7 Historic Department Stores in Paris Worth Visiting

Want to experience the grandeur of historic Parisian shopping? I'll guide you through seven magnificent department stores that'll take your breath away! From Galeries Lafayette's stunning neo-Byzantine dome to Le Bon Marché's elegant Eiffel-designed architecture, these retail palaces offer more than just shopping. You'll find rooftop terraces, art installations, and gourmet food halls at La Samaritaine, Printemps Haussmann, BHV Marais, Le Printemps De La Mode, and Bazar De L'hôtel De Ville. Let's explore what makes each store uniquely spectacular!

Galeries Lafayette: The Grand Dame of Parisian Shopping

Standing majestically on Boulevard Haussmann since 1912, Galeries Lafayette represents the epitome of Parisian luxury shopping and architectural splendor. Its iconic neo-Byzantine dome, rising 43 meters above the main hall, has captivated visitors for over a century, making it as much a cultural landmark as a retail destination.

This flagship store combines French elegance with international luxury brands across seven floors of retail space, welcoming over 100,000 visitors daily. Beyond shopping, it offers spectacular city views from its rooftop terrace, hosts regular fashion shows, and houses multiple dining venues, making it an essential stop for both serious shoppers and cultural enthusiasts.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 10:00-20:00, Sunday 11:00-19:00
• Peak Times: 14:00-17:00 daily, especially during holiday seasons
• Payment Methods: All major credit cards, UnionPay, mobile payments
• Tax Refund: Available for non-EU residents (minimum purchase €100)
• Languages: Multi-lingual staff available
• Guided Tours: Available daily in multiple languages
• Shipping: International shipping available, same-day hotel delivery in Paris

The Neo-Byzantine Dome

The store's crowning glory, the stained-glass dome, remains one of Paris's most photographed architectural features. Best viewed from the ground floor, this masterpiece creates fascinating light patterns throughout the day. Insider tip: Visit during the first hour of opening for the best unobstructed photos and natural light conditions.

Lafayette Gourmet

Located in the basement level, this premium food hall showcases French gastronomy with over 30 artisanal food counters. The space offers everything from fresh oysters to artisanal chocolates. Little-known fact: The wine cellar offers complimentary tastings every Thursday evening (reservation required).

Rooftop Terrace

The panoramic terrace provides breathtaking views of Paris, including the Opera Garnier and Eiffel Tower. Access is free, and a restaurant serves seasonal cuisine. Secret tip: Visit during sunset hours in winter months when tourist numbers are lower but the view is equally spectacular.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate shopping experience, visit on Tuesday or Thursday mornings when new merchandise arrives and crowds are thinner. Consider booking a personal shopper service (available in multiple languages) for access to private lounges and priority tax refund processing. The store's mobile app offers exclusive deals and can help navigate the vast space efficiently.

Practical Advice:

Enter through the side entrance on Rue de Mogador during peak hours to avoid the main entrance queues. Store your coat in the cloakroom (free service) to shop comfortably, and remember to bring your passport for tax-free shopping. The store offers free WiFi throughout, and the concierge desk can assist with restaurant reservations, theater tickets, and shipping arrangements.

Le Bon Marché: Paris's First Modern Department Store

Founded in 1852, Le Bon Marché stands as a symbol of retail innovation and Parisian elegance, pioneering the modern department store concept that would later spread worldwide. This architectural masterpiece, designed by Gustave Eiffel's workshops, revolutionized shopping by introducing fixed prices, browsing opportunities, and the novel idea of displaying goods in dedicated departments – practices that transformed retail forever.

