France: A Guide to Luxury Shopping in Paris

Few cities emphasize the concept of sophistication better than Paris. The city has inspired lots of artists, designers and writers with its haute couture and exquisite sense for grace and style. The prices on luxury pieces are extremely high, but people on a tight budget can easily spend hours of window-shopping in the finest fashion districts. I surely did during my visit in the French capital.

The shopping on offer is a vital element in Paris status as the city of romance. Select haute couture for ultimate elegance, pret-a-porter for less detailed and conspicuous apparel or a delicately presented gift you can find in one of the many eccentric shops and vibrant antique markets.

The center of Parisian luxury shopping, the neighborhood Triangle dOr, consists of Avenue Montaigne (with classy labels as Gucci, Celine, Chanel and Dior), Avenue George V, and Rue Francois close to the Champs Elysees. Rue Faubourg Saint-Honore, on the other side of Avenue Champs Elysees near Metro Saint-Philippe-du-Roule, offers brands as Versace, Yves Saint Laurent and Hermes. If you fancy shopping at Avenue des Champs-Elysees, I recommend Louis Vuitton on 101 by Metro George V.

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and walk to Boulevard Haussmann where the city's major department stores Galeries Lafayette and Au Printemps are located. The first time you visit Galeries Lafayette, strolling between the floors and admiring the surroundings is enough.

Aside from clothing shoppers, Paris also attracts lovers of antiques. You can see them at the world's leading and most respected antique market Marche aux Puces de St-Ouen. Foodies find their heaven among the tempting food shops at Rue Rambuteau, Rue Montorgueil and Place de la Madeleine in the Opra Quarter.

Other places I suggest are the Garment District (Sentier) Royal behind the Palais Royal, the chic Place des Victoires, the Carr Rive Gauche near the Orsay museum, and Rue de Seine, Rue Jacob and Rue du Bac near the Saint-Germain des Prs church. Whatever luxury shopping you seek, I am sure you will find it in Paris.