While the Notre-Dame Cathedral may be the first image that comes to mind when you think of Paris, the city is also a shopper’s paradise. Paris’ department stores are some of the most beautiful in the world, rivaling even the Eiffel Tower in their allure. Three iconic shopping destinations stand out: Le Bon Marché, Printemps, and Galeries Lafayette. These grand emporiums boast an incredible selection of fashion, beauty products, home decor, and accessories. But there’s more to these stores than just retail therapy; they offer a captivating blend of heritage, cultural events, pop-up shops, and delicious dining, tempting you to linger longer and discover their secrets.
The Birthplace of Department Stores
Did you know that the department store concept was born in Paris? In the mid-19th century, the city’s retail scene transformed from traditional covered passages to grand, illuminated stores. These dazzling establishments, known as les grands magasins, set up shop on the city’s wide boulevards, captivating visitors with their ornate architecture, stunning interiors, and desirable merchandise. They revolutionized the way people shopped, setting the stage for the elegant department stores of the future.
Le Bon Marché: A Parisian Icon
Founded in 1838 on the Left Bank, Le Bon Marché holds the title of the world’s first modern department store. Initially a small shop selling lace, buttons, ribbons, and umbrellas, it underwent a complete transformation in 1852 under the visionary leadership of Aristide Boucicaut, a milliner’s son, and his wife Marguerite. Their ambition was to create a unique, curated shopping experience that would delight all the senses. They introduced groundbreaking concepts like fixed prices, an exchange service, home delivery, seasonal sales, concerts, art displays, and even a reading room for waiting husbands. The renowned engineer Gustave Eiffel (yes, the one who designed the Eiffel Tower!) even played a role in the store’s successful expansion.
Today, Le Bon Marché’s departments showcase a luxurious mix of designer brands, ranging from fashion and beauty to homewares, stationery, and books. Don’t miss the Gallery of Imagination, a treasure trove of cutting-edge global finds. You can indulge in make-up lessons, manicures and pedicures, skincare treatments, and even nail bars. The Jo Malone fragrance outlet will entice your senses, while Le Bar à Coiffure 365c offers hair styling and Marisol, a top hairdresser, provides expert cuts. Gentlemen can visit the stylish dandy barber shop. The store’s walls are adorned with eye-catching art installations, featuring collaborations with renowned designers.
Foodie Delights at Le Bon Marché
Foodies will be in heaven at Le Bon Marché’s diverse culinary offerings. Primo Piano, a Tuscan restaurant, serves up authentic Italian flavors, while Sunlee Howard, a charming coffee and vinyl shop, provides a cozy spot for a snack. For sweet treats, head to Rose Bakery Tea Room. Just a short walk away lies La Grande Épicerie de Paris, Le Bon Marché’s sister store, offering a gourmet wonderland of French and Italian delicacies. Oysters, truffles, and sparkling wine await you in this dream deli hall.
Le Bon Marché: A Shopping Destination
Le Bon Marché is located at 24 rue de Sevrès, 75007 Paris. It’s open from 10am to 8pm, except on Thursdays when it stays open until 8:45pm, and on Sundays it’s open from 11am to 7:45pm. If you’re looking for a chic place to stay near Le Bon Marché, consider Paris Perfect’s Morgon rental apartment. Located in the 7th arrondissement, this elegant apartment sleeps six, boasting three ensuite bedrooms, a spacious living room, and an impressive kitchen. It blends contemporary style with antique accents and artwork, making it a perfect base for a stylish shopping trip. For a more intimate stay, Picardin, a charming two-person apartment, is also located near Le Bon Marché.
Printemps: A Parisian Classic
Founded in 1865 by Jules Jaluzot, Printemps is another beloved department store in Paris. Its name, which means “Spring” in French, reflects its aim to offer everything “new, fresh, and lovely”. Printemps Haussmann, located in the 9th arrondissement, is a listed historic monument, while a second location, Printemps Louvre, can be found in the 1st arrondissement. Printemps made history by being the first department store to install elevators and the first building in France to be lit by electricity, just three years after Thomas Edison introduced the electric bulb.
Shop till you drop for fashion, beauty, and accessories, and then treat yourself to a delightful meal at one of Printemps’ restaurants. Brasserie Printemps, located on the sixth floor of the Women’s Store under the dazzling Art Deco cupola, serves classic French cuisine and sparkling wine. Ladurée, known for its elegant macarons, is located on the first floor. For seasonal snacks, head to Printemps du Goût on the seventh and eighth floors of the Men’s Store, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Palais Garnier and the Eiffel Tower from the terrace. Check the store’s website for the latest news and events, including exclusive products, new launches, and seasonal pop-ups.
Printemps: A Shopping Paradise
Printemps Haussmann is located at 64 boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris. It’s open from 9:35am to 8pm, except on Thursdays when it stays open until 8:45pm, and on Sundays it’s open from 11am to 7pm.
Galeries Lafayette: A Grand Dame of Shopping
No trip to Paris’ department stores is complete without a visit to the stunning Galeries Lafayette. Founded in 1893 by two cousins from Alsace, it was the last of the les grands magasins to open its doors. The flagship store on Boulevard Haussmann in the 9th arrondissement is a true architectural marvel. Its grand foyer, famous neo-Byzantine dome adorned with colored glass and ironwork, and panoramic terrace are simply breathtaking. This listed historic monument is beloved for its ornate Art Nouveau style.
Explore the expansive Women’s Store under the cupola, the attached Men’s Store, and the mouth-watering Homewares and Food Outlet located across the street at number 35. Indulge in a luxurious pit stop at the Petrossian Caviar boutique on the ground floor, where you can savor salmon, caviar, and Champagne. Take the elevator to the seventh floor of the main store to experience the allure of Cube Bar, which offers seductive shared plates, cocktails, and stunning terrace views.
Galeries Lafayette: A Shopping and Dining Destination
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is located at 40 boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris. The Cupola, Men’s Store, and Homewares are open from 9:30am to 8:30pm, and on Sundays from 11am to 8pm. The Gourmet Food Outlet is open from 8:30am to 9:30pm, and on Sundays from 11am to 8pm. If you’re looking for a chic rental apartment near Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, Paris Perfect’s Saint-Pourçain is a perfect choice. Located in the nearby 2nd arrondissement, this modern apartment sleeps six in three bedrooms. Its wooden flooring, generous windows, and light, neutral tones create a luxurious ambiance.
