Shopping in Paris: Fashion, Food & Fun Await

From luxury labels to traditional Parisian markets—here’s where your shop adventure begins.

Woman With Shopping Bags by Eiffel Tower

Let’s be honest—no trip to Paris feels complete without a dash of shopping. From grand department stores lined with sparkling window displays to offbeat flea markets brimming with vintage finds, the city brings serious variety. Whether you dream of scoring a designer bag, filling your picnic basket with French cheese, or returning home with a unique treasure, Paris has a spot for you. We’ve rounded up our favourite places to shop in the French capital—plus tips on what to buy, which neighbourhoods to explore, and exactly why each shop stop brings its own magic. Get ready to skip the standard souvenirs and shop Paris like a local. 

Our favorite places to shop in Paris include: 

  • Galeries Lafayette 
  • Le Marais (Boutique Shopping) 
  • Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen 
  • Rue de Rivoli 
  • Champs-Élysées and Avenue Montaigne 
  • Boulevard Haussmann and Printemps 
  • Shakespeare and Company Bookstore 
  • Marché Bastille 
  • Saint-Ouen Flea Market 
  • Passage des Panoramas 

Galeries Lafayette 

Step into Galeries Lafayette on Boulevard Haussmann and you’ll see why shopping here feels extra special. Art Nouveau glasswork arches overhead while sleek displays show off the cream of French fashion, from Chanel to Sandro. The beauty hall bustles, the gourmet food court tempts with everything from melt-in-your-mouth pastries to artisanal cheese, and there’s even a rooftop terrace where you can sip coffee and gaze over Paris.

Staff are friendly, windows are always dazzling, and seasonal pop-ups keep things fresh. If you’re starting a Paris shopping tour, this is a true crowd-pleaser—mixing grand tradition, trendspotting brands and foodie delights, all under one ever-sparkling dome. 

Le Marais (Boutique Shopping) 

Le Marais wins hearts with its maze of cobblestone lanes and a treasure trove of independent boutiques and vintage hideaways. Here, local fashion labels, jewelry designers, and homeware shops line the streets, especially along Rue des Francs-Bourgeois and Rue Vieille du Temple. Merci, a concept store housed in an old factory, offers edgy clothes, curated gifts, and a popular café with a bookshop vibe.

Expect irresistible window displays, plenty of bakeries, and that unmistakable Parisian cool. Pop into a secondhand bookstore, browse locally made ceramics, or simply take in the friendly, creative energy that makes shopping in Le Marais feel more like a serendipitous adventure than a to-do list. 

Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen 

Europe’s largest flea market, Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, is a wonderland for treasure hunters. Spread over several districts, you’ll find vintage Chanel jackets, mid-century lamps, classic French posters, quirky home décor, and rare vinyl. Sellers here are passionate and always up for friendly banter—bargaining is all part of the experience!

The vibe is lively yet relaxed, and you’ll spot Paris locals and vintage lovers rummaging side by side for unique finds. Stroll through market cafés if you need a break or a glass of wine, and enjoy live jazz bands setting a retro mood. If you love the thrill of the hunt, you’ll adore shopping here. 

Rue de Rivoli

Rue de Rivoli Street Sign

Long, lively, and lined with shops, Rue de Rivoli balances big international brands with Parisian favorites like BHV. Shop window after shop window keeps things fresh—Zara, Sephora, and tempting patisseries all compete for attention alongside elegant homeware stores and sweet-filled chocolatiers. 

Its central location means you’re just steps from the Louvre and Tuileries Garden, ideal for squeezing in culture and shopping on the same stroll. And it’s also the place to nab affordable, practical souvenirs—bags of caramels, Eiffel Tower trinkets, or even a simple scarf. With everything close at hand and always bustling, Rue de Rivoli makes shopping in Paris easy and full of little surprises. 

Champs-Élysées and Avenue Montaigne 

If it’s glamour you’re after, stroll the Champs-Élysées for legendary flagship stores—Louis Vuitton, Guerlain, and more—set against a backdrop of broad Parisian boulevards. Avenue Montaigne ups the luxe factor: here’s where Parisian haute couture began, and the flagship boutiques of Dior, Chanel, and Givenchy beckon the fashion-forward.

Even if your budget leans more window-shopping than splurge, the architecture, bustling vibe, and decked-out displays are always worth the walk. Reward yourself with a pastry (or two) at a sidewalk café, and enjoy feeling part of fashion history—no purchase required! Both avenues deliver big on ambiance. 

