30 Inexpensive Souvenirs to Buy in Paris
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Whether it’s your first trip to Paris or your tenth, there’s always something new to discover (and always something special to bring home). If you’re anything like me, you’re looking for souvenirs that feel authentically Parisian but not with the luxury price tag (at least not all the time!).
The city is full of things to splurge on, whether it’s a designer bag from a top French fashion house, a dreamy piece of lingerie from Agent Provocateur, or even something a bit less pricey like the cult-favorite lip balm from Buly. But sometimes a simple, thoughtful souvenir does the trick just as well without draining your travel budget.
While tourist shops might seem like the easiest spot for cheap Paris souvenirs, with keychains and Eiffel Tower trinkets galore, there are far better options that are available in the heart of the city, affordable finds that also make the perfect inexpensive gifts from Paris.
As someone who has both lived in the French capital and visited the city countless times, here’s my personal guide to the best inexpensive souvenirs from Paris (many under 10€!).
Shopping in Paris? Check out these recommended posts:
Dammann Frères Miss Dammann tea jelly | La Sablésienne lemon shortbread biscuits | Dammann Frères Miss Dammann green tea | Versailles checkerboard notebook | Angelina chestnut spread | Le Petit Duc 70% dark chocolate with almond chips | Maison Colibri pure butter madeleines | Roger & Gallet bar soap | Les Anis de Flavigny candy | Gallimard La délicatesse book | Bienaimé matchbox
Dammann Frères Eiffel Tower tea bags | Marius Fabre Marseille soap | Confiture Parisienne Nuits-Saint-Georges jelly | Monoprix tea towel | Félicie Aussi “Chaton” socks | Le Chocolat des Français organic chocolate bar | Buly 1803 robinet cap | Comtesse du Barry chicken rillettes | Le Beurre Bordier demi-sel butter | Saint Laurent lighter (in-store only)
Inexpensive Paris Souvenirs
1. Mini Eiffel Tower
I know, I know. It’s a bit cliché, but a mini Eiffel Tower is such a classic Paris souvenir, especially if it’s your first time in the city. I mentioned previously that I normally avoid the gift shops, but this would be my one exception!
It’s something small that you can display on your bookshelf or vanity to remind you of your time in the city. I wouldn’t necessarily give it to someone else (it’s more individual to your trip and experiences), but it makes a great personal keepsake.
Where to Buy: Street vendors near the Eiffel Tower, almost any gift shop in the city
2. Accessories
It might seem terribly stereotypical, but I have to mention the ever-iconic beret! You’ll see them everywhere in Paris: at gift shops and spread out on blankets by street vendors offering every color you could imagine for only a few euros each.
Walking around Paris, you’ll also notice Parisians love their scarves. My favorite place to shop for affordable scarves is Monoprix where you can find trendy options at Target prices. You’ll also find lovely scarves at weekend marchés throughout the city.
I already mentioned this in my Monoprix shopping guide, but I found these French flag socks in the men’s section that would make a great gift for him.
And if you want something more unique, the French brand Félicie Aussi makes colorful socks with quirky sayings like “Cordon Bleu” and plenty of French swear words. They are a bit more expensive at around 20€ a pair, but totally worth it for a fun souvenir.
To stretch your euros further, consider skipping the luxury boutiques and browse around smaller shops or flea markets. You’ll find plenty of affordable, “exclusive” accessories that feel bona fide Parisian at lower prices.
Where to Buy: Gift shops, Monoprix, flea markets, local boutiques
3. Macarons
Macarons are another quintessential Paris souvenir that don’t have to cost a fortune. These sweet meringue-based sandwich cookies are filled with ganache, buttercream, or jam, and they’re as adorable as they are delicious. Even in France, a box of macarons is always a welcome gift for family and friends.
If you’re looking for an affordable option, Maison Georges Larnicol is a fantastic choice. When I lived in Lorient, I used to stop by for their kouginette (which you should absolutely try if you stop by one of their stores). Luckily, they’ve since expanded across France, and their macarons are excellent for the price.
