8 Best Places for Authentic French Macarons in Paris

Looking for the best macarons in Paris? I've got eight amazing spots you won't want to miss! Start with Ladurée, the historic pioneer of the modern macaron, then explore Pierre Hermé's bold flavor innovations. Don't skip Maison Georges Larnicol for Brittany-inspired treats, Carette's Belle Époque charm, Dalloyau's royal heritage, Jean-Paul Hévin's chocolate mastery, Angelina's timeless elegance, and L'éclair De Génie's creative vision. Each shop offers a unique take on these delicate delights – and there's so much more to discover about each one!

Ladurée: The Historic Home of Parisian Macarons

Founded in 1862, Ladurée stands as an iconic symbol of French pastry excellence and is widely credited with creating the modern macaron as it is recognized today. This venerable institution revolutionized the simple almond cookie by introducing the now-famous "double-decker" design, where two delicate shells embrace a smooth ganache filling, creating the perfect balance of crisp and creamy textures.

The flagship store on Champs-Élysées remains one of Paris's most sought-after destinations for both locals and tourists seeking the quintessential French macaron experience. The elegant sage-green façade and ornate interior transport visitors to the refined atmosphere of 19th-century Paris, while the carefully curated selection of flavors continues to evolve with contemporary tastes.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM daily
• Price Range: €21-28 for a box of 8 macarons
• Peak Times: 2:00-5:00 PM (afternoon tea rush)
• Reservation Required: Yes, for tea room seating
• Packaging Options: Gift boxes available for international shipping
• Special Dietary Options: Some seasonal vegan flavors available
• Languages: English-speaking staff available

The original Champs-Élysées location showcases a stunning Second Empire-style salon with hand-painted ceilings and crystal chandeliers. The tea room offers an extensive menu beyond macarons, including breakfast, lunch, and their famous afternoon tea service. The macaron counter features both classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate, alongside seasonal specialties and limited-edition collaborations with fashion houses and artists.

Located at 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, this flagship store is easily accessible via Metro stations George V or Franklin D. Roosevelt. While the store welcomes walk-ins for macaron purchases, the tea room requires advance reservations, especially during peak tourist seasons. An insider secret: visit the boutique's second floor to discover the "Macaron Bar," where you can watch skilled pastry chefs assemble these delicate treats.

Pro Tips:

For the freshest macarons and shortest lines, visit within the first hour of opening. Consider purchasing the "Macaron Passport," a special package that includes a tasting of rare flavors and a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the production process. Photography is permitted in most areas, but the best lighting for photos is during morning hours when natural light streams through the historic windows.

Practical Advice:

While Ladurée's macarons command premium prices, their quality and presentation justify the cost. Macarons can be safely stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, but refrigeration extends their life to about a week. For international travelers, Ladurée offers special packaging designed to protect macarons during air travel, though it's recommended to consume them within 48 hours of purchase for the ideal texture and flavor experience.

Pierre Hermé: Master of Contemporary Flavors

Pierre Hermé revolutionized the Parisian macaron landscape by introducing bold, innovative flavor combinations that challenged traditional boundaries. Known as the "Picasso of Pastry," Hermé's creative approach to macarons has earned him worldwide recognition and transformed these delicate cookies into edible works of art that attract both locals and tourists to his boutiques across Paris.

At Pierre Hermé boutiques, customers experience macarons that go beyond classic flavors, featuring unexpected pairings like olive oil and vanilla, or rose and lychee. His signature collection includes the famous Ispahan (rose, lychee, and raspberry) and Mogador (milk chocolate and passion fruit), demonstrating his mastery of balancing complex flavor profiles while maintaining the perfect macaron texture.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €22-29 for boxes of 7 macarons
• Peak Hours: 2-5 PM daily, especially weekends
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings
• Seasonal Collections: New flavors released quarterly
• Storage: Macarons keep 4 days at room temperature
• Pre-ordering: Available online for larger quantities
• Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, eggs, dairy

Flagship Location – 72 Rue Bonaparte:

The Saint-Germain-des-Prés boutique represents Pierre Hermé's artistic vision at its finest. Located in the 6th arrondissement, this elegant shop features minimalist design that puts the focus squarely on the colorful macarons. Open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The lesser-known seasonal collections are released here first, before appearing at other locations.

Insider Tip: Visit the boutique at 4 Rue de Bretagne in the Marais district for shorter lines and the same selection. This location often stocks special flavors that sell out quickly at the flagship store.

