If there’s one activity that is especially enjoyable, and even poignant, in the build up to Christmas, it’s shopping. Paris is, of course, the ideal destination in which to indulge in this guilty pleasure and find great ways of spoiling your family, friends, and yourself!
Christmas shopping in Paris: an attraction in its own right
The City of Light is not only famous for its historical monuments and its architectural and cultural treasures, it’s also a popular destination in the run-up to Christmas, offering numerous great retail opportunities so you can make your festive purchases and satisfy your passion for shopping. For a pre-Yuletide getaway combining comfort and pleasure, the Hotel Interlude is a great choice. Located in the heart of the twelfth arrondissement, the Interlude enjoys a privileged location between the district of Bercy and the Bois de Vincennes, close to the biggest cultural attractions of the capital. Staying at the Hotel Interlude, you’ll be preparing for the Christmas holidays in the best possible way.
Shopping during the holidays: a Parisian institution
Paris is not only a hotbed of culture and tourism. It is also a place where shopping is elevated to an art form. Not for nothing has the city been called the shopping capital of the world. If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy a pre-Christmas retail spree, no other city can offer the range of choice, the excitement and, indeed the pure festive ambience that Paris can. The Champs Elysées, for example, is quite simply essential, with its magical illuminations, splendid decorations and, of course, its famous Christmas market. Busy throughout the year, the Champs Élysées takes on another dimension during the festive season. Other amazing Christmas shopping destination are the Printemps department stores. Noted for a staggering range of choice, Printemps also offers exquisitely crafted Christmas display windows and decorations, embodying the ‘Christmas spirit.’ Jewellery, leather goods, perfumes, clothes, etc ... The scope for gift ideas is huge. Printemps also celebrate their 150th anniversary this year.
Gift ideas by the thousands
For those who prefer the dynamic eclecticism of large shopping centres, the new Beaugrenelle mall symbolises all the variety, excitement and opulence that characterises the most beautiful city in the world as the celebratory hour approaches. This cutting-edge location is an architectural gem bursting with prestigious brands, as well as plenty of places to grab a bite to eat and relax when you, and your credit card, begin to flag. Then again, if a traditional and atmospheric approach is more your cup of mulled wine, then the Christmas markets that spring up throughout the capital will warm your heart and provide Santa sacks full of inspirational gift ideas. Whatever your shopping style, you can be sure that the present purchasing possibilities of Paris will enable you to pile those presents up around the tree come Christmas morning.
© Paris Tourist Office - Photographe : Daniel Thierry
