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The Galeries Lafayette Paris is an absolute institution in the heart of France’s capital. This colossal luxury department store in the 9th Arrondissement is renowned worldwide, and you’d be remiss not to include it in your Paris itinerary. Regardless of whether shopping ranks high on your list of attractions.
That’s because the Galeries Lafayette has much more to offer than just the latest designer pieces.
From its breathtaking Art Nouveau architecture to a wonderful rooftop terrace with fantastic views. Not to mention an array of delectable treats, exciting events, and Paris’s largest Christmas tree.
In this article, I’ll reveal the myriad of discoveries that are awaiting you within the vast department store, along with some valuable tips for your visit and some interesting facts. Let’s dive in!
From a Lingerie Shop to a Luxury Chain:
The History of Galeries Lafayette
It all began in 1894 with a small lingerie shop at 1 Rue Lafayette. Business thrived, leading to the gradual acquisition of not only the entire building but also adjacent structures.
In 1908, the Galeries Lafayette expanded to a staggering 10 floors, covering a total retail space of 18,000 square meters. During that same year, construction commenced on the remarkable 33-meter-tall Art Nouveau gallery hall as well as the impressive 40-meter-high glass dome.
Both of these remain the undisputed highlights of Galeries Lafayette, their allure undiminished. Here’s good news for shopping enthusiasts: the sales area in Galeries Lafayette now spans an impressive 68,000 square meters.
Paris is no longer the sole location of Galeries Lafayette. In fact, you’ll now discover branches of the Parisian luxury department store in major cities across France and in many cities worldwide, including Berlin, Beijing and Dubai.
In total, the Galeries Lafayette has a whopping 290 stores all over the world, and more are planned.
The Grand Department Stores
“Les Grands Magasins” refers to the luxury department stores, and Paris boasts several of them. Among these are Printemps, Le Bon Marché, BHV Marais, and the recently reopened Samaritaine.
In addition to fashion, you’ll discover a wide array of goods in these department stores: home essentials, toys, handbags, gourmet delicacies, electronics, makeup, and decor, as well as restaurants and cafés.
Among them, Galeries Lafayette is the most budget-friendly, as it offers not only luxury brands.
CHECKLIST for your Paris Trip
An Overview of the Galeries Lafayette Paris
When you search for Galeries Lafayette on Google Maps, you’ll find multiple results. This is because there are indeed various Galeries Lafayette stores in Paris. But also because the department store spans across multiple buildings, making navigation not that intuitive.
When I refer to Galeries Lafayette Paris, I mean Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, located in the 9th Arrondissement. The others are smaller branches and nowhere near as splendid as the main flagship store.
But this being said, even the main flagship store comprises three buildings.
Galeries Lafayette Paris: Magasin Coupole
If you plan to visit Galeries Lafayette in Paris, you’re most likely searching for the Magasin Coupole.
This is where you’ll find the stunning gallery, the glass dome, and the Galeries Lafayette rooftop terrace.
Galeries Lafayette Paris: L’Homme Store
The men’s section at Galeries Lafayette, featuring clothing, accessories, and shoes, is conveniently situated opposite Magasin Coupole. What’s noteworthy is that you won’t need to step outside the building to get from one to the other.
A glass passageway on the first floor facilitates seamless transfer between the two departments.
Galeries Lafayette Gourmet
My absolute favorite part of Galeries Lafayette because it’s a haven of delectable treats. I guarantee you that choosing just one will be a delightful challenge.
Lafayette Gourmet is situated across the street from the other two buildings, and there’s no hidden passageway here.
To reach Galeries Lafayette Gourmet, you’ll have to step out of the main department store and do it the old-fashioned way – by crossing the street.
On the ground floor, you’ll encounter a gourmet food hall of the highest caliber. From Iberico ham to Parisian tea blends, bakeries, pâtisseries, and chocolates, you’ll find an array of epicurean delights.
The most renowned Parisian brands have their presence here:
- Pierre Hermé (Macarons)
- Mariages Frères (incredibly good tea)
- Babka Zana (a personal favorite of mine)
- Chez Meunier (I recommend the Pain au Chocolat)
- Maison Philippe Conticini (if you’re here for New Year, don’t miss the Galette des Rois)
- Maison Verot (if you have a craving for meat pies)
- …
The basement houses a luxury supermarket, and somewhat counterintuitively, the wine cellar is located on the first floor.
Galeries Lafayette Paris Rooftop: The Most Spectacular Free View
Most visitors to Paris’s Galeries Lafayette are drawn to the top floor of the department store, where you’ll find the Galerie’s rooftop terrace, offering a splendid city view of Paris.
The path to this scenic spot is quite straightforward: just keep heading upwards, and you can’t miss it. Either way, the rooftop terrace on the 8th floor is also well-marked.
You can simply ride the escalator to ascend, or opt for the elevator, which, however, only goes up to the 6th floor.
If getting up 8 flights of stairs is not what you’re up for, just plan in a bit of time. Because you’re not the only one in line for the elevator.
I, for one, have given up after a few minutes and opted for the escalator. The advantage of taking the escalator is that it allows you to explore all the levels of Galeries Lafayette Paris and admire its beautiful galleries.
From the rooftop of Galeries Lafayette, you’ll be treated to a marvelous view of Paris. In the foreground, you have the stunning Opéra Garnier, right by the gallery. In the background, a picturesque Paris panorama unfolds, featuring the city’s rooftops and the Eiffel Tower.
The rooftop terrace also features the famous “Paris je t’aime” sign, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
Restaurants & Cafés
Shopping can work up quite an appetite, and at Galeries Lafayette, you’re well taken care of in that department. You’ll find several restaurants here to keep hunger at bay.
