8 Best Places for Macarons in Paris: A Sweet Guide

Looking for Paris's best macarons? I've got your ultimate guide to eight must-visit spots! Start with the iconic Ladurée on Champs-Élysées, where the double-decker macaron was born, then explore Pierre Hermé's innovative flavors in Saint-Germain. Don't miss Maison Georges Larnicol's unique chocolate-passionfruit creations, Carette's classic Madagascar vanilla, or Angelina Paris's refined pastries. Whether you prefer traditional or contemporary takes, each patisserie offers its own special magic – and that's just the beginning of your sweet Parisian adventure!

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 we understand it. The double-decker macaron, featuring two delicate almond meringue shells joined by a smooth ganache filling, was pioneered by Pierre Desfontaines, grandson of Ladurée's founder, in the early 20th century.

Today, Ladurée maintains its reputation as the quintessential destination for macaron enthusiasts, with its flagship store on Champs-Élysées serving as a proof of French luxury and culinary artistry. The brand's signature pale green boxes, tied with elegant ribbons, have become nearly as famous as the colorful confections they contain, making them a coveted souvenir among visitors to Paris.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €21-25 for a box of 8 macarons
• Peak Hours: 2-5 PM daily, especially weekends
• Reservation Required: Yes, for tea salon seating
• Dietary Options: Some seasonal vegan options available
• Storage Life: 3-4 days at room temperature
• Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings, 9-11 AM
• Payment Methods: All major credit cards accepted
• Languages: English-speaking staff available

The Champs-Élysées Location:

The flagship store at 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées represents the epitome of Parisian elegance. The interior features ornate Second Empire décor, with painted ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and gilded mirrors. Beyond macarons, visitors can enjoy a full tea service in the upstairs salon, where the ambiance transports guests to the Belle Époque era. Insider tip: Ask for the "daily special" macaron, which often features experimental flavors not found in their regular collection.

The Saint-Germain Location:

The original Ladurée boutique on Rue Bonaparte offers a more intimate experience away from the tourist crowds. This historic location maintains many original architectural features and typically offers exclusive flavors not found at other branches. The small garden terrace provides a serene setting for enjoying your purchases. Insider tip: Visit during the first hour of opening to witness fresh batches being arranged in the display cases.

Pro Tips:

To maximize your Ladurée experience, consider visiting during shoulder season (March-April or September-October) when crowds are manageable and the seasonal menu changes bring exciting new flavors. For photography enthusiasts, the morning light through the store's windows creates perfect conditions for capturing the colorful displays. Purchase boxes of different sizes to compare various flavor combinations, and don't hesitate to ask staff for recommendations based on your taste preferences.

Practical Advice:

Macarons are delicate and temperature-sensitive, so plan your purchase around your day's activities. Most locations offer specialized packaging for travel, including insulated bags for longer transport times. If visiting multiple Paris locations, consider the "Ladurée Passport" program, which offers special benefits and occasional private tastings. Remember that authentic Ladurée macarons have a slight crunch when bitten, with a soft but not chewy interior – this texture is best experienced within 24 hours of purchase.

Pierre Hermé: The Picasso of Pastry

Renowned as the "Picasso of Pastry" by Vogue magazine, Pierre Hermé has revolutionized the art of macaron-making in Paris. His innovative flavor combinations and masterful techniques have earned him international acclaim, transforming traditional macarons into avant-garde culinary experiences that challenge and delight the senses.

What sets Pierre Hermé apart is his fearless approach to flavor experimentation and his dedication to perfecting the macaron's delicate balance of texture and taste. From his signature Ispahan (rose, lychee, and raspberry) to seasonal collections that showcase unexpected pairings like olive oil and vanilla, each creation represents the pinnacle of French pastry craftsmanship.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €2.50-3.50 per macaron; gift boxes from €22-120
• Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) to avoid crowds
• Seasonal Collections: New flavors released quarterly
• Dietary Notes: Contains nuts, eggs, dairy; no gluten-free options
• Storage: Macarons stay fresh for up to 4 days when refrigerated

Flagship Boutique Details:

Located at 72 Rue Bonaparte in the sophisticated Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, the flagship store offers the complete collection of Hermé's creations. The minimalist boutique design allows the colorful macarons to take center stage, displayed like precious jewels in temperature-controlled cases. Insider tip: Visit on Thursdays when fresh seasonal flavors are typically introduced.

