8 Best Places for French Macarons in Paris

Looking for Paris's best macarons? I've discovered eight must-visit spots that'll make your taste buds dance! Start with the legendary Ladurée on Champs-Élysées, then explore Pierre Hermé's innovative creations. Don't miss Carette's classic elegance, Dalloyau's royal heritage, or Jean-Paul Hévin's chocolate masterpieces. Round out your journey with L'éclair De Génie, Gérard Mulot, and Maison Georges Larnicol. Let's explore the sweet secrets behind each patisserie's unique charm.

Ladurée: A Legacy of Luxury Macarons

Founded in 1862, Ladurée stands as an iconic symbol of French pastry excellence, particularly renowned for elevating the macaron to legendary status. This venerable institution transformed the simple almond-based cookie into a sophisticated double-decker confection, creating the modern macaron as it is recognized today. The house's signature pale green façade and elegant interior have become as recognizable as their perfectly crafted macarons.

While Paris boasts numerous macaron destinations, Ladurée's historical significance and unwavering commitment to quality make it an essential stop for both food enthusiasts and cultural explorers. Their macarons feature delicate, slightly crisp shells with rich, creative fillings that have influenced pastry making worldwide, setting the gold standard for this beloved French treat.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €21-25 for a box of 8 macarons
• Peak Hours: 11 AM-4 PM daily
• Most Popular Location: Champs-Élysées flagship store
• Advance Orders: Available online or by phone
• Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, gluten-free options available
• Shelf Life: Best consumed within 3-4 days
• Shipping: International shipping available for select products

The Champs-Élysées Flagship (75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées)

This stunning location represents the pinnacle of Ladurée's elegance, featuring ornate Second Empire décor and a tea salon that transports visitors to the Belle Époque. Beyond macarons, the location offers a full restaurant menu and an extensive selection of pastries. Insider tip: Visit before 10 AM to avoid crowds and receive more personalized service from staff who can explain the seasonal flavors in detail.

The Original Location (16 Rue Royale)

The birthplace of Ladurée holds historical significance as the site where the double-decker macaron was invented. Though smaller than the flagship store, this location maintains its authentic charm and typically offers special limited-edition flavors not found elsewhere. Insider tip: The small garden terrace in the back provides a peaceful setting for enjoying your purchases away from the busy street.

Pro Tips:

For the freshest macarons, visit during mid-morning (10-11 AM) when the first batch of the day has just been completed. Consider trying seasonal flavors, which often incorporate unique ingredients and demonstrate the pastry chefs' creativity. Photography is permitted in most areas, but the best lighting for photos is typically near the front windows during morning hours.

Practical Advice:

Purchase boxes can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 days, but avoid refrigeration as it affects the texture. When visiting during peak tourist season (June-August), consider making a reservation for the tea salon in advance, especially at the Champs-Élysées location. Remember that while the classic flavors are always available, seasonal varieties rotate regularly, making each visit a potentially unique experience.

Pierre Hermé: The "Picasso of Pastries"

Pierre Hermé revolutionized the Parisian pastry scene with his innovative approach to traditional French macarons. Named the World's Best Pastry Chef in 2016, Hermé has transformed these delicate confections from simple almond cookies into sophisticated flavor compositions that challenge and delight the palate. His bold combinations and technical precision have earned him the nickname "The Picasso of Pastries" from Vogue magazine.

At Pierre Hermé boutiques, macarons transcend mere sweets to become edible art. His signature collections feature unexpected pairings like Ispahan (rose, lychee, and raspberry) and Mogador (milk chocolate and passion fruit), demonstrating his masterful understanding of flavor profiles. The boutiques themselves reflect this artistic approach, with minimalist designs that showcase the colorful macarons like jewels in a museum.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €2.50-3.20 per macaron; boxes from €22-92
• Peak Hours: 2-5pm daily, especially weekends
• Best Visit Time: Weekday mornings for shortest lines
• Shelf Life: 4 days at room temperature, 7 days refrigerated
• Special Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, gluten-free options available
• Pre-ordering: Available online 48 hours in advance
• Shipping: International shipping available for select items

The flagship boutique at 72 Rue Bonaparte in Saint-Germain-des-Prés offers the most extensive selection of Hermé's creations. This location features both classic flavors and seasonal collections, with limited-edition flavors released throughout the year. The boutique opens Monday through Saturday from 10am to 7pm, and Sundays from 10am to 6pm. While photography is permitted, the staff prefers that customers don't take pictures of the displays.

Insider Tip: Visit during the first week of each month to try the "Macaron of the Moment," a special flavor that's only available for that month and often showcases experimental combinations not found in the regular collection.