You can pick up a box of 7 for around 7€, or go bigger with 16 (16€) or 25 (25€). They come out to one euro apiece which feels like a steal compared to three euros or more each at the more high-end patisseries.
Plus, you get plenty of flavors to choose from: salted caramel, rose, pistachio, vanilla, passionfruit, and more. They keep well for up to 15 days in the fridge (if you manage not to eat them all first).
Now, you’ll also find macarons in many chain bakeries and even at McDonald’s, but this is one treat worth splurging on. The texture and flavor of a good macaron are worlds apart from cheaper versions.
For the most iconic experience, Ladurée remains the gold standard, and their smallest box of eight macarons costs 27€. Pierre Hermé is also famous for his macaron creations (many debate who makes the best)! At his boutiques, you can find smaller tins (4 macarons for 15€). The metal packaging is reusable and decorated with classic Parisian motifs.
Just remember to buy them toward the end of your trip and tuck them safely into your carry-on. Macarons can be quite fragile, but for many visitors to Paris, it’s often worth the extra effort to bring home these pretty pastel treats.
Where to Buy: Maison Georges Larnicol, Ladurée, Pierre Hermé
4. Decorative Treat Tins
French sweets like macarons and butter cookies are wonderful souvenirs, but the packaging they come in are what truly last.
These decorative tins can be used in your kitchen, for storage, or to refill with other treats. Every time you see or use them, they’ll remind you of your time in Paris.
I gifted a box of cookies from Maison Alsacienne de Biscuiterie to my parents, and they loved not only the treats but also kept the tin. I have one for myself too, which I use to store little trinkets. It reminds me of the Danish butter cookie tins my grandma used for her sewing supplies!
Even though Maison Alsacienne de Biscuiterie doesn’t have a Paris boutique, there are plenty of other places in the French capital to find beautiful treat tins. Be on the lookout at gourmet grocery stores as well as chocolate and biscuit shops around the city.
Where to Buy: Pierre Hermé, La Cure Gourmande, Galeries Lafayette, La Grande Épicerie
5. Wine
I never leave France without a few bottles of wine stashed in my luggage. It’s one gift that almost everyone appreciates, and it’s surprisingly affordable even if you have no idea how to pick out a bottle.
You can find excellent wines throughout Paris. A great place to start is Nicolas, a popular wine shop chain found throughout France. Their staff are knowledgeable and happy to offer recommendations based on your taste and budget. I’d highly recommend it if you're a beginner to French wine.
Paris is also full of independent wine shops worth exploring. For natural wines, I love Juicy Cave à Manger, where you can book a tasting and buy a couple of bottles. I had such a great experience there that I wanted to recommend it if you happen to love natural wine like myself!
If you feel confident choosing your own wine, head to a French supermarket. Unlike in the U.S., even mid-range supermarket wines in France are often very good. To make the selection process easier, I’d suggest using the Vivino app, which lets you scan labels and see reviews and ratings. Even many of my French friends use this app when picking out wine!
Champagne is a popular pick, but it can be pricey (even in France). If you want to get the best bubbles for your buck, go for crémant. It’s made the same way as Champagne but comes from outside the Champagne region, which means you’ll often pay half the price for a bottle that’s just as festive. It’s what many locals enjoy for apéro or casual celebrations, saving Champagne for special occasions.
Whether you pick up a bottle from a boutique wine shop or your local grocery store, French wine makes a budget-friendly souvenir and the perfect reason to toast to your Paris trip once you’re back home.
Where to Buy: Nicolas, independent wine shops, supermarkets
6. Mustard
If you haven’t noticed yet, some of the best Paris souvenirs are found right in the supermarkets, and mustard is another one of them!
Maille is one of France’s most iconic brands, crafting mustards since 1747. Serious fans will want to stop by their Paris boutique to sample a wide variety of flavors, vinegars, oils, and vinaigrettes. You can even taste freshly served mustards on tap (yes, really!) or pick up their famous truffle mustard. Bonus tip: they sell reusable mustard jars that can be refilled at any Maison Maille boutique!