Restaurants and Cafés in Magasin Coupole, the flagship store
In the building with the magnificent glass dome, you’ll find a handful of restaurants, including one on the rooftop with a view of Paris’s rooftops. At the Creatures Restaurant, you can indulge in 100% vegetarian gourmet cuisine. Be sure to make a reservation in advance.
On the 6th floor, also offering a splendid view, you’ll find the Lafayette Café. It’s a self-service restaurant, making it a convenient choice for a quick coffee break without the need for a reservation.
Alternatively, with a unique view of the vibrant activity in the department store, as well as the impressive dome and gilded galleries, you can enjoy a seat at Coutume.
This café-bar offers a fine selection of coffees from around the world, making it a perfect choice for coffee enthusiasts.
Restaurants and Cafés in Lafayette Gourmet
For a broader selection, albeit without a view, you can eat directly at Lafayette Gourmet. Some shops provide little seating areas, or you can head up to the 1st floor, where you’ll encounter numerous small restaurants and upscale street food stalls.
Among them is Pierre Sang, a renowned Korean-French chef, whom I can highly recommend.
Events at Galeries Lafayette Paris
Beyond shopping, dining, and savoring the view, there’s more to do at Galeries Lafayette. The store regularly hosts fantastic and intriguing events.
Fashion Show at Galeries Lafayette
You can quickly reserve your tickets for the show here.
What would the home of high-end fashion in Paris be without regular fashion shows? You don’t even need to coincide with Paris Fashion Week, as the Galeries Lafayette hosts weekly fashion shows.
On the catwalk, models showcase the latest trends from top designers, offering an authentic fashion experience. Make sure to reserve your tickets here well in advance, as the shows are highly sought-after.
Macaron Baking Class at Galeries Lafayette
You can reserve your spot in the baking class here.
Macarons are as synonymous with Paris as Galeries Lafayette, and in this baking class, you can combine the two. I took the class in early 2023, and it was a incredible experience.
We were a fairly small group, and the pastry chef shared all her tricks for making macarons with us.
Of course, we got to bake our own macarons and even take a few home. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to enjoy any of them, as my family devoured them. Oh well 😉
Christmas at Galeries Lafayette
When you find yourself in Paris during the Christmas season, the Galeries Lafayette is an absolute must-visit. Starting at the end of November, beneath the majestic glass dome, you’ll discover Paris’ most splendid Christmas tree.
It ranks among Europe’s largest, casting a spell that lures millions of visitors each year. Many eagerly await the tree’s reveal, and opinions often differ, but nevertheless, it’s an annual event.
But beyond the tree, there are also the Christmas displays that are taking place in the vitrines. It’s another Christmas season highlight at Galeries Lafayette in Paris.
Children, in particular, adore them. Each display is meticulously themed, featuring dancing dolls, animated installations, and plenty to discover.
Here’s a tip: Souvenirs Shopping
If you’re in search of Paris souvenirs that break free from the usual tackiness of souvenir shops, then Galeries Lafayette is the place to be. On the 6th floor, you’ll discover a substantial Paris department stocked with stylish and high-quality Parisian items.
From art prints to clothing by Parisian designers, beauty products, home decor, or even toys, there’s something for everyone here. However, it’s worth noting that quality comes at a price.
Practical Information: Opening Hours and Directions
There’s not much need for overly extensive tips for a trip to Galeries Lafayette. It’s best to take the metro there and combine your exploration with a visit to the Palais Garnier. The impressive building is just next doors.
However, I do have one tip to offer. Personally, I often find it unbearably warm inside the Galeries Lafayette.
So, being the practical person I am, I always carry a small bag in my pocket, where I can stuff my jacket in if required.
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann in Paris:
Opening Hours
No matter on which day you arrive in Paris, you can be sure that Galeries Lafayette is open. This grand department store is one of the places you can easily visit on Sundays in Paris, thanks to its customer-friendly opening hours. It may be a bit crowded, though.
Opening Hours for Magasin Coupole, L’Homme, and Maison (above Lafayette Gourmet)
Monday to Saturday: 10 am – 8:30 pm
Sundays and holidays: 11 am – 8 pm
Lafayette Gourmet Opening Hours
Monday to Saturday: 9:30 am – 9:30 pm
Sundays and holidays: 11 am – 8 pm
Getting to Galeries Lafayette Paris
Galeries Lafayette is conveniently situated on the renowned Boulevard Haussmann in the 9th Arrondissement. You’ll find a metro station right at its doorstep: Chaussée d’Antin – La Fayette, served by Line 7 and 9.
If you prefer, you can also get out at Havre – Caumartin, accessible via Line 7, or Opèra, connected by Lines 3, 7, and 8.
Additionally, the RER A is at your disposal, with the Auber station as your exit point. Getting there is a breeze with these transit options.
I have lived in Paris since 2005, and I am happy to show you around. Join me on Facebook for updates and news about Paris.
PS: Check out these posts, they will help you plan your trip to Paris
FAQ: Galeries Lafayette Paris
How many Galeries Lafayette stores are there in Paris?
In Paris, there are 3 Galeries Lafayette stores. The famous one with the impressive glass dome and rooftop terrace is Galeries Lafayette Haussmann. Additionally, there is a Galeries Lafayette in the Beaugrenelle shopping center near the Eiffel Tower, and another one on the Champs-Élysées.
What can you buy at Galeries Lafayette?
In short: Everything. Clothing, accessories, shoes, jewelry, makeup, beauty products, designer items, bags, bedding, towels, toys, furniture, candles, decor items, tablecloths, watches, gourmet items, chocolates, souvenirs… you’ll find it all at Galeries Lafayette.
