Best Souvenirs from Paris : 10 treasures to bring home
Returning home from Paris without a memento would be like visiting the Louvre and skipping the Mona Lisa ! Whether you’re looking for timeless gifts or unexpected treasures, the French capital offers an abundance of unique items that capture its charm, culture, and elegance. From the vintage vibes of the puces de Montreuil to the artistic corners of Place du Tertre, this guide explores the best souvenirs to bring home from Paris. We’ll take you through flea markets, local crafts, Provençal goods, and iconic French brands you’ll find across legendary streets. Let’s dive into the 10 best souvenirs from Paris ! Download Zapptax today and turn your Parisian shopping into real savings.
1. Artistic creations from Montmartre
In the cobbled square of Place du Tertre, artists paint portraits and landscapes under the open sky. Buying a painting or even getting your portrait done here is one of the most personal souvenirs you can find in Paris. These artworks, often inspired by the bohemian life of Montmartre, are as unique as the artists who create them. Frame it once you're home, and you will forever have a piece of Paris hanging on your wall ! 📍 Place du Tertre, 18th arrondissement
2. Perfumes that capture the essence of Paris
No souvenir is more evocative than scent. Perfumes made in Paris carry the city’s essence in a bottle. Visit historic perfume houses where fragrances are created like fine art.
Top Parisian options:
- Timeless floral scents
- Niche perfumes from independent perfumeries
- Solid perfumes in decorative tins 📍 Rue Scribe and Saint-Honoré, 1st and 8th arrondissements
3. Timeless fashion and accessories
For a truly Parisian souvenir, opt for fashion and accessories from local French brands. You’ll find timeless coats, elegant dresses, and minimalist jewelry that reflect Paris’s signature style.
Bring home:
- A classic wool coat or trench
- A chic day dress from a local designer
- Leather wallets and clutches
- Minimalist gold jewelry made in Paris
📍 Rue de Rennes, Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Galeries Lafayette, 6th, 8th and 9th arrondissements
4. Handmade stationery and papeterie
Parisian paper goods are known for their elegance. Head to the Marais or Saint-Germain and browse artisan papeteries for letterpress cards, hand-stitched notebooks, and luxurious writing paper.
Stationery from Paris makes a sophisticated and functional souvenir:
- Handbound travel journals
- Art deco-style greeting cards
- Paris-themed washi tape or stickers
📍 Le Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés, 3rd, 4th and 6th arrondissements
5. Ceramics and tableware with Parisian charm
French tableware has a distinctive charm. Visit stores near rue de l’Université or explore flea markets to find handmade ceramics, porcelain cups, and enamel kitchenware.
What to look for:
- Plates and bowls with blue toile de Jouy patterns
- Classic café au lait bowls
- Artisanal pottery made in the region
📍 Rue de l’Université and flea markets across Paris
6. Fragrant products from Provence
Not all souvenirs need to be visual. Some, like lavender sachets and artisanal soaps from Marseille, appeal to the senses. You’ll find these products in markets like the one near rue de Buci or even in gourmet stores near quai de la Tournelle.
What to bring home:
- Lavender pouches to perfume drawers or suitcases
- Olive oil soaps and handmade candles
- Kitchen linens in Provençal prints
📍 Rue de Buci and Quai de la Tournelle, 5th and 6th arrondissements
7. Children’s souvenirs and charming toys
If you're traveling with children or looking for a gift for little ones, Paris has plenty of enchanting options. Visit traditional toy shops tucked away in the 6th arrondissement, or check out flea market stalls where you'll find:
- Wooden toys with retro designs
- Pop-up books featuring Parisian landmarks
- Miniature Eiffel Towers and musical boxes 📍 6th arrondissement and flea markets citywide
8. Culinary souvenirs for foodies
Paris is a feast for the senses, and its food is no exception. Bring home a taste of France with edible souvenirs that last longer than a meal.
Popular picks include for example:
- Artisanal mustard and tapenade
- French sea salt and spice blends
- Gourmet chocolates and calissons
- French Macarons from LaDurée
Our tip : Many food items are eligible for tax-free shopping. If you're planning to buy specialty food, opt for items that are easy to pack and don’t require refrigeration. Think artisanal chocolates, sealed tins of butter cookies, or vacuum-packed nougat. These make excellent edible souvenirs, and as long as they remain sealed and unused, they can be eligible for a [VAT refund (https://zapptax.com/en/blog/vat-refund-france-step-by-step-guide-for-non-eu-residents) when you leave the EU. 📍 Galeries Lafayette Gourmet, Boulevard Haussmann, 9th arrondissement
9. Parisian scarves : elegance in every fold
A Parisian scarf isn’t just an accessory—it’s a statement. Known for their elegance, craftsmanship, and timeless appeal, scarves are a staple in every French wardrobe. Whether you choose silk, wool, or linen, you’ll find styles ranging from minimalist chic to vibrant, artistic prints. Paris is full of boutiques offering scarves from renowned French brands, as well as up-and-coming designers. They fold up small, travel light, and add an unmistakable Parisian touch to any outfit.