Most French grocery stores carry Maille’s classic mustards, including Dijon and whole grain varieties.
Another well-known name in mustard is Edmond Fallot. They make some gift-worthy sets with unique flavors like Pinot Noir, walnut, blackcurrant, basil, and even spiced gingerbread. Perfect for bringing a little taste of France back home.
Where to Buy: Grocery stores, Maison Maille
7. French Pharmacy Products
Fans of French beauty: you have to stop by a pharmacy while you’re in Paris. While there are plenty of luxury beauty brands to shop, some of the best and most affordable products come straight from the French pharmacy shelves. From skincare to haircare and even makeup, the selection is often much cheaper than in the U.S. Sometimes the formulas are different too, especially when it comes to sunscreens.
If you follow me on TikTok, you already know that I never leave Paris without a trip to Pharmacie Monge. It’s one of my favorite spots in the city to stock up on French beauty staples. And if you decide to shop there yourself, you can use my discount code to save a little extra! Once you’ve filled your basket with pharmacy goodies, head to checkout and show them the QR code for 10% off!
Some of the most popular French skincare brands to look for include Avène, Bioderma, Nuxe, and La Roche-Posay. You’ll also find plenty of pre-made gift sets (Monge has tons of them) that make the perfect presents, including hand cream and lip balm duos for under 10€. I love gifting these to my friends back in the U.S.
Before heading out on your beauty haul, check out these helpful guides:
Where to Buy: French pharmacies like Pharmacie Monge
8. Tea Towels
A French tea towel (or torchon) is one of those simple souvenirs that’s great for gifting. Around Paris, you’ll find beautiful kitchen towels in all kinds of colors and prints. I personally love the classic French patterns like red or blue stripes and the colorful motifs of heritage brands like Le Jacquard Français and Garnier Thiebaut.
Use them decoratively, or buy some that you can use daily in your kitchen.
For affordable options, Monoprix is a great place to start. You can find nice options for under 10€. Some of my other favorite stores for tea towels include La Trésorerie, Linvosges, and Landline.
Where to Buy: Monoprix, La Trésorerie, Linvosges, Landline
9. Tote Bags
Reusable shopping bags check all of the boxes for the perfect Paris souvenir: they’re affordable, actually practical, and something you’ll use long after your trip. And bonus, they pack flat so you can slip them into your suitcase without taking up much space.
You can find tote bags at French supermarkets, bookstores, department stores and museum gift shops across the city with different designs and styles at each. Normally, you’ll spot them near the checkout, so it’s easy to pick one up on your way out.
I’ve already recommended Parisian net shopping bags in my Monoprix gift guide, but it’s worth mentioning again. You can find them for under 10€ and they come in a range of colors.
Where to Buy: Monoprix, La Grande Epicerie, La Samaritaine, Le Bon Marché, Galeries Lafayette, museum gift shops, bookstores, vendors along the Seine
10. Cotton Pouches
Alongside reusable tote bags, I’ve found so many cute cotton pouches that make practical gifts from Paris. I love having small bags like these to keep things organized too.
This pink pochette from Shakespeare and Co. is just 8€ and ideal for carrying your favorite book or whatever you need on the go. I’d definitely pick up the cat design to stash treats or toys for my own cats.
I’ve also seen cotton pouches at La Grande Epicerie for only a few euros that you can use to store fruit and vegetables.
If you're a fan of Marin Montagut’s artwork and porcelain treasures, you’ll love his collection available at the Château de Versailles. Many items are more affordable than what you'd find at his Paris boutique, including this beautiful game pouch for holding cards, dice or other small games.
Where to Buy: Gift shops, bookstores, museums
11. French Soap
Luxurious yet affordable, you really can’t go wrong with French soaps.
The French have been celebrated for their soap-making for centuries, a tradition that dates back to the 17th century and traces its roots to Provence and the port city of Marseille. You might have already heard of savon de Marseille, a traditional French soap made from vegetable oils.
