Paris department stores are some of the most unique - and exciting - in the world.
Not only are they filled with stylish clothing, housewares, food stuff, and perfume, but many of the buildings themselves are architectural marvels, examples of French Art Deco and Art Nouveau design.
Au Printemps – 64 Blvd. Haussmann; Tel: 01 42 82 50 00 - Located near the Palais Opera (Garnier), this huge store is noted for its household goods as well as its fashion. The store offers many services for overseas visitors, including shipping, translation, and a personal shopping service. Au Printemps hosts several free fashion shows each week. The store's beauty department has one of the world's largest perfume selections.
Les Galeries Lafayette – 40 Blvd. Haussmann; Tel: 01 42 82 34 56 – The Grande Dame of Paris department stores, Les Galeries Lafayette (pictured above) was built in 1906. This belle époque multi-level shopping palace is as much fun to look at as it is to shop in. Each floor circles an atrium overlooking the bustling main cosmetics floor. This shopping mecca specializes in women's clothing and accessories, but also has an adjacent menswear store and housewares department. Make sure to take in the view from the tea shop on the top floor; it's well worth the visit. The Galeries Lafayette offers free fashion shows on Wednesdays.
Au Bon Marche – 22 Rues de Sevres; Tel: 01 44 39 80 00 – This stylish left bank department store was Paris' first such store. Designed by Gustave Eiffel (of Eiffel Tower fame), it is particularly known for its extensive food hall and its selection of modern, "hip" clothes.
La Forum des Halles – 101 Porte Berger; Tel: 01 44 76 96 56 -- This modern, underground shopping complex was built in 1979 over the site of the city's former food and vegetable market. This three-story 750,000-square foot complex offers everything from souvenirs to haute couture to entertainment, such as first-run movies and street performers. The subterranean shopping plaza is attached to the bustling Les Halle-Chatelet metro station and easily reached from all over Paris.
