There’s something magical about where to shop in le Marais, wandering the cobblestone streets, and gifting yourself something special. It’s not just one of Paris’ most historic neighborhoods, but also one of the most stylish. Known for its mix of old-world charm and contemporary cool, Le Marais is where you’ll find designer boutiques sitting next to vintage gems, chic French fashion labels, quirky homeware stores, and perfume houses that smell like pure heaven.
I live in Paris and all of these Marais shops are places I love and also share with my tour clients. No matter your fashion sense, be it elegant, sporty or vintage – I intend to give you an overview and lay of the shopping land in one of Paris’ most beloved neighbourhoods, this Marais shopping guide is for you!
If you’re planning a shopping day in Paris, Le Marais should be at the very top of your list. And as someone who loves both the local favorites and the well-known names, I’ve put together this ultimate shopping guide – so you can experience the best of the neighborhood, from perfumes and beauty to concept stores, fashion, jewelry, vintage, and even where to take a chic coffee break in between.
A Bit of History: Why Le Marais is Special
Le Marais, meaning “the marsh” in French, was once swampland before being developed in the 12th century. By the 17th century, it became the aristocratic heart of Paris, dotted with grand hôtels particuliers (private mansions) that still stand today. Over time, it evolved into a hub for artisans, Jewish communities, and more recently, a lively LGBTQ+ center. Today, it’s a stylish playground where tradition meets trend.
Even though I live in Montmartre (and I have been living in Paris for over 15 years), I spend on average ½ of my time in Le Marais! It’s super easy to walk, like most of Paris, and it’s sort of our version of Soho in Paris.
Parisians love Le Marais because it feels like another village (Montmartre being my first) within the city. You can wander from centuries-old synagogues to hip concept stores, and from hidden courtyards to bustling cafés – all within a few blocks. Shopping here isn’t just about what you buy; it’s about soaking in the art de vivre that makes Paris so magnetic.
It’s also the only neighborhood where everything will remain open on a Sunday in Paris!
Top Streets to Wander in Le Marais
If you want to shop and stroll like a Parisian, here are the must-walk streets in Le Marais: Even though to be fair you can start on any street and just wander – Paris is safe and one of the best ways to enjoy the french way of living is to do as the french do – and just wander with a sense of joie de vivre, making time to not really check anything off a bucket list.
- Rue des Francs-Bourgeois – I call it the perfume and beauty street! Its also home to other chic boutiques, international brands, and independent designers.
- Rue Vieille du Temple – A lively mix of fashion, art galleries, and buzzing cafés.
- Rue des Rosiers – The heart of the historic Jewish quarter, famous for falafel shops and bakeries alongside quirky stores.
- Rue Charlot – Perfect for discovering unique fashion and homeware shops. Some new coffeeshop and and vintage boutiques have come around.
- Rue de Bretagne – Anchored by the Marché des Enfants Rouges, this street mixes food, lifestyle shops, and design.
Now, let’s dive into the best shops you can’t miss while exploring Le Marais
Perfumes + Beauty in Le Marais
Paris and perfume go hand in hand – and nowhere is that more true than in Le Marais. The neighborhood is sprinkled with iconic houses and modern beauty boutiques, each offering a little slice of luxury. Even if you’re not a perfume collector, wandering into these shops feels like stepping into an art gallery of scents, textures, and beautiful packaging. One of my favorite things to do is stroll down Rue des Francs Bourgeois, where many of the big names (like Byredo and Guerlain) sit alongside niche treasures.
Shops to visit:
- Buly 1803 – A Parisian institution with a nostalgic, old-apothecary style. Expect wood-paneled interiors, exquisite packaging, and heritage-inspired perfumes, soaps, and skincare. Buly feels like stepping into another century. If you have seen the TikTok craze for customized lip balms and combs – be warned, the lines are crazy long on the weekends.
- Oh My Cream! – A modern beauty concept store with a curated selection of clean, niche skincare and makeup. Think of it as the Parisian version of Sephora – but more chic, minimalist, and exclusive. All brands are well curated and include international faves such as Tata Harper and Violette FR.
- Fragonard – A historic perfume house from Grasse, with beautifully presented scents, soaps, and candles. Their Le Marais shop is a perfect stop for gifts. I love their cotton collection for the home – tablecloths, pillowcases, even scarves and beautiful blouses!
- Le Bon Parfumeur – A fresh take on perfumery, with scents designed to be layered and mixed. Their boutique is playful and modern, perfect for discovering a fragrance that feels uniquely yours.