From grocery stores to savonneries, you can find lovely little bars wrapped in printed paper in scents like lavender, almond and orange blossom.
Some brands to look for include Le Petit Marseillais (their body washes are very popular in France) and La Compagnie de Provence (their rose liquid hand soap is a personal favorite). These make cheap souvenirs from Paris and add a little luxury to your hand washing routine.
For something more artisanal, Paris is dotted with soap shops offering high-quality products at reasonable prices. I especially love Marius Fabre, which has bars under 5€.
If you’re willing to splurge just a little more, Fragonard, a renowned French perfumery, carries ever-elegant bar soaps and curated sets that feel special without breaking the bank.
Where to Buy: Marius Fabre, Fragonard, French pharmacies, grocery stores
12. Tea
Dammann Frères is one of France’s most iconic tea houses and a favorite I often mention on my blog. If you’re looking for an elegant yet budget-friendly Paris souvenir, make sure to stop by one of their seven boutiques across the city.
Their selection ranges from fragrant loose-leaf teas and herbal infusions (many under €10) to more premium blends for when you want to splurge a little.
For a gift-worthy option, pick up one of their signature metal canisters for about €7 more. You can even buy them empty to fill with your own tea at home, a lovely reminder of your Paris trip.
I also wouldn’t miss their Eiffel Tower and Versailles collections for something especially Parisian. And if you want to indulge yourself, try their tea jellies that are divine stirred into a warm afternoon cup.
If you’d like to explore beyond Dammann, other famous French tea brands to check out include Kusmi Tea and Palais des Thés.
Where to Buy: Dammann Frères, Kusmi Tea, Palais des Thés
13. Postcards
You can find Parisian postcards just about anywhere in the city, but my preferred place to buy them is Galerie Vivienne. One of the most stunning covered passages in Paris, if this architectural gem isn’t already on your itinerary, it should be!
Located in the 2nd arrondissement, Galerie Vivienne is a lovely spot to partake in some French flânerie (the simple pleasure of strolling around with no goal in mind). You’ll find a wide range of shops: clothing boutiques, tea rooms, gourmet food stores, antique bookshops and more.
Librairie Jousseaume is the gallery’s oldest shop, where I’ve found a pleasant selection of postcards with classic Parisian motifs, black-and-white photography, and vintage designs. There are also art prints, secondhand books, and other unique finds to peruse.
I love picking out postcards to send to friends or display at home. They also make the prettiest additions to a travel journal or scrapbook.
Most museum gift shops will also have a well-curated selection worth browsing.
Where to Buy: Librairie Jousseaume, museums, gift shops
14. Notebooks and Stationery
While I do adore the Louise Carmen notebooks, splurging on expensive stationery isn’t always in the budget. Thankfully, Paris is full of accessible options.
Boutique stores like Papier Tigre, L’Ecritoire, and L'Art du Papier, as well as department stores, offer beautifully bound notebooks, cards and other paper goods at various price points.
Also look for Paris city pop-ups, which I know so many visitors to Paris love as souvenirs!
Not French, but still worth a stop is Muji. The Japanese retailer has some of the best pens and desk accessories.
You’ll also discover great stationery in less obvious places: gift shops, museum boutiques, and even some cafés. Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the city.
Where to Buy: Papier Tigre, L’Ecritoire, L'Art du Papier, Muji, department stores, gift shops, museum boutiques
15. Candy & Chocolate
Photo credit: À la Mère de Famille
Paris is a city of confections. If you plan to bring back something sweet for cheap, French grocery stores like Monoprix stock inexpensive chocolates and candies that make lovely gifts.
I’ve shared some favorites in my Monoprix gift guide, but here are a few more must-tries:
Côte d’Or chocolate bars. The noir noisette (dark chocolate with hazelnuts) is especially good.
Haribo candies. Tagada, Dragibus, Orangina, Les Schtroumpfs, Bubbliz, etc.
Carambar. Short for “CARAMel en BARre,” this nostalgic French candy is a childhood favorite.
