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· By Armelle Hillairet
Where to do your Christmas shopping? Our guide to finding the best gifts in France!
Christmas is just around the corner, and the excitement of the holiday season is starting to build. Finding the perfect gift for each of your loved ones can quickly become a headache, but don't panic! Whether you're looking for handmade products , luxury goods or unique creations , our comprehensive guide shows you the best options for your Christmas shopping. From the charm of traditional Christmas markets to online boutiques and Parisian department stores , you'll find all the ideas you need here.
1. Christmas markets: a magical experience
Christmas markets in France are magical places where you can find artisanal products , taste regional specialties and enjoy a unique festive atmosphere . Here are some of the most emblematic markets to visit this year:
Strasbourg Christmas Market
The Strasbourg Christmas market , also known as Christkindelsmärik , is one of the oldest and most famous in France. With its 300 chalets spread across several squares in the city center, it is the ideal place to discover artisanal creations , wooden toys , Christmas decorations and of course the famous bredele , these small cakes typically from Alsace. The entire city is adorned with lights, and the large Christmas tree on Place Kléber is a sight not to be missed.
Reims Christmas Market
Located at the foot of Notre-Dame Cathedral , the Reims Christmas market is renowned for its 135 chalets offering a wide variety of gastronomic and artisanal products . You can taste Champagne specialties there, while enjoying the city's magical illuminations . A must for those who want to combine shopping and culture in one place.
Paris Notre-Dame Christmas Market
Paris is full of Christmas markets, but the one at Notre-Dame has a special atmosphere thanks to its historic location . The cathedral square welcomes creators and artisans from all over France. Here, you will find handmade products , jewelry , ceramics , but also artisanal delicacies . A small market, but perfect for unique gifts .
Mulhouse Christmas Market
In Mulhouse, the Christmas market is distinguished by its theme around the Étoffe de Noël , a traditional Alsatian fabric used to decorate facades and stands. The wooden chalets are full of textile products , decorations and Alsatian specialties . It is the ideal place to find authentic and artisanal gifts , while enjoying the festive and colorful atmosphere of the city.
2. Online stores: Made in France gifts just a click away
If you prefer to avoid the crowds or don't have time to visit the markets, online stores offer a great alternative to finding unique gifts .
Berthe Guilhem House
For organic cosmetic products made from goat's milk , Maison Berthe Guilhem offers soaps and creams with soothing properties. These products, handcrafted in the Pyrenees, are perfect for offering a moment of relaxation and well-being to your loved ones.
Tchin Tchin House
This online store specializes in scented candles inspired by French grape varieties . An original gift for wine lovers, these candles will bring a touch of elegance and indulgence to any room in the house.
Offstage
If you are looking for the perfect gift for a fan of Mylène Farmer , Julien Doré , Tayc or even Jarry and Mamma Mia , you are on the site you need. Offstage is a bit like the centralizer of official products of all your favorite artists: rock , jazz , pop , but also musicals , shows or festivals . A gift that will definitely please a member of your entourage.
3. Parisian concept stores: unique addresses for original gifts
Paris is full of concept stores where you can find unique and original treasures . Here are some must-visit addresses for offering gifts that are out of the ordinary .
The Regular (18th arrondissement)
This neighborhood bookstore specializes in graphic novels , comics , and children's books . An ideal address for reading enthusiasts looking for original and quality works. The selection is careful and each book is chosen with passion by the owners.
Welcome Bio Bazar (11th arrondissement)
If you are looking for eco-conscious products , Welcome Bio Bazar is the place to be. This concept store offers a wide range of products for the home, from stationery to decoration , including kitchen items . Each item is selected according to ethical and ecological criteria, perfect for a responsible gift .
Mombini (15th arrondissement)
This concept store is dedicated to children and expectant mothers . There are wooden toys , baby clothes and accessories, but also a café area where parents can relax. It is a warm and welcoming place, ideal for finding original gifts for the little ones.
4. Department stores: luxury and tradition
For a more classic, but equally festive, shopping experience, the Parisian department stores are unmissable places:
Galeries Lafayette and Printemps
These two department stores located on Boulevard Haussmann are famous for their Christmas window displays that attract thousands of visitors every year. Inside, you will find an impressive selection of luxury products , ranging from fashion to beauty to gastronomy . The grandiose decorations and the festive atmosphere make it a must-see destination for luxury shopping enthusiasts. The advantage is that there are Galeries Lafayette in many cities in France.
The Good Market
Le Bon Marché is the oldest department store in Paris and offers a curated selection of high-end products . It is the ideal place to find refined gifts , whether in the fields of fashion , beauty or gastronomy . The store also offers many exclusive collaborations with international creators and designers.
5. Budget shops for 20-30 year olds
Young adults , often on a budget , are looking for original gifts without breaking the bank. Here are some shopping ideas especially for them.
Thrift stores and vintage boutiques
Thrift stores and vintage boutiques are great places to find unique and affordable gifts . Paris is full of places where you can find retro clothing and fashion accessories at low prices:
- Kilo Shop : A thrift store concept where you buy clothes by weight. Ideal for finding original pieces at a reasonable price.
- Episode : A well-known thrift store located in the Marais, offering a wide selection of vintage clothing for men and women.
Concept stores for small budgets
Some addresses in France offer quality designer objects and accessories at affordable prices:
- Hema : For decorative accessories , stationery and small gadgets at very affordable prices.
- Flying Tiger : Similar to Héma, with tempting suggestions for a humorous secret Santa .
- Monoprix : Much more than a simple supermarket, Monoprix offers a trendy fashion and decor selection at competitive prices.
Gift boxes and subscriptions
Offering a box or subscription is a practical and original solution for young adults. Here are some ideas:
- The Kube : A personalized book box, ideal for reading enthusiasts. Each month, a book chosen according to the recipient's tastes.
- Les Petits Radis : A monthly subscription to receive seeds and gardening tips. Perfect for those with green fingers, even in the city!
6. DIY and homemade gifts
There's nothing like a homemade gift to touch the hearts of your loved ones. Here are some ideas for making personalized and budget-friendly gifts:
- Scented candles : Easy to make with a few simple ingredients (beeswax, wicks, essential oils), they will make a perfect gift for relaxation lovers.
- Personalized Photo Frames : Use your memories from the past year to create a personalized photo montage. A simple but emotional gift.
7. Regional Christmas markets: a tour of France’s best addresses
In addition to the famous Christmas markets such as those in Strasbourg or Paris , many French cities offer regional markets that are worth a visit:
Amiens Christmas Market
With more than 130 chalets, the Amiens Christmas market is the largest in the north of France. You can find local products , craft creations and an open-air ice rink . The perfect opportunity to discover Picardy specialties and enjoy the end-of-year entertainment .
Lille Christmas Market
The Grand-Place in Lille is transformed every year into a Christmas village where you can find artisanal products , specialties from the North , as well as many activities for children . The illuminations and the giant tree add to the magic of the place, making it a popular destination for Christmas shopping .
Whether you are a fan of traditional Christmas markets , online stores or concept stores , there is always a solution to find the perfect gift . Christmas markets offer a unique atmosphere and artisanal products , while concept stores and online stores allow you to find original and responsible gifts . For those looking for the complete experience, Parisian department stores combine tradition and luxury . Whatever your choice, don't forget to plan ahead to fully enjoy the magic of the holidays !
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