Today, this Left Bank institution continues to captivate visitors with its blend of historical grandeur and contemporary luxury. Beyond its role as a shopping destination, Le Bon Marché serves as a cultural landmark where art installations, fashion exhibitions, and gastronomic experiences converge, making it an essential stop for anyone seeking to understand Paris's commercial and cultural heritage.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Monday through Saturday), Closed Sundays
• Location: 24 Rue de Sèvres, 7th arrondissement
• Metro: Sèvres-Babylone (Lines 10 and 12)
• Payment Methods: Major credit cards, UnionPay, mobile payments
• Tax Refund: Available for non-EU residents (minimum purchase required)
• Peak Hours: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM weekdays, Saturday afternoons
• Languages: English-speaking staff available

Main Features:

The Grande Épicerie

This world-renowned food hall occupies an entire building, offering an unparalleled selection of global gastronomy. Features include artisanal products, rare ingredients, and a wine cellar with expert sommeliers. Insider tip: Visit the bread counter at 4:00 PM for freshly baked afternoon batches.

Fashion Departments

Housing over 1,000 luxury brands across seven floors, the fashion departments showcase both established maisons and emerging designers. The women's shoe department on the second floor features a stunning glass walkway. Insider tip: Book a personal shopper service 48 hours in advance for private access to new collections.

Art Installations

Regular rotating art exhibitions transform the central escalator area and main hall. These installations often feature contemporary artists and change seasonally. Insider tip: Visit during January and September for the most spectacular installations coinciding with Fashion Week.

Pro Tips:

Visit early on weekday mornings to enjoy the store's majestic architecture without crowds. The best photos can be taken between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM when natural light streams through the historic windows. For the most exclusive shopping experience, schedule appointments with department specialists who can provide access to limited editions and pre-releases not available on the main floor.

Practical Advice:

While Le Bon Marché maintains its luxury positioning, the ground floor often features more accessible price points and unique souvenirs. Consider visiting during the bi-annual sales (soldes) in January and July for significant discounts on high-end items. The store offers international shipping and tax-free shopping services, but be prepared to process these at dedicated counters which can be busy during peak tourist seasons.

La Samaritaine: Art Nouveau Masterpiece on the Seine

Standing majestically along the right bank of the Seine, La Samaritaine represents one of Paris's most stunning examples of Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture. This historic department store, founded in 1870 by Ernest Cognacq and his wife Marie-Louise Jaÿ, has been a testament to French luxury retail and architectural innovation for over 150 years, recently reopening in 2021 after extensive renovations.

The building's remarkable fusion of Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles, created by architect Henri Sauvage and featuring the work of master glassmaker Eugène Brière, makes it an architectural marvel that draws visitors from around the world. Beyond its commercial significance, La Samaritaine serves as a cultural landmark that reflects Paris's evolution from the Belle Époque through the modern era.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Monday-Sunday)
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds
• Photography: Allowed throughout most areas; tripods prohibited
• Price Range: Luxury retail with some accessible price points
• Location: 9 Rue de la Monnaie, 75001 Paris
• Access: Metro stations Pont Neuf or Louvre-Rivoli
• Restaurant Options: Multiple venues from casual to fine dining
• Languages: Multi-lingual staff available

The Architectural Marvel:

The building's restored facade features an intricate combination of enameled tiles, wrought iron, and glass panels that exemplify the Art Nouveau style. The central atrium, crowned by a monumental glass roof, creates a spectacular play of natural light throughout the day. Insider tip: Visit during sunset when the light filtering through the glass ceiling creates an ethereal golden glow perfect for photography.

The Shopping Experience:

Spanning 70,000 square meters across multiple buildings, La Samaritaine houses over 600 luxury and contemporary brands, making it one of Paris's premier shopping destinations. The layout ingeniously combines historic architectural elements with modern retail spaces. Lesser-known fact: The basement level features a "Creative Laboratory" showcasing emerging French designers on rotation.

Dining and Views:

The rooftop restaurant Voyage offers panoramic views of Paris, including the Seine, Notre-Dame, and the Pont Neuf. Advance reservations are essential, particularly for the coveted window seats. Secret tip: Request Table 12 for the best view of the sunset over the Seine.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate La Samaritaine experience, arrive when doors open at 10:00 AM to explore the architectural details without crowds. Take the historic staircase rather than the elevators to discover original Art Nouveau details and hidden architectural elements. Photography enthusiasts should visit during winter months when morning light creates dramatic shadows through the glass roof.