Look for:
- Silk squares with Paris illustrations
- Lightweight wool scarves for cooler seasons
- Striped or polka-dot classics for that “effortless” French look 📍 Boutiques in the Marais, Saint-Germain, and department stores like Galeries Lafayette
10. Vintage gems from Parisian flea markets
If you're looking for a souvenir with soul, a Parisian flea market is your go-to destination. Known locally as marché aux puces, these markets are packed with hidden gems. Les puces de Montreuil In the 20th arrondissement, les puces de Montreuil are a paradise for vintage lovers. Here, you can uncover:
- Retro posters and postcards
- Vintage cameras
- 70s and 80s Parisian fashion
Les puces de Saint-Ouen
While les puces de Saint-Ouen are more famous, they are no less magical. From antique furniture to Art Deco objects, it's the perfect place to bring home a one-of-a-kind piece with a story behind it. 📍 Montreuil, 20th arrondissement / Saint-Ouen, 18th arrondissement
Important to note : While VAT refunds can apply to second-hand purchases, there's one key rule : they are only possible for purchases made from a professional seller. If you're buying from a private individual at a flea market or brocante, no VAT is charged, so no refund is possible. However, if the vendor is a professional seller and issues a proper invoice that includes VAT, your purchase may be eligible for a tax refund. So before you fall in love with a vintage gem, be sure to ask if the seller is a professional and if tax-free shopping is possible. Many markets host a mix of private and professional vendors, so it’s worth checking !
Get a VAT refund on your shopping with Zapptax
Shopping in Paris gets even better when you know you can get money back on your purchases. If you are a non-EU resident, Zapptax makes it easy to get a VAT refund, even on your souvenirs.
What is Zapptax ? Zapptax is a free mobile app that helps non-EU residents get a VAT refund on their purchases in France (and other EU countries). What makes it different ? It digitizes and simplifies the entire process, so no need to handle paperwork. With the Zapptax App, you manage everything from your phone and you get your refund within a few weeks.
How does Zapptax work ?
It is very easy, even if you’re shopping in multiple stores :
- Shop in any store during your stay, including souvenirs shops (if they issue invoices). You can also shop online.
- Ask for an invoice made out to “Zapptax” (details provided in the app).
- Upload your invoices in the Zapptax app during your trip.
- Once your trip comes to an end and your total purchases reach at least €100 (VAT incl.), Zapptax generates your tax-free form.
- Before you leave the European Union, you must validate your tax-free form with French Customs. At most exit points (airport, train station, sea ports and road border crossings), you’ll find PABLO terminals where you can scan the barcode on your form for validation. If there are no electronic terminals, a Customs agent will be able to validate your form electronically with a hand-device or by typing the number of your form.
- Receive your refund via your preferred method : credit card, PayPal, or bank account.
Why Zapptax is perfect for your shopping in Paris ?
Shopping all over Paris? Unlike traditional tax refund services that often limit you to large chain stores or specific amounts per purchase, Zapptax lets you combine receipts from many different shops. The best option for travelers who love to explore and shop throughout the city.
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No need to spend €100 in one store: Zapptax combines all your purchases to help you meet the threshold (€100 spent during your entire stay).
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No need for your passport when shopping. Only one identity validation per year is enough within the application.
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No paperwork hassle : Everything is digital and managed in the app.
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Higher refund amounts : On average, Zapptax returns up to 90% of the VAT, which is much more than traditional operators.
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Use it in any shop in France that can issue an invoice, even online. The app is also available in Spain and in Belgium.
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Customer support available 24/7, in multiple languages.
Conclusion
The best souvenir from Paris is one that resonates with you ! It can be something you’ll hold or use and instantly be transported back to a walk along the Quai de la Tournelle or a lazy Sunday browsing a Marché aux puces. Art, fashion, literature, or food, Paris offers countless ways to bring home a piece of its magic. So as you pack your bags and prepare to return home, make space for a little Paris in your suitcase. It’s not just a souvenir, it’s a story waiting to be told.
FAQ
1. What is the best souvenir from Paris?
It depends on your taste, but a handmade art piece from Montmartre, a niche French perfume, or a gourmet box of artisanal chocolates are thoughtful and timeless options.
2. What is worth buying in Paris?
Fashion from local designers, luxury skincare, stationery, vintage finds, and culinary delights like mustards and salted butter caramels are all worth the investment.
3. What to bring back from Paris food?
Choose durable and packable options like artisanal jams, caramels au beurre salé (salted butter caramels), or vacuum-packed nougat. These sweet treats are iconic in French gastronomy and are also suitable for tax-free shopping when sealed and unopened.
4. Is it easy to find local brands in Paris?
Yes, especially in areas like the Marais, Saint-Germain, and large stores like Galeries Lafayette that feature top French brands under one roof.
5. What is the most popular souvenir to bring home from Paris?
Eiffel Tower miniatures remain a classic, but more unique souvenirs include Provençal lavender products, Parisian art, and French perfumes.
