Light and fluffy, in pretty colors, Ladurée macarons are a symbol of Parisian elegance. The bitesize pastries, sold at beautifully styled stores across Paris (and the world), attract crowds of shoppers day after day. A visit to Ladurée for afternoon tea and a box of sweet treats to take home is a must-do for many tourists in Paris.
The Ladurée story began in 1862 when Louis-Ernest Ladurée opened a small bakery on rue Royale, close to modern-day Place Vendôme. Over the years Ladurée expanded the space to include a tea shop, but the now iconic pastel-colored macarons were not introduced until the mid-20th century.
Nowadays Ladurée has several shops across Paris, including the original location on rue Royale and a flagship store on the Champs-Élysées. Visitors can book a tour that includes a stop at Ladurée, reserve a table for brunch or afternoon tea, or simply fill a green and gold box with tasty macarons to enjoy later in the day.
Ladurée stores can be found across Paris, and also at Paris Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports.
The macarons are made with almond flour so may not be suitable for people with nut allergies—other pastries and sweets are available.
The stores are wheelchair accessible.
Ladurée has a number of locations across central Paris, including at 16 rue Royale and 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées in the 8th arrondissement. These stores and others are readily accessible by metro, bus, taxi, or as part of a private tour of the city with transport provided.
The Ladurée store on rue Royale is open 8am–8pm Monday to Saturday and 9am–7pm on Sunday. The Champs-Élysées store is open 7:30am–11pm Monday to Saturday and 7:30am–10pm on Sunday. For other stores, check before visiting.
At the head of the Champs-Élysées stands the impressive Arc de Triomphe, a Parisian icon recognized around the world. The arch’s construction was ordered by Napoleon in 1806, but by the time it was finally finished, Napoleon had abdicated and the royal Bourbon family was back on the throne. The Arc de Triomphe was inaugurated by King Louis-Philippe in 1836. Climb to the top and you’ll get a panoramic view over the entire city, all the way to the Seine river.
