Shopping Possibilities
Galeries Lafayette:
First inaugurated in 1893, the Galeries Lafayette department store is a Paris fashion institution. Located near the Opera Garnier, Galeries Lafayette is an essential stop for fashion enthusiasts: men and women's designer collections are always kept at the cutting-edge, and the latest trends in jewelry and accessories, home furnishings, or cosmetics can all be perused under one roof. Galeries Lafayette also houses a gourmet food market, Lafayette Gourmet, that will be sure to tempt foodies and curious travelers alike. Modeled after a mideastern baazar, the store flaunts unique Belle Epoque architecture.
Address: 40, Blvd. Haussmann, 9th arrondissement
Metro: Chaussée d'Antin, Opéra, or Trinité
RER: Auber (Line A) or Haussmann St-Lazare (Line E)
Bus: Lines 20, 21, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29, 32, 43, 53, 66, 68, 91, 94, or 95
Telephone: + 33 (0)142 823 456
Galeries Lafayette Opening Hours:
Monday-Saturday 09:30 am to 07:30 pm
Thursdays: Open until 9 pm
Sunday: Closed
Saint-Ouen Flea Market:
Best for: Antiques and oddball items, discounted and vintage clothes and shoes
Getting there: Metro Porte de Clingancourt (Line 4) or Garibaldi (Line 13)
The Saint-Ouen flea market (or "puces"-- literally, "fleas") is the city's largest, and dates to the 19th century. Located at the very northern tip of Paris, les puces are an essential shopping stop. Come here for a few hours to browse the antique furniture, odd objects, or vintage clothes. You may not come away with a masterpiece painting (as once was the case), but a find you are likely to make. Weekdays are preferable to avoid the inevitable crowds, though.
Shopping District: Les Halles and Rue de Rivoli
Best for: Major chains and trendy boutiques
Getting there: Metro Chatelet-Les Halles (Line 4, RER A,B)
Main streets: Rue de Rivoli, Rue Pierre-Lescot, Rue Etienne Marcel, Rue de Turbigo
Once the locus of "the guts of Paris"-- an enormous outdoor food market, the area around Châtelet-les Halles was transformed into a major shopping area in the 20th century. At metro Les Halles is a monstrous underground mall, where global chain stores reign. Rue de Rivoli is much the same. In the Rue Montorgueil area, quirky contemporary boutiques abound, including Barbara Bui and young cutting-edge designers.
Bonpoint:
Since 1975, Bonpoint have been making tasteful, stylish children’s clothing that appeals to both the little ones and their parents... The brand specialises in upscale fashion for children aged 0 to 14. Bonpoint opened a shop in the 6th arrondissement of Paris in 2006. Clothes, accessories and shoes to delight any child or parent are beautifully displayed in this 1,200 sq. metre retail area.
Printemps:
The Printemps store is one of the most prestigious department stores in the French capital: Fashion, Beauty, Home, Decoration, Weddings, Travel… all the latest trends are at Printemps!... Founded in 1865 by Jules Jaluzot, it was to be a modern store, still blazing a trail today as far as fashion is concerned. And in between visiting two departments, you can stop for something to eat or drink in one of the 8 restaurant areas designed to provide snacks or something more substantial: just what you need to give you the stamina for the pursuit of the latest creation by Isabel Marant or Marc Jacobs!