Paris’s reputation as a major world capital of fashion has got nothing more to prove regarding shopping. But when you do not know well the city, it is tempting to go first in districts as Les Halles or Boulevard Haussmann. Don’t be mistaken! The incontestable advantage of Paris is that you can combine shopping and pleasant strolls, alternating brand-names and creator shops while discovering the city. You will have all the time after that to go to the galeries lafayette …
WINDOW-SHOPPING
- LE MARAIS
Le Marais is one of the oldest, and most beautiful, districts of Paris. Stop Metro Saint-Paul (line 1). Start with the lovely village of Saint-Paul (access from rue Saint-Paul), a nice succession of small squares and courtyards. Originally specializing in antiques, there are now many restaurants, art galleries and designer boutiques. Go then rue des Francs-Bourgeois, main street of the Marais. As for shopping and trendiest brands, you will be spoiled for choice ! You’ll notice that some shops set-up in wonderful mansions of the 17th century. For more information, see our walk in the Marais.
- SAINT-GERMAIN-DES-PRES
Once famous for its bookshops and its intellectual influence, you will find today in Saint-Germain-des-Prés many boutiques, shops, ready-to-wear and art galleries. The streets lined with old buildings and lovely windows are a delight for those who want to combine walking and shopping. From Sèvres-Babylone metro (line 12), take the Rue du Bac. One kilometer long, it is unique for its architecture and is full of nice shops. Among others, do not miss the “Maison Deyrolle”, specialized in Taxidermy (46 rue du Bac – free access) Reaching the end of this street, stroll around Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church : rue de Verneuil, rue de Lille, rue Jacob and rue de Seine. You will understand overthere why Saint-Germain-des-Prés is so famous… See the itinerary.
- THE HALLES
You absolutely want to go to Les Halles? Ok. Then, go few steps away rue Montorgueil. The area, entirely pedestrian, is full of restaurants, stores, and boutiques. The weekend, although the street and its surroundings are crowded, there is still there a nice village atmosphere. See the itinerary
LUXURY
- GOLDEN TRIANGLE
For a luxury shopping between haute couture and jewelry, exclusive address in Paris is the “Golden Triangle”, area formed by Avenue Montaigne, Champs-Elysées and Avenue George V. Destination of the wealthy French and international clientele, Avenue Montaigne is the mecca of Parisian fashion and concentrates all the major luxury brands. Cross the street from the Place de l’Alma (Alma-Marceau Metro line 9) until Rond-Point des Champs-Elysées. An unique shopping experience… See the itinerary
- RUE SAINT-HONORÉ
Rue Royale, Place Vendôme, rue Saint-Honoré … Such names reminding of Parisian chic style and luxury ! To begin this shopping walk in the heart of glamor Paris glamor, go Place de la Madeleine (metro Madeleine, lines 8, 12, 14). Baccarat, Hédiart, Fauchon… Only great brands ! Continue rue Royale and take rue Saint-Honoré (not rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré!). Around the worldwide famous Place Vendome, you will discover many jewelers and gemstones. Around rue de Rivoli, although the landscape beneath the arches is absolutely charming, you will only find souvenir shops. See the itinerary
OTHERS
You will also find in Montmartre, around rue des Abbesses and rue Yvonne tac, beautiful designer boutiques and ready-to-wear. Finally, if you do like flea markets, antique or vintage, go to the inevitable “Puces de Saint-Ouen”. Less known, you will also find a flea market Porte de Vanves, or a small village specializing in antiques rue Oberkampf (11th arrondissement): Village Popincourt. Enjoy your shopping!
