Parisian department stores are called Grands Magasins (“grand stores”). While luxury plays a major role, there are also stores that cater to more modest budgets.
The 5 most famous department stores in Paris:
Below, we share more about these five iconic Paris department stores.
Most of these grand stores originated in the second half of the 19th century, when retail changed dramatically. New ideas such as fixed prices, free entry, product exchanges and selling large volumes at lower margins transformed shopping forever. This concept still works today.
The buildings of Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, La Samaritaine and Le Bon Marché are architectural masterpieces in their own right. Even if you’re not planning to shop, they are well worth a visit just for the interiors and design.
The best time to visit Paris department stores is on a weekday morning, when it’s relatively quiet. Free floor plans are available inside to help you navigate these vast spaces.
The 5 most famous department stores in Paris:
La Samaritaine
This iconic department store, originally opened in 1870, reopened in 2021 after being closed since 2005 for extensive renovations. Located in the very heart of Paris, La Samaritaine is absolutely worth visiting, even though the assortment is decidedly high-end.
The monumental staircase, the glass roof and the more than 100-meter-long fresco are truly spectacular. The blend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture is breathtaking, which explains why the building has official historic monument status.
9 Rue de la Monnaie
1st arrondissement
Metro: Pont Neuf
https://www.dfs.com/en/samaritaine
Le Bon Marché
Le Bon Marché is the oldest department store in Paris, founded in 1852, and the only one on the Left Bank. While smaller in size than Galeries Lafayette and Printemps, it is equally iconic and known for its timeless Parisian style.
Founder Aristide Boucicaut expanded the building in 1882, using an iron structure designed by Gustave Eiffel. The elegant staircase is a highlight, topped by a square glass skylight.
You’ll find fashion collections from over 40 top designers, an impressive beauty department called Le Théâtre de la Beauté featuring rare perfumes, and regularly changing art exhibitions.
For food and drinks, visit La Table in the Grande Épicerie (1st floor) or the Rose Bakery tearoom (2nd floor). There are several upscale dining options throughout the store.
Art lovers and stationery enthusiasts should not miss the “Art de Vivre” department on the top floor, featuring notebooks, drawing supplies and beautifully designed paper goods.
24 and 38 rue de Sèvres
7th arrondissement
Metro: Sèvres-Babylone or Vaneau
Galeries Lafayette – Boulevard Haussmann Paris
Founded in 1893, Galeries Lafayette is one of the most famous and luxurious department stores in Paris. It is best known for fashion, high-end brands and its spectacular glass dome.
Spread across three buildings, you’ll find an enormous selection of women’s, men’s and children’s fashion, perfumes, cosmetics, accessories, lingerie, toys and home décor. There is also a gourmet food hall and an extensive wine cellar.
The department store consists of three main buildings: Coupole (the main building), Homme (men’s fashion) and Maison (home and interior design).
Even if you don’t shop, the interior alone is worth the visit. The Art Deco design and the magnificent glass dome, supported by ten iron pillars, are truly impressive.
From the rooftop terrace on the 7th floor, you’ll enjoy one of the best panoramic views over Paris.
The Christmas decorations and holiday window displays are world-famous and attract visitors from all over the globe.
40 boulevard Haussmann
9th arrondissement
Metro: Chaussée d’Antin – Lafayette
BHV Marais department store
BHV is located next to Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) and was founded in 1856. It is especially well known for its extensive DIY and hardware department in the basement, where you’ll find virtually everything for home improvement projects.
The store also features departments for furniture, curtains, wallpaper, home décor, lighting (including designer lamps), and household goods such as kitchenware and appliances.
From the rooftop terrace, you’ll have lovely views over Paris and the Seine.
Behind the main building on Rue de Rivoli, you’ll find BHV Homme, dedicated entirely to men’s fashion, located at 36 rue de la Verrerie (4th arrondissement).
While BHV may not be the most beautiful department store in Paris, it is certainly one of the most practical and well-known.
52 rue de Rivoli
4th arrondissement
Metro: Hôtel de Ville
Le Printemps
Founded in 1865, Printemps consists of three buildings: Mode, Beauté-Maison and Homme. Here you’ll find luxury fashion, cosmetics, jewelry and home décor. The cosmetics department is one of the largest in the world, and women’s shoes occupy an entire floor.
The building also features a beautiful glass dome dating from 1923.
In addition to the main location on Boulevard Haussmann, there is a Printemps in the Carrousel du Louvre shopping mall, a Printemps Design store at the Centre Pompidou (4th arrondissement), and a Printemps Citadium aimed at younger shoppers at 50–56 rue Caumartin (9th arrondissement).
Enjoy a drink on the rooftop terrace. You can access it via the restaurant on the top floor. On the left side, there’s space for photos without tables, while the narrow terrace on the other side offers the best views, including sights such as the Eiffel Tower.
Printemps rooftop terrace. On the opposite side, you can spot the Eiffel Tower.
64 boulevard Haussmann
9th arrondissement
Metro: Havre-Caumartin
www.printemps.com
history of Le Printemps
Monoprix
Monoprix is not a traditional department store, but it deserves a mention. Alongside a large and affordable supermarket offering fresh products and ready-to-eat meals, you’ll also find reasonably priced women’s, men’s and children’s clothing, stationery, toys and cosmetics.
Check the website for store locations and opening hours.
www.monoprix.fr
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