Shopping in Paris
OK, it’s true that Paris isn’t known as a shopping destination for those who are short of cash. In general, the shops, markets and malls here will offer excellent quality and unrivalled choice but they’ll also typically not be geared up to budget buyers. Of course, good deals can be found, particularly in some of the markets, though you’ll need the advice and guidance of locals to help to sniff those out because many tourists will never see them. Service is typically excellent in most shops and friendly, if anarchic on markets and expect queue jumping unless you’re alert! Haggling is not the norm and is frowned upon, with the sole exception of the flea markets.
The opening hours in Paris can be idiosyncratic. Expect many shops to be closed on Sundays and from 12-2 for lunch. Most credit cards and banking cards will be accepted and cash is always welcomed. Personal checks (cheques) probably won’t be taken, even if drawn on a French bank. French sales tax (TVA) is 20% with some exceptions and you may qualify for TVA-free purchases if you’re from outside the European Union. Be sure you know if ticket prices are tax-included (TTC) or tax to be added (Hors Taxe)