Practical Advice:

While La Samaritaine is a luxury destination, it's accessible to all visitors interested in its architectural heritage. Free guided tours focusing on the building's history and restoration are available by reservation on Tuesday mornings. Store maps are available in multiple languages at information desks, and the concierge service can assist with tax-free shopping procedures and international shipping arrangements. Consider visiting during Paris Fashion Week for special installations and events, but expect larger crowds during these periods.

Printemps Haussmann: Belle Époque Beauty

Standing majestically on Boulevard Haussmann since 1865, Printemps Haussmann represents the pinnacle of Parisian department store grandeur. This architectural masterpiece, with its stunning Art Nouveau façade and magnificent glass dome, has been a symbol of luxury shopping and French elegance for over 150 years. The store's recent restoration has brought its original Belle Époque splendor back to life, making it not just a shopping destination but a cultural monument.

Beyond its commercial significance, Printemps Haussmann offers visitors an immersive experience into the golden age of Parisian retail. The building's spectacular architecture, including the recently restored 1910 cupola, stained-glass windows, and elaborate ironwork, provides a stunning backdrop for contemporary luxury shopping while preserving the romantic atmosphere of turn-of-the-century Paris.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 10:00-20:00, Thursday until 20:45
• Best Visiting Time: Weekday mornings or late afternoons
• Photography: Allowed in most areas, tripods prohibited
• Payment Methods: All major credit cards, Union Pay, tax refund available
• Languages: English-speaking staff available
• Accessibility: Elevator access to all floors
• Free WiFi throughout

The Historic Dome

The crown jewel of Printemps Haussmann is its spectacular glass dome, dating from 1910. Located in the Printemps de la Mode building, this architectural marvel spans 20 meters in diameter and features 3,185 pieces of stained glass. Visitors can access the dome area during store hours, with the best viewing times being early morning when sunlight streams through the colored glass. Insider tip: Visit during winter months when the store's Christmas decorations add extra magic to the dome's natural beauty.

The Panoramic Terrace

Located on the 9th floor, the terrace offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower, Opéra Garnier, and Sacré-Cœur. Access is free and available during store hours. The best photos can be captured during golden hour, just before sunset. Insider tip: The terrace has a little-known café perfect for a coffee break while enjoying the view, but most tourists head straight back down after taking photos.

The Fashion Floors

Spanning several floors, the fashion department houses over 300 luxury brands. The layout preserves original architectural elements while showcasing contemporary designs. The women's shoe department on the 3rd floor features restored Belle Époque moldings and mirrors. Insider tip: Ask about the private shopping service for access to exclusive fitting rooms and personal stylists.

Pro Tips:

The ideal time to visit Printemps Haussmann is Tuesday or Wednesday mornings, when tourist crowds are minimal and merchandise is freshly stocked. For the best photographic opportunities of the dome and architecture, arrive just as the store opens at 10:00 AM when natural light is abundant and the space is less crowded. During sale seasons (January and July), arrive early and head directly to your desired department to avoid the afternoon rush.

Practical Advice:

Consider purchasing a reward card if planning significant shopping, as it offers benefits like priority tax refund processing and access to the VIP lounge. Store maps are available in multiple languages at information desks on each floor. For large purchases, the store offers same-day delivery to Paris hotels or international shipping. Remember that the store's restaurants become very busy during lunch hours (12:00-14:00), so plan accordingly or make advance reservations for dining.

BHV Marais: The Local's Favorite Since 1856

Standing proudly in the heart of Le Marais district since 1856, BHV (Bazar de l'Hôtel de Ville) represents a unique blend of Parisian shopping culture and practical necessity. Unlike its more glamorous counterparts, BHV has earned its reputation as the go-to department store for both locals and tourists seeking everything from haute couture to hardware, making it an essential part of authentic Parisian life.

