Paris: 7 popular items that cost more than you think (and simple ways to save on them)
Heading to Paris and love to shop? Many tourists arrive in Paris eager to snag fabulous deals on high-end fashions, accessories and perfume. They think, quite understandably, “hey, it must be cheaper to buy it here because it’s French!” Alas, this is not always the case.
Even with a stronger dollar, very few made-in-France goods are really “affordable” to begin with. Even Parisians pay an arm and a leg for some of these fashionable and sweet-smelling products so associated with the French capital.
So before you start compiling a list of all the très Français items you wish to stock up on, here’s a sanity check to keep your expectations — and your budget — in line. After all, it might just be cheaper to buy these at home!
1. Luxury bags and accessories
Whether it’s a Chanel clutch or a Louis Vuitton handbag, people come to Paris, the heart of it all, to stock up on these luxury goods. The problem? They’re not really much cheaper here than back at home. It’s just more fun to say, “I got this in Paris.”
Budget option: If you do stock up on some of these fancy items during your trip and you’re not a citizen of the European Union, don’t forget to get a tax refund. That alone can make these items much more affordable. However, note that you must spend a minimum amount during your trip.
2. Fashion
Same goes for the clothes. Yes, designers are a dime a dozen in Paris, but that doesn’t mean their goods are any less expensive. Things might actually be cheaper at home from a department store during a sale. Visit the Gaultier and Givenchy shops, but don’t expect to leave with any steals. Even during the twice-annual sales (“soldes”), their prices aren’t going to budge too much.
Budget options: Try a vintage shop, maybe, and even then you’re still not guaranteed a good price. Also, follow our cheapo-friendly fashion itinerary, buy your lingerie for less here, and if all else fails, pick up high-end designers for less at these big chains.
3. Perfume
The perfume capital of the world, tourists so often think that fragrances for men and women flow freely from Paris, but that’s not the case. Your best bet is to wait until you pass through the duty free shop at the airport (although, to be sure, it is much less elegant!). What you will find in Paris’s perfumeries are some more unique scents that aren’t available in department stores in the US. Very cool, but again, no deals to be had.
Budget option: You could just stop for free samples along the Champs-Elysées or visit the free Perfume Museum.
4. Champagne
Another luxury item, Champagne isn’t starkly cheaper in Paris than back home. Bottles still run €40, €50 and €60 depending on the brand – not much cheaper than what you can find in America. Granted, the selection is far greater, so it’s definitely a different experience.
Budget option: For a much more budget-friendly (and still exquisite) option, consider trying some of the French crémant, any bubbly white wine not issued from Champagne. Some of it is really, really good, and quite affordable. Read more wine-buying tips.
Prepare to shell out many euros for a classic French meal like this one at Chez Michel. Photo: Kent Wang
5. Quality French fare
This is France! French food should be cheap, right? Not always. If you are looking for a good, quality, authentic French meal, you might have to open your wallet a little wider. Classic bistros, formerly local places with homey, traditional cooking, are becoming rarer as they’re replaced with less authentic options that heat up pre-made meals. Meanwhile, most of the remaining old-fashioned gems have gotten expensive. (Of course if you’re happy for a bit of frozen duck heated in the microwave, you can still find that for cheap.)
Budget option: Try one of these prix-fixe deals from a classic bistro at lunch time or be prepared to splurge a bit for a nice dinner.
6. Flea market finds
Talking about shopping at the “puces” (flea markets) in Paris conjures up images of finding tiny treasures for mere euros. To be fair, there is a lot of cheap stuff at the flea market, but probably the stuff you’d actually want will take some serious digging. Furthermore, it can get quite pricey at the markets, especially since certain halls cater to high-end antiques and oddities that cost thousands of euros.
Budget option: You might want to check out the Marché Vernaison, which tends to have more affordable objects, before wandering too far into the rest of the market. Also, follow these tips for flea market success.
7. High kicking entertainment
The can-can! The cabaret! Paris is just lousy with dance halls dating back to the 19th century where topless women dance and merriment abounds. Yes, that’s all true, but it’s not cheap.
Tourists looking to take in a show at the Moulin Rouge are often surprised by the €90+ price tag. While it’s not insanely expensive (have you seen Broadway ticket prices recently?), it’s just not what many travelers might be expecting. You’ve been warned. A night out can-can ruin your budget!
Your budget surprises?
Have you been surprised by any other prices while visiting Paris? Share with us in our comments section below!
About the author
Wine is often cheaper than either water or coffee in dining establishments. AND the selection of very reasonable wine is amazing in the local market. Also, good cheese is dirt cheap compared to U.S. prices.
With the stronger dollar, both of the above are the best part of traveling to Paris.
I disagree on the luxury bags. I’ve purchased Louis Vuitton bags in Paris and make sure to research the prices ahead of time. They are generally around $300 dollars cheaper in Paris (sometimes more, sometimes a bit less) then they are in the U.S. and this is not including the VAT refund.
Thanks for your feedback Melissa. This proves a little bit of planning and research goes a long way to saving money, even on expensive goods in Paris. We appreciate you sharing your tip!