Boulevard Haussmann and Printemps 

Boulevard Haussmann radiates chic, with Printemps department store anchoring the street. Printemps dazzles with a stunning stained-glass dome and fashion floors brimming with both heritage and exciting new labels. We love the Printemps du Goût area for French cheeses, chocolates, and wines—ideal for foodie gifts.

The rooftop terrace grants gorgeous city views with fewer crowds than some more famous vantage points. In December, window displays here go all-out, and year-round the sense of being in a Parisian classic never fades. Shop for fashion, beauty, homeware, or simply bask in the glamour and light. 

Shakespeare and Company Bookstore 

There’s nothing quite like this legendary English-language bookstore perched across from Notre Dame. Shakespeare and Company brims with creaky wood floors, literary nooks, and shelves crammed with everything from classics to new releases. Writers have flocked here for inspiration for nearly a century, and today’s visitors browse staff favorites, pick up Paris-themed books, or settle into the cozy café for a coffee and homemade pastry. 

Don’t forget to get your book stamped—a unique Paris souvenir. Whether you’re a book collector, want a thoughtful gift, or just love soaking up literary history, this spot is sure to cast its spell. 

Marché Bastille

Bread at Marché Bastille

Marché Bastille packs true Parisian spirit. On Thursday and Sunday mornings, this big open-air market fills Boulevard Richard Lenoir with brilliant colors and even better aromas. Fruit and veg stalls pile high, cheese mongers offer samples, and bread bakers’ stands tempt with still-warm baguettes. It’s perfect for assembling a market picnic or just noshing as you go, with additional vendors selling flowers, handmade crafts, scarves, and artwork. 

The atmosphere is friendly, lively, and wonderfully local—chat with vendors, listen to street musicians, and feel like a temporary Parisian. Great for delicious snacks and unexpectedly beautiful souvenirs. 

Saint-Ouen Flea Market 

This epic flea market always reveals something new, whether you’re browsing antique knick-knacks, ornate mirrors, or retro records. With winding alleyways and a mix of outdoor stalls and permanent dealers, every shopper finds a corner to explore. Part of the fun comes from chatting with knowledgeable vendors who are happy to share origin stories behind their goods.

Take a break in a market café surrounded by treasure hunters, and relish the relaxed, slightly bohemian buzz. Repeat visits are a must; items change constantly and bargains await for those who take their time. This spot is for anyone keen on finding souvenirs with a story. 

Passage des Panoramas 

Step back in time along the Passage des Panoramas, a 19th-century covered arcade that’s a hidden gem in the heart of the Grands Boulevards. Here, wood-paneled shops sell collectible stamps, postcards, model trains, and artisan chocolates.

Pop in for tea at a historic salon or browse unique gift shops that haven’t changed in decades. The atmosphere is cozy, a world away from the bustle outside, and perfect for whiling away a rainy afternoon or discovering one-of-a-kind mementos. End your stroll with a quick meal in one of its vintage bistros before heading back out into modern Paris. 

 

From historic passages to vibrant flea markets and grand department stores, Paris serves up a shopping experience for every mood and taste. Pack light and plan to wander—you never know what delightful finds await around the next corner! 

Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near Galeries Lafayette or Best Picnic Spots in Paris 