- Diptyque – World-famous for candles and perfumes, Diptyque is a must-visit. The boutique itself is like a small art gallery, where fragrance and design meet. Whether you’re skin scent type of person or your perfume has to announce you before you enter a room, you will find their selection offers the subtle Fleur du Peau to the more robust Olene.
Department Stores + Concept Shops
Le Marais is home to some of Paris’ most famous concept stores – spaces where fashion, design, and lifestyle collide. These shops are perfect if you like discovering pieces you didn’t even know you wanted until you saw them. Some are institutions (like BHV), while others are trendsetters that pull in the international fashion crowd.
Shops to visit:
- BHV Marais – One of Paris’ classic department stores, with everything from fashion to home goods, hardware, and even rooftop views. Locals love it as much as visitors. I go here for hangers and the book section, but you can find just about anything and it’s not as overwhelming as the larger department stores.
- Nature et Découvertes – A treasure trove for nature lovers. You’ll find everything from herbal teas to eco-friendly gadgets, books, and essential oils. People don’t talk enough about how this is the best place in Paris to buy gifts for kids – their outdoorsy bird watching or space section is amazing.
- The Broken Arm – A sleek concept store that mixes fashion, art, and lifestyle. Expect carefully curated designer clothes and a café for a stylish coffee break. Some Prada and Miu Miu pieces you will never find anywhere else reside here. And I’m a big fan of their cute yet comfortable sneaker selection downstairs.
- Ramdam – A playful boutique that feels like a gallery, full of homeware, design pieces, and quirky finds. Perfect for when you want something truly different. They also have a tiny indoor coffee cart – perfect to grab on the go as you wander off.
- Merci – The it concept store of Le Marais. Set in a former textile factory, Merci is known for its eclectic mix of fashion, design, books, and homeware – plus the famous little red Fiat parked out front.
Coffee + Tea Shops
Every good shopping trip deserves a pause – and in Le Marais, the coffee and tea scene is just as stylish as the boutiques. From centuries-old tea salons to minimalist Japanese concept cafés, these spots are perfect for catching your breath (and maybe leaving with a chic tea tin or bag of beans as a souvenir).
Shops to visit:
- Mariage Frères – A tea institution with centuries of history. Their Marais shop feels like a temple of tea, where you can buy rare blends or enjoy a sit-down tea service. The uniform wearing staff will make you feel like youre on a tea safari with all the choices.
- Dammann Frères – Another prestigious French tea brand, with beautifully packaged teas and an impressive selection. A tea-lover’s dream. This one under the galeries of Places des Vosges always smells so good, and you can kill two birds with one stone and go see the park.
- Ogata – A minimalist Japanese concept space where tea, food, and design merge. The serene atmosphere makes it a true urban escape. Make a reservation for their tea sitting or stop in to their shop for traditional Japanese tea pots and cups.
- Tiba – A new addition to the Paris coffee scene for specialty coffee with a asian inspired minimalist decor. Kevin the owner, only buys THE BEST beans, so you can snag a bag of whatever he is loving at the moment. Enter into coffee heaven!
- Araku Coffee – A sustainable coffee brand that sources directly from Indian farmers. Their sleek café is a great spot to recharge in between shopping. And even pick up a bag of roasted beans.
Men’s Fashion in Le Marais
Le Marais has become a hub for men’s fashion in Paris, from heritage shoemakers to edgy streetwear. It’s also worth noting that the area is one of the LGBTQ+ centers of Paris, so the menswear scene here is extra colorful, inclusive, and fun. Whether you’re looking for timeless French tailoring or the latest streetwear drops, this neighborhood has it all.
Shops to visit:
- Balibaris – Parisian chic with tailored essentials and casual elegance. Looking for timeless cotton pants or a trench coat of great quality in Paris? Go here.
- St James – Known for their iconic striped sailor shirts, a true French classic. These sweaters will last a lifetime.
- French Trotters – A stylish multi-brand boutique with Parisian cool factor.
- Supreme – The cult New York streetwear brand with a loyal following has a small shop here in Paris.
- Arte – A minimalist streetwear label with European flair. Known for their graphic t-shirts and stylish pants.
- Stussy – California streetwear with global influence. Another location I suggest you visit on a weekday. This street will also have some other cool streetwear brands.
- Homecore – A French streetwear label rooted in wellness and functionality culture.
- APC – Minimalist, timeless Parisian fashion – especially known for denim. Their leather goods are of unparalleled quality. They also have a new line of perfumes.