Pro Tips:

For the freshest macarons, visit during morning hours when new batches arrive. Daily deliveries occur between 9:30 and 10:00 AM, making this the best time to secure the widest selection of flavors. Consider purchasing a mix of classic and seasonal flavors to experience the full range of Hermé's creativity. The signature flavors are consistently available, while seasonal offerings provide unique, limited-time experiences.

Practical Advice:

Macarons are sensitive to temperature and humidity, so plan consumption accordingly. During summer months, request an insulated bag (available for purchase) and avoid carrying them for extended periods. For maximum enjoyment, allow refrigerated macarons to come to room temperature for 20 minutes before eating. Consider purchasing boxes of 7 or more pieces, as these come in signature gift packaging that helps protect the delicate shells during transport.

Maison Georges Larnicol: Brittany's Touch on Paris

Tucked away in the charming Montmartre district, Maison Georges Larnicol brings a distinctive Breton influence to Paris's macaron scene. Founded by Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF) Georges Larnicol, this boutique stands out for combining traditional French macaron craftsmanship with Brittany's rich pastry heritage, creating unique flavor combinations that can't be found elsewhere in the capital.

What sets this establishment apart is its dedication to both innovation and tradition. While maintaining the delicate art of macaron-making, Larnicol introduces unexpected elements from Brittany's culinary repertoire, such as salted caramel and kouign-amann-inspired varieties. The shop's elegant interior, with its dark wood fixtures and brass accents, creates an atmosphere that bridges Paris's sophistication with Brittany's maritime charm.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €16-22 for a box of 12 macarons
• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-19:00, Sunday 11:00-18:00
• Best Visiting Time: Early morning for freshest selection
• Payment Methods: Credit cards and cash accepted
• Dietary Notes: Some seasonal flavors contain alcohol
• Storage: Macarons stay fresh for up to 7 days when refrigerated

Featured Specialty: The Brittany Collection

Maison Georges Larnicol's signature offering is its Brittany-inspired macaron collection, featuring unique flavors like salted butter caramel, Breton shortbread, and apple cider. Located at 132 Rue de la Pompe in the 16th arrondissement, this boutique creates macarons that perfectly balance traditional Parisian technique with bold Breton flavors. Insider tip: Ask about the "creation of the month," which often features experimental flavors not listed in the regular menu.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate experience, visit between 2:00-4:00 PM when locals are finishing lunch and before the evening rush begins. The staff is most relaxed during these hours and more willing to explain the unique flavor profiles and creation process. Consider purchasing a mix of classic and Brittany-inspired flavors to fully appreciate the range of expertise, and don't miss their seasonal collections which often incorporate regional French ingredients.

Practical Advice:

During summer months, request a cold pack if you plan to transport the macarons for more than 30 minutes, as Paris's heat can affect their delicate texture. While photography is allowed in the shop, be mindful of other customers and avoid using flash, which can disturb the intimate shopping experience. The shop offers elegant gift packaging suitable for travel, and they can advise on the best way to preserve your macarons during your journey.

Carette: A Classic Marais District Treasure

Best Places for French Macarons in Paris: Carette

A Classic Marais District Treasure

Nestled in the historic Marais district, Carette stands as a symbol of Parisian pastry excellence since 1927. This elegant tea salon and patisserie has earned its reputation as one of Paris's premier destinations for authentic French macarons, combining traditional craftsmanship with an atmosphere that epitomizes Parisian café culture.

Visitors to Carette experience more than just exceptional macarons; they step into a piece of living Parisian history. The establishment's Belle Époque interior, with its ornate mirrors and marble tabletops, provides the perfect backdrop for savoring these delicate confections while watching the vibrant Marais neighborhood life unfold through the café's classic French windows.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €20-25 for a box of 12 macarons
• Peak Hours: 2-5pm daily, especially weekends
• Seating: Available both indoors and on the terrace
• Wait Times: 15-30 minutes during peak hours
• Payment Methods: Credit cards accepted, contactless available
• Dietary Notes: Gluten-free options available

Signature Experience:

Carette's macarons stand out for their perfect texture—crisp shells giving way to tender, flavorful centers. The salon offers 15-20 flavors daily, with seasonal specialties rotating throughout the year. Their pistachio and salted caramel varieties are particularly renowned. Located at 25 Place des Vosges, Carette operates daily from 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM. The establishment's position on Paris's oldest planned square adds historical significance to the experience.

Insider Tip: Visit between 8:00-10:00 AM to witness fresh batches being arranged in the display cases and enjoy the morning's best selection. The early hours also offer the rare opportunity to chat with the pastry chefs about their craft.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate Carette experience, pair their macarons with their legendary hot chocolate, especially during cooler months. The combination creates a quintessential Parisian moment. Photography enthusiasts should request a window seat facing Place des Vosges for the perfect composition of macarons against the historic square's architecture.

