Paris City GuidePractical InformationsShopping in Paris

Books, Music and Antique Shopping

Music and Books

Need to buy a CD or a book?  The two biggest names in Paris for this type of shopping are Virgin Megastore and Fnac.  There you will find a large selection of media to suit all tastes.  Both stores have locations throughout the city.  The largest Virgin Megastore sits on the Champs Elysées (metro line 1, station George V) while Fnac’s largest outlet is in the Forum des Halles (metro line 1, station Châtelet or line 4, station Les Halles).  The Virgin Megastore “on the Champs” features a fabulous décor and also has the advantage of being open late in the evening.  While a bit more sober, Fnac would be the place to go for the largest selection of books, novels and travel guides.

Shopping for Antiques

If you’re looking for antiques and collectables, here are two important addresses to remember.  First, the Louvre des Antiquaries (metro line 1, station Palais Royale) is an agglomeration of over 250 dealers spread out in a chic, mall-like atmosphere.  It is open from Tuesday through Sunday from 1100-1900 (closed Sundays in July and August).  Le Carré Rive Gauche is in the heart of Saint- Germain on the left bank (metro line 4, station St-Germain-des-Prés and features over 120 galleries and shops.  They are all concentrated between quai Voltaire and rues Bacs, Saints-Pères and Université.

 

For more information, visit their websites at www.louvre-antiquaires.com and www.carrerivegauche.com

 

Flea markets

The most well-known flea market of Paris is located at les Puces de Clignancourt (metro line 4, Porte de Clignancourt).  Each weekend you will find a large selection of clothes, furnishings and objects.  From the simplest objects to the most exceptional finds, many of the antique dealers come here to sell their collections.  This flea market is very popular and crowded, so we can’t caution you enough to be vigilant concerning your surroundings and personal belongings.  It is well known that this flea market is a haven for pick-pockets.