Chocolate-covered marshmallow bears. Another classic treat for kids (and adults).
Villars chocolate bars. Technically Swiss, but delicious nonetheless.
Anis de Flavigny pastilles. Anise-flavored hard candies that come in adorable tins. Some of my French girlfriends carry these in their purses (and restock them with other mints and gum)!
A more refined selection can be found at La Grande Épicerie. Try Bonnat chocolate bars (around €7 each) or Le Chocolat des Français, known for its playful, brightly colored packaging at pretty reasonable prices.
Paris has no shortage of luxury chocolatiers, but for quality chocolate that’s accessible, consider:
À la Mère de Famille. Paris’s oldest chocolaterie.
Jeff de Bruges. Belgian-style chocolates with shops throughout France.
Maison Georges Larnicol. I already mentioned them before, but worth repeating for its very sensible prices.
Where to Buy: Grocery stores, La Grande Épicerie, À la Mère de Famille, Jeff de Bruges, Maison Georges Larnicol
16. Cookies, Biscuits & Crackers
Some of the tastiest Paris souvenirs come straight from the supermarket shelves. The cookie and cracker aisles in France are filled with sweet and savory snacks you’ll want to stuff into your suitcase.
Let’s start with the sweet side. Here are a few French biscuits, gâteaux, or as you might know them, cookies, worth trying:
LU Petit Écolier. Buttery cookies topped with chocolate stamped with the classic schoolboy logo. One of France’s most iconic cookies!
French Butter Cookies. The name says it all. These rich, buttery biscuits (also called “sablés Breton”) are heavenly. Look for Breton brands like La Mère Poulard and St. Michel.
Crêpes Dentelles. Delicate rolled wafers. I love the ones from Gavottes smothered in dark chocolate.
LU Pim’s Orange. Soft sponge cookies with a zesty orange filling covered in chocolate. Another very popular famous supermarket cookie in France.
Langues de Chat. Thin, crisp cookies that pair nicely with coffee or tea.
Now for the savory side, perfect for an impromptu French apéro back home. These make great gifts too, especially for anyone who loves French cheese (who doesn’t?) or prefers salty to sweet:
Michel et Augustin Biscuits Apéritif. Buttery crackers made with real French cheese (the Beaufort ones are my favorite).
Crêpes Dentelles. The savory version of the famous rolled wafers, usually filled with cheese.
Chips de Sarrasin. Buckwheat chips seasoned with fleur de sel de Guérande.
Bâtonnets au Comté. Crunchy cheese sticks from La Grande Épicerie that taste like pure heaven.
There are so many different cookies and crackers that you won’t easily find outside of France. Take your time browsing around, and you’ll come across all kinds that cost just a few euros!
Where to Buy: Grocery stores, La Grande Épicerie
17. Art
Bringing home a piece of Parisian art is such a chic way to remember your trip and decorate your space at the same time. Across the city, especially near landmarks like Sacré-Cœur and Notre-Dame, you’ll find plenty of street artists selling their work at moderate prices.
One of the most famous places to explore is Place du Tertre, the artists' square in Montmartre where around 140 painters and sketch artists set up their easels each day. Here you can watch them working on sketches, watercolors, oil paintings, and maybe even have one made just for you! Many sell custom portraits, others offer original art or prints. Meander around for a while and look for an artist whose style you love.
Along the Seine, the iconic bouquinistes in their green bookstalls sell secondhand books, postcards, and small art prints featuring Paris scenes and retro French ads. It’s an unmissable stop for anyone after affordable mementos from the city.
If you’re visiting museums, make sure to browse the gift shops too. The Musée d’Orsay has an especially beautiful selection of art posters and prints inspired by its Impressionist collection.
And for the true treasure hunters, the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen flea market is another great place to uncover antique lithographs, vintage posters, and one-of-a-kind finds.