The Macaron Experience:

Each Pierre Hermé macaron features perfectly smooth shells with a slight sheen, precise feet (the characteristic ruffled edges), and generous, flavored ganache fillings. The textures progress from crisp to chewy to creamy, creating a multi-sensory experience. Unlike many competitors, Hermé ages his macarons for 24 hours before selling them, allowing flavors to fully develop.

Pro Tips:

The best strategy for experiencing Pierre Hermé's artistry is to purchase a varied selection rather than focusing on traditional flavors. Start with the signature Ispahan, then explore seasonal specials and more adventurous combinations. For photography enthusiasts, the boutique's natural lighting is best in the morning, and staff are generally accommodating of photos if you're quick and respectful.

Practical Advice:

While Pierre Hermé boutiques are scattered throughout Paris, the flagship store offers the widest selection and most authentic experience. Macarons are best consumed within 24 hours of purchase, though they can last longer if properly refrigerated. During summer months, request an ice pack if you plan to carry them for more than 30 minutes. The boutique offers worldwide shipping, but nothing compares to enjoying these delicate treats fresh from the source.

Maison Georges Larnicol: A Chocolate Master's Take

Nestled in the charming Montmartre district, Maison Georges Larnicol represents the perfect fusion of traditional French pastry craftsmanship and innovative chocolate artistry. As one of the few Meilleurs Ouvriers de France (a prestigious craftsman title) in both chocolate and pastry making, Georges Larnicol brings his exceptional expertise to create macarons that stand out in Paris's competitive dessert landscape.

While the boutique is renowned for its chocolate creations, particularly the kouignettes (mini kouign-amann pastries), the macarons here offer a unique perspective from a chocolate master's viewpoint. The result is a collection of macarons that often incorporate sophisticated chocolate elements, creating flavor combinations that can't be found elsewhere in Paris.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €1.80-2.20 per macaron, €16-24 for boxes of 12
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-19:30, Sunday 11:00-19:00
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for freshest selection
• Dietary Notes: No gluten-free facility, but some flavors naturally GF
• Payment: Credit cards accepted (minimum purchase €10)
• Languages: Basic English spoken

Location and Specialties

Maison Georges Larnicol's flagship store sits at 14 Rue de Rivoli in the 4th arrondissement, with additional locations in Montmartre and Saint-Germain-des-Prés. The boutique showcases a rotating selection of 12-15 macaron flavors, with signature offerings including dark chocolate-passionfruit, salted caramel with chocolate pearls, and praline-orange. The shop's distinctive feature is its chocolate-forward approach to macaron making, resulting in uniquely textured shells and innovative filling combinations.

Pro Tips:

The best time to experience Larnicol's macarons is during mid-morning on weekdays when fresh batches are typically brought out. Unlike many Parisian macaron shops that pre-package their selections, Larnicol allows customers to create custom assortments from the daily offerings. For the fullest flavor experience, try pairing their chocolate-based macarons with their single-origin chocolate tablets, creating a sophisticated tasting experience that showcases the artisan's mastery of both crafts.

Practical Advice:

While the shop can get crowded with tourists seeking chocolate sculptures and kouignettes, the macaron counter is often less busy. Consider visiting during shoulder season (March-April or September-October) when tourist crowds are thinner. The macarons here have a slightly longer shelf life than typical due to their chocolate-enhanced fillings, making them ideal for taking home as gifts. If you're planning to purchase macarons for later consumption, request a special carrier box designed to protect them during transport.

