If you’re visiting Paris, chances are you’ll want to pick up a few souvenirs to remember your trip. The thing is, most of the shops near places like Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and Montmartre all sell the same Eiffel Tower keychains, berets, and not-so-great trinkets. Cute, maybe — but not exactly special.
If you’d rather find something more original (and more “Parisian” in the best way), you’re in the right place. Paris is packed with amazing local shops selling beautiful, locally made goodies, from delicious French food to stylish homeware and clothing. Here are some of my favourite ideas for souvenirs that actually feel like Paris.
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Image Courtesy of La Grande Epicerie via Facebook
French Specialty Food
Food souvenirs are always a winner and they’re also easy to pack, fun to gift, and, well, delicious. You can find great stuff even at regular supermarkets, but if you want something a little more special, pop into La Grande Epicerie (you’ll visit it on Day 2 of our Paris Itinerary) or another specialty food shop you might happen to pass by.
Butter is having a moment right now, but I also love grabbing mustard, fleur de sel (those fancy French salt flakes that come in cute little containers), and herbes de Provence.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, head to A La Mère de Famille, the oldest confectionery in Paris. Their packaging is adorable, and the chocolates and candies are divine, plus, they have loads of locations around the city.
For something more modern, Patrick Roger makes incredible chocolates that are as beautiful as they are tasty (thankfully, none of his shops are too close to my apartment or I’d be in trouble). And if you’re in Montmartre, definitely stop by Chocolat Illène, a small shop where everything’s made right there. It’s my go-to when I need gifts for friends.
Image Courtesy of Shakespeare and Company via Facebook
A book from an indie bookshop
Paris is an AMAZING city for book lovers. Sure, French is the main language in Paris, but don’t worry, you can still find plenty of books in English. A bunch of expat writers have called Paris home over the decades, and there are loads of books about the city too, so you’ve got tons to choose from.
If you’re in the mood to grab a book while you’re here, pop into one of Paris’s awesome English-language indie bookshops. Two of the best ones are right along the Day 2 walking route of our Paris Itinerary.
First up: Shakespeare and Company. It’s super famous — definitely on a lot of travelers’ “must-see” lists — and they’ll even stamp your book with their special “ground zero” stamp when you buy something. Such a fun little touch.
If you’d rather skip the crowds and go somewhere a bit cozier, head over to Abbey Bookshop. It’s just a few minutes away, packed with charm (and books stacked everywhere), and way more low-key.
Image Courtesy of French Touche via Facebook
A cool Paris notebook or poster
If you want something small, cute, and easy to pack, and that won’t break the bank, grab a Paris-themed notebook. There are tons of adorable ones with Frenchy designs that make perfect souvenirs (or travel journals if you’re feeling inspired). I’ve got a few favorite spots to check out, and they just so happen to be right along the routes for Days 3, 4, and 5 of our Paris Itinerary.
La Mouette Rieuse is a super chill shop in the Marais that sells books, stationery, and a few fun gift items, it’s one of those places where you’ll walk in “just to browse” and somehow leave with a bag full of things.
Then there’s Ideco, over by Canal St-Martin — one of my go-tos when I’m hunting for presents. They’ve got awesome notebooks, plus jewelry, vintage clothes, and even kids’ toys. Basically, a great spot if you like a little treasure hunt vibe.
And if you find yourself in the Batignolles neighborhood, pop into French Touche. It’s a super fun concept store with cute notebooks, amazing posters, and tons of original finds, perfect for picking up something that feels a little bit Parisian cool.
Image Courtesy of Le Bon Marché via Facebook
A piece of clothing from a local designer
Paris has SO many amazing shops, so if you feel like doing a little shopping (and who isn’t in Paris?), you’ll definitely find something fabulous and totally Parisian. I go into full detail on the best places to shop in Paris in this article, but if you’re after something a bit more unique (think indie designers and one-of-a-kind pieces) check out the North Marais, Montmartre, or around the Canal St-Martin.
I’ve included some great stops in these areas in our Paris Itinerary, and bonus: a few of them sell cute French or Paris-themed shirts that are way nicer (and better quality!) than what you’ll see at the touristy souvenir stores.
Image Courtesy of Le Carré d’Artistes via Facebook
Artwork from Parisian artists
I mentioned posters above, but if you’re looking for an original piece of artwork, Paris has some fantastic options. You’ve probably heard of Place du Tertre in Montmartre, but honestly? It’s kind of overrated. Most of the art there isn’t super original and tends to be pretty pricey.
You actually don’t have to go far from this famous square to find other art galleries that sell more unique (and affordable) pieces. Two I love are Le Carré d’Artistes and L’Atelier 16, and both are right along the Day 3 walking route of our Paris Itinerary. They’ve got all kinds of artwork, from big oil paintings to small prints that are easy to pack in your suitcase.
Image Courtesy of Get Your Guide
A bottle of personalized perfume
Okay, this one’s really special — instead of buying a regular bottle of perfume, you can actually make your own. There’s an amazing workshop where you’ll learn a bit about perfume history and how scents are made, then get to blend your own signature fragrance. I’ve done it before and honestly had the best time. Plus, every time you wear your perfume back at home, it’ll take you right back to your time in Paris.
Image Courtesy of Merci via Facebook
A Paris-themed scented candle
If the perfume idea sounds fun, but you’d rather pick up something for your home, go for a Paris-themed scented candle. A “Made in France” candle is such a cozy, elegant souvenir; they smell divine and look beautiful, too.
Check out Fragonard or Durance, both have shops around the city and gorgeous packaging that makes them perfect gifts.
And if you find yourself in the North Marais, stop by the cool concept store, Merci. They’ve got really nice candles and so many other amazing things — you might walk out with half the store.
Image Courtesy of Marie Montagut
French dishware
If you’re into cooking or just love pretty homeware, you have to check out some French dishware while you’re here. There are some stunning pieces that’ll instantly give your kitchen that “effortlessly chic Paris apartment” vibe.
In the Saint-Germain district, Marie Montagut has some lovely decorative platters and bowls with that perfect French flair. Over in the Bastille area, hidden in a little courtyard, you’ll find AXS Design, a gorgeous shop full of carefully curated dishware, including vintage gems.
And for the real deal, like professional-grade copper pots and classic French kitchen tools, you can’t miss E. Dehillerin. It’s been around for over a century, and even pro chefs shop there. (It’s on the Day 4 route of our Paris Itinerary, so it’s an easy stop.)
Image Courtesy of Le Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen
Antiques from Paris’s best flea markets
If you love hunting for treasures, Paris’s flea markets will be your happy place. You can find everything, from vintage trinkets to old postcards to beautiful furniture. And the best part? Every time you see it back home, you’ll instantly think of Paris.
The biggest one, and the most famous, is Le Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, which is located just north of the city. It’s actually the largest flea market in the world, and you could easily spend a full day wandering around. I share lots of tips in our Paris Day Trips Guide, including which sections to hit and where to grab a bite nearby.
If you want something smaller and more local, check out Le Marché aux Puces de Vanves (the city’s second-largest) or wander through Village St-Paul in central Paris where you can browse cute antique shops. I’ve also got a whole article on the best flea markets in Paris if you want to plan your treasure hunt like a pro.
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