Pro Tips:

The best time to guarantee freshness is early morning when the day's batches arrive. For the fullest experience, purchase a variety of flavors and taste them in order from lightest to most intense. Start with vanilla or citrus flavors before progressing to chocolate or more complex combinations. Consider trying the same flavor across different seasons, as Hermé often subtly adjusts recipes based on seasonal ingredients.

Practical Advice:

When visiting any Pierre Hermé location, bring a sturdy bag to transport your purchases, as the boxes are delicate. During summer months, request an ice pack if you won't be consuming the macarons within two hours. Most boutiques accept major credit cards and provide multilingual service, but having basic French phrases ready will enhance your experience. For special occasions or large orders, place your order at least 48 hours in advance through their website or in-store.

L'éclair De Génie: Modern Macaron Mastery

Nestled in the trendy Marais district, L'éclair De Génie has revolutionized the Parisian macaron scene by infusing contemporary creativity into this classic French confection. While primarily known for their innovative éclairs, their macarons have earned equal acclaim for pushing boundaries while maintaining the delicate essence that makes these treats so beloved.

Under the guidance of pastry chef Christophe Adam, this boutique has transformed into a must-visit destination for macaron enthusiasts seeking unique flavor combinations and artistic presentations. The shop's sleek, modern interior serves as a fitting backdrop for their colorful creations, which are displayed like precious jewels in pristine glass cases.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €2.50-3.50 per macaron, €18-25 for gift boxes
• Best Times to Visit: Tuesday-Thursday, 10:30-11:30 AM for freshest selection
• Seasonal Collections: New flavors released quarterly
• Dietary Notes: Some vegan options available
• Storage Duration: 4-5 days when refrigerated
• Payment: Credit cards accepted, contactless payments welcome

The Signature Experience

Their macarons stand out for their perfect texture – crisp shells giving way to lusciously smooth fillings. The real magic lies in their innovative flavor combinations, like yuzu-matcha and salted butter caramel with apple compote. Located at 14 Rue Pavée, the shop operates Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Insider tip: Ask about their "secret menu" flavors, which aren't displayed but are available to those in the know.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate L'éclair De Génie experience, visit during mid-morning on weekdays when fresh batches arrive and crowds are minimal. Consider their seasonal collections, which often incorporate limited-edition flavors that reflect current culinary trends and seasonal ingredients. Photography enthusiasts should position themselves near the front window, where natural light perfectly illuminates the colorful displays.

Practical Advice:

To maximize your visit, pre-order special collections or large quantities at least 48 hours in advance through their website. During peak tourist season (July-August), expect longer wait times and potential sellouts of popular flavors by late afternoon. The shop offers elegant packaging suitable for gift-giving, and their macarons can be safely transported for several hours without refrigeration, making them perfect souvenirs for same-day consumption.

Carette: Classic Parisian Elegance

Nestled in the heart of Paris, Carette stands as a symbol of the city's enduring love affair with elegant patisserie. Since 1927, this iconic establishment has been crafting some of the most exquisite macarons in the French capital, maintaining its reputation as a premier destination for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Parisian charm combined with culinary excellence.

At Carette, the art of macaron-making reaches new heights through a perfect balance of tradition and refinement. The establishment's signature combination of delicate almond shells and rich, innovative fillings has earned it a distinguished place among Paris's most celebrated patisseries, making it an essential stop for anyone pursuing the perfect macaron experience.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €18-22 for a box of 8 macarons
• Peak Hours: 3-5pm daily, especially weekends
• Wait Times: 15-30 minutes during peak hours
• Dietary Notes: Gluten-free options available
• Seating: Available both indoors and on terrace
• Payment: Major credit cards accepted
• Packaging: Gift boxes available for purchase

The flagship location at Place du Trocadéro offers an unparalleled setting with views of the Eiffel Tower, making it the most sought-after of Carette's three Paris locations. The elegant interior features Belle Époque décor with original mirrors and marble tabletops, creating an atmosphere that transports visitors to Paris's golden age. Beyond macarons, their menu includes exceptional pastries and a full breakfast and lunch service. Insider tip: The early morning hours (8-9am) offer the best opportunity to secure window seating with Tower views while enjoying their famous hot chocolate with your macarons.

Pro Tips:

The prime time to experience Carette's macarons is mid-morning when the day's fresh batches are just reaching room temperature – the ideal state for consuming these delicate treats. Advanced orders for large quantities or special flavors can be placed up to 48 hours ahead, ensuring availability of preferred varieties. During summer months, request special cooling packets if planning to transport macarons for more than 30 minutes.