Where to Buy: Street artists, bouquinistes along the Seine, museum gift shops, flea markets like Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen
18. Photobooth Photos
Photobooth photos are an instant keepsake from Paris. The 60s-inspired Fotoautomat booths are some of the coolest around the city and can be found at locations like Le Palais de Tokyo, Montmartre, select department stores, and other spots throughout Paris. Photo strips are typically under €5 too.
I always take plenty of photos while traveling, but having a tangible snapshot to add to my fridge, frame, or scrapbook feels just a little extra special.
Where to Find: Fotoautomat booths
19. Madeleines
Buttery, sweet, and spongy, madeleines are small cakes hailing from northeastern France. You’ll instantly recognize them for their shell-like shape. They also make fantastic gifts from Paris (or a little indulgence just for yourself) and can be found for under 10€ at most French supermarkets.
I personally prefer madeleines over macarons (which I mentioned above). They don’t require any refrigeration and often come individually wrapped, meaning you can savor them at your own pace. Sharing with friends and family is just as easy, as packs are simple to divide up.
Maison Colibri is the brand I always recommend. They’re widely available at Monoprix and their madeleines come in several decadent flavors. The ones with a dark chocolate shell happen to be a staple for my French partner’s afternoon goûter, but I can never resist the pistachio flavor.
Bonne Maman is another classic brand at the French grocery stores. Beyond madeleines, they offer other small cakes like quartre-quarts and financiers.
For a more gourmet selection, take a look at La Grande Epicerie.
Where to Buy: French grocery stores, La Grande Epicerie
20. Jams, Honey & Spreads
If you have a sweet tooth (or know someone who does) French jams, honey, and spreads make some of the most delightful and easy-to-pack souvenirs from Paris.
Starting with the classics, Bonne Maman is the brand everyone knows and loves. Their preserves and jellies aren’t too difficult to find stateside, but in France, they’re usually just a few euros per jar at most supermarkets.
For something a little more artisanal, visit La Chambre aux Confitures, which has several boutiques around Paris. Their jams and spreads are absolutely delicious and come in a stunning range of flavors from sweet to savory. I would try their mango, passion fruit & vanilla jam and their dark chocolate tonka spread (it’s truly to die for).
If you’re looking for the crème de la crème, seek out Christine Ferber jams, often called the “queen of jam.” Handmade in Alsace, her confitures come in glass jars topped with pink polka-dotted tops. You can find them at La Grande Épicerie, Galeries Lafayette and gourmet food shops across the city.
Honey lovers will be in heaven here too. There are several different French honeys to try like miel de lavande (lavender honey) from Provence or miel de châtaignier (chestnut honey) from Cévennes, both divine drizzled over yogurt, cheese, or a warm baguette. Many markets and épiceries sell small sampler jars with multiple types to try.
And don’t overlook a true French favorite: crème de marrons (chestnut spread). Add a spoonful to plain yogurt, swirl it over ice cream, or serve it with crêpes for a classic French treat. You can find it in small tubes and larger tins at most grocery stores.
Where to Buy: Monoprix, La Grande Épicerie de Paris, specialty gourmet shops, local markets
21. Books
For book lovers, no trip to Paris is complete without bringing home a new read.
And you don’t need to know French to enjoy Parisian bookstores! For English titles, definitely pass by Shakespeare and Company. The cashier will even stamp your book with their famous logo, and you’ll get a free bookmark with your purchase. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out one of their iconic tote bags (mentioned above!).
Another favorite among expats and visitors is The Abbey Bookshop, a cozy English-language bookstore tucked away in the Latin Quarter.
If you’re learning French, Paris is the perfect place to build your French book collection. Small livres de poche (paperbacks) are typically under 10€, and they won’t weigh down your bag. You can find them at Fnac, Gibert Joseph, and local bookshops around the city. (For my favorite beginner-friendly French reads, check out my list here!)
And of course, don’t skip the bouquinistes along the Seine. These iconic green bookstalls are full of secondhand books in both French and English, along with vintage postcards and prints. I still have my copy of Harry Potter à l’école des sorciers that I bought on one of my first trips to Paris!