- JM Weston – Iconic French shoemaker, elegant and heritage-driven. If you only had to get one pair of shoes in Paris, do yourself a favor – go here!
- Axel Arigato – Sleek sneakers with Scandinavian design meets Parisian cool.
- Royal Cheese – A multi-brand boutique offering a mix of street and contemporary labels.
Women’s Fashion in Le Marais
Le Marais is one of the best neighborhoods in Paris for women’s fashion – from cult Parisian labels like Sézane and Rouje to more avant-garde houses like Courrèges. Many boutiques here feel like stepping into the closets of effortlessly chic French women.
Shops to visit:
- Rouje – Created by Parisian it-girl Jeanne Damas, Rouje captures the effortless French-girl look. Think red – lipstick, dresses, and shoes symbolic of French effortless style. But also denim, tops and books.
- Comptoir des Cotonniers – Chic, wearable Parisian staples for everyday. A focus on cottons – dresses, tops, trenches, etc
- Isabel Marant – The queen of bohemian French fashion, perfect for laid-back chic. In love with her crossbody bags and accessories.
- Balzac Paris – Known for sustainable, romantic, easy-to-wear French style.
- Sézane – The it girl label of Paris, with timeless pieces and a cult following.
- APC – Minimalist essentials for the modern Parisian wardrobe.
- Courrèges – Futuristic French fashion with 60s-inspired cuts.
- Veja – Sustainable sneakers that have become global favorites.
- Maje – Feminine, contemporary Parisian style with a modern twist.
- Arket – the big sister to &OtherStories with more sustainable and timeless peices.
Jewelry in Le Marais
Jewelry shopping in Le Marais is all about finding pieces that tell a story. Whether you’re after delicate, everyday gold, bold silver statements, or rock’n’roll-inspired artisan work, you’ll discover treasures here that feel deeply personal.
Shops to visit:
- Clara Jasmine – Delicate, handmade pieces that feel romantic and modern with a nod to French heritage.
- Merci (Jewelry Section) – Inside the concept store, you’ll find unique jewelry designs.
- L’Atelier d’Amaya – Chic, customizable jewelry that makes a perfect Paris souvenir.
- Jonas Bowman – Edgy, artisanal jewelry with a rock’n’roll vibe.
- Serge Thoraval – Known for poetic, engraved silver jewelry that feels like wearable art.
Vintage Shops in Le Marais
Le Marais is one of the vintage capitals of Paris. The shops here range from chaotic bargain basements where you can find a €5 leather jacket at FreepStar, to carefully curated designer resale boutiques where you might score a Chanel blazer at half price at Second Season.
Shops to visit:
- Braderie Second Hand & Vintage – Affordable and eclectic, perfect for a spontaneous treasure hunt.
- EREM – Curated vintage with a modern touch.
- Free’p’star – A Paris classic, known for its chaotic charm and ultra-cheap racks.
- Nuovo – Trendy vintage boutique with carefully selected pieces.
- Second Season – Designer resale boutique, perfect for scoring luxury brands at better prices.
Other Must-Shop Stops: Homeware, Books & More
Le Marais shopping isn’t just about fashion – it’s also about design, lifestyle, and a little indulgence
- Cire Trudon – The oldest candle maker in the world, with scents that feel like history in wax form.
- Ofr. Bookshop – A cult bookstore with art, design, and photography titles. A creative hub in Le Marais.
- Empreintes– Handmade products from French artisans in a chic space.
- Jacques Genin – Not exactly shopping for clothes, but you must shop for chocolate here. Jacques Genin is one of Paris’ most celebrated chocolatiers – his caramels are life-changing. I love the instore design, it’s so minimalist and captivating.
Final Tips for Shopping in Le Marais
- Go during the week if you can – weekends can get crowded.
- Wear comfortable shoes; the cobblestones are chic but not forgiving.
- Take your time – Le Marais is best explored slowly, with pauses for coffee, pastries, and people-watching.
- Don’t be afraid to wander off the main streets. Some of the best shops are hidden in side alleys and courtyards.
Shopping in Le Marais is more than retail therapy – it’s about experiencing Paris through style, taste, and atmosphere. Whether you leave with a signature French perfume, a Sézane dress, or just sweet memories of a chocolate stop at Jacques Genin, this neighborhood will always leave you inspired.
I also share how to shop in my neighborhood of Montmartre here and be sure to follow my weekly newsletter posts on Subtack, where I share more insider Paris.
