Galeries Lafayette Haussmann completely exceeded expectations as an essential Parisian experience, blending luxury, culture, and unforgettable views. The shimmering Art Nouveau dome is a showstopperâstanding beneath its stained glass ceiling is easily one of the highlights of my trip, combining cathedral-like grandeur with lively Parisian energy. Dazzling Shopping Atmosphere Every floor sparkles with top-tier fashion, from legendary French brands to international luxuries. Wandering through diverse departments is a delight whether youâre shopping or just marveling at the high style. Signature labels like Louis Vuitton and Chanel anchor the ground floor, but thereâs also a vibrant scene for emerging designers, offering inspiration at every turn. Rooftop Views and Gourmet Indulgence Donât miss the rooftop terraceâfree to visit and offering panoramic city views, including the Opera Garnier and even glimpses of the Eiffel Tower. The food hall downstairs tempts with delicious treats, while cafes and LadurĂ©e provide chic spots to recharge. Pausing for a pastry or tea with Paris beneath you is simply bliss. Local Tips Allow yourself plenty of time and patienceâcrowds are inevitable, especially during peak season. Galeries Lafayette rewards those who explore slowly, uncovering hidden corners and fresh trends. Heritage tours and recent renovations add even more dimension to the visit. Visiting Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is more than shoppingâitâs a celebration of Parisian elegance, creativity, and the cityâs unstoppable...
   Read moreBeautiful department store. There seems to be only one set of toilets in the main building on the 6th floor and one lift. We found it quite complicated to navigate between the buildings so definitely take some time before you go to identify how you get from one building to another. I didnât appreciate how big this place is. The glass dome is absolutely stunning the photos just donât do it justice. I think you could easily spend a day here. The lady on the GUERLAIN counter was very helpful and polite. As someone from the UK I was informed I could claim the tax back. There is an area by the beauty counters where you can do this but to be honest it was a bit of a faff. If youâre spending thousands then yes itâs probably worth it but for about 20-30 euros I wonât bother next time. The store gets very busy Iâd recommend getting there as soon as it opens if there is something in particular you want. The view from the rooftop is lovely of course but Iâm not sure I would go up there again. It was very crowded, itâs on the 7th floor, so if youâre happy to walk up the stairs then fine or itâs a very long wait for the lift. I didnât see any other lift within that section but I could be wrong. Iâd love to go back at Christmas I can imagine itâs beautiful...
   Read moreGaleries Lafayette isnât just a department storeâitâs an experience. The moment you walk in, youâre hit with the grandeur of its famous glass dome, which honestly feels more like stepping into a palace than a shop. The stained glass, the balconies, and the sheer scale of the atrium are breathtaking.
The store itself is huge, with floor after floor of designer brands, luxury cosmetics, perfumes, and more. Even if youâre not planning on buying anything, itâs worth wandering around just to soak in the atmosphere. The food hall is also a mustâitâs packed with everything from gourmet chocolates to fresh pastries and fine wines.
My favourite part, though, is the rooftop terrace. Itâs completely free to access and offers one of the best panoramic views in Paris. You can see the Eiffel Tower, SacrĂ©-CĆur, and rooftops stretching for miles. Itâs the perfect spot to take a break from the bustle below.
Yes, itâs busy and definitely leans toward the high-end, but Galeries Lafayette is as much about the beauty of the building and the experience as it is about shopping. Whether you go for a quick browse, to pick up a treat, or just to admire the view, itâs absolutely worth a...
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