What to Buy in Paris: 16 Non-Touristy French Souvenirs
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When you think of Paris souvenirs, your mind might immediately conjure images of miniature Eiffel Towers, berets, or boxes of macarons. While these are undoubtedly iconic, Paris offers many more non-touristy French souvenirs beyond what you’d typically find in your average souvenir shop.
In this guide, I’m sharing 16 of the best Paris souvenirs that go beyond the clichés, allowing you to bring home a piece of the French capital to enjoy long after your trip. Whether you're searching for inexpensive gifts or indulging in luxury finds, I’ve found something to suit every taste and budget.
Beyond what to buy, I’m sharing the best spots to buy unique souvenirs in Paris including the top supermarkets, pharmacies, and, of course, gift shops in the city. C’est parti !
In this Article…
16 Non-Touristy French Souvenirs
Honorable Mentions
Where to Buy Souvenirs in Paris
16 Non-Touristy French Souvenirs to Buy in Paris
1. Kerzon Fragranced Candle
Paris is known for its luxury candle brands like Trudon and Diptyque. While a candle from these brands would undoubtedly be a lovely Parisian souvenir, they can be quite expensive and are readily available in the US.
For a more unique souvenir, I’d recommend browsing the selection of fragranced candles from Kerzon. This Parisian brand offers a range of beautifully crafted candles inspired by the city's most beloved sites. Whether you choose the lilac and honey notes of Jardin du Luxembourg or the spicy amber aroma of La Tour Eiffel, lighting a Kerzon candle at home will transport you back to the streets of Paris. For a truly unique souvenir, opt for a scent that resonates with your favorite Parisian memories, making it a personal keepsake.
Kerzon even offers fragranced laundry detergent, hand soaps, and other home and body products that would be thoughtful gifts to bring back from Paris.
Where to Buy: Kerzon, 68 Rue de Turenne, 75003 Paris
2. Buly Personalized Comb
For a Parisian souvenir that will infuse elegance into your every day, consider investing in a personalized comb from Buly 1803. You’ve probably already come across this brand going viral on TikTok for their customizable lip balms, but they offer a range of other grooming accessories and fragrances that make chic souvenirs from France.
Read More: 78 French Parisian Finds from Amazon that You'll Adore
Stop by one of Buly's four Parisian locations (each inspired by a 19th-century apothecary) to find the perfect memento. I personally love their personalized comb since it’s something you can use forever. Whether you're treating yourself to a little luxury or seeking a thoughtful gift for a loved one, a personalized comb from Buly 1803 makes for an elegant souvenir from the City of Love.
Where to Buy: Officine Universelle Buly 1803, 6 Rue Bonaparte, 75006 Paris and 3 other locations
3. Maille Mustard Jar
No culinary journey through Paris would be complete without savoring the flavors of French cuisine. For a gourmet souvenir, look no further than the Maille boutique at Place de la Madeleine. They have a top-notch assortment of mustards, vinegar, and other condiments, including fresh mustards on tap.
Start by selecting your ceramic jar, then fill it with your favorite mustard (after sampling them all, of course!). With options ranging from the classic Dijon to more unique options like their Chablis white wine mustard, there’s something for every palate.
The best part? Once your jar is empty, you can refill it at their boutique! It’s a wonderful sustainable gift for a foodie friend or something to savor yourself.
Where to Buy: Maille Boutique, 6 Place de la Madeleine, 75008 Paris
4. Sézane Quilted Pouch
The French fashion brand Sézane is definitely worth shopping if you’re visiting Paris. Known for its bohemian and feminine aesthetic, their clothes and accessories truly define Parisian chic.
If you happen to visit one of Sézane’s seven locations in the city, consider picking up one (or two) or their quilted pouches for a practical Parisian souvenir. Keep it for yourself to organize your essentials or offer it as a gift. You could even put a few French pharmacy products inside for a curated gift for your beauty-loving friends.
Read More: 20 Best French Pharmacy Products That Are Worth the Hype
Sézane also has a variety of small accessories and lifestyle goods that would make equally thoughtful souvenirs.
