​​10 Unique Souvenirs To Bring Home From France

As the headquarters of many prestigious perfume houses, Paris has plenty of fragrances to choose from. However, if you want to find France's most unique perfumes and colognes, go to the town of Grasse. Often referred to as the perfume capital of the world, Grasse has been producing luxurious fragrances for over three centuries. Here, in the hills above the French Riviera, you can find the finest perfumes from boutique shops and visit perfume factories like the Grasse Fragonard Perfumery.

Best for: Mothers, romantic partners

Where: Grasse, Paris, Nice

From soft and creamy Brie in Paris to sharp and tangy Roquefort in Toulouse, France is renowned worldwide for its diverse and flavorful cheeses, with each region producing its distinct variety. French cheeses are a culinary delight made using traditional methods and techniques, passed down from one generation to the next. Tour local markets and cheese shops, where knowledgeable fromagers can guide you through the various flavors and textures. One note of advice: make sure you know the customs rules before you stock up on souvenir cheese.

Best for: Cheese lovers, amateur chefs, foodies

Where: Lyon, Paris, Roquefort-sur-Soulzon, Tours

From Bordeaux to Champagne to Burgundy, France's famous wine regions give visitors many opportunities to get to know Gallic grapes. Take guided tours of vineyards so you can sample several different vintages before bringing home a bottle or two. Many vineyards and chateaux offer tastings and workshops, allowing you to learn more about the art of winemaking. Wine shops throughout the country also provide a wide variety of options, making it easy to find the perfect bottle to suit your taste.

Best for: Wine lovers and foodies

Where: Bordeaux, Burgundy, Rhone Valley

France is also renowned for its chocolate, which is made with the finest ingredients and crafted into beautiful and delicious creations. From smooth and velvety truffles in Bayonne to crunchy and indulgent pralines in Paris, there's a chocolate for every taste bud. So if you have a sweet tooth or want to bring back a tasty souvenir for someone special, consider visiting a French chocolatier and picking up a box of their finest treats.

Best for: Children, anyone with a sweet tooth

Where: La Maison du Chocolat, Patrick Roger, Maison Pralus

A luxurious and practical souvenir to bring back from your trip to France, French soap is made with natural ingredients and infused with delightful scents like lavender and olive oil. French soaps are known for their quality, with recognizable floral aromas from Marseille, Paris, and Provence. Regardless of your location, you can find these artisanal soaps in local shops and markets, making it a thoughtful and easy-to-pack gift to bring back home.

Best for: Travelers on a budget, hard-to-shop-for friends

Where: Marseilles, Paris, Provence Region

Provence, in southeastern France, is renowned for its stunning lavender fields. These popular tourist attractions allow visitors to witness the fragrant flowers in bloom as well as give them a place to purchase lavender souvenirs such as essential oils, soaps, and sachets. Locally-sourced lavender products are reputed for their soothing and relaxing properties, making them the perfect souvenir for those seeking a little bit of Provence's charm and fragrance to bring back home.

Best for: Friends, parents, romantic partners

Where: Valensole Plateau, Grasse, Aix-en-Provence

French macarons are a sweet and delicate pastry made with almond flour and filled with buttercream or ganache. These decadent treats come in various flavors and are often brightly colored, making them visually stunning souvenirs from France. While there are famous macaron shops in France, you can find the pastries in almost every bakery and patisserie. Whether enjoyed as a dessert, mastered in a class, or taken home as a gift, macarons are a symbol of French pastry expertise and sophistication.

Best for: Children, foodies, travelers with a sweet tooth

Where: Laduree, Pierre Herme, Maison Georges Larnicol

Breton stripes are a timeless French design that originated in the coastal region of Brittany. Originally worn by sailors, the iconic stripes have become a fashion statement. Tourists can buy Breton stripe items, such as t-shirts, dresses, bags, and hats, from local shops or high-end designer boutiques. With their classic yet modern aesthetic, Breton stripes make for an ideal souvenir that captures the essence of French fashion and style.

Best for: Fashionistas, parents

Where: EQRoy

Known as "Les Puces," Paris flea markets are a treasure trove of unique and used finds that make for the perfect souvenirs from France. With countless stalls selling everything from antique furniture to vintage clothing, these markets offer an exciting and authentic shopping experience. Visitors can browse through a wide variety of items, including art, books, jewelry, and home decor, all while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the markets.

Best for: History lovers, parents, discerning travelers

Where: Marché aux Puces de Montreuil, Marché aux Puces de la Porte de Vanves, Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen

From iconic Impressionist paintings to modern works, France is home to some of the world's most celebrated works of art. Art prints offer an affordable and accessible way to own a piece of this legacy. Visitors can purchase prints of famous works at gift shops at museums like the Louvre, Centre Pompidou, and Musee d’Orsay. Independent art stores, local markets, and galleries are also great places to find both printed and original art. With a vast range of styles and subjects available, there's a print for every taste and budget.

Best for: Travelers on a budget, art lovers, teenagers

Where: Galerie 28, Le Monte-en-l'air, Boutique des Musées de la Ville de Paris