Things to avoid doing when you are in Paris

Do not limit yourself to large stores.

In a pinch, you’ll find pretty much everything you could possibly need or want at these historic (and huge) department stores, but you’ll have to contend with impersonal service and crowded spaces, especially at sale times (late June–July; first week of January on). Paris is known for its many fabulous shopping neighborhoods and enclaves, full of unique boutiques and oh-so-Parisian treasures.