What sets BHV Marais apart is its remarkable evolution from a small haberdashery to a broad lifestyle destination while maintaining its practical roots. The store's distinctive character comes from its ability to offer luxury fashion alongside tools and home improvement items, creating an experience that reflects the true essence of Parisian living rather than just its glossy surface.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM (Closed Sundays)
• Peak Hours: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM weekdays, all day Saturday
• Payment Methods: All major credit cards, contactable payments, WeChat Pay
• Tax Refund: Available for non-EU residents (minimum purchase €175)
• Store Layout: 7 floors plus basement hardware department
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings or after 6:00 PM
• Services: Personal shopping, gift wrapping, delivery, clothing alterations

Ground Floor: Beauty and Accessories

The ground floor houses an extensive collection of cosmetics, perfumes, and leather goods from both established and emerging brands. The beauty section offers exclusive French pharmacy products not commonly found in other department stores. Insider tip: Visit the "French Beauty Secrets" corner for curated selections of cult-favorite local brands.

Fashion Floors (1-3)

These levels feature a mix of international designer labels and French contemporary brands. The third floor's "Creative Lab" showcases up-and-coming designers and limited-edition collaborations. Insider tip: Check the "Style Studio" on the second floor for free styling consultations with professional fashion advisors.

Home & Lifestyle (4-5)

These floors offer everything from luxury bedding to gourmet kitchenware. The fifth floor houses La Librairie, one of Paris's finest book selections, including rare art editions. Insider tip: Visit the seasonal pop-up spaces on these floors for unique themed collections and local artisan collaborations.

Le Sous-Sol (Basement)

The legendary hardware department is a DIY paradise, offering tools, paint, and home improvement items. This floor attracts professional craftsmen and hobbyists alike. Insider tip: The ticket system for specialized assistance might seem confusing – grab your number first thing and shop while waiting.

Pro Tips:

For the best shopping experience, visit BHV Marais during weekday mornings when locals are at work. The store is particularly crowded during lunch hours and Saturday afternoons. Consider splitting your visit into two sessions if you plan to explore both the fashion floors and the hardware department, as they cater to distinctly different shopping experiences and might require different mindsets.

Practical Advice:

Sign up for a BHV loyalty card even for a short stay – it offers immediate tax returns for tourists and access to special promotions. The store's central location near Hôtel de Ville metro station makes it easily accessible, but be aware that the surrounding area gets very busy during rush hours. Consider using the less crowded Rambuteau entrance during peak times, and always keep your shopping receipts organized for tax refund purposes if you're a non-EU resident.

Le Printemps De La Mode: Fashion Pioneer in the 9th

Founded in 1865, Le Printemps has stood as one of Paris's most iconic department stores, revolutionizing the retail landscape with its innovative approach to fashion and luxury shopping. Located in the bustling 9th arrondissement, this Art Nouveau masterpiece has been a beacon of Parisian style for over 150 years, featuring its distinctive copper domes and stunning stained-glass cupola.

The store's historical significance extends beyond retail, as it pioneered many modern shopping concepts, including fixed prices, direct marketing, and seasonal collections. Today, Le Printemps continues to attract fashion enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike, offering an unparalleled shopping experience across nine floors of curated fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 9:35 AM – 8:00 PM (Closed Sundays)
• Best Visiting Times: Weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds
• Price Range: High-end to luxury
• Payment Methods: All major credit cards, Union Pay, Tax-free shopping available
• Photography: Allowed in common areas; restricted in some boutiques
• Fashion Advisor Services: Available by appointment
• Languages: Multi-lingual staff available

The Architectural Marvel

The building's façade and interior architecture represent the pinnacle of Art Nouveau design. The restored glass dome, dating from 1923, spans 20 meters in diameter and features 3,185 pieces of stained glass. Insider tip: Visit the 9th floor's Printemps du Goût for panoramic views of Paris while enjoying gourmet French cuisine.

