From small boutiques to historic department stores, Paris is any shopper’s dream. In a world of online shopping and overnight shipping, there’s just something about a brick and mortar store. Paris delivers on unique storefronts, quality goods and shopping experiences that just can’t be replicated. After about a dozen trips to Paris, these are the shops that I won’t soon forget or always find myself returning to.
Debauve & Gallais
Debauve & Gallais was founded by Sulpice Debauve, the former pharmacist to Marie Antoinette herself. He mixed her medicine with cocoa and sugar in the shape of a coin. In 1800, he opened the shop where you can still visit today and take home a box of the chocolate “Pistoles” (sans medicine).
The gentleman that helped us pick out chocolates was very kind and he gave my son a few samples. I couldn’t leave without a variety of their signature Pistoles in a beautiful blue box. 30 Rue des Saints-Pères.
Diptyque
Go to the very first Diptyque store that opened in the 1960s and pick up one of their iconic candles. Located at 34 Boulevard Saint Germain (the address written in their oval logo) is where three artist friends started it all by opening a concept store. Later they would introduced candles with scents that celebrated travel and nature. I have a Philosykos lotion that I savor each time I use it. 34 Bd Saint-Germain.
Sezane
Luckily Sézane ships worldwide, but their stores in Paris are worth visiting. The main L’Apartement is conveniently located a few doors down from the Hoxton. This chic French brand sells quality clothing, shoes and handbags.
I have several timeless Sézane sweaters that have really held up over the years. The Gaspard cardigan and the Betty are the first things I put in my luggage when packing. Read more about my favorite Sézane sweaters. 1 Rue Saint-Fiacre.
City Pharma
The pharmacy of all pharmacies to shop at in Paris. They have every product imaginable at excellent prices. Caudalie products are much less at all French pharmacies compared to the US, but City Pharma has even more discounts. I found the staff to be quite helpful when I asked for recommendations. It’s also good to come with a list so you’re prepared and don’t miss anything. 26 Rue du Four.
This is an older post about my go to French beauty items and I still restock on most of those items when I visit.
Mélodies Graphiques
For anything paper related that your heart could desire: cards, notebooks, postcards, decorative paper, wrapping paper and special calligraphy products. 10 Rue du Pont Louis-Philippe.
Conveniently located on the same street as Aux Merveilleux de Fred, Hôtel Caron de Beaumarchais, Officine Universelle Buly 1803 and Les Philosophes. Truly, some of my favorite addresses in Paris.
Mariage Frères
With a long history as a family business over the centuries (read its long history) the original Mariage Frères tea room and shop from 1854 in the Marais is a must for tea lovers.
I can’t leave Paris without picking up a canister of one of their loose teas. I’ll also bring home a box of their cotton muslin tea satchels (mostly because it reminds me of a wonderful hotel in Normandy that offered it in the minibar). Tea makes a wonderful inexpensive gift with teas starting around 18 euros. 30 Rue du Bourg Tibourg.
L’Arrosoir
L’Arrosoir in the 11th is the oldest flower shop in Paris. Currently owned by a fellow expat named Adrienne, who I had the pleasure of meeting a couple of years ago. Stop by on the first day of your trip and bring back a bouquet to your hotel room to enjoy the rest of your stay. 80 Rue Oberkampf.
Merci
An airy concept store over multiple loft levels with an extensive selection of housewares, clothing, jewelry, accessories and more. I particularly love the linens. 111 Bd Beaumarchais.
Officine Universelle Buly 1803
Officine Universelle Buly 1803 is so much more than a beauty goods store. It also offers a unique experience with luxurious perfumes, hand-carved combs, calligraphy and elegant gift wrap. I went here a few years ago when Jamie Beck was raving about their body oil and both locations were practically empty.
Recently, the brand has exploded with popularity and there’s a line down the block to prove it. I went to the Le Marais location and the handful of people in the small shop still took about an hour to get through. Since I was picking up some Christmas presents and there wasn’t a line out the door, it was worth it. However, time in Paris is precious and I personally would not wait for several hours (as I’d imagine can sometimes be the case). Several locations in Paris.
Shakespeare and Company
This English bookstore was opened in 1951 and named after Sylvia Beach’s original store that was forced to close during WWII. Read more about the history of both shops and the people that created them.
It’s not uncommon to find a line to enter, but it moves fast. On my latest visit, I got a copy of the Little Prince (a famous French children’s book) and a kids reusable tote for my son. Pick up a book stamped with their logo inside for yourself or a special gift. 37 Rue de la Bûcherie.
Librairie Jousseaume
For vintage books and a nice postcard selection, head to Librairie Jousseaume in Galerie Vivienne. This shop is simply beautiful, inside and out. The covered passage was built in 1823 and is worth strolling through. 45-46-47 Gal Vivienne.
Messy Nessy’s Cabinet
Nessy’s blog has been offering witty posts that surprise and delight since 2011. Her new shop, a “Cabinet of chic curiosities” does the same. I didn’t have a chance to go when I was there in September, but I want to pick up a bottle of water from the Seine River next time I visit. A must follow on Instagram. Pick up her book Don’t be a Tourist in Paris in the meantime. 19 Rue de Bièvre.
Le Bon Marché
Stop by Le Bon Marché if only to take a peek at the iconic escalators. The oldest department store in Paris is filled with classic French brands, a stunning shoe department, designer clothing and exclusive beauty like a Officine Universelle Buly 1803 counter. 24 Rue de Sèvres.
To not mentioned their grocery store next door La Grande Épicerie de Paris would be a crime. Considering its selection of gourmet products over multiple floors, “a grocery store” is an understatement.
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
The original store that opened in 1894 has expanded over the decades and now includes multiple buildings and a Art Nouveau stained glass dome. You’re in for a real treat if you’re around during the holidays. Each year the 4-story Christmas tree is sure to impress kids and adults alike. Year round you can take the guided tour on Sundays before the store opens (English tour on Sundays). 40 Bd Haussmann.
La Samaritaine
After an extensive renovation to the tune of $900 million dollars over 16 years, La Samaritaine department store finally reopened in 2021. Part luxury hotel, part designer retail space, part Art Nouveau marvel, the complex that sits right along the Seine is worth visiting. First opening its doors in 1870, the seven stories of retail space features well known designers and exclusive brands. 9 R. de la Monnaie.
BHV
The BHV may not have jaw dropping Art Nouveau staircase, but it still has a long history in the Parisian retail landscape. It’s not far from the boutiques in the the Marais so I always like to stop in and meander around the ground floor for beauty finds or the stationary floor. 52 Rue de Rivoli.
Last tip: If you’re leaving the EU, don’t forget to bring your passport and get your VAT refund paperwork at each store when you check out.
Read Next: Paris Travel Guide
