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Shopping in Paris? Of course you are. The capital of France is a retail therapist’s dream, with more designer boutiques than you can shake a (French) stick at. Whether you’re arriving in the city of style ready to splurge or save, it’s worth knowing your spenny shops from your bargain basements – or at least, the Parisian equivalent. We’ve mapped out five of the best areas to shop based on the sort of things you’ll find there, from investment purchases to budget finds.
Le Marais – for shopping on a budget
Paris is divvied up into arrondissements – or administrative districts – and The Marais, which stretches across the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, is one of the best shopping spots if you’re keeping one eye on the budget. Antiques shops, indie boutiques and artsy stalls share space with High Street faves and there are plenty of cafés and galleries to keep you busy. Rue des Francs-Bourgeois is the pedestrianised heart of the action, and lots of the shops here open on a Sunday – which isn’t always a given in France. For a curated mix of clothes, accessories and interior finds, try Merci – it’s spread over three floors and is stocked with take-homes.
The Golden Triangle – for luxury labels
Draw a line between Avenue George V, Champs-Elysées and Avenue Montagne and you get The Golden Triangle – AKA the poshest bit of the 8th arrondissement. We’re talking Balenciaga, Chanel and co – plus the newly opened Galeries Lafayette Champs-Elysees. The latter brings together 600-odd brands beneath its Art Deco roof, so you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to shopping. Before you head off, make a special stop-off at Hermès on Avenue George V. Stacked with signature handbags, scarves and everything else, it’s a beacon of Parisian style.
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The 10th arrondissement – for indie boutiques
While huge department stores like Galeries Lafayette Haussmann and Printemps are the star attraction in the 9th arrondissement, things take on a more indie vibe when you head east a little bit. Cross into the 10th arrondissement and vegan bistros rub shoulders with quirky boutiques that are wall-to-wall with one-offs. One of those is Thanx God I’m a VIP on Rue de Lancry, which should be your go-to for vintage designer finds. Clothes are organised by colour, and while this is no cheap charity shop – we’re talking Prada, Valentino and Dior here – it’s unlikely you’ll see the same outfit on anyone else.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés – for foodie finds
Head over to the left bank’s Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighbourhood if you’re shopping for your stomach. For starters, it’s home to Le Bon Marché – the oldest department store in Paris – and its next-door foodie haven, La Grande Épicerie. Plus, there are no end of chocolate shops and patisseries tucked down side-streets, including a Pierre Hermé – AKA the Picasso of pastry – Ladurée and Patrick Roger. For the pick of the bunch, head to Debauve et Gallais – the oldest chocolatier in Paris. Make like Marie Antoinette and plump for the Pistoles, which were prescribed to her to cure headaches.
Montmartre – for all things vintage
Boho Montmartre ticks every box going when it comes to shopping, but it really goes to town when it comes to vintage shops and antiques stores. And if you’re wondering where to start, put l’Objet qui Parle top of your list. Crammed with curiosities – the name means ‘the talking object’, because every item tells a story – it’s full of the weirdest, most wonderful assortment of randomness you’ll find this side of the river. Monkey skull? Door knob? A selection of very pretty apothecary bottles you don’t need, but definitely want? Consider it done. This one-stop-shop on Rue des Martyrs is the perfect place to start any Montmartre shopping trip – just be prepared to roll up your sleeves and get stuck in.
Fancy a shopping spree in Paris?
Check out all our holidays to France. For more inspiration, read our top Paris travel hacks for getting around.
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Author: Katie Gregory
Last updated: 14/12/2024
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