You are visiting Paris and you wish to bring home some souvenirs for yourself or your loved ones to remember your experience? Here’s a list of the must-buy souvenirs that you can buy and bring from Paris. Some are a bit cliché, some not so much.
1) A Béret
There are many clichés about France and one of the most famous ones is that French people always wear Bérets. This knitted wool hat is often associated with Parisian artists. And even if French people don’t wear it that often, it remains a strong symbol and a great gift to bring home from the French capital city. You can find some cheap ones “Made in China” in pretty much every gift shop in Paris; however, getting one manufactured in France will make it more appealing.
Where to buy it?
LA CERISE SUR LE CHAPEAU
This brand owns several stores throughout Paris, you can locate them on their website
Price:
€35 for a one size fits all béret
2) A Marinière
A Marinière is a long-sleeved jersey that was originally worn by the French Marine since the 19th century on. Before, it was strictly blue and white and had with 21 white stripes of 20mm, and 20 or 21 blue stripes of 10mm. The “Tricot Rayé” (Striped Jersey) became popular ever since Coco Chanel introduced it to the fashion industry. Other fashion designers followed this trend, such as Yves Saint Laurent, and Jean-Paul Gaultier who completely took it over to make it an imaginative -sometimes eccentric- fashion statement.
Where to buy it?
BOUTIQUE AMOR LUX VAVIN
The brand owns several stores throughout Paris, you can locate them on their website
Price:
Approximately from €40 to €85 depending on the product.
3) Macarons
These small pastries made of almond powder, egg whites and sugar, is called Parisian Macaron when it is upgraded with a ganache in between its two biscuits. Whether you are adventurous or like classic flavors, you will always find some to suit your taste. It’s the favorite French dessert of most foreigners. It’s hard to resist the pull of delicious sweets but these are definitely worth tasting, so just go for it!
Where to buy it?
BOUTIQUE PIERRE HERMÉ OPERA
The brand owns several stores throughout Paris, you can locate them on their website
Price:
From €19.30 for one assorted box of 7 macarons to €104 for one assorted box of 40 macarons.
4) Wine
Wine is France’s ultimate symbol! We produce wine in almost every region and it is therefore the most consumed alcohol in France. Moreover, there are so many different types that it can fit almost any kind of taste buds, for any budget, so there is no need to hesitate. Go to a wine store and try some! Whether it’s red wine, white wine or a rosé, you will definitely find a bottle which will suit both you and your loved ones.
Where to buy it?
NICOLAS RAMBUTEAU BEAUBOURG
The brand owns several stores throughout Paris, you can locate them on their website
There are many other Nicolas shops in the city.
Price:
From €5 to several hundred euros.
The average price is €15 per bottle.
5) Champagne
It is the most festive alcoholic drink in France! This drink originated from the Champagne Region is now consumed everywhere in France and in the world. If you want to share one with friends to memorialize an important event (or not), a bottle of champagne would be a perfect gift for your friends and family who love to celebrate, or simply who like to treat themselves.
Where to buy it?
DILETTANTES
22 rue de Savoie, 75006 Paris
http://www.dilettantes.fr/en/
Price:
The average price is €45 per bottle.
6) Dried Sausage
This is one of the many French culinary specialties. This delicacy -which is usually made of pork meat yet sometimes boar meat, donkey meat, beef or even poultry- will probably surprise you. Taste it just once with some French baguette and you won’t be able to get enough of it. Why not share some with your friends?
Where to buy it?
LA GRANDE EPICERIE
38 rue de Sèvres, 75007 Paris
http://www.lagrandeepicerie.com/en.html
Price:
The average price is €7 per unit
7) Cheese
In France, it is said that there are 365 types of cheese, which means that you can taste a new one each day of the year. Even if it seems a bit too hard to taste them all during your 2-day stay in Paris, you should still try to discover as much as possible and gift your favorite ones to someone.
Where to buy it?
ANDROUET MOUFFETARD
The brand owns several stores throughout Paris, you can locate them on their website
Price:
A cheese platter for 10 is approximately €30.
8) Foie Gras
If you spent December 25th in France, you probably have already tried one of the most essential dishes of the Winter holidays: the Foie Gras. This French delicacy is basically made of the liver of a goose or a duck; it can be eaten fresh, semi-cooked, or cooked. Eating it at Christmas has become a tradition. That’s why it should be one of the best gifts you can think of if you want your loved ones to taste the magic of French Christmas celebrations.
Where to buy it?
FAUCHON PARIS
30 place de la Madeleine, 75008 Paris
http://www.fauchon.com/en/
Price:
Whole Duck Foie Gras from Sud-Ouest 180g: €48.50
9) A scarf
Foreign countries are quite envious of French scarves, whether they are feminine silk ones or warmer and thicker ones. So why not buy one for someone? In Paris, you can find one for any budget, material and shape. It is a fashionable accessory which will keep you warm and stylish for all of the winter while giving you that Parisian chic appearance that everyone likes.