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Top Things to Do in Paris

Paris is one of those destinations on practically everyone’s must-see list. From its rich cultural history and vibrant modern scene to sumptuous cuisine and fine wine, it’s no wonder that Paris is a beloved vacation spot. Of course, we don’t always have two weeks to spend in Paris, and our trips have to be tailored to accommodate a briefer stay. If you’re looking to visit Paris and hope to see the best of the best, check out our list of the top things to do in Paris. We’ve selected a few of the must-do attractions for Parisian visitors, ranging from popular museums and cultural attractions to free public monuments, gardens, and more. Our top things in Paris list includes: Disneyland® Paris The Louvre Paris Bus Tour The Eiffel Tower Arc de Triomphe Seine River Cruise Champs-Élysées Versailles Sacré-Cœur Latin Quarter Trocadéro Gardens Disneyland® Paris Come and experience the magic and wonder of Disneyland® Paris! This is a must for your family trip to Paris. You'll be transported into this whimsical world of classic characters and enjoy a day of total magic. What's more, the parks are dotted with awesome rides, rollercoaster and experiences, and you can also catch stunning shows with yoru favorite characters. This year the park celbrates it's 30th Anniversary, and extra special surprises are in store for visitors, notably the magnificent nightly fireworks spectaculars at Sleeping Beauty's Castle. Don't miss out! The Louvre One of the best museums in the world, hands-down, is the Louvre. It’s not only among our favorite museums in Paris, but it also has a little bit of everything for all those interested in arts and culture. With multiple different departments to explore—ranging from Egyptian antiquities to Renaissance painting and beyond—there are practically endless galleries to roam through. For more information about the Louvre, check out our helpful guide. Paris Bus Tour It’s easy to urge you to check out the top sights in Paris, and less simple for you to figure out how to do so. Fortunately, a convenient hop-on hop-off Paris Bus tour is available via Big Bus. It helps you get familiar with the city’s most famous sites, range through different neighborhoods, and develop a sense of how everything fits together. And while Parisian mass transit is easy to use, with a bus tour you can appreciate the sights as you traverse the city! The Eiffel Tower Paris’ most famous landmark is the Eiffel Tower. It’s been a monument to the city and the country for generations and is among the most recognizable structures across the globe. Don’t miss out on your chance to ascend to the top of the tower, or check out the restaurants on the lower levels. Or, for a budget-friendly option, bring some bread and cheese and have a picnic beneath on the Champs de Mars for free. Arc de Triomphe Situated at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, this is another of the city’s most famous landmarks. The Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile is known for its signature design, with twelve avenues radiating out from the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle. The monument itself is designated to commemorate those who fought in the French Revolutionary War and Napoleonic Wars, with a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from WWI beneath. Seine River Cruise Running through the heart of Paris, the Seine River is a prominent part of the cityscape that visitors won’t want to neglect. Happily, it’s easy to explore the riverbanks and bridges of Paris on a leisurely river cruise. Choose from narration in over 14 languages as you glide past top sites like the Pont Neuf bridge, Notre Dame Cathedral, Musée D’Orsay, the Eiffel Tower, and more. Champs-Élysées One of the most famous neighborhoods in Paris, the Champs-Élysées combines all the charm of historical Paris with the convenience of a modern shopping paradise. Visit stores ranging from the most selective and elusive of boutiques to mainstream brands at a variety of price points. Whether you’re hoping to come home with a perfect souvenir or just do some window shopping, this is one of the most-see areas in Paris. Versailles Arguably among the most opulent royal residences in the entire world, the Palace of Versailles is unquestionably among our top things to do when visiting Paris. Between the magnificent Hall of Mirrors, the exquisite Royal Opera, and the extravagant royal apartments, there’s practically no surface in all of Versailles that isn’t covered in some precious material. Warn your friends about your forthcoming Insta series! Sacré-Cœur The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris is a gorgeous white church that’s one of the most popular landmarks to visit in all of Paris. It’s located at the top of a high summit and the climb to get up to the basilica itself is part of the experience. The unique Romano-Byzantine architecture style also separates the Sacré-Cœur from many of the other Catholic churches in the city, including Notre Dame. Luxembourg Gardens An expansive garden/park space located in the 6th arrondissement, Luxembourg Gardens date back to the early seventeenth century when the widow of King Henry IV commissioned the space for her new residence, the Luxembourg Palace. While the French Senate meets in the Palace, the gardens are open to the public to stroll, picnic, snap photos of the flowers, and so on. It’s a lovely place to get a sense of nature in the midst of the city. Latin Quarter For those in search of a little bit of culture outside the museums, the Latin Quarter is home to the Sorbonne University as well as many bookstores and cafés. Don’t miss the famous bookshop Shakespeare and Company, for one. This neighborhood is also a good place for families to explore, featuring the Jardin des Plantes botanical gardens and the National Museum of Natural History. Trocadéro Gardens This massive public park is located just across the river from the Eiffel Tower, so it’s a perfect place from which to snap distance photos of this landmark. Within the park itself, you’ll find a grand fountain, plenty of enchanting sculptures, and even the remarkable Aquarium de Paris. There are also three museums nearby: the Palais de Chaillot, Musée de l’Homme, and Musée Georges Clemenceau. Save on Admission to Paris Attractions Explore the top things to do in Paris with the Go Paris pass. Pay just 95 Euro for the 48-hour Paris Museum Pass, which covers admission to more than 55 different museums, chateaux, and monuments in the broader Paris area. You’ll also get access to bus tours, cruises, and other fun ways to explore the French capital. Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we'll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook pages for competitions, special offers, and events and inspiration for your chosen destination, too!
Katie Sagal
Couple cycling in front of the Eiffel Tower
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Paris Explorer Pass Vs The Paris Pass