Where to Buy: L'Appartement Sézane,1 Rue Saint-Fiacre, 75002 Paris and 6 other locations
5. Maison Colibri Madeleines
Macarons make a sweet souvenir, but they can easily break on your trip back home. Plus, their shelf life is relatively short once opened. That’s why I prefer madeleines as a Parisian souvenir! This iconic French treat has a soft, fluffy texture and buttery flavor, and it’s perfect to gift to loved ones or enjoy with a cup of tea as a reminder of your time in Paris.
In my opinion, Maison Colibri madeleines the best, most accessible option. They’re individually wrapped so you can enjoy them for months after your trip. And you can find them at supermarkets across the city, including Monoprix, Auchan, Carrefour, and Leclerc.
Read More: Monoprix Gift Guide: 20 French Supermarket Souvenirs
Maison Colibri’s madeleines come in a variety of flavors, but my favorite has to be the classic madeleine with a dark chocolate shell. My French boyfriend loves these too!
Where to Buy: Multiple locations
6. Repetto Ballet Shoes Keychain
If you’ve embraced the ballet-core trend, then Repetto is likely on your radar. Renowned for its exquisite ballet shoes worn by professional dancers worldwide, a pair of their iconic Cendrillon ballet flats make a luxe souvenir that you can buy in Paris.
For a more affordable momento (that will also fit in your luggage), their ballet shoes keychain is an incredibly charming alternative. I’m equally obsessed with these lovely leg warmers that are €25.
If you find yourself closer to Limoges, Repetto has an outlet store in Saint-Médard-d'Excideuil. While it’s not the most accessible without a car, it's worth noting that they have some incredible deals on shoes, activewear, and more.
Where to Buy: Repetto, 22 Rue de la Paix, 75002 Paris and other locations
7. Fragonard Perfume
No visit to Paris is complete without indulging in a fragrance (or two). With Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Guerlain, Frédéric Malle, L'Artisan Parfumeur, and countless others to explore, the options are truly endless when it comes to French perfume brands.
Read More: 15 Best Luxury French Beauty Brands Worth Your Investment
If you’re looking for unique scents that won’t break the bank, check out Fragonard. Founded in 1926, this iconic perfumery boasts a rich history of crafting exquisite perfumes inspired by Provence. At Fragonard's boutique in Paris, nestled in the heart of the Marais district, you'll discover an array of gorgeous fragrances. I remember purchasing Fragonard's Belle Chérie eau de toilette during my first trip to Paris. I wore it throughout my time there, and the scent is still very nostalgic for me.
Even if you already have a go-to fragrance, Fragonard offers a diverse selection of candles, soaps, and accessories, as well as home goods. This perfumed soap set would make a lovely gift at €16.
Where to Buy: Fragonard Boutique Haussmann, 5 Rue Boudreau, 75009 Paris and 7 other locations
8. Peugeot Salt and Pepper Mill
Culinary enthusiasts will adore this classic souvenir: the iconic Peugeot salt and pepper mill. You might recognize Peugeot as a famous French car brand, but did you know that they’ve been making pepper, salt and coffee mills for longer than they’ve been making cars? A symbol of excellence for top chefs and the finest dining tables, their mills are known for their quality and craftsmanship.
You can find them in a variety of sizes and colors. Among their most popular models, their Paris design is a classic choice, while the smaller Bistro variant is priced under €30. Not only are these salt and pepper mills functional, but they’ll make a colorful addition to your kitchen.
Where to Buy: Multiple locations
9. Maison Labiche Marinière
This one might seem a little cliché, but I think a marinière is a timeless French souvenir. Maison Labiche, a Parisian fashion brand known for its embroidered designs, is the coolest place to pick up a Breton striped shirt in Paris. Their tees come in a variety of colors, and you can have them personalized to your liking. Their customizable baseball caps and cotton shirts are also worth checking out.
For a wider range of colors and styles, Saint James and Armor Lux are two other iconic brands to shop for a classic marinière in France.
