Alternative Paris: Non-Touristy Souvenirs From Paris
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To snag non-touristy souvenirs in Paris, delve into local shops and markets for a truly authentic memento.
Non-Touristy Souvenirs From Paris: (Jump To)
This post is part of our Alternative Paris Series, your go-to source for discovering off-the-beaten-path Parisian experiences.
If you’ve walked past your share of tiny twinkling Eiffel Towers wondering if there might be something more genuine or unique to bring home as a reminder of your trip in Paris, we have some suggestions. When shopping for souvenirs, remember to explore neighborhoods off the beaten path and ask locals for recommendations. This will give you an opportunity to discover authentic treasures and support local businesses.
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Love Locks - For Your Home
Love locks are padlocks lovingly secured to bridges, fences, gates, and other communal fixtures as a symbol of enduring love between a couple. Following the act of fastening the lock, it's a tradition to cast away the key, often into a nearby river or body of water, signifying the strength of their love. However, we ardently oppose this tradition. We regard it as not only a form of littering but also a rather distasteful manifestation of arrogance and the so-called "first player syndrome."
Instead, we propose an alternative: buy your lock in Paris, where romance thrives, and fasten it securely to your very own fencepost at home. In doing so, you not only preserve the charm of your time in Paris but also celebrate your enduring love in a way that doesn't harm the environment or promote the worst attributes of travel.
Flea Market Finds
Paris hosts several flea markets where you can unearth unique treasures that have a true Parisian touch. From vintage jewelry to old postcards or books, each item comes with its own story. The most famous among these markets is the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, which is a haven for antique lovers. To find rare pieces and negotiate good prices, try to visit early in the morning.
French Linens
French linens, especially those originating from Provence, are known for their quality and unique patterns. These could be tea towels, tablecloths, or napkins decorated with traditional French motifs. They not only serve as functional items but also as beautiful reminders of your time in Paris. Boutiques in the Marais district or shops in Montmartre often carry a good selection of these linens.
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French Comic Books (Bande Dessinée)
The French have a deep appreciation for comic books, known locally as "bande dessinée" or BD for short. These are not just for kids; they're a significant part of French culture and come in a variety of genres, from historical epics to contemporary tales. A BD from a famous author can be a unique memento from Paris. The best place to get these would be at local bookstores such as Gibert Jeune or FNAC.
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Crafted Jewelry from Local Designers
Instead of the typical Eiffel Tower pendant, consider buying jewelry crafted by local Parisian designers. These pieces often blend traditional French elegance with contemporary style, resulting in a unique accessory. The Marais district has several boutiques and workshops where you can watch artisans at work and purchase their creations.
Check out our other posts about things to see and do in Paris or France!
Or visit our Destinations page to be inspired.
Locally Made Perfumes
Paris is known as the world's perfume capital, and while there are many famous luxury brands headquartered here, there are also numerous smaller perfumeries crafting distinctive scents. Opting for these lesser-known brands allows you to have a unique fragrance that not many others will wear. Le Labo, Serge Lutens, and Diptyque are just a few boutiques where you can explore and find a scent that resonates with you.
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Artisanal Jams and Mustards
French culinary craftsmanship isn't just about meals; it extends to condiments too. Artisanal jams made from local fruits or distinctively French-flavored mustards can be a delightful and tasty reminder of Paris. Shops like La Chambre aux Confitures or Maille offer a variety of these gourmet products.
Stationery from Local Papeteries
French stationery stores, or "papeteries," offer a range of high-quality paper products, from beautifully designed notebooks to elegant writing tools. Purchasing a unique set of stationery can be a way to bring back the romantic charm of Paris every time you pen a note. One such renowned store to consider is Papier Tigre located in the heart of Paris.
French Cookbooks
If you've fallen in love with French cuisine during your trip, a French cookbook can be an ideal souvenir. It allows you to recreate some of the dishes at home and continue exploring French culinary arts. English translations of popular French cookbooks are available in larger bookstores like WHSmith or FNAC.