Paris is one of those places you absolutely must visit at least once. And probably twice, or more. But let’s not mince words here: it can be eye-wateringly expensive, from those spicy city-center hotel prices to tourist-trap restaurants, cabaret tickets (even the cheap seats at the Moulin Rouge and Crazy Horse ain’t that cheap!), and entry to bucket-list Paris attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum and Palace of Versailles. Not to mention the Arc de Triomphe, Musée d’Orsay, the exceptional Picasso and Rodin museums and, well, we could go on. Go City’s Paris Explorer Pass and Paris Pass are two great ways of ticking off those must-see museums, monuments and more while saving money for those other most essential of Parisian pastimes (we’re talking coffee, croissants, and café culture in general). But which is better value? And which will suit your Paris getaway best? We’ve broken it down to help you decide which pass to go for. Savvy travelers, read on… Paris Explorer Pass Vs The Paris Pass If you’re planning a trip to Paris and hope to take in more than the tiniest handful of city tours, activities and attractions, we have just the thing for you. The Paris Explorer Pass and Paris Pass from Go City offer two simple but slightly differing options for saving money when visiting multiple Paris attractions, including big-ticket must-sees like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre. For the most up-to-date information, prices and attraction inclusions, and to buy your pass, please visit the official websites: The Paris Pass Paris Explorer Pass How the Passes Work to Save You Money A Go City Explorer Pass lets you choose how many attractions you want to visit when in town, while The Paris Pass lets you choose the number of consecutive calendar days in which to sightsee. In short, that means that the amount of money you save with the Explorer Pass will largely depend on standard entry prices at the attractions you choose to visit, while how much you save with The Paris Pass depends on the volume of tours, attractions and activities you can squeeze into your chosen number of days. Note that some of the most popular attractions on both passes require pre-booking. Paris Explorer Pass The Paris Explorer Pass includes your choice of several Paris tours, activities and attractions for one money-saving price. The pass comes in several options, from three-attraction choices up to seven. Once you’ve bought your pass, you’re then free to pick and choose from a selection of around 50 great things to see and do in and around Paris. You have 60 days from time of purchase to use your pass. Just show it at each attraction and you’re in – no need to pay at the gate. Savvy savers can potentially save up to 50% by visiting a high number of big-ticket attractions like Parc Astérix, a macaron-making class at the iconic Galeries Lafayette, and the Ultimate Louvre Experience, which includes a guided tour of the grounds and skip-the-line entry to the museum.  The Paris Pass The Paris Pass includes admission to almost 100 attractions for your choice of two, three, four or six consecutive days. Choose attractions, tours and activities on the go from 80+ options and simply flash your pass at each one to get in. Because the value of The Paris Pass increases the more you use it and savings don’t necessarily depend on visiting big-ticket attractions like the Eiffel Tower, you may well end up discovering some of the city’s more charming smaller museums – the Orangerie, and others dedicated to the work of  Rodin, Picasso, Dalí and Gustave Moreau being among some of the most polished gems in town. Your pass is activated the first time you use it and will expire after your chosen number of consecutive days have elapsed. What’s Included on the Passes? Both passes include the option to visit some very popular Paris attractions, as well as a number of walking tours and other fun activities. But not all are available on both passes, so it’s always worth checking the individual websites for the most up-to-date inclusions. For example, at time of writing both passes include entry to the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, but with slightly different experiences (e.g. elevator guided tour on Explorer; guided climb on The Paris Pass). You can visit the Rodin Museum or take a walking tour of the city’s beautiful 19th-century shopping arcades with either pass, but you’ll need a Paris Pass if you want to let your hair down at Parc Astérix or ogle the French Impressionist masterpieces in the Musée d’Orsay, while the Explorer Pass is your key to unlocking the secrets of Père Lachaise Cemetery or riding the Petit Train de Montmartre. In Brief… Still wondering which of the Paris Pass or Explorer Pass is for you? In short, the Explorer is likely to be right if you’re in town for a few days (or longer) and plan to intersperse a few bucket-list attractions with plenty of café culture and gentle strolls along the City of Light’s broad boulevards and swoonsome canals. Go for The Paris Pass if you’re a sightseeing hurricane, and hope to squeeze as many major (and minor) attractions, tours and activities into your Paris break as you can. Want to Save Even More? While visiting Paris on a shoestring is near-impossible, money-saving Paris attraction passes like the Paris Explorer and Paris Pass can really help take the edge off. But there are other ways to get more for your Euro. Check out our hints and tips on some of the most cost-effective (and free!) ways to have fun in Paris in the blogs below: Cheap things to do in Paris Unique and affordable Paris dining experiences The best markets in Paris The best walks in Paris Paris tourist traps to avoid Other things to do in Paris Save on Attractions, Tours and Activities in Paris Save on admission to Paris attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Opera National de Paris at Night
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