Fashion Collections

Housing over 300 luxury brands across multiple floors, Le Printemps specializes in ready-to-wear, accessories, and exclusive designer collaborations. The store features the largest beauty department in the world, spanning 3,000 square meters. Insider tip: Check the events calendar for trunk shows and designer appearances, often not advertised to the general public.

Historical Heritage

The store's museum corner on the 6th floor showcases artifacts from its 150+ year history, including original Art Nouveau fixtures and vintage advertising materials. Insider tip: Ask about the hidden pneumatic tube system, once used to transport money throughout the store.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate Printemps experience, visit during the holiday season when the window displays become magical theatrical productions attracting visitors worldwide. Schedule shopping appointments with personal stylists during weekday mornings for the most attentive service, and consider timing your visit to coincide with the bi-annual sales (soldes) in January and July for significant discounts on luxury items.

Practical Advice:

Plan at least three hours to explore the store properly. Begin at the ground floor beauty department when it opens to avoid the afternoon rush, then work your way up to the dome. For tax-free shopping, bring your passport and request forms at the time of purchase. The store offers delivery services to hotels and international shipping options, making it convenient for tourists to shop without carrying purchases throughout the day.

Bazar De L'hôtel De Ville: a Historic Shopping Institution

The Bazar de l'Hôtel de Ville, commonly known as BHV Marais, stands as one of Paris's most enduring retail landmarks since 1856. Located in the heart of the Marais district, this historic department store has evolved from a simple haberdashery to a extensive shopping destination that perfectly balances Parisian elegance with practical shopping needs.

Beyond its commercial significance, BHV represents a unique piece of Parisian cultural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's retail evolution while maintaining its position as a go-to destination for both locals and tourists. The store's distinctive architecture, extensive product selection, and prime location next to the Hôtel de Ville make it an essential stop for anyone seeking to experience authentic Parisian shopping culture.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM (Closed Sundays)
• Peak Shopping Times: 12:00-2:00 PM and 4:00-6:00 PM
• Payment Methods: All major credit cards, contactless payments, and tax-free shopping available
• Floor Count: 7 floors + basement
• Languages: Multi-lingual staff available
• Shipping: International shipping available for most items
• Special Services: Personal shopping, gift wrapping, Click & Collect

Store Layout and Specialties:

The basement level houses Europe's largest hardware department, a unique feature that draws DIY enthusiasts from across Paris. The ground floor showcases luxury beauty brands and accessories, while upper levels offer fashion, home goods, and a gourmet food hall. The store's organization follows a logical flow, with clear signage in multiple languages guiding shoppers through departments.

Interior Architecture:

The building's original 19th-century features, including ornate railings and vintage elevators, have been preserved while incorporating modern amenities. The central atrium allows natural light to flood the space, creating an atmosphere that combines historical grandeur with contemporary retail design.

Seasonal Highlights:

The store's window displays are legendary, particularly during Christmas when they rival those of Galeries Lafayette. The rooftop terrace, open during summer months, offers stunning views of Paris and hosts pop-up events and exhibitions.

Pro Tips:

Visit early on weekday mornings to avoid crowds and receive more attentive service from staff. The store's less-known entrance on Rue des Archives often has shorter lines than the main entrance on Rue de Rivoli. For the best shopping experience, join the BHV loyalty program, which offers exclusive discounts and early access to sales events.

Practical Advice:

Plan your visit by department rather than trying to cover the entire store in one go. The store's massive size can be overwhelming, so obtain a store map from the information desk and identify priority departments beforehand. For tax-free shopping, bring your passport and complete paperwork at dedicated customer service counters. Consider visiting during Paris's bi-annual sales (soldes) in January and July for significant discounts on luxury items.