champs-Élysées

Touted as the most famous avenue and the most expensive piece of real estate in the world, the Champs-Élysées boasts luxury designer shops (Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Cartier, Tiffany), upscale chain stores (Zara, H&M, Adidas), and the trendiest, hottest brands. The Champs-Élysées are a haven for wealthy shopaholics and fashionistas.

Avenue Montaigne

Avenue Montaigne is a two-minute walk from the Champs-Élysées and is a third of the size. There are no mainstream brands here, only high-fashion shops for clothes, accessories, and jewelry. Dior, Chanel, Versace, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, and Armani all have a presence. Avenue Montaigne caters to the most sophisticated clientele with money to burn.

Printemps

A major department store and must-visit for the bourgeois tourist, Printemps has its flagship store on Boulevard Haussmann and branches across France. It features in-store restaurants and carries both popular and luxury names, with over 300 brands sold exclusively in its stores. Another reason to visit the flagship Printemps is for its old-world Parisian design and its famous art-deco cupola.

Galeries Lafayette

Also on Boulevard Haussmann, Galeries Lafayette is a massive department store featuring trendy and high-end fashion goods, cosmetics, jewelry, a kids' section, and home furnishings. Lafayette Gourmet on the first floor is a foodie's paradise—a food court serving dishes from around the world. On the seventh floor, you’ll get a fantastic, panoramic view of Paris.

Marché aux Puces, Saint-Ouen (Clignancourt)

"Puces" means "flea" in French, and this market in Saint-Ouen is the largest in Paris, with 15 markets selling antiques, new and second-hand clothing, books, records, knick-knacks, and food. Tourists on a budget will love this sprawling outdoor space. Make sure to learn the art of bargaining before visiting!

Reciproque

Reciproque, located at Rue de la Pompe, is the biggest consignment store in Paris, selling genuine luxury items with a 20 to 80 percent discount. One of Parisians' best-kept secrets, this series of stores located side by side offers men’s and women’s clothes, shoes, bags, accessories, jewelry, and art, all in mint condition and at bargain prices.

Maje Stock at 4 Rue de Marseille

Maje Stock is one of numerous outlet stores that carry unsold apparel, shoes, bags, and trinkets from stylish boutiques from the previous season. If you search hard enough, you might even find current selections. Locals frequent these stores for discounts ranging from 30 to 50 percent.

Forum des Halles

Located in the city center, the Forum des Halles is an underground shopping center with shops, restaurants, cinemas, and a recreational center. Homeware, electronics, and fashion are all here. Prices are mid-range, but tourists should be cautious—accessing the Forum requires navigating confusing passages, and pickpockets are common.

French Touche

One of dozens of concept stores in Paris, French Touche features bags, accessories, home decor, and trinkets from young and innovative designers. It’s located in the 17th arrondissement and is worth a trip to find original, one-of-a-kind French products at reasonable prices as souvenirs.

Colette

The yardstick by which all other concept stores are measured, Colette is located at Rue Saint-Honoré. A favorite among locals and tourists alike, it offers cutting-edge couture, shoes, and accessories from both well-known and up-and-coming designers. Colette also sells jewelry, electronics, books, and music. Prices range from reasonable to extravagant.

Similar to Milan or London, Paris has numerous boutiques for high-end clientele. For bargain hunters, a visit to the flea markets and smaller shops offers cheaper prices and great discounts. Most shops are open Monday to Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., leaving your evenings free to enjoy the city’s nightlife and fabulous restaurants.