Practical Advice:

While walk-ins are welcome, groups of six or more should call ahead. During summer months, the terrace fills quickly, so arrive early for outdoor seating. Consider purchasing a larger box of macarons to take away—they maintain their quality for up to three days when properly stored, making them perfect gifts or treats for later in your Paris visit.

Dalloyau: Royal Heritage Meets Modern Artistry

Founded in 1682, Dalloyau represents one of Paris's most prestigious culinary institutions, having served as the official patissier to the Palace of Versailles during the reign of Louis XIV. This historical heavyweight has masterfully adapted to modern times while maintaining its reputation for excellence, particularly in the art of French macaron-making.

Today, Dalloyau operates multiple locations throughout Paris, with its flagship store on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré serving as an indication of the brand's commitment to both tradition and innovation. Their macarons are distinguished by their perfect balance of texture and flavor, created using recipes that have been refined over centuries of French pastry-making expertise.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €21-25 for a box of 8 macarons
• Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings (9-11 AM)
• Seasonal Collections: New flavors released quarterly
• Packaging Options: Gift boxes available (2-72 pieces)
• Storage Duration: Best consumed within 4-5 days
• Dietary Notes: Gluten-free options available
• Shipping: International shipping for preserved varieties

The flagship location on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré features an elegant tea salon where visitors can savor their macarons alongside Dalloyau's famous hot chocolate. The store's Belle Époque interior provides an authentic Parisian atmosphere, while the display cases showcase perfectly arranged rows of colorful macarons. Beyond the classic flavors, Dalloyau is known for its innovative seasonal creations that often incorporate unexpected ingredients like rare teas or exotic fruits. Insider tip: Visit during the afternoon tea service (3-5 PM) when fresh batches are typically brought out from the kitchen.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate Dalloyau macaron experience, arrive early in the morning when the first batch is displayed, ensuring the freshest possible treats. Consider purchasing a mixed box that includes both classic flavors (vanilla, chocolate, pistachio) and seasonal specialties. The staff can provide detailed storage instructions to maintain peak texture, and they're usually willing to offer samples of new flavors if you express genuine interest in their seasonal collections.

Practical Advice:

While all Dalloyau locations maintain high standards, the flagship store offers the most thorough selection and experience. Pre-ordering is recommended during holiday seasons or for large quantities. Keep in mind that macarons are sensitive to temperature and humidity, so plan accordingly if you're traveling with them. The store provides special carrying bags designed to protect the delicate shells during transport, and it's worth requesting one even for small purchases.

Jean-Paul Hévin: Chocolate Master's Take on Macarons

Jean-Paul Hévin, renowned as one of Paris's premier chocolatiers, brings his masterful understanding of chocolate craftsmanship to the art of macaron-making. His boutiques, particularly the flagship store in the Marais district, have become destinations for those seeking macarons that push creative boundaries while maintaining classical French techniques.

What sets Hévin's macarons apart is his innovative incorporation of chocolate elements and unexpected flavor combinations. While traditional macaron houses focus on fruit-forward or classic flavors, Hévin's collection showcases his expertise in chocolate, resulting in sophisticated offerings like single-origin chocolate macarons and unique pairings such as yuzu-dark chocolate or praline-milk chocolate variations.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €2.20-2.80 per macaron, €22-28 for boxes of 12
• Best Times to Visit: Tuesday-Friday mornings for freshest selection
• Storage Life: 4-5 days when properly refrigerated
• Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, eggs, dairy; no gluten-free options
• Payment Methods: Major credit cards accepted, contactless available
• Peak Hours: 2:00-5:00 PM (expect queues)

Located at 231 Rue Saint-Honoré, the flagship boutique presents an elegant, modern interior where chocolate and macarons are displayed like precious jewels. The shop operates Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and features a small tasting area where customers can enjoy their purchases with a cup of house-made hot chocolate. The signature chocolate-caramel macaron, featuring a ganache made from Venezuelan cacao, exemplifies Hévin's sophisticated approach to flavor development.

Pro Tips:

Visit during mid-morning on weekdays to enjoy personal attention from staff who can guide you through the flavor selections. The boutique offers seasonal collections that aren't advertised online, so asking about limited-edition flavors can lead to discovering unique macarons unavailable elsewhere. Consider requesting your macarons be packed separately from chocolate purchases, as the ideal storage temperatures differ.

