As you can imagine, shopping in Paris is paradise – but it’s not all Chanel and Givenchy. There’s something for everyone in the stores of Paris, no matter your size, style, budget, and preference. Let’s take a look at our options.
Department Stores
Printemps Haussmann is like a department store on steroids, with a main store and annexes covering several blocks in the 9th arrondissement. Make sure to visit the main building to see its stunning atrium topped with stained glass. If you’re a hardcore shopper you can foray into the various departments, but it’s chaotic, with lots of tourists and an overwhelming selection of clothes, shoes, and accessories.
Le Bon Marché, in the 7th arrondissement, may be more your speed if you’re looking for a true Parisian department store experience. It’s pretty upscale, but there are some good deals to be had. BHV on Rue de Rivoli is a must-visit, with name brands having exterior stores associated with the overall BHV Marais, and plenty of shopping and 3 restaurants within.
On the lower, insane end is Tati, with three locations in Paris, all on the right bank. This place is a hodge-podge of a department store, with cheap-as-chips clothes as well as home accessories and more. People turn their noses up at Tati, but it’s everyone’s dirty little shopping secret. You’ll see the iconic pink gingham shopping bags all over the city.
Fleas and Pop-Ups
The Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen is the world-famous flea market that anyone who comes to Paris should visit. It’s arguably the largest in Europe, with a rabbit warren of “villages” that sell all manner of trinkets, antiques, and doo-dads as well as a hundred castles’ worth of furniture. Stick to these villages, and avoid the made-in-China goods you can find at the Dollar Store back home. It’s open Saturday, Sunday and Monday; Mondays are your best bet for a less crowded experience.
If you’re looking for a true second-hand experience, the Brocante des Abbesses in Montmartre is awesome and definitely the place to find a unique item to bring home with you. And there are other book markets, stamp markets, and art markets throughout the city, so keep your eyes peeled1
As for pop-ups, the Hôtel Bohême and Take Me Out are fantastic if you’re in town for their once-a-season markets. Local producers sell clothes, jewelry and more, and they’ve become calendar events for Parisians.
Outlets
Outlet shopping is fairly popular throughout Europe, and near Paris, La Vallée Village is the place to be. Located about 40 km from Paris, there are tours with round-trip transport to La Vallée Village to get you there hassle-free. With more than 115 international brands, this outdoor shopping mall is a great day trip from center city Paris. There are four restaurants/cafes on site, so you can stop for a bite to eat between bargain busting.
All the Other Stuff
If you are looking for a specific item – from the perfect chef’s knife to custom-made bras – Paris has it. Check out Viator’s Paris shopping tours, including tours aimed at teens and personalized tours so you can be sure to find what you want, hopefully at a great price!
—Contributed by Christine Cantera
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