If you’re hoping to bring back some memorable Paris holiday gifts, look no further. We’ve rounded up some great options for Christmas and holiday shopping, whether you’re looking for gourmet treats, clothing, jewelry, books, or decorative items to put in your suitcase. If you can make it to one of the city’s festive Christmas markets at some point during your stay in the capital, you’re even more likely to find a memorable (and locally authentic) gift or Christmas souvenir. Once you’ve read this list, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide to choosing an authentic (and not cliche) gift from Paris. On a tight budget? Don’t worry – check out our complete guide to discount shopping in Paris and enjoy unique gifts from the city of light you won ‘
Christmas markets in Paris: for regional specialties
You know that the end of the year holidays have arrived in Paris when little wooden chalets with cheerful lights start to pop up around the city. The city’s annual emerging Christmas markets (created in the tradition of those found in the northeastern Alsace region, which has alternately been part of France and Germany) bring a special warmth to the season, and are a treasure for authentic and locally made gifts. Head here to find regional Alsace specialties like spice pain (gingerbread) and mulled wine, plus gourmet treats from other regions and traditional Christmas decorations, toys, and cozy hand-knits.
For 2017-2018 Locations: Complete Guide to Paris Christmas Markets
Paris department store: for haute couture and gourmet products
The city’s historic department stores are not simply shopping sanctuaries, they are also architectural treasures and coveted hideaways filled with fine clothing, jewelry, cosmetics, home furnishings, and gourmet items. If you can handle the crowds and the heat, they are ideal stops for Christmas shopping in the capital. For those of you looking for gifts for a foodie or wine lover, be sure to check out the huge gourmet supermarkets at Galeries Lafayette and Au Bon Marché. As you do so, enjoy the ever-colorful and creative festive window displays in the Paris department stores.
Boutiques and concept shops in Paris: for local designers
Paris has an inordinate number of fashion boutiques and concept stores. The coveted Colette boutique, in particular, draws crowds and celebrities for its constantly updated selection of the latest concepts in electronics, fashion, accessories, beauty products, and other items, and also boasts an extensive, cutting-edge collection of new book releases. , DVD and music. Try here to find the perfect gift for a hipster or fashionista. After shopping, you can sit fashionable and aloof at the “water bar” downstairs.
The best perfume shops in Paris: to distinguish noses
Paris is the world center for luxury and bespoke fragrance making, and the artisan noses from Serge Lutens to Frederic Malle have independent shops here. You can also find flagship stores from big-name luxury brands like Guerlain and Jo Malone, where it’s often possible to get limited-edition scents that you won’t be able to find elsewhere.
The best chocolate shops in Paris: for cocoa fans
Paris is one of the chocolate capitals of the world, so if you know a cocoa connoisseur, be sure to stop by one of the best chocolate shops in the city to bring a special treat. From ganaches to pecan and truffle mendiants, there is something special waiting for all types of chocolate lovers.
The best English bookstores in Paris: for your favorite bookworm
Paris has dozens of bookstores: some traditional and other branches of large chain stores. Read this list of the best carefully to find the perfect reading for a friend or loved one of bookworms.
More for Book Lovers: Traditional Seine River Bookcases
Looking for a rare book or magazine for a bibliophile friend or family member? Paris has tons of old bookstores, especially in the Latin Quarter around the old university district. But when the sun comes up, why not take a closer look at the booksellers on the Seine side of the city? Paris boasts more than 200 independent outdoor stalls, offering some 300,000 new and used collectable books and magazines under open skies.
See also: The best flea markets in Paris
The Creators of the Abbesses (Montmartre Artisan Boutiques)
Clustered along a few small streets in the quaint Montmartre neighborhood are a number of artisan boutiques offering unique clothing, jewelry, decorative items, and more. It’s a good alternative to overcrowded department stores and a long shot from chain stores where multinational brands reign (guaranteeing non-original gifts).
How to get there: Metro Abbesses, Pigalle
Main streets (bring a map of the city): Rue Houdon, Rue d’Orsel, Rue des Martyrs, Rue des Abbesses, Rue Yvonne-Le-Tac.
Check out these neighborhood guides to explore more unique artisan shops in Paris:
- Barrio Rue Montorgueil
- Barrio del Canal Saint-Martin
- Barrio Marais
- Barrio de Butte aux Cailles