Where to Buy: Shakespeare and Company, The Abbey Bookshop, Fnac, Gibert Joseph, bouquinistes along the Seine, local bookshops
22. Magazines
Magazines are such a fun and affordable souvenir to bring home from Paris, especially if you love collecting little pieces of everyday French life.
Even if you don’t understand French, you can take inspiration from the glossy photography or use them as a prop on your coffee table.
For style fans, pick up Elle, Vogue Paris, or L’Officiel, which are filled with French fashion, beauty, and lifestyle inspiration. If interiors are more your thing, look for Milk Décoration, Elle Décoration, or Art & Décoration. And of course, there are magazines covering other topics like culture, food, health, current affairs, etc.
You can find most magazines at Relay shops in train stations and airports, or at local newsstands around the city. Maison de la Presse shops are also everywhere and carry magazines, newspapers, books, stationery, and even small souvenirs. Many grocery stores also have a magazine section.
Some concept stores and cafés like Bonjour Jacob even carry independent or art magazines if you want something more niche.
Another reason magazines are worth grabbing are the bonus gifts! Many come wrapped in plastic with a “cadeau” inside. I’ve seen Sézane pouches, Manucurist nail polish, and plenty of French skincare products. I once scored a Maje t-shirt inside a 5€ magazine! You can check what’s currently available on Instagram at @bonsplans2naima.
Where to Buy: Relay, Maison de la Presse, Monoprix, concept stores, airport kiosks
23. French Butter
It might seem like an unusual souvenir, but butter in France is truly special and makes a delicious gift for yourself or friends.
French butter has a richer flavor and creamier texture than what you usually find elsewhere, thanks to traditional churning methods and high-quality milk.
The brand you might have seen on social media is Le Beurre Bordier, which has become a culinary icon, acclaimed by top chefs. Made from the finest local milk, Bordier butter is some of the best beurre you can bring home from Paris.
You can find classic salted butter, as well as fun flavors like seaweed, Madagascar vanilla, wild garlic, and Espelette pepper.
One of the best places to buy it is at La Grande Épicerie, where you’ll find a wide selection of butters alongside chocolate, cheese, and other gourmet treats that I’ve already mentioned. Prices are usually very reasonable, around 4-8€ a block.
They’ll even vacuum-seal your butter for travel, so it stays fresh even if you’re flying home. Just remember to pack it in your checked luggage
Once you’re home, spread it on bread, stuff it into radishes or add it to any of your favorite dishes and desserts.
Where to Buy: La Grande Épicerie, Monoprix, local gourmet markets, grocery stores
24. Fleur de Sel de Guérande
If you’re serious about finding the cheapest things to buy in Paris, salt might just top the list. But not just any salt. Fleur de sel de Guérande is a truly gourmet souvenir you won’t want to miss.
This delicate finishing salt, harvested by hand in the salt marshes of Brittany, is prized worldwide for its fine white crystals, light violet aroma, and subtly sweet, salty flavor.
You’ll often find it at street markets, where vendors sell plain or herb-infused varieties like basil, garlic, or lavender. At the Bastille Market, for example, I’ve seen three 120-gram bags for around 10€. In grocery stores, a small box usually costs no more than 4–5€!
Fleur de sel isn’t meant for grinding or heavy cooking, but as a finishing touch. Sprinkle it on roasted meats, fresh vegetables, foie gras toast, or even desserts like chocolate or cookies for that extra layer of flavor.
Where to Buy: Street markets, grocery stores, specialty food shops
25. French Kitchen Supplies
For the culinary-minded, French kitchen tools make some of the most sensible souvenirs. You don’t have to splurge on a Le Creuset cocotte or a fancy set of Lauigol knives either. Shops around Paris, even some markets, have quality French kitchen supplies at budget-friendly prices.
If you love browsing for cookware, E. Dehillerin near Les Halles is a must-visit. This legendary shop is where professional chefs and home cooks alike stock up on copper pans, pastry tools, and every kitchen essential imaginable. You’ll also find simple paring knives that are perfect for everyday cooking and easy to pack in your luggage.
