Galeries Lafayette

The Basics

Galeries Lafayette is split into three buildings: La Coupole, which houses women’s couture and accessories; L’Homme, the men’s branch; and La Maison & Le Gourmet, a 4-story dining court. The Galeries often hosts specialty tours and classes, including wine tastings, baking seminars, and makeup masterclasses.

Themed walking tours of the area—including art, architecture, history, and Christmas tours— often stop in to the Coupole building for views of the stained glass dome, and typically include a visit to the adjacent Opera House. While walking tours are often limited to small groups, private tours of the Galeries afford visitors with the full attention of a guide and a more in-depth look at the area’s history.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Galeries Lafayette is a must for fashion lovers and architecture buffs.

• A cafeteria with plenty of food options is located on the seventh floor.

• Bathrooms are located in the basement and on floors four, five, and six.

• Wi-Fi is available free of charge.

How to Get There

Located in the 9th Arrondissement just steps from St. Lazare train station and Palais Garnier Opera House, Galeries Lafayette is easily accessible using the city’s comprehensive public transit system. The nearest Metro stops are Chausee d’Antin La Fayette on lines 7 and 9 and Havre-Caumartin on lines 3 and 9.

When to Get There

Since the cafeteria is often busiest around lunchtime on weekends, go in the late morning on a weekday for a quieter experience. Tickets for weekly fashion shows held on Friday afternoons are available to the public for purchase on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, the Galeries Christmas decorations are a top destination during the holiday season.

Rooftop Views

Head to the seventh floor of the Coupole building for some of the best panoramic views in Paris. The rooftop’s cafeteria and seating area are touted by visitors and locals as one of the 7th Arrondissement’s hidden gems. Don’t forget your camera: Views include the Eiffel Tower, Opera House, and a sea of classic Parisian rooftops.

Is Galeries Lafayette open on Sundays?

Yes, Galeries Lafayette is open on Sundays—in fact, it’s an excellent time to go. Although many Parisian shops and attractions close on Sundays, the iconic department store is open from late morning until evening (including its Gourmet food hall). Galeries Lafayette also remains open on public holidays.

Can I buy tickets for the Galeries Lafayette rooftop terrace?

No, you can’t buy tickets to Galeries Lafayette’s rooftop terrace—and you wouldn’t need to. The department store’s eighth-floor rooftop is open all day from morning to evening, and hosts a range of pop-up restaurants. Except for rainy days, there’s never a bad time to head up and admire the view.

What are the top brands and designer labels available at Galeries Lafayette?

That’s hard to choose—as one of Paris’ preeminent department stores, Galeries Lafayette sells items from a staggering 3,500 brands. However, if you’ve come to treat yourself to pieces from French designers and fashion brands, Galeries Lafayette has items from brands like A.P.C, Isabel Marant, and Dior in stock.

Does Galeries Lafayette offer tax-free shopping for international visitors?

Yes, the Galeries Lafayette does offer tax-free shopping for (certain) international visitors. Customers who are 16 or older and who live outside of the European Union—and who spend more than €100 on their purchases—can receive a VAT refund of 12%. The duty-free area is located on the first floor of the Coupole store.

Are there any restaurants or cafes inside Galeries Lafayette?

Yes, there are numerous restaurants and bars inside the Galeries Lafayette. Its dozen-plus options range from high-end wine bars and restaurants run by Michelin-starred chefs to fast-casual lunch spots, sushi purveyors, and more. Its Gourmet food hall is a particularly wide-ranging and decadent place to browse, nibble, and dine.

Can I book a guided tour of Galeries Lafayette?

Yes, you can explore the Galeries Lafayette on a guided tour. A number of itineraries are available, from Parisian luxury and shopping tours to architectural tours. The Galeries Lafayette also operates its own Guided Heritage Tours, which last for an hour and a half and which are held on weekends.

Ways to explore

Fashion enthusiasts would tell you that the best way to explore Galeries Lafayette is to get lost in its countless clothing racks, though the department store also hosts activities such as guided historical tours, fashion shows, and pastry classes. As one of Paris’ top sights, Galeries Lafayette is a popular stop on city sightseeing tours, which you can take on foot, by vintage car, or hop-on hop-off bus. If you’d like to admire the building’s famous glass cupola with a guide, join an architecture tour that explores the area’s other art nouveau and art deco structures.

Accessibility

Galeries Lafayette is wheelchair accessible, with elevators between each floor and wheelchairs available at the entrance.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water bottle, camera, reusable shopping bags

What to wear

You’ll likely do a lot of walking through the department store, so wear comfortable shoes.

Not allowed

Smoking, shouting, running

Amenities

Wi-Fi, restrooms, dining options, concierge, tax refund services, nursery

Address

Galeries Lafayette is located in Paris’ 9th arrondissement, a short walk from the Palais Garnier opera house and La Madeleine church. It’s also reachable by car and public transportation.

Driving

Taxis and rideshare apps are widely available in Paris and offer a safer way to get around the city than self-navigating. If you prefer to drive, parking is available 24/7 at the corner of Haussmann Boulevard and Mogador Street.

Public transportation

The nearest Paris Metro stops are Chaussée d’Antin–La Fayette station on lines 7 and 9 and Havre-Caumartin station on lines 3 and 9. Several bus lines stop nearby as well.

Best times to visit

The shopping center gets especially busy around lunchtime, so go in the morning for a quieter experience or around sunset for great views from the rooftop.

Best days to visit

Visit on a Friday if you want to see one of the Galeries Lafayette’s weekly fashion shows.

Best months to visit

December is a great time to visit Galeries Lafayette, known for its elaborate holiday window displays, hanging Christmas tree, and light shows.

Special events

Check the attraction’s website for regularly scheduled special events, which range from pop-up stores to themed tours and workshops.