Shopping

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Paris is always at the forefront of fashion and there are few cities where you can find so many top-quality designers. The exclusive designer shops are in the 8th, enclosed in the golden triangle formed by avenue des Champs-Elysées, avenue Montaigne and rue François 1er and along rue du Faubourg St-Honoré.

Markets
Expensive antiques can be found at Le Louvre des Antiquaires, beside the Louvre Museum on place du Palais Royal. For bric-a-brac, there are the renowned weekend marchés aux puces (flea markets), including the Porte de Montreuil, 20th, and St-Ouen/Porte de Clignancourt.

Shopping centres
Paris has some legendary department stores. The oldest is Le Bon Marché, which opened in 1848. For a bit of relaxation, head to the Théâtre de la Beauté and for lunch, try the adjoining La Grande Épicerie. Other super department stores in Paris include Printemps and Galeries Lafayette.

Key areas
Those who enjoy intimate, friendly boutiques should head for the Marais 4th arrondissement. Rue des Francs-Bourgeois in the gay quarter sells designer kitsch. There's a growing number of concept shops which bring together fashion, art and music all under one roof, including Colette, Surface to Air and the hip LE66 in the glamorous district of the Champs-Élysées.

Shopping hours
Most shops in Paris are open Monday to Saturday 0900/1000-1900/2000 and close between about 1200 and 1430 for lunch.

Tax information
Sales tax ranges from 5.21-16.38%, varying widely between what are regarded as essential items and luxury goods. Non-EU visitors can obtain a tax deduction of 12-13% on purchases of over €175 in any one day, by obtaining a form at the relevant shop and presenting it to customs on departure. Global Refund (www.globalrefund.com) can provide further information and advice.