“The City of Love”, Paris, is surrounded by numerous luxury brand shops, high-end shopping malls, gift shops, and even flea markets, that if you get lucky, you might get yourself a good luxury brand item for a cheap price.
No wonder this city is on the top list of traveler’s shopping destinations.
A true wanderer will not leave Paris without bringing a memorable souvenir from their trip. I personally make sure that before leaving the country that I visit, I will always take something with me which will remind me of the country.
It could be a fridge magnet, wine or bottle opener or even mugs. Make sure you have an extra space in your luggage to fit all the delightful gems you’re about to discover while shopping.
Best Places to Buy a Souvenir in Paris
I know you’ve all been waiting for this, here are my Top 5 list of the best souvenir shops to visit. Rest assured that most of them offers the best customer service and decently priced top-notch souvenir items.
Les Parisettes
Located at 10 Rue Gramme, this little gift shop has a very cute concept and also far from the bustling tourist attractions. Its interiors of color blue bring life to all the souvenir items that are well displayed.
This gift shop is known for its utmost customer service, the Owner will personally cater to your needs, an artist himself.
Parici, Memories of Paris
Located at 52 Rue Mouffetard, known for its diversified selections, this gift shop will surely help you out if you’re still confused on what to get. They’ve got clothes, jackets, hats, fridge magnets, bottle openers, and even the miniature Eiffel Tower.
All of them are way affordable compared to other gift shops. For a nice reasonable price, I bet you will find something for each and everyone back home.
Sacre-Coeur Souvenirs
Located at 48 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, this is by far one of the most beautiful gift shops on the list. It boasts a classic architecture standing just along the streets of the famous neighborhood, Montmartre.
Apart from its variety of selections, the place is a totally instagrammable spot. A perfect mix for shopping and a little bit of photoshoot on the side.
Royal Souvenirs
Located at 5 Rue Lagrange, just located a few meters from the famed Cathedral of Notre Dame, is a simple and yet affordable gift shop. From this list, this is the most affordable gift shop to go to.
Though it is located near a famous tourist attraction, they still have priced their souvenir items affordably compared to other shops. I like their store because souvenirs are organized.
It is very easy to find what you’re looking for and most especially, the staffs are very happy to assist you.
Paris Rendez-vous
Located at 29 Rue de Rivoli, a fancier option for the ones with classy taste. This neat gift shop offers tourists an outstanding shopping experience.
From its different array of souvenir displays, an amazing food offering, and impressive customer service, you might shop til you drop. Its perfect combination of good customer service and quality products is impressive.
Aside from shopping, you get the chance to do a quick food trip for that last-minute French munchies. Most tourists attest that this gift shop is a must-visit!
Are Souvenirs Expensive in Paris?
To be honest, not really. Most souvenirs are priced in a decent amount. You can get a key chain worth between 3-5 euros or a fridge magnet between 2-5 euros.
It all varies with the kind, size, make and the kind of shop that is selling it. If you are buying in a high-end shop, then expect that the prices are sky-rocket high, too.
I usually prefer shopping for souvenirs in low key shops far from tourist attractions because they are way cheaper and still the same quality.
Then again, at the end of the day, you’re the one managing your budget so it is always up to you. If you want to go all out and have extra bucks to spend on expensive souvenirs, then go for it! But, if you are more of a budget traveler like me, then take the cheaper route instead. Your wallet won’t surely cry.
What are the Must-Get Souvenirs?
Not sure what to get in Paris? Don’t worry, I’m here to save the day and make sure you will take a bit of the city back home with you. Here are the must-haves in your shopping list:
Chocolates
You should know by now by the end of your trip that Paris serves one of the best chocolates in the world. Wrapped and packaged in a classy shiny box, who wouldn’t want to take home some?
Herbs and Spices
Got inspired to become a legit chef after doing a culinary tour in Paris? Make sure you visit the herbs stores and get yourself a good ensemble of Bouquets Garnis (a mix of different french herbs). Show off your cooking skills back home and use these spices.
French Pastries
It may not last for a while, but hey..it’s worth bringing some! Don’t forget to head to the nearest bakery and pack some croissants, baguettes, eclairs, and macaroons. Share it with your friends and loved ones back home, I’m pretty sure they’ll appreciate it.
Wine or Champagne
If you decided to join a wine tour during your trip, do not forget to purchase their high-quality drinks. Whether its red, white or dessert wine, french liquors are definitely amazing. A bottle of La Vieille Ferme Rouge might be a good addition to your liquor or wine collection.
Cheese
Just like wine, don’t miss out on their decadent cheese. Impress your friends back home and invite them to a charcuterie party. Bring a handful of rockefort, camembert and brie, I’m sure you’re guests will be speechless.
Beret
Moving on from the food department, let’s go to non-food souvenirs. A beret has always been a symbol of France. Most people think that the French wear them all the time.
This knitted woolen hat has always been associated as well with Parisian artists. But hey, this hat is so fashionable and a great item to bring with you.
Scarf
Definitely, one of my favorites to get in Paris. Hit the flea markets for a cheaper option. They’ve got lots of stalls with different colored scarves that you will surely love. If you want to get a more expensive type, head to the shopping malls or luxury shops.
Books or Postcards
Got a library back home? Just kidding. A bookworm just like you will enjoy the streets of Paris for they have lots of quaint bookshops everywhere. If you’re planning on learning French after the trip, one book is a good way to start.
Eiffel Tower Miniatures
Outside the Eiffel Tower itself, tons of vendors will hand you this cute souvenir item. They vary in sizes, colors, and prices that you could choose from depending on your preference. Wouldn’t the famous icon in Paris a good addition to your home décor? Definitely!
A Louis Vuitton Handbag
If you have the budget, sure why not? I mean, Paris is the best place to buy this luxurious bag, where it all began. Save up before your visit, who knows, you might own your dream handbag.
Ready To Shop?
I know that there might be some of us who are intimidated to shop in Paris because of its grandeur and luxurious quality lifestyle.
Little did we know that just like any other city, Paris offers a variety of choices to shop that will match our budget. Good knowledge of Parisian products will put you at the top of your shopping game.
Knowing what to get, where to get it and how much you’re getting, will save you a lot of time, money and effort. If I were you, don’t get intimidated and confidently enter the shops.
Take your time window shopping on the following list of gift shops that we have recommended or you could choose your own route. Rest assured, whatever you will be getting, it will always remind you of the precious moments you’ve spent in the “City of Love”.