Where to buy it?
LONGCHAMPS SAINT-HONORE
The brand owns several stores throughout Paris, you can locate them on their website
Price:
50x50cm silk scarf from €65
70x70cm silk scarf from €135
90x90cm silk scarf from €235
Where to buy it (other option)?
GALERIES LAFAYETTES HAUSSMANN
40 boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris
http://haussmann.galerieslafayette.com/en/
Price:
Prices start at €20.
10) A Louis Vuitton Handbag
Those who have a (much) bigger budget should probably go on the Avenue des Champs-Elysées in the beautiful Louis Vuitton boutique. The most famous French leather shop welcomes millions of visitors and we all know why. Their handbags and travel cases are well-known and worn in the entire world. They have often been imitated but remain unrivaled. It is definitely one of the best Parisian gifts you could give to someone you know.
Where to buy it?
LOUIS VUITTON PARIS CHAMPS-ELYSÉES
The brand owns several stores throughout Paris, you can locate them on their website
Price:
From €800
11) Books, Posters or Postcards
While walking on the banks of the Seine, along the Quai Voltaire, you won’t be able to miss the green boxes that border the riverside. The Bouquinistes of Paris are a symbol of the city and are registered as a UNESCO World Heritage since 2011. The books there are all second-hand so they are quite cheap and you can find some beautiful masterpieces. Also, postcards and posters are usually vintage. Therefore, you will always be able to find something within your budget depending on the authenticity and the reputation of your purchase.
Where to buy?
THE BOUQUINISTES OF PARIS
Banks of the Seine – From the Quai de la Tournelle to Quai Voltaire
Les bouquinistes de Paris
Price:
From a few cents to more than €20.
The average price is €10.
12) An Eiffel Tower Replica
Yes, it is a cliché souvenir, but it does not mean we should completely put it aside. The “Iron Lady” is one of the most visited monuments in France, and it is probably the most iconic monuments of Paris. From there, you have one of the greatest views on the city of lovers. So, share your experience in the Eiffel Tower by giving your friends some of these replicas.
Where to buy it?
SOUVENIRS DE PARIS
103 quai Branly, 75015 Paris
https://www.souvenirs-paris.fr/~souvenirf/
Price:
One 4.5x2cm Eiffel Tower, €1
One 8×3.5cm Eiffel Tower, €1.90
One 30x12cm Eiffel Tower, €19
One 48x13cm Eiffel Tower, €39
13) A French Knife
If you want to buy a useful, French-manufactured gift, then don’t look any farther and buy an Opinel knife. These wooden-handled knives are made in Savoie and are one of the symbols of the “Made in France” movement. Having one will be useful if you are out in nature for a picnic or camping, as well as when you are at home.
Where to buy it?
The brand owns several Opinel stores and Relais throughout Paris, you can locate them on their website
Price:
Approximately €15 for a classic stainless one.
14) Antiques
In Paris, there is quite a large choice of antiques and pieces worth checking out. You can start your quest for unique and historical pieces in many Antique dealer shops, or flea markets for those courageous enough to browse all those alleys and stores.
Where to buy it?
BOUTIQUE ALASINGLINGLIN
1 rue du Marché Popincourt, 75011 Paris
SAINT OUEN FLEA MARKET
Porte de Clignancourt, 93400 Saint-Ouen
http://www.marcheauxpuces-saintouen.com/1.aspx
Price:
The price differs depending on the shape and the scarcity of the object.
15) Beauty Products
In France, there are many unique soaps and skincare products that foreigners love and can’t get in their home countries. Bioderma, La Roche-Posay, Avène, L’Occitane… These products are quite easy to get in France, however, in other countries, they are much more expensive. So when you come to Paris, hox about taking advantage of those attractive prices and let your friends discover some French brands.
Where to buy it?
PHARMACIE MONGE
75 rue Monge, 75005 Paris
https://www.pharmacie-monge.fr/
Price:
The average price of a 500ml Micellar Water bottle is 10€
Where to buy it (other option)?
L’OCCITANE EN PROVENCE
The brand owns several stores throughout Paris, you can locate them on their website
Price:
16) A Bottle of Perfume
If you want to get a more refined gift, you should go for a bottle of perfume. Whether it is perfume a home or a person, your loved ones will be crazy about the delicate smells created by great Parisian perfumers. With this scented gift, They will travel to the most beautiful city in the world.
Where to buy it?
LA MAISON GUERLAIN
68 rue des Champs-Elysées, 75008 Paris
http://www.guerlain.com/int/en-int
Price:
The average price of a 100ml bottle of perfume is €120.
Where to buy it (other option)?
FRAGONARD BOUTIQUE
196 boulevard Saint Germain, 75007 Paris
https://www.fragonard.com/en/
Price:
Approximately €30 for the Home Scents
Between €30 and €90 for a bottle of perfume
17) A scented candle
Continuing with scents, perfumes, and other intoxicating fragrances, you can buy a Parisian scented candle. Parisian perfumeries are well-known in the entire world for their enchanting smells. These candles will help you spread a unique atmosphere at home thanks to a natural and charming smell.
