If I Were Headed to Paris This December

These are the souvenirs I would bring home.

Paris is extra magical during the holiday season. Lights sweep across the city's streets overhead, illuminating it after dark. Paris is filled with the Christmas energy of holiday hustle and bustle, markets, and festive celebrations. The city air is cold and crisp with the scent of roasted chestnuts and pine.

Last year, I was lucky enough to be in Paris working on the holiday section of Paris Every Day. It was a dream to be in town for the holidays, after many missed opportunities, I finally made it happen. My schedule is different this year with book events and closing out The Print Shop shipping.

One of my friends is headed to Paris in December, which got me thinking about what I would bring home if I had a few days there this Christmas. Here is my short list. What is on your list?

Sabre Flatware

A classic Parisian souvenir, available in so many fun colors. Choose one color or mix and match. I have been eyeing this for a while and am finally ready to make a decision. They have serving pieces and individual options, making it easy to mix and match or buy just a few.

They have three stores in Paris: Odéon, Marais, and Madeleine.

Suppose you can’t make it to Paris. You can always buy online in the States.

They do ship to the US, but they add tariffs. It is better to pack it in your suitcase for home.

Chocolate in Paris

I make it a point to pick up chocolate for myself and for gifts. Plaq is a favorite along with Debauve & Gallais. The boxes at Debauve & Gallais are beautifully wrapped and ready to gift.

La Bonne Brosse Hair Brush

This is a splurge that I am waiting to do in Paris. I have a Sisley Paris brush that was not cheap. Now, I am considering investing in a La Bonne Brosse hair brush. I took the quiz online, and I know which one is recommended for me.

Polène Bag

If you are going to buy a Polène bag, I recommend doing it in Paris. My first one is above. The lines at the stores can be extremely long. They let in a few people at a time to assist with bag purchases. You may want to do your research in advance and have an idea of what bag you want. Also, try shopping at Bon Marché right when they open for shorter lines.

I have a few, and the price has definitely gone up over the years. This is the bag I saw French women wearing in September.

Stationery Shops in Paris

I love notebooks and paper goods. Melodies Graphiques offers a wide selection of beautiful journals, stationery, and wrapping paper. Get lost in here for a bit and come out with something for yourself and a friend.

Salted French Butter

French butter is delicious, and you can find it everywhere. Bordier is the most well-known butter, but it does spoil quickly, so you need to eat it within a few weeks. There are other butters you can buy at Monoprix or Carrefour that will last longer. I savor my butter and use it on sourdough toast from our French bakery. Demi sel is the way to go for me.

You can have your butter vacuum-sealed at La Grande Épiciere for a euro. Well worth it. I travel with zip-lock bags for bringing home liquids or butter. You can pop the butter in the fridge at your hotel or apartment and put it in your suitcase before departure. The winter months will keep your butter frozen in your checked luggage. It is considered a liquid, and you will need to check it.

Coffee in Paris

One of my favorite things to bring home. This extends my trip a little longer. I grind and brew the beans in my Breville each morning, and it transports me back to Paris.

My favorite coffee shops in Paris are listed here.

Christmas Ornaments

I don’t personally celebrate Christmas to bring home an ornament, but this would make an excellent gift for a Francophile friend. Visit Bon Marché and shop their selection. I know La Cuisine also has some available in their shop!

Cire Trudon Fir Candle

Cire Trudon candles are luxurious and pricey. I have had my eye on one of their candles since 2013, but I have never made it to the finish line. Truth is, I have a few candles I need to burn through first. I collect candles and matches. They make GREAT gifts, and it is fun to swap out the scents.

I love the smell of pine, and this candle in particular looks and smells incredible. Stop by the Left Bank location to shop directly or pop into Bon Marché.

Final Notes for Souvenirs in Paris

Keep in mind that the French are about investing in high-quality items. These are all ideas, and I would not buy everything all in one trip. Make your decision based on your needs and budget.

Don’t miss: What I Bought in Paris and The Best Paris Souvenirs for more ideas.

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