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

1ER ARRONDISSEMENT. Formerly the site of Paris's large, venerable food market ­ which was moved out of the city proper in 1969 ­ this shopping center filled the gaping retail void. However, its shops and boutiques were built underground, leaving the surface to be developed as a public park. The busy mall, adjacent to a Metro and RER train station, pulls in lots of shoppers and is an especially good source of clothing. Although the complex can be a bit utilitarian, it serves a useful role in city life. METRO: Châtelet-Les Halles

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. Convenient to the city center and to many of Paris's top attractions, this underground mall gets lots of traffic. Weekend hours also ensure that it remains busy. Whether you're looking for music, gifts, perfumes, or clothing, you'll find a number of well-known stores that deliver quality merchandise and ease of purchase. Plus, if you tire of centuries-old art and history, this complex offers a reminder of 21st-century commerce. METRO: Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre

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