Carette: Belle Époque Elegance Meets Modern Flavors

Nestled in the heart of Paris, Carette stands as a symbol of the city's enduring love affair with haute pâtisserie. Since 1927, this elegant establishment has been crafting some of the most exquisite macarons in the capital, combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary flavor innovations that captivate both locals and tourists alike.

The flagship location at Place du Trocadéro offers an unparalleled experience where the art of macaron-making meets stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. Carette's dedication to quality is evident in their meticulous attention to detail, from the precise temperature control during baking to the careful selection of premium ingredients that give their macarons their distinctive texture and taste.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €21-25 for a box of 8 macarons
• Peak Hours: 3-6 PM daily, especially weekends
• Reservation: Not required for takeaway, recommended for tea room
• Seasonal Specials: New flavors introduced quarterly
• Payment Methods: Credit cards and cash accepted
• Dietary Notes: Some flavors available in sugar-free versions
• Languages: English-speaking staff available
• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:30 PM daily

The Classic Experience:

Carette's signature macarons feature a perfectly crisp shell that gives way to a tender, melt-in-your-mouth interior. Their classic flavors, including Madagascar vanilla, dark chocolate, and pistachio, showcase the pinnacle of French pastry craftsmanship. The tea room at Place du Trocadéro (15 Place du Trocadéro, 75016) offers table service where macarons can be enjoyed alongside their famous hot chocolate or tea selections. Insider tip: Request a window table during booking for the best view of the Eiffel Tower.

Pro Tips:

Visit during early morning hours (7:00-9:00 AM) to avoid crowds and guarantee the freshest selection of macarons. For photography enthusiasts, the morning light streaming through the Belle Époque windows creates perfect lighting conditions for capturing both the macarons and the elegant interior. Consider purchasing an assorted box that includes both classic and seasonal flavors to experience the full range of Carette's expertise.

Practical Advice:

During peak tourist season (June-August), expect longer wait times, especially at the Trocadéro location. For a more relaxed experience, visit their Le Marais branch (25 Place des Vosges, 75003), which tends to be less crowded but maintains the same high standards. Macarons are best consumed within 4-5 days of purchase and should be stored at room temperature rather than refrigerated to maintain their perfect texture.

Angelina Paris: Vintage Charm and Classic Recipes

Nestled in the heart of Paris since 1903, Angelina has become synonymous with Parisian elegance and refined pastry craftsmanship. This historic tea house, once frequented by Coco Chanel and Marcel Proust, maintains its Belle Époque splendor while serving some of the city's most exquisite macarons alongside its famous hot chocolate.

The macarons at Angelina represent more than just confections; they embody a century-old tradition of French pastry excellence. While the establishment may be better known for its Mont Blanc dessert, their macaron collection offers a perfect balance between classic flavors and seasonal innovations, all crafted with the meticulous attention to detail that has made Angelina a Parisian institution.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €20-25 for a box of 8 macarons
• Peak Hours: 2:00-5:00 PM (tea time)
• Wait Times: 30-45 minutes during peak season
• Advance Reservations: Recommended for tea room seating
• Takeaway Available: Yes
• Seasonal Collections: Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter
• Dietary Notes: Contains nuts and eggs; some dairy-free options
• Storage: Best consumed within 48 hours

The main salon at 226 Rue de Rivoli showcases the original Belle Époque interior, featuring elaborate wall moldings, crystal chandeliers, and mirrors that transport visitors to Paris's golden age. The macaron selection includes signature flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and pistachio, alongside seasonal offerings that change throughout the year. The distinctive Angelina signature lies in their slightly chewier texture compared to other Parisian macarons. Insider tip: Visit before 11 AM to secure a table without waiting and receive freshly made macarons from the morning's first batch.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate Angelina experience, pair their macarons with the legendary hot chocolate "L'Africain." The contrast between the delicate macaron shells and the rich, thick chocolate creates an unforgettable taste sensation. Photography enthusiasts should request a table near the windows during morning hours when natural light streams through the historic facade, creating perfect conditions for capturing both the macarons and the ornate interior.