Where to Buy: Maison Labiche Boutique Marais, 105 rue Vieille du Temple, 75003 Paris and 2 other locations
10. Vintage Posters
I personally love souvenirs that serve a practical purpose or can be displayed in my home. Posters are an affordable way to remember your time in Paris while decorating your space. Plus, they’re light enough to pack in your luggage for your return trip. Thankfully, Paris is full of vintage posters that make charming keepsakes.
Read More: How to Get Parisian Interior Design Style on a Budget
You can easily find vintage posters along the Seine, sold by bouquinistes for about €6 each (the perfect inexpensive gift from Paris). Flea markets like the famous Marché aux Puces de Paris Saint-Ouen also have a decent selection as well as most art museums - perfect to remember a particular exhibition you enjoyed.
Where to Buy: Marché aux Puces de Paris Saint-Ouen, 99 Rue des Rosiers, 93400 Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine
11. Bacanha Sirop
To flavor your drinks the French way, consider getting a sirop during your Parisian visit. You can find a variety of flavors at almost any French supermarket, but for a more artisanal option, look no further than Bacanha. Founded in Paris in 2013, the family-owned company prides itself on crafting syrups from organic ingredients. Plus, they have a unique range of flavors from juicy passionfruit to delicate lavender.
Mix them with water for a refreshing sirop. Although this is a popular drink for kids in France, I personally enjoy elevating my water this way too. You can even add them to cocktails, coffee, tea, desserts, and more.
Read More: 10 French Cocktails to Make for Your Next Summer Soirée
I also have to mention these exquisite bottles! They would look gorgeous on your kitchen counter and could also be repurposed once empty.
Where to Buy: Multiple locations
12. Tote Bags
Carry a piece of Paris with you wherever you go with a tote bag. Not only is it a practical souvenir that you'll use again and again, but it also serves as a delightful reminder of your travels.
Everyone seems to be flocking to Shakespeare & Company for their iconic tote bag. I myself even purchased it during my first trip to Paris years ago. But if you’re looking for something a bit different, there are so many unique options in cafés, bookstores and museums across the city. No shade if you love the one from Shakespeare & Company though!
I’m loving this cool tote with a bright orange design that you can find at Café Nuance.
Café Kitsune is another popular spot with some gorgeous gifts including this stunning street sign tote. It’s on the pricier side at €70 (I don’t think Jacob Elordi would approve). While you're grabbing a coffee to-go, don’t miss their other cool gifts - I still remember being tempted to buy their matcha latte candle during my last visit to Paris.
This sporty Match tote is another fun option that you can find at Musée du Luxembourg until August 11th.
My personal favorite has to be this illustrated tote bag by the artist Marin Montagut. It’s available for under €20 at Château de Versaille. I’m equally as obsessed with these small pouches that you can use to store small games and jewelry!
If you want to shop ahead of time, Boutiques de Musées allows you to browse and even purchase a selection of goodies from various museum gift shops online.
Where to Buy: Multiple locations
13. Dammann Frères Tea
Paris boasts some of the most popular tea brands including Mariage Frères, Palais des Thes and Kusmi Tea. A box of tea from any of these brands would make a lovely souvenir from Paris, but I’d recommend Dammann Frères above all. Founded in Paris in 1692, Dammann Frères is renowned for its exquisite blends, sourced from the finest tea estates around the world. I visited one of their shops in Strasbourg recently, and I was really impressed by their selection and service.
Read More: The Art of French Breakfast: How to Enjoy Breakfast the French Way
They recently did a collaboration with Versailles and created some delicious teas and jellies that come in charming packaging. Imagine pairing this macaron tea with this fruity tea jelly. Such a thoughtful gift! They also have an Eiffel Tour collection worth checking out! Their Tour Eiffel tea comes in a stunning blue box that you could easily repurpose later too.
Where to Buy: Dammann Frères Vosges, 15 Place des Vosges, 75004 Paris and 6 other locations
14. Papier Tigre Stationery
For a practical Parisian souvenir, Papier Tigre offers a unique range of stationery that’s perfect to remember your trip. Notebooks, planners, cards, pens, stickers and more - they have a fun selection of goods to shop. I’d recommend browsing their collection of “Made in France” products for a truly unique and local gift.
