Enjoy a magical city break in Paris – on a budget!

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Whether it’s wandering down the Champs Elysees, picking up some designer buys in Galeries Lafayette, or exploring the winding streets of Ile Saint-Louis, there are few places on earth that compare to Paris when it comes to shopping.

But as well as being a magical day out, it’s also notoriously expensive. Or so we thought. Thanks to Eurostar’s bargain fares, which start at just £29 one way, enjoying all the capital has to offer is now super affordable.

WHERE TO GO

Galeries Lafayette is your first port of call for everything from designer labels to small gifts and trinkets. And wandering around this beautifully decorated building is an experience in itself. Take a pit stop for arguably the world’s best hot chocolate at Angelina, or sample some culinary delights from all over the world in the food hall.

picture caption: @melbourne2paris 

Other famous shopping locations in Paris include the Rue Saint Honore and Place Vendome – the district of jewellery and renowned French brands such as Chanel, Hermés, Balmain and Dior.

Saint-Germain and Ile Saint-Louis are a mass of pretty cobbled streets. Perfect for wandering around at your leisure, popping into the various independent shops, art galleries and cute bookshops.

WHAT TO BUY

Where do we start? Paris has so much to offer in terms of local delicacies… And some of the most delicious are its wine and cheese offerings! Head to the Galleries Layette Food Hall to pick up everything from a slab of brie to some fine French Champagne. For foodie friends who’d like something more unusual, there’s a vast range of exotic spices and salts will transport back to the UK easily. Other sumptuous Parisian buys include lingerie, candles and perfume.

WHERE TO STAY

picture credit: Air B&B

If you do fancy spending the night rather than getting there and back in a day, we recommend one of the hundreds of Air B&Bs on offer. Canal St Martin has a fun and laid-back village feel. If you want to try something a little out of the ordinary find Air B&B properties in the area here…

TRAVEL FACTS

  • Eurostar operates up to 21 daily services from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare Du Nord with one-way fares starting from £29 (based on a return journey)
  • Fastest London-Paris journey time is 2hr 15 minutes
  • Tickets are available from eurostar.com or 03432 186 186
  • And remember, there’s plenty of baggage allowance for all that wine and cheese!

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