Practical Advice:

To guarantee the best quality, consume Angelina's macarons within 24 hours of purchase. For those planning to take some home, the boutique offers elegant gift boxes with protective packaging suitable for travel. During summer months, request a cold pack if you'll be carrying them for more than an hour, as Paris's warm weather can affect their delicate texture. Remember that the Rue de Rivoli location accepts all major credit cards and offers shipping within France for larger orders.

Acide Macaron: Contemporary Twists on Tradition

Best Places for Macarons in Paris: Acide Macaron

Contemporary Twists on Tradition

Located in the trendy Marais district, Acide Macaron has transformed the Parisian macaron scene by infusing contemporary flavors into the classic French delicacy. Founded by pastry chef Jonathan Blot in 2005, this boutique patisserie stands out for its bold experimentation with unexpected flavor combinations while maintaining the delicate texture that defines a perfect macaron.

What sets Acide Macaron apart is its commitment to pushing boundaries without sacrificing authenticity. While traditional flavors like vanilla and chocolate remain on the menu, adventurous combinations such as wasabi-chocolate and yuzu-matcha have earned the shop its reputation as a pioneer in modern French pastry. The striking visual presentation of their macarons, often featuring vibrant colors and artistic decorations, makes them as Instagram-worthy as they are delicious.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €2-3.50 per macaron, €18-32 for gift boxes
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-19:00, Sunday 10:00-17:00
• Seasonal Collections: New flavors introduced quarterly
• Dietary Options: Some vegan options available
• Storage: Macarons keep for up to 5 days in refrigeration
• Pre-ordering: Recommended for large quantities or special flavors

The Signature Experience:

Acide Macaron's tasting menu offers a carefully curated selection of their most innovative flavors. The shop's intimate space features a small tasting counter where customers can sample new creations while watching the artisans at work through a glass partition. Located at 10 Rue du Temple, the shop is easily accessible from the Saint-Paul metro station. Insider tip: Visit on Thursday mornings when fresh experimental flavors are typically revealed.

Pro Tips:

Timing is essential when visiting Acide Macaron. The shop experiences its heaviest traffic between 15:00-17:00, particularly on weekends. For the freshest selection and shortest wait times, arrive within the first two hours of opening. Consider joining their loyalty program, which provides early access to seasonal collections and occasional private tasting events not advertised to the general public.

Practical Advice:

While walk-ins are welcome, placing an order 24-48 hours in advance is recommended for specific flavors or larger quantities. The shop offers temperature-controlled packaging for transport, necessary during summer months when Paris temperatures can affect the delicate texture of macarons. International shipping is available for select countries, though on-site consumption guarantees the best tasting experience. Credit cards are accepted, but having cash on hand is advised as some seasonal promotions are cash-only.

Jean-Paul Hévin: Artisanal Excellence in Saint-Germain

Nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Jean-Paul Hévin's boutique stands as a monument to French artisanal excellence, particularly renowned for its exquisite macarons. This celebrated chocolatier and pastry chef has masterfully expanded his repertoire to include some of Paris's most innovative macaron creations, combining unexpected flavors with traditional techniques that have earned him numerous accolades.

The boutique's elegant black-and-gold façade welcomes visitors into a world where chocolate and macarons unite in perfect harmony. While Hévin's reputation was built on chocolate craftsmanship, his macarons have become equally legendary, featuring unique combinations like dark chocolate-passionfruit and salted caramel with chocolate ganache that set them apart from conventional offerings.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €2-2.50 per macaron, €22-28 for boxes of 12
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-19:00, Sunday 10:00-18:00 (Closed Mondays)
• Best Visit Time: Mid-morning (10:30-11:30) or mid-afternoon (3:00-4:00)
• Dietary Notes: Some seasonal flavors are dairy-free
• Storage: Macarons stay fresh for up to 4 days when refrigerated
• Languages: Staff speaks French and English