I always send postcards from my travels to friends and family (anyone else do this?). If you’re over the cliché options available at almost any Paris gift shop, Papier Tigre’s has some beautifully designed cards that your loved ones will actually want to keep and display. How cute is this Paris card (or this pink typography!)?
Where to Buy: Papier Tigre, 5 Rue des Filles du Calvaire, 75003 Paris
15. Christine Ferber Jam
French food is incredible, and jams are no exception. Christine Ferber, a renowned French pastry chef and “the jam fairy”, has elevated the humble jam to an art form. Her jams are some of the best you can find in France, made with fresh fruit, 80% of which comes from Alsace.
Ferber makes over 200 varieties of jam including the iconic Ispahan confiture, a raspberry, lychee and rose jam made for Pierre Hermé. You really can’t go wrong with any of her creations; my personal favorite is the classic abricot jam.
Christine Ferber jams are available at several boutiques scattered around Paris as well as La Grande Épicerie - a treasure trove of gourmet gifts.
Where to Buy: La Grande Épicerie de Paris, 38 Rue de Sèvres, 75007 Paris and La Grande Épicerie de Paris, 80 Rue de Passy, 75016 Paris
16. French Pharmacy Products
Stocking up on French pharmacy products is a must for skincare lovers. French pharmacies are renowned for their extensive range of high-quality skincare essentials, from gentle cleansers and hydrating moisturizers to luxurious serums and nourishing face masks. Brands like La Roche-Posay, Caudalie, and Bioderma are beloved by locals and visitors alike for their effective formulations and dermatologist-approved ingredients.
Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Shopping at a French Pharmacy
I’ve already written a few articles about the best French pharmacy products and my guide to shopping at the French pharmacy. Check them out for ideas on what to buy the next time you’re at Citypharma or any other pharmacy in Paris.
Where to Buy: Citypharma, 26 Rue du Four, 75006 Paris
Honorable Mentions
Home goods and clothes from Simrane
Marble cake candle from the Ritz Paris
Miel de fleurs printanières: the best honey in France
Kitchen utensils and cookware from E.Dehillerin
Saint Laurent lighters
French wine and cheese (of course!)
Where to Buy Souvenirs in Paris
Les Raffineurs
A curated boutique offering refined and unique lifestyle products.
Address: 83 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, 75011 Paris and 3 other locations
Site: lesraffineurs.com
E.Dehllerin
The historic kitchen supply store offering professional-grade culinary tools.
Address: 18-20 Rue Coquillière, 75001 Paris
Site: edehillerin.fr
La Grande Epicerie
A gourmet food market housing grocers, pastry shops & delis, plus several restaurants & a wine cellar.
Address: 38 Rue de Sèvres, 75007 Paris and 80 Rue de Passy, 75016 Paris
Site: lagrandeepicerie.com
Citypharma
The most famous pharmacy in Paris known for its large selection of skincare products.
Address: 26 Rue du Four, 75006 Paris
Merci
A trendy concept store offering a curated selection of fashion, home décor, and accessories.
Address: 111 Bd Beaumarchais, 75003 Paris
Site: merci-merci.com
Bring Home France
Your destination for authentic French souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Paris.
Address: 3 Rue de Birague, 75004 Paris
Site: bringfrancehome.com
Galeries Lafayette
The iconic department store renowned for luxury fashion and lifestyle brands.
Address: 40 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris
Site: haussmann.galerieslafayette.com
Marche aux Puces
A sprawling flea market offering a diverse array of vintage treasures.
Address: 99 All. des Rosiers, 93400 Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine
Site: paris-flea-market.com
Buly 1803
An apothecary crafting exquisite skincare and fragrances with a touch of historic charm.
Address: 6 Rue Bonaparte, 75006 Paris and 3 other locations
Site: buly1803.com
I hope that these non-touristy French souvenir ideas inspire your future travels to Paris!
Planning a trip to Paris? Check out these recommended posts:
What are some of your favorite French souvenirs that you've discovered while visiting Paris? Let me know in the comments below.
