Flea Markets… and All the Magic In Between
Everyone knows I’m a flea-market girl through and through. Give me a brocante, a pile of old papers, a stack of portraits, or a crate of hardware that’s seen better centuries… and I’m in heaven. Paris is full of those moments: the thrill of the hunt, the surprise of discovering something you didn’t even know you needed, the stories tucked into every patina-covered find.
But what I’ve realized, especially after leading retreat groups through the city, is that the magic of Paris isn’t just at the flea markets.
It’s everything you discover in between.
It’s the little independent boutiques tucked down quiet streets…
It’s the shops where the owners greet you like old friends…
It’s the windows filled with handmade treasures, vintage-inspired pieces, and artisan goods that feel like the perfect complement to the markets.
Between one flea market and the next, we wander into tiny paper shops filled with gorgeous stationery and vintage-style notebooks. We stop into design stores where I instantly start imagining a room built around one beautiful object. We stumble upon antique bookstores, ribbon shops, artisan perfume houses, tiny ceramics studios, and cafés with tables spilling into the street.
And honestly? Those “in-between” moments end up being some of my favorites.
The flea markets feel like the heartbeat of my creativity, but the shops sprinkled throughout Paris? They’re the sparkle, the delight, the inspiration you didn’t see coming. They’re what make the days feel full and layered and beautifully Parisian.
On our retreats, we walk a lot (hello, 10–15k steps), because that’s how you find the good stuff.
Yes, we shop the big department stores.
But we also pop into the boutiques you’d never find unless you were wandering with someone who already knows where the good places hide.
And that’s what I love most, helping people not just shop the markets, but experience the in-between magic… the kind that makes Paris feel like a treasure map and a love story all at once.If you are planning a trip or simply want to tuck away a few dreams for later, here are some of my favorite not-antique shops in Paris.
The Target of Paris. Truly.
You can find everything here. Home goods, clothing, toiletries, adorable kitchen things, and beautiful linens. It is bright, busy, fun to wander through, and I always leave with something. We stop in here more than once on a trip!
Perfect for stylish gifts, chic home decor, and beautiful textiles.
Every corner feels intentional and full of French charm. I never walk out uninspired.
One of the most iconic department stores in Paris.
Think elevated fashion, home goods, tabletop pieces, and displays that feel like art installations. The attached food hall, La Grande Épicerie, is worth a visit on its own.
A classic department store with gorgeous clothing, accessories, and home items.
It is fun to explore floor by floor and take in the old-world Parisian grandeur. (Did you know I started my career as a buyer at Parisian? I miss that place.)
Beautiful and bustling with everything from luxury brands to everyday staples.
I love it here. Do not miss the rooftop for a classic Paris view.
Handcrafted ceramics, candles, and treasures that feel like tiny works of art.
Perfect gifts to wrap and bring home. I always have them wrap as a gift for me!
Hand-blocked printed papers and textiles in the loveliest patterns.
Inspired by 18th-century techniques, it feels like stepping into a creative time capsule.
Affordable, Scandinavian-inspired home goods.
Lots of sweet finds for decorating or gifting.
A beautifully curated women’s clothing shop.
Soft colors, timeless cuts, and pieces that feel effortlessly Parisian. I could’ve spent hours trying on clothes.
Known for soft cashmere and cozy scarves.
Perfect for bringing a little Paris warmth home with you. I got a sweater, and I'm mad I didn’t get a scarf!
A great spot for polished, European-style basics that do not break the bank. I got an adorable blazer and a couple of white t-shirts.
For My Fellow Art and Craft Lovers
A historic pastel shop with pigments that look like candy.
Completely magical. Only open on Thursdays!
Famous for artist-quality materials.
This is where Picasso shopped. How wild is that? Right by the Louvre. A must stop!
Beautiful oil paints and art supplies in the prettiest packaging.
A large, easy-to-get-lost-in art store filled with tools, papers, pens, paints, and everything in between.
While the antique markets will always have my heart, these shops are the perfect way to round out a day in Paris or to wander into when your feet need a break from treasure hunting. They are full of beauty, inspiration, and that little spark only Paris can give.
If you visit any of these places on your next trip, I would love to hear what you found.
Side note: On our last retreat, we had a couple of women who did not even like antique shopping. Truly. They told us, “I am not sure this is my thing…” and you know what happened? They ended up having the best time.
We weave everyday Paris shops, beautiful cafes, creative moments, and little adventures into the itinerary because everyone loves them. There is plenty of room for inspiration, no matter what kind of shopper you are.
If you have been dreaming of Paris, whether for the treasures, the creativity, the food, or simply the experience, we are heading back this spring for the 2026 Paris Curated and Creative Shopping Retreat. We would love for you to join us. Space is very limited.
If you have questions, just reach out. I am happy to help.
