Paris, the city of love and fashion, attracts millions of tourists every year. One of the most frequently asked questions by visitors is whether shops are closed on Sundays in Paris.
The answer is yes and no. It depends on the type of shop and the location.
What is the Law
The French labor law allows shops to open for a maximum of 12 Sundays a year. However, shops located in tourist areas are exempt from this rule.
This means that they can open on Sundays throughout the year. Additionally, some shops such as pharmacies, bookshops, and florists are allowed to open every Sunday.
What Shops Are Closed
Most shops in Paris are closed on Sundays, especially those located outside tourist areas. This includes supermarkets, clothing stores, department stores, and electronic stores. However, there are exceptions to this rule.
What Shops Are Open
Tourist areas such as Le Marais, Champs-Elysées, Montmartre, and Saint-Germain-des-Prés have many shops that remain open on Sundays. These include souvenir shops, art galleries, antique shops, and some clothing stores.
The Sunday Markets
If you want to experience shopping like a local in Paris on a Sunday then head over to one of the many markets that take place around the city. These markets offer fresh produce, flowers, antiques, clothes and much more.
The Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen
One of the most famous markets in Paris is the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen or simply known as Les Puces (The Fleas). This market is located just outside Paris and is easily accessible by metro. It has over 2000 stalls selling everything from vintage clothes to rare antiques.
The Marché d’Aligre
Another popular market is the Marché d’Aligre located in the 12th arrondissement. This market offers fresh produce, cheese, meat, and fish stalls. There are also vintage clothing and antique stalls.
Conclusion
In conclusion, shops in Paris are closed on Sundays for the most part. However, if you’re looking to shop on a Sunday then head over to one of the many tourist areas or Sunday markets.
Don’t forget to bring cash as some of the smaller shops may not accept credit cards. Enjoy your shopping experience in Paris!
- Most shops in Paris are closed on Sundays, especially those located outside tourist areas.
- Tourist areas such as Le Marais, Champs-Elysées, Montmartre, and Saint-Germain-des-Prés have many shops that remain open on Sundays.
- Some shops such as pharmacies, bookshops, and florists are allowed to open every Sunday.
- If you want to experience shopping like a local in Paris on a Sunday then head over to one of the many markets that take place around the city.