4èME ARRONDISSEMENT. Its initials stand for "Bazar de l'Hôtel de Ville," and this department store delivers a bazaar's worth of retail merchandise. Housewares, home improvement items, and hardware are especially prominent, but if they're not your cup of tea, don't despair. The store also stocks men's and women's clothing, toys, and even useful and beautiful domestic goods. METRO: Hôtel de Ville

9èME ARRONDISSEMENT. Crowned by a turn-of-the-century, stained-glass dome, this incredible department store is a shopper's paradise. The cosmetics department is huge, and perfumes are legion. Fashion, too, maintains a strong profile, and both men and women find enormous selections of designer wear accompanied by more mainstream options. Other attractions include a great toy department, a hair salon, terrific jewelry, and housewares. METRO: Chaussée-d'Antin, Opéra, Havre-Caumartin

1ER ARRONDISSEMENT. Not only does it occupy a gorgeous Belle Epoque building, but this department store is well-equipped to deliver whatever you might need for person or home. Clean-lined furnishings are for sale, along with china, kitchen appliances, and bedding. Men's and women's fashions guarantee something stylish to wear, and cosmetics let you put your best face forward. Sportswear, a bookstore, a pet department, and children's clothing, toys, and accessories are available as well. METRO: Pont Neuf

1ER ARRONDISSEMENT. In the La Samaritaine department store (store 2), the top floor offers a lookout balcony with a beautiful view of Paris! A café is available if you'd like to take a shopping break and have a drink while you enjoy the view!

7èME ARRONDISSEMENT. Arguably Paris's most well-known department store, this temple to commerce was created by Aristide and Marguerite Boucicaut in the late 19th century. More than 100 years later, it's a destination for fashion and style and one of the city's most prominent retail establishments. Designer apparel for men and women, cosmetics, and housewares comprise the major departments. Adjacent to the store is an impressive food hall that carries gourmet groceries, wines and take-out fare. METRO: Sèvres-Babylone