Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Known for its beautiful architecture, museums, and cuisine, Paris is also famous for shopping. But the question is, is Paris cheap for shopping?
Shopping in Paris
Paris is home to some of the world’s most luxurious fashion houses such as Chanel, Dior, and Saint Laurent. The city also has several high-end department stores including Galeries Lafayette and Printemps that offer a wide range of products from luxury fashion to cosmetics.
However, Paris is not just about high-end fashion. The city has several street markets and flea markets that offer affordable shopping options. Some of the popular street markets include Rue Mouffetard and Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen.
High-end Shopping
If you are looking for luxury fashion items in Paris, you can find them in the city’s high-end stores such as Galeries Lafayette or Printemps. These stores offer a wide range of luxury fashion items such as clothes, bags, shoes, and accessories from some of the most famous brands in the world.
The prices at these stores are generally high but you can find discounts during sale seasons which usually happen twice a year – winter sales (January-February) and summer sales (June-July).
Tip: Check for VAT Refund
If you are a non-European Union resident, you can claim VAT (Value Added Tax) refund on your purchases made in France. You need to spend a minimum amount of €175 on one receipt to be eligible for VAT refund.
Street Markets
Street markets are a great option if you want to experience local shopping in Paris. You can find fresh food products such as cheese, meat, fruits & vegetables at Rue Mouffetard market. Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen is one of the largest flea markets in the world and offers a wide range of products such as antiques, vintage clothes, and furniture.
The prices at street markets are generally lower than high-end stores but you can still bargain for a better price.
Tip: Visit during the Weekdays
If you plan to visit street markets, it’s better to visit them during weekdays as they are less crowded and you can find better deals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Paris is not cheap for shopping if you are looking for luxury fashion items. However, the city offers a wide range of shopping options from high-end stores to street markets where you can find affordable products. It’s all about knowing where to shop and when to shop.