Practical Advice:

During summer months, request a cold pack if you plan to walk with your macarons for more than 15 minutes. The shop provides specialized boxes designed to protect the delicate shells during transport, but it's best to consume the macarons within 24 hours of purchase for peak texture and flavor. For significant purchases or special orders, calling ahead is recommended, especially during holiday seasons when demand peaks.

Angelina: Belle Époque Elegance and Tradition

Nestled in the heart of Paris's 1st arrondissement, Angelina has been a beacon of French pastry excellence since 1903. This historic tea house, once frequented by Coco Chanel and Marcel Proust, remains one of the city's most prestigious destinations for authentic French macarons, crafted with meticulous attention to both tradition and innovation.

Beyond its famous hot chocolate and Mont Blanc pastry, Angelina's macaron collection represents the peak of Parisian confectionery artistry. The Belle Époque interior, with its ornate mirrors and elegant moldings, provides the perfect backdrop for savoring these delicate treats, making it as much a cultural experience as a culinary one.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM daily
• Price Range: €4.50-€5 per macaron, €22-€26 for gift boxes
• Reservation Status: Recommended for tea room, not needed for takeaway
• Wait Times: 30-45 minutes during peak hours (11 AM – 4 PM)
• Dietary Notes: Some seasonal flavors are gluten-free
• Languages: English-speaking staff available
• Payment: All major credit cards accepted

The flagship location at 226 Rue de Rivoli showcases Angelina's signature macaron flavors in a stunning Belle Époque setting. The classic pistachio and dark chocolate varieties are consistently available, while seasonal collections introduce innovative flavor combinations throughout the year. The boutique area offers elegant gift packaging options, perfect for bringing these delicate treats home.

Pro Tips:

Visit early morning (before 10 AM) or late afternoon (after 4 PM) to avoid the longest queues. Consider taking your macarons to the nearby Tuileries Garden for a quintessentially Parisian experience. The lesser-known side entrance on Rue du Mont Thabor often has shorter lines than the main entrance.

Practical Advice:

Macarons are best consumed within 24 hours of purchase, though they can last up to three days when properly refrigerated. For the best experience, allow refrigerated macarons to come to room temperature for 20 minutes before eating. The boutique provides specialized packaging for transport, but consider bringing an additional sturdy container if planning to carry them for an extended period or during warm weather.

L'éclair De Génie: Christophe Adam's Creative Vision

While Paris boasts countless patisseries, L'éclair De Génie stands apart as an indication of innovation in French pastry. Christophe Adam, the visionary pastry chef behind this boutique, revolutionized the traditional éclair by transforming it into a canvas for creative flavors and artistic expression, earning international acclaim since the shop's opening in 2012.

Beyond its stunning window displays that stop pedestrians in their tracks, L'éclair De Génie represents the evolution of French pastry craftsmanship. Adam's background as a former executive pastry chef at Fauchon influences his precise techniques, while his modern approach introduces unexpected flavor combinations and striking visual presentations that make each éclair a miniature work of art.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €6-8 per éclair
• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00-19:00
• Multiple locations across Paris
• No reservations needed
• Limited seating available
• Major credit cards accepted
• Gluten-free options not available
• Best times to visit: Weekday mornings before 11:00

The Flagship Experience

The original location in Le Marais (14 Rue Pavée) remains the quintessential L'éclair De Génie experience. This boutique showcases Adam's signature creations in a sleek, modern setting that feels more like a jewelry store than a pastry shop. The display case features approximately 20 different varieties daily, with seasonal specials rotating throughout the year. Insider tip: Visit during the first week of each month to try the newest flavor innovations before they sell out.

Seasonal Collections

Each season brings a new collection of éclairs, reflecting both traditional French flavors and contemporary combinations. Summer might feature fruits rouges (red berries) or yuzu-matcha, while winter introduces comfort flavors like vanilla-pecan or dark chocolate-orange. The shop typically announces new collections on their social media accounts two weeks in advance, allowing enthusiastic fans to plan their visits accordingly.

Pro Tips:

The best strategy for exploring L'éclair De Génie is to visit during off-peak hours, particularly Tuesday through Thursday mornings. Purchase at least three different flavors to experience the range of Adam's creativity – one classic (like vanilla or chocolate), one seasonal, and one signature creation. The éclairs are best consumed within two hours of purchase for ideal texture and flavor, though they can last up to 24 hours if refrigerated.

Practical Advice:

Photography is permitted inside the shop, but be mindful of other customers during busy periods. For the best experience, avoid visiting during weekend afternoons when tourists crowd the shop. If planning to take éclairs home or to a picnic, request a specialized carrying box designed to protect these delicate pastries during transport. The staff speaks both French and English, making the experience accessible to international visitors.