Vintage Posters
Vintage posters, especially those from the Belle Époque era, capture the essence of Paris from bygone times. Whether it's art, advertising, or cinema posters, they make for an attractive piece of memorabilia. Galleries in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood often have a good selection, as does the Les Puces flea market.
Handmade Candles
Paris has seen a surge in the popularity of artisanal candle makers. These candles often come in scents inspired by different parts of the city or French culture. Not only do they serve as a lovely reminder of your time in Paris when lit, but they also add a touch of French aesthetic to your home decor. Cire Trudon, founded in 1643, is one of the oldest and most prestigious wax-producing factories in the world and a great place to purchase these candles.
French Kitchen Utensils
French kitchens are a blend of traditional design and practicality. Buying kitchen utensils, like a madeleine baking mold or a classic French rolling pin, can provide a functional and nostalgic memory of your Parisian journey. We spoke about E. Dehillerin, located near Les Halles, in our post about Non-Touristy Shopping in Paris. It’s a culinary institution where many professional chefs source their tools.
Local Art
While the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay might house masterpieces, there's a thriving contemporary art scene in Paris. Consider purchasing a piece from a local artist in art fairs, open studios, or smaller galleries. Areas like Belleville or Montmartre often have artists selling their works directly, providing an authentic connection to the piece.
Handcrafted Leather Goods
Parisian artisans have a long-standing tradition of crafting beautiful leather goods. From hand-stitched wallets to bespoke handbags, these items exude quality and timeless design. Workshops and boutiques in the Bastille area are known for their handcrafted leather products.
Vinyl Records from French Musicians
For music enthusiasts, Parisian record shops offer an array of vintage and contemporary French music. Picking up a vinyl record of a classic French chanson or a modern Euro indie band can be a melodious memory of your trip. Check out shops like La Phonogalerie in the 9th arrondissement or Balades Sonores in the 18th for an eclectic mix.
Local Craft Beer
While France is renowned for its wine, the craft beer scene in Paris has been booming. Take home a bottle or two from local microbreweries. La Parisienne and BAPBAP are two Paris-based breweries. Brewpubs and specialty stores in areas like République or Canal Saint-Martin can guide you to the latest and greatest in Parisian brews.
Artisanal Chocolates
Beyond the traditional macarons or croissants, artisanal chocolates are a gourmet treat that Paris does exceptionally well. From uniquely flavored truffles to crafted chocolate sculptures, they're a decadent reminder of French craftsmanship. Visit Patrick Roger or Jacques Genin for some of the best chocolates in the city.
Soap from Marseille
Savon de Marseille, the traditional soap from Marseille, has been produced for more than 600 years. It's made with natural ingredients and has a distinctive cube shape. Boutiques and specialty shops in Le Marais offer a range of these iconic soaps.
Traditional French Fabric
Toile de Jouy, a traditional French fabric, features complex designs usually of pastoral or historical scenes. This fabric can be turned into tablecloths, pillow covers, or even framed as art. Fabric shops around Montmartre or the Saint-Pierre Market are excellent places to source these materials.
If you’re passionate about fabric make plans to visit Toile de Jouy museum located about an hour’s train ride or drive from central Paris.
Herbes de Provence
This mixture of dried herbs, representative of those most commonly used in southern France, makes for a great culinary souvenir. They're perfect for seasoning grilled foods, stews, and more. Shops like La Grande Epicerie or local markets usually have freshly packed jars of this aromatic blend.
If you’re passionate about French Food, read our Alternative Pairs: Paris Must Eats; The Famous Foods of Paris
Hand-painted Porcelain
French porcelain, especially those hand-painted, reflects the country's rich history in pottery and ceramics. Whether it's a decorative item or daily-use tableware, these pieces are beautiful keepsakes. The 6th arrondissement has several boutiques offering exquisite porcelain creations.
