There is no shortage of amazing shopping when you’re in Paris. And one such institution you shouldn’t miss when visiting Paris is Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann. This is one of the department stores or “grands magasins” – the others being Le Bon Marché and Printemps. Galeries Lafayette also has a smaller outpost on the Champs-Élysées that opened in 2019 but it is the original store on Boulevard Haussmann that you’ll want to seek out.
As the founder of En Route to Rêverie I know Galeries Lafayette well and often work with clients to curate special experiences at the store so be sure to be in touch should you be interested in hosting a girls spa day; setting up personal shopping or attending a fashion show tailored to your preferences.
Galeries Lafayette
The origin of Galeries Lafayette is a small store in the late 19th century started by cousins Théophile Bader and Alphonse Kahn at the intersection of Rue La Fayette and Rue de la Chaussée d’Antin. The store’s original name when it opened in 1983 was “Aux Galeries Lafayette.” Several years later, the cousins were able to buy the entire building located at 1 Rue La Fayette and they also purchased 38, 40 and 42 Boulevard Haussmann as well as 15 rue de la Chaussée d’Antin.
Nowadays, Galeries Lafayette actually owns several buildings at the corner of Rue de la Chaussée and 40 Boulevard Haussmann. The store refers to itself as the “department store of Parisians” and offers thousands of brands from which you can shop. The main building is home to the famous, 43 meter high, stained glass dome that is synonymous with the department store and absolutely worth seeing. The art nouveau style of the dome and building are majestic.
Across the street you’ll also find a men’s store with hundreds of men’s brands spread across 4 floors. On the second and the third floors of the Coupole building you’ll find passageways that lead to the L’Homme building. Lastly, the store also has an entire building dedicated to food and home. You can do your grocery shopping at Galeries Lafayette if you’d like!
Read on to see how you can make the most of your visit.
Experiences In Galeries Lafayette
Stores
With thousands of brands, the stores-in-store in Galeries Lafayette are designer names you know like Prada and Chanel and then you’ll also find loads of international brands and French designers on display on the various floors.
Glasswalk
One of The Most Instagram-Worthy Spots in Paris, the Galeries Lafayette Glasswalk is a 9 meter long walkway suspended 16 meters high in mid-air. You can enter from the 3rd floor of the main store and take an epic photo.
Wellness Galerie
In 2022 Galeries Lafayette developed an entire new wellness experience on the basement level of the main building. Now you’ll find a variety of brands and treatment experiences in the Wellness Galerie. You’ll find healthy eating options and even a gym down here now! You can book facials, massages, hair treatments, nail services and so much more.
Rooftop
The rooftop at the Galeries Lafayette is one of the best free things to do in Paris! Sweeping 360 degree views of Paris.
Souvenirs Shop
As you make your way up to the roof, be sure to stop on the floor with the souvenirs shop. They have so many fun things to explore and discover that make for perfect treats to bring home to remember your trip by.
Christmas Tree
Every holiday season, the giant Christmas tree and holiday display – which often features a theme – is put on display under the famed glass dome. I think it is one of The Best Christmas Photo Spots in Paris.
Cooking Classes
Did you know you can take cooking classes at Galeries Lafayette? Learn to make macarons or do wine tasting in the store’s in-house kitchen. If you are a En Route to Rêverie client you will be treated to 10% off your experience!
Fashion Shows
For those who have a fondness for fashion shows, know that the Coupole holds a weekly fashion show at 3 p.m. every Friday on its 4th floor. The latest trends from the world’s leading names in fashion are displayed and it is a fun way to be introduced to brands you may not be familiar with.
Personal Shopping
En Route to Rêverie clients are treated to personal shoppers with no minimum required!
VAT Refunds
You can process VAT tax refunds on site if your purchase(s) qualifies.
Related: Some of the best places to shop in Paris.
Restaurants In Galeries Lafayette
In recent years Galeries Lafayette has made major efforts to revamp their dining. They now offer a variety of dining experiences – from casual takeaway to fine dining. If you work up an appetite while shopping, rest assured you’ll find food and beverage offerings that fits what you’re looking for. Below is a sampling of the various food options at the store. And you’ll see the go far beyond typical french cuisine.
Créatures
Créatures reopens every season when the weather warms up. This restaurant is nestled on the terrace of Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann on the 8th floor. At this restaurant you’ll enjoy a 100% vegetarian cuisine while enjoying a breathtaking view of the capital overlooking the rooftops and landmarks of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower, the Opera Garnier opera house and the Sacré Coeur Basilica.
YC Café by Yann Couvreur
The famed pastry chef Yann Couvreur chose Galeries Lafayette as the location of his very first café concept. Here you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, brunch and afternoon tea featuring treats both savory and sweet.
DS Café
DS Café offers main meals to be enjoyed on site or to take away. Located in the Wellness Galeries on the lower level of the main store, here you’ll find freshly squeezed juices and smoothies as well as homemade desserts like apple crumble or açaï bowls.
Label Broche
Michelin-starred chef David Gallienne has introduced his new concept Label Broche to the 1st floor of Gourmet des Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann. This culinary experience offers Sunday roasts and combines fine dining with rotisserie cuisine.
Yora
A tribute to an indigenous tribe also known by the name Nahua, the first Yora restaurant by Chef José Arias is inspired by Peruvian cultures and traditions. The 60-seat dining space is open throughout the day – and so is the restaurant’s bar.
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The Galeries Lafayette Coupole, L’Homme and Maison stores are open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 8.30pm and Sundays and public holidays from 11am to 8pm. The Gourmet store is open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 9.30pm, Sundays and public holidays from 11am to 8pm.
Have you been to Galeries Lafayette?
Heading to Paris? Book En Route to Rêverie with me and get customized recommendations based on your travel preferences to make your next trip to Paris the best one yet.
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