Another popular spot is A. Simon, one of the oldest kitchen stores in Paris, with everything you could need to stock your French kitchen.
As tempting as it is to grab every shiny gizmo and gadget in sight, buy what you’ll actually use. Some affordable kitchen supplies and tableware that I recommend are Duralex glasses, Sabre butter knives, Opinel cutting knives, French whisks, tart pans, silicone baking mats, this butter dish from Merci, and a small Peugeot salt and pepper mill.
Where to Buy: E. Dehillerin, A. Simon, La Trésorerie, Landline, Monoprix, Merci
26. Matches
Matchbook collectors, this one is for you. Throughout Paris, many cafés, bistros, brasseries, and hotels hand out matchbooks with their logos. Sometimes they’re free, sometimes they’ll cost you just a few euros.
I love this list from the Matchbook Traveler, which gives you all of the addresses and info on where to find matchbooks in France, including dozens of places in Paris.
If you prefer to shop, Merci has a nice selection of matchbooks under €10.
Where to Buy: Hotels, cafés, brasseries, bars, restaurants, gift shops
27. Vintage Finds
For souvenirs that no one else will have, Paris is brimming with vintage gems.
From antique shops to flea markets (called brocantes), you can uncover anything and everything: clothing, jewelry, art, books, homeware, knick-knacks and paper goods.
One of the most famous spots in Paris is the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, a sprawling flea market just outside the city center where you can literally spend hours hunting for rare finds.
If you can’t make it to Saint-Ouen, keep an eye out for local brocantes that pop up on weekends in different arrondissements. These markets often feature curated selections of antiques, home décor, and collectibles. I stumble across them all the time when I’m in Paris.
Paris is also full of secondhand clothing shops from dépôts-ventes to thrift stores where you can score some incredible deals.
Where to Buy: Flea markets like Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, local weekend brocantes, antique shops, secondhand shops like Emmaus
28. YSL Lighter
So maybe a YSL bag is out of the budget, but how about a stylish lighter for 5€? This little Paris souvenir is everywhere on TikTok from visitors to the city.
These lighters come adorned with very YSL-esque motifs like leopard print, classic checks, and solid colors, complete with the Yves Saint Laurent name. Small ones will cost you 5 €, while larger versions are 10€.
You can find them at Saint Laurent Rive Droite, but please be aware, they’re not available at every Saint Laurent store!
If you’d rather not step into the boutique, you can usually find them at the Saint Laurent Café just around the corner.
On my last trip, I popped into the store myself to investigate. They didn’t have the lighters out on display, but all I had to do was ask a sales associate to see them.
Where to Buy: Saint Laurent Rive Droite, 213 Rue Saint-Honoré, Paris
29. Love Lock
Love locks have long been a romantic tradition in Paris. Couples would write messages on padlocks, attach them to bridge railings, and toss the key into the Seine as a symbol of their eternal love. Eventually this became a major problem, actually causing bridges to break from the weight of all the locks!
While Paris no longer allows love locks, you can still pick up a tiny lock and engrave it with a personal message as a sweet memento of your trip.
You’ll find these locks in souvenir shops near the Seine for just a few euros. An affordable and sentimental souvenir from Paris, especially if you’re visiting with someone special.
Where to Buy: Souvenir shops
30. Scrapbook Souvenirs
Lastly, I want to share some paper souvenirs from Paris, most of them free or incredibly cheap. These would make the perfect addition to a travel scrapbook, journal or memory box. Here’s what to pick up:
Old metro tickets
RATP map
Café napkins (from Café de Flore, etc.)
Ticket stubs (from museums, concerts, exhibits, etc.)
Postage stamps
Postcards
Receipts
Final Thoughts
With all these ideas, you’re ready to bring home souvenirs from Paris that won’t drain your wallet. Whether you’re shopping for yourself, your coworkers, or loved ones, there are so many affordable French finds that feel thoughtful and not the least bit cliché.
What’s your favorite affordable souvenir from Paris? Let me know in the comments below.