Practical Advice:

For the best experience, consider visiting on weekdays rather than weekends to avoid the largest crowds. While the Trocadéro location is the most famous, the Place des Vosges location offers a more relaxed atmosphere with equally exceptional quality. Remember that macarons are best consumed within 24 hours of purchase, though they can last up to three days when properly stored in a cool, dry place. Take advantage of their vacuum-sealed packaging option if planning to transport macarons as souvenirs.

Dalloyau: Historic House of Sweet Perfection

Nestled in the heart of Paris since 1682, Dalloyau stands as one of the city's most prestigious patisseries, renowned for its exquisite French macarons and rich heritage dating back to serving the Court of Versailles. This legendary establishment has perfected the art of macaron-making over centuries, combining traditional techniques with innovative flavors that continue to captivate both locals and visitors alike.

Beyond its famous macarons, Dalloyau represents the epitome of French culinary excellence, with multiple locations across Paris offering an elegant atmosphere where visitors can indulge in perfectly crafted sweet delicacies. The flagship store on Faubourg Saint-Honoré remains a symbol of the brand's commitment to luxury and refinement, making it an essential stop for any serious macaron enthusiast.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €20-25 for a box of 8 macarons
• Peak Hours: 2:00-5:00 PM (afternoon tea time)
• Multiple Locations: 6 boutiques across Paris
• Seasonal Collections: Special flavors released quarterly
• Packaging Options: Gift boxes available in various sizes
• Storage Duration: Best consumed within 4-5 days
• Dietary Notes: Some flavors available in gluten-free options

The Dalloyau Experience:

The flagship store at 101 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré showcases macarons in a sophisticated setting that reflects the brand's royal heritage. The boutique features an expertly curated selection of classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and pistachio, alongside seasonal creations that push the boundaries of traditional macaron making. Their signature flavor, the Dalloyau Intense (dark chocolate with gold leaf), remains a perennial favorite among connoisseurs.

Visitors can enjoy their macarons in the elegant tea salon, where the treats are served on fine porcelain with expert presentation. Open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM, the store offers both grab-and-go options and sit-down experiences. Inside tip: Visit between 9:30-11:00 AM to watch fresh batches being arranged in the display cases and enjoy the most thorough selection before popular flavors sell out.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate Dalloyau macaron experience, visit during mid-morning on weekdays to avoid the afternoon rush and guarantee the freshest selection. Consider purchasing a variety box that includes both classic and seasonal flavors to fully appreciate the range of their craftsmanship. Their macarons pair exceptionally well with their signature blend of tea, creating a more authentic French patisserie experience.

Practical Advice:

During summer months, request a thermal bag for your macarons if you plan to walk around Paris before consuming them, as these delicate treats are sensitive to heat and humidity. The staff speaks English and can provide detailed information about flavors and ingredients. For special occasions, pre-ordering is recommended, especially during holiday seasons when their limited-edition collections are in high demand.

Jean-Paul Hévin: Chocolate-Inspired Creations

At the intersection of French chocolate mastery and macaron artistry stands Jean-Paul Hévin, a renowned chocolatier who has revolutionized the Parisian macaron scene with his chocolate-forward creations. His boutiques represent the pinnacle of French confectionery, where traditional macaron craftsmanship meets innovative chocolate interpretations.

The macarons at Jean-Paul Hévin distinguish themselves through their exceptional incorporation of single-origin chocolates and sophisticated flavor combinations that showcase the nuanced characteristics of fine cacao. While many patisseries focus on fruit-forward or classic flavors, Hévin's chocolate-inspired macarons deliver an entirely different sensory experience.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €2.20-2.80 per macaron, €22-28 for boxes of 12
• Best Times to Visit: Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00-14:00 for freshest selection
• Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, eggs, dairy; no gluten-free options
• Storage: Best consumed within 48 hours; can be refrigerated for 4-5 days
• Available Collections: Signature chocolate, seasonal specials, gift boxes

The flagship boutique in the Marais (231 Rue Saint-Honoré) offers the most extensive selection of Hévin's chocolate macarons. The signature collection features standouts like the Grand Cru Venezuela, combining 72% dark chocolate ganache with subtle notes of red fruits, and the Caramel-Chocolate, featuring house-made salted caramel blended with Madagascar chocolate. Lesser-known but equally impressive is their Java chocolate macaron, incorporating rare Indonesian cacao with subtle spice notes.

Pro Tips:

Visit during mid-morning on weekdays to avoid tourist crowds and secure the best selection. The boutique offers temperature-controlled packaging for transport, essential for maintaining the delicate texture of chocolate-based macarons. Consider joining their chocolate club for early access to seasonal collections and special flavors not available to the general public.

