un centre commercial
shopping centre, shopping mall
une boutique
clothes shop
faire les courses
to do the shopping, marketing (food)
chercher
to look for, to search, to seek
se faire remarquer, se faire repérer
to get a refund
payer en espèces (payer en liquide)
to pay in cash
la taille en dessus / en dessous
the size bigger / smaller
une grande surface (p.ex Carrefours)
big department store, superstore (e.g. Costco)
une carte de crédit/de retrait
credit/ATM card
Vous acceptez les cartes de crédit?
Do you take credit cards?
une fromagerie/ une crèmerie
cheese/dairy shop
un magasin de sport
sporting goods store
un papeterie
stationary store
French shopping is a delightful experience, offering a wonderful mix of traditional open-air markets, specialty shops, and large department stores. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Open-air markets (marchés)
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Open air market in France
- A must-do for any foodie, these vibrant markets erupt with fresh produce, local specialties, and a delightful atmosphere.
- Look for fresh fruits and vegetables, local cheeses, cured meats, fresh bread, and flowers.
- Many markets are open a few days a week, so plan accordingly.
Specialty shops (magasins spécialisés)
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Specialty shops in France
- France is renowned for its specialty shops, each dedicated to a particular food or product.
- Discover one-of-a-kind finds at:
- Boulangerie (bakery): Freshly baked bread, pastries, and cakes.
- Pâtisserie: Artisanal pastries and desserts.
- Chocolaterie: Decadent chocolates.
- Fromagerie: A vast selection of local and regional cheeses.
- ** Boucherie (butcher shop):** High-quality meats and cuts.
- Poissonnerie (fishmonger): Fresh seafood.
- Caviste (wine shop): Explore the extensive world of French wines.
Department stores (grands magasins)
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Department stores in France
- Upscale department stores offer a luxurious shopping experience.
- Find a curated selection of:
- Clothing and fashion accessories
- Cosmetics and beauty products
- Homeware and gourmet food
Sales (soldes)
- Twice a year, France explodes with exciting sales, known as “les soldes.”
- Winter sales run from early January to February, while summer sales occur in July and August.
- Expect significant discounts on designer fashion, homeware, and more.
Tips for Shopping in France
- Bring cash: While credit cards are widely accepted, some smaller shops may prefer cash.
- Carry a reusable shopping bag: Many stores have phased out plastic bags.
- Learn a few basic French phrases: A little French goes a long way!
- Embrace the experience: Take your time browsing and enjoy the unique French shopping culture.
une bijouterie
jewellery shop
une librairie
bookshop
une papeterie
stationary store, newsagent
une boucherie
butcher
une boulangerie
bread shop (bakery)
une pâtisserie
cake shop, bakery
un tabac
tobacconist’s/newsstand
une poissonerie
fish shop
une épicerie
general store, small grocery store
une bibliothèque
a library
une salle d’essayage
changing room
essayer
to try on
un pièce (de monnaie)
coin
un billet
a note, a ticket
un vendeur/une vendeuse
sales assistant (m/f)
l’argent (m)
money, silver
porter
to wear, to carry
