Department stores
Department stores, temples to shopping
5 minutes' walk from the Hôtel Impérial
Our hotel near Opéra and the Grands Magasins, in the 9th arrondissement of Paris, is ideally placed for exploring much of Paris on foot.
Right next to the hotel, on boulevard Haussmann, you'll find the Grands Magasins. Le Printemps and Galeries Lafayette are two of the capital's legendary shops. Now Europe's largest shopping centre, they offer a magnificent setting for shopping while enjoying the Parisian architecture. Le Printemps is a listed historic monument, with its incomparable glass roof. Founded in 1894 and 1865 respectively, Galeries Lafayette and Le Printemps now stretch over several buildings and bring together thousands of brands.
The origins of department stores
Historic sites in Paris
The history of department stores dates back to the middle of the 19th century. The first department stores', Le Bon Marché, paved the way for the creation of a number of other establishments that would give pride of place to architecture and glass roofs. Le Printemps and Galeries Lafayette opened in 1865 and 1894 respectively. The sense of luxury and elegance is omnipresent thanks to the light architecture, which gives an impression of space and finesse. Renovated in the 90s, they offer a personalised, welcoming alternative to mass retailing, and are a Parisian landmark in their own right. Their selection of top-of-the-range products encourages shopping at any time of year.
A variety of products in a magical Parisian setting
In addition to clothing and accessories, the store also offers jewellery, cosmetics, groceries and restaurants. The quality of the products on display, the warm welcome and the top-of-the-range advice from the sales staff guarantee an exceptional customer experience.
Christmas is when the department stores are at their most magical. Their windows are decked out in the most beautiful colours and sophisticated displays are installed, fascinating thousands of passers-by, adults and children alike.
Your Boutique Hotel in Paris Opéra gives you quick and easy access to the temples of shopping that are the Grands Magasins.