For ideal enjoyment, allow the macarons to come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before consuming. This releases the full spectrum of chocolate flavors and achieves the perfect texture balance between crisp shell and creamy filling. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but never freeze them, as this can compromise both texture and flavor profiles of the chocolate-based fillings.

Gérard Mulot: Saint-Germain's Hidden Treasure

Nestled in the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, Gérard Mulot stands as a symbol of Parisian pastry excellence. This beloved pâtisserie has been crafting exquisite macarons since 1975, earning its reputation as one of the city's most respected artisanal bakeries through meticulous attention to detail and unwavering quality standards.

While tourists often flock to more famous names like Ladurée or Pierre Hermé, locals know that Gérard Mulot offers something special – authenticity combined with innovation. The shop's macarons feature perfectly crisp shells with rich, creative fillings that change seasonally, making each visit a unique culinary adventure.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €1.95-2.20 per macaron, €22-26 for boxes of 12
• Best Visiting Hours: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM (closed Mondays)
• Peak Times: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM and 4:00 – 6:00 PM
• Seasonal Specialties: New flavors introduced quarterly
• Payment Methods: Cash, major credit cards
• Languages: Basic English spoken
• Wait Times: 5-15 minutes during peak hours

The Macaron Experience:

Gérard Mulot's signature macarons feature over 20 flavors, with standouts including their award-winning dark chocolate, pistachio, and seasonal fruit varieties. Located at 76 Rue de Seine, the shop maintains its original Belle Époque façade, complete with hand-painted signs and classic wooden detailing. Insider tip: Visit between 3:00-4:00 PM when fresh batches emerge from the kitchen, offering the perfect texture and temperature for immediate consumption.

Pro Tips:

For the best Gérard Mulot experience, arrive early morning to witness the day's preparations and secure the freshest selections. Combine your macaron purchase with their equally famous croissants and pain au chocolat for a complete French breakfast. During summer months, request your macarons in an insulated bag (available upon request) to prevent melting while exploring the neighborhood.

Practical Advice:

While Gérard Mulot doesn't offer seating, the nearby Luxembourg Gardens provides an ideal spot to enjoy your purchases. Consider purchasing a mix of classic and seasonal flavors to experience both traditional expertise and creative innovation. Remember that macarons are delicate – consume them within 24 hours for the best taste and texture, and avoid carrying them for extended periods in warm weather.

Maison Georges Larnicol: Artisanal Excellence

Tucked away in the charming Montmartre district, Maison Georges Larnicol stands as a showcase of French pastry craftsmanship, particularly renowned for its exquisite macarons. This establishment, founded by Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF) Georges Larnicol, has earned its reputation through unwavering dedication to quality and innovative flavor combinations that both honor tradition and push creative boundaries.

The boutique's distinctive approach to macaron-making sets it apart from Paris's more commercially known establishments. While maintaining classic French techniques, Larnicol introduces unexpected elements like single-origin chocolate ganache fillings and seasonal ingredient combinations that showcase the best of French patisserie innovation.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €2-2.50 per macaron, €18-25 for boxes of 12
• Peak Hours: 2:00-5:00 PM daily
• Best Visiting Time: Weekday mornings
• Storage Duration: 4-5 days at room temperature
• Dietary Notes: Gluten-free options available
• Payment Methods: Credit cards and cash accepted
• Languages: Staff speaks French and basic English

Signature Collection

The signature macaron collection features over 20 rotating flavors, with standouts including the award-winning salted caramel and the innovative lavender-honey blend. Each macaron undergoes a 24-hour aging process to achieve the perfect texture balance between crisp shell and tender interior. Insider tip: Ask about the "creation du jour" – a daily special flavor that's often experimental and available in limited quantities.

Seasonal Specialties

Larnicol introduces seasonal collections four times per year, incorporating ingredients like summer berries, autumn chestnuts, and winter spices. These limited-edition macarons typically sell out within hours of release. Location: 14 Rue de Rivoli, 75004 Paris. Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-7:00 PM. Insider tip: Sign up for their newsletter to receive advance notice of seasonal collection launches.

Pro Tips:

Visit during mid-morning (around 10:30 AM) to get the freshest selection and avoid tour groups. For photography enthusiasts, the shop's historic facade and artistic window displays offer excellent photo opportunities during the golden hour, just before closing. Consider purchasing a mix of classic and seasonal flavors to experience the full range of Larnicol's expertise.

Practical Advice:

For ideal macaron enjoyment, request a carrying box designed for humidity protection, especially important during Paris's warmer months. While the shop can be busy, take time to observe the artisans at work through the viewing window – it's an educational experience that enhances appreciation for these delicate confections. If planning to bring macarons home as souvenirs, inform the staff, and they'll provide special travel packaging designed to maintain freshness for up to a week.