The Signature Experience:

Jean-Paul Hévin's boutique offers a unique "chocolate-forward" approach to macarons, with each creation showcasing his expertise in both chocolate and French pastry. Located at 231 Rue Saint-Honoré, the shop's minimalist interior allows the colorful macarons to take center stage. The real insider secret is their limited-edition seasonal collections, which aren't advertised online and must be discovered in person.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate macaron experience, visit during the morning hours when fresh batches are typically brought out. Regular customers know to ask about the "creation du jour" – a daily special that often features experimental flavors not found in the regular selection. During summer months, request special cooling packaging if you plan to walk around with your purchases for more than 30 minutes.

Practical Advice:

While the boutique can get busy, especially on weekends, the efficient staff maintains a brisk pace without sacrificing service quality. Photography is permitted inside the store, but flash photography is prohibited to maintain the elegant atmosphere. Consider purchasing a mix of classic and unique flavors to fully appreciate Hévin's range – the staff is happy to provide recommendations based on your taste preferences, and they can accommodate English-speaking visitors with detailed flavor descriptions.

La Durée vs. Pierre Hermé: The Great Macaron Debate

The battle for macaron supremacy in Paris has long been dominated by two legendary houses: La Durée, with its classic elegance and time-honored traditions dating back to 1862, and Pierre Hermé, the revolutionary "Picasso of Pastry" who transformed macarons into avant-garde masterpieces. This iconic rivalry represents more than just competition – it embodies two distinct philosophies about what the perfect macaron should be.

At the heart of this debate lies a fascinating contrast in approaches: La Durée champions the preservation of traditional flavors and techniques, while Pierre Hermé pushes boundaries with innovative combinations and modern interpretations. Understanding these differences helps visitors appreciate the nuanced world of French macarons and makes the tasting experience more significant.

Quick Facts:

• Price range: €21-29 for a box of 6 macarons at both establishments
• Peak hours: 2-5 PM daily, especially weekends
• Best visiting time: Early morning (10-11 AM) for shortest queues
• Shelf life: 4-5 days when properly stored
• Shipping options: Both offer international shipping with cold packaging
• Dietary notes: Neither offers vegan options; both contain nuts and eggs

La Durée

The original macaron powerhouse maintains multiple locations throughout Paris, with its flagship store on Champs-Élysées showcasing ornate Second Empire décor. Known for perfectly balanced classic flavors like vanilla, pistachio, and raspberry, La Durée's macarons feature a slightly crunchier shell and more delicate filling. Their signature double-macaron packaging has become nearly as famous as the confections themselves. Insider tip: Visit the Rue Royale location for the authentic historical experience and access to limited-edition seasonal flavors not available elsewhere.

Pierre Hermé

Located in the fashionable Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, Pierre Hermé's boutique presents macarons as modern art. His innovative combinations like Ispahan (rose-lychee-raspberry) and Mogador (passion fruit-milk chocolate) have revolutionized the industry. The macarons here feature a slightly chewier texture and more generous filling-to-shell ratio. Insider tip: Visit during January/February for the special Fetish Collection, featuring experimental flavors available only once per year.

Pro Tips

Timing visits is essential for the best experience. Visit La Durée before 11 AM for the freshest selection and shortest lines, while Pierre Hermé's quietest period is typically during weekday mornings. True connoisseurs should try the signature flavors from each house on the same day – vanilla from La Durée and Ispahan from Pierre Hermé – to fully appreciate their distinct approaches. Consider purchasing from both locations to conduct your own taste test.

Practical Advice

Both establishments offer elegant gift packaging, but macarons are delicate and best consumed within 24 hours of purchase. If planning to transport them, request extra padding and avoid carrying them in hot weather or cramped bags. Most locations accept major credit cards and provide multilingual service, but it's helpful to learn basic French terms for flavors to guarantee you get exactly what you want. Remember that macarons are best enjoyed at room temperature, so allow them to warm slightly if they've been refrigerated.