What to Buy in Paris, France: A Local-Inspired Guide for Smart Shoppers

Paris isn’t just the City of Light - it’s the world’s fashion and gourmet capital. If you’re visiting and wondering what to buy in Paris that’s truly worth the suitcase space (and maybe even a tax refund), this guide is your new best friend.

Whether you're a fashion lover, food connoisseur, or simply looking for meaningful souvenirs, here's what to buy from Paris - curated with style, taste, and value in mind.

Timeless Fashion: More Than Just Designer Labels

When it comes to what to buy in Paris, fashion is a no-brainer. But don’t limit yourself to just luxury brands like Chanel or Louis Vuitton.

What to look for:

• Timeless pieces from French brands like Sézane, Sandro, or The Kooples
• One-of-a-kind finds in Le Marais vintage boutiques
• Scarves from Hermès or silk squares from lesser-known ateliers

💡 Pro Tip: Paris has bi-annual sales (Soldes) in January and July - perfect for scoring discounts on high-end fashion.

Skincare & Beauty Products: The French Pharmacy Secret

French women swear by their pharmacy skincare - affordable, effective, and chic.

Top items to buy:

• Bioderma micellar water(a cult favorite)
• Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré(a backstage makeup artist staple)
• Caudalie Vinoperfect Serum
• Homeopathic Arnica or Avène thermal sprayfor wellness seekers

Find all this at City Pharma in Saint-Germain - a paradise for budget-savvy beauty lovers.

Gourmet Goodies to Bring Home

If you're asking what to buy from Paris (France) for your friends (or your tastebuds), food is a delicious answer.

Must-try French gourmet souvenirs:

• Artisan chocolate from Pierre Hermé or Patrick Roger
• Macarons from Ladurée or Pierre Marcolini
• Cheese (aged Comté, Camembert — vacuum-packed)
• Truffle products, Dijon mustard, and fleur de sel

💡 Don’t forget: French gourmet gifts are easy to pack and always a hit.

French Wine & Champagne

Bringing home a bottle of French wine or Champagne is like bottling a memory of Paris.

Pro picks:

• Grower Champagne (small producer, high quality)
• Bordeaux or Burgundy wines
• Natural wines from Parisian wine bars

💡 Travel tip: Pack wine in bubble-wrapped sleeves or buy duty-free at the airport.

Unique Souvenirs & Artisan Crafts

Want to skip the Eiffel Tower keychains?

Instead, get:

• Handmade candles from Cire Trudon (the oldest waxmaker in the world)
• Calligraphy sets, ink, or leather notebooks from Papier Tigre
• Parisian art prints, ceramic dishes, or handmade soaps

Look for concept stores in Canal Saint-Martin or Merci boutique in the Marais for curated artisan finds.

Bonus from Airvat: How to Get a VAT Refund in Paris (And Save Big)

If you're a non-EU tourist spending, you’re eligible for a VAT refund (up to 13% back). Here's how:

• Ask for a VAT Invoice (here is an example) at checkout.
• Before leaving France, validate your Tax Free form at PABLO terminals in the airport (located before security).
• Receive your refund to your credit card.

💡 Pro Tip: Use Airvat app to automate your tax refund — no paper, no hassle.

What to Buy in Paris Is More Than Just Things

Shopping in Paris is about discovering stories, flavors, textures - not just items. From a hand-sewn scarf to a bottle of wine you’ll open back home, every object holds a piece of the city.

So pack a little extra space in your suitcase. Your Paris story is waiting - and it's tax-free with Airvat.