Where to buy it?
BOUTIQUE DIPTYQUE
34 boulevard Saint Germain, 75005 Paris
http://www.diptyqueparis.eu/
Price:
Between €46 and €60 for a 190g candle.
18) Mustard
Mustard, (Moutarde in French), is one of the most common condiments in the world; however, nothing can outshine the ones you can get in France. You can find so many different types that you won’t know which one to choose. There are stronger ones like the Dijon Mustard, sweeter ones, or ones that are favored with many different tastes. You will definitely find one to your liking.
Where to buy it?
LA BOUTIQUE MAILLE
6 place de la Madeleine, 75008 Paris
https://uk.maille.com/
Price:
19) Salt
In France, there are many very different varieties yet equally delicious. You can bring home salts from different regions. While the Sel de Guérande is the most famous, many flavored or colored salts are available as well.
Where to buy it?
GALERIES LAFAYETTE GOURMET
35 boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris
http://haussmann.galerieslafayette.com/en/category/home-fine-food/
Price:
From €5 to approximately €20 per pack.
20) Herbs and Spices
To enhance the taste of your meals, you can find any kind of spice or aromatic herb you’ve ever dreamed of in Paris. Common ones include Persillade (parsley, garlic and olive oil mixed together), Herbes de Provence (a mix of basil, thyme, bay leaf, rosemary, tarragon, and many other dried herbs), Bouquets Garnis (a mix of dried thyme, bay leaf, sage, garlic and a few more herbs), or other spices such as Espelette pepper. These spices will bring life to your dish.
Where to buy it?
FINE L’ÉPICERIE
30 rue de Belleville, 75020 Paris
Price:
From €5 to approximately €15 per unit.
21) Tea
For those who enjoy drinking tea or infusions, France is the right place for you. Indeed, the British are not the only people to make aromatic teas. There are great Tea Houses which will tickle your taste buds. So don’t hesitate and share some with your friends and family.
Where to buy it?
BOUTIQUE MARIAGE FRÈRES
32 rue du Bourg-Tibourg, 75004 Paris
http://www.mariagefreres.com/UK/welcome.html
Price:
The average price goes from €20 to €30 per box.
22) Madeleines
This is one of the most popular sweets eaten during snacktime. These small pastries have a peculiar shape and are well-known worldwide ever since Marcel Proust mentioned them in Du côté de chez Swann (Swann’s Way). If you send some to your loved ones, you will be able to share and to create great memories with them.
Where to buy it?
MESDEMOISELLES MADELEINES
37 rue des Martyrs, 75009 Paris
Price:
Mini madeleine sweet or savory, €0.70 per unit
Flavored madeleine, €2.50 per unit
Garnished madeleine sweet or savory, €3.50 per unit
The “Gourmande” madeleine, €4.50 per unit
Where to buy it (other option)?
In any supermarket.
Price:
One bag of classic Madeleine of 500g for €2.50
23) Chocolates
Chocolate is one of the greatest Parisian culinary specialties. It is the reason why there are so many talented chef chocolatiers. Here, you can find chocolate in all possible forms, possible scales and for every possible taste. You cannot stay in Paris without being tempted by some delicacies.
Where to buy it?
BOUTIQUE PATRICK ROGER
The brand owns several stores throughout Paris, you can locate them on their website
Price:
An assortment of 9 pieces, €24
An assortment of 16 pieces, €34
An assortment of 25 pieces, €40
An assortment of 50 pieces, €68
An assortment of 75 pieces, €94
24) Sweets
Each region of France has its own specialties; this affirmation is true for the different dishes but also for sweets. During your stay in Paris, you will be able to find all these specialties. There is a large choice of candies, such as Berlingots, Caramels, Guimauves, Roudoudous, Violettes… You’ll travel all around France thanks to these sweets.
Where to buy it?
A LA MERE DE FAMILLE
35 rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 75009 Paris
http://www.lameredefamille.com/
Price:
Around €7 for one bag of sweets depending onthe weight and type of candy.
25) Hot Chocolate
During your stay in Paris, you will probably head to one of the many Cafés to drink a delicious hot cocoa (especially if you come during wintertime). You can share this experience with your close friends and family by bringing home a French hot chocolate mix. They will be delighted by this drink and its unique Parisian taste.
Where to buy?
ANGELINA PARIS RIVE GAUCHE
108 rue du Bac, 75007 Paris
http://www.angelina-paris.fr/en/
Price:
Mix for hot chocolate of 400g for €19
Advice, best plans, great places; I will help you in your search for trips, activities, hotels and restaurants. Whether it’s for a walk, a weekend, an afternoon or merely to find a trendy place to eat, I can give you all the pointers you need for your endeavor. Just follow the guide!
