Katrina Rosales
Paris, the city of lights, is also known as the country of perfume. With so many shops selling perfume in Paris, is there any difference in price? Are colognes cheaper in Paris?
The answer is that it depends on the brand and where you buy it. Some people have found that certain perfumes are cheaper in Paris, especially at duty-free shops in the airport or in stores like Sephora and Marionnaud. On the other hand, some premium brands may be cheaper in the US due to discounts offered by grey market US/Canada sources. Additionally, the VAT in France is already included in the price, whereas in the US, sales tax is added at checkout.
So, if you're looking for a particular cologne, it's worth checking prices in Paris and comparing them to prices in your home country to see if you can get a better deal.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Are colognes cheaper in Paris? | It depends. Some sources say that mainstream designer fragrances are cheaper in the US, while others say that they are cheaper in Paris. |
| Where to buy cologne in Paris? | Paris Louvre Duty Free, Sephora, Marionnaud, Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, Fragonard, Palais Royal, Serge Lutens, Kam's Duty Free |
What You'll Learn
Buying cologne at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is a great place to shop for cologne, with a range of exclusive boutiques and duty-free shops offering a variety of fragrances. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your cologne shopping experience at the airport.
Duty-Free Shops
Duty-free shops at the airport offer a convenient option for purchasing cologne. These shops often carry a range of fragrances, including exclusive airport-only releases. Buying cologne at duty-free shops can also save you money, as you don't have to pay the Value-Added Tax (VAT). Remember that the VAT is already included in the displayed prices, so you don't need to worry about additional costs at checkout.
Exclusive Airport Boutiques
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is home to several exclusive boutiques that offer unique fragrance experiences. One notable store is Fragonard, France's popular fragrance boutique known for its perfumes, colognes, soaps, and lingerie. You can find exclusive perfume sets with beautiful miniature bottles, making them perfect for gifts or personal use.
Compare Prices
When purchasing cologne at the airport, it's a good idea to compare prices with other retailers. Check French websites like Sephora.fr or Nocibe.fr to get an idea of the local retail prices. Remember that you may be eligible for a VAT refund when shopping at non-duty-free stores, which can make your purchase even more affordable.
Shop for Unique Scents
Paris is known for its exquisite fragrances, and the airport offers a range of unique scents that you may not find elsewhere. Look for fragrances that are exclusive to French airports or those that are not readily available in your home country. This way, you can not only enjoy a new scent but also have a memorable souvenir from your trip.
Check for Special Offers
Keep an eye out for special offers and promotions at the airport boutiques. Sometimes, you can find exclusive deals or gift sets that offer excellent value for money. Additionally, if you're a frequent flyer or a member of a loyalty program, you may be eligible for additional discounts or benefits.
In conclusion, Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport offers a plethora of options for buying cologne. By exploring duty-free shops, exclusive boutiques, and comparing prices, you can find unique fragrances and enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience. Remember to allow enough time for browsing and take advantage of the airport's diverse offerings to find the perfect scent for yourself or as a gift for your loved ones.
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Buying cologne at Paris Louvre Duty-Free
Paris Louvre KAMS Duty-Free shop is located on the famous Avenue de l'Opéra, just a five-minute walk from the Opera, Louvre, and Jardin de Tuileries. The shop has been offering duty-free shopping services since 1960 and carries a wide range of products, including makeup, skincare, perfumes, watches, jewellery, bags, and luggage.
Brands
Paris Louvre Duty-Free shop carries a variety of popular brands, including Chanel, Dior, Sisley, and Longchamp. In terms of perfumes, you can find brands such as Chanel, Kenzo, YSL, Hermes, and Dior.
Discounts and Refunds
The shop offers discounted prices on its products, and you can also benefit from an immediate tax refund of 12% by using your credit card as a guarantee that you are leaving the European Union in a few days. Additionally, there may be extra discounts available, such as 20% off on certain items.
Staff
The staff at Paris Louvre Duty-Free are experienced and provide professional sales advice in multiple languages, including French, English, Chinese, Russian, Japanese, and Thai. They can also assist you in purchasing museum and other tourist tickets.
Opening Hours
The shop is open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM and on Sundays from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Customer Reviews
Reviews for the Paris Louvre Duty-Free shop are mixed. Some customers have expressed concerns about the authenticity of the perfumes, while others have praised the friendly and patient staff and the discounted prices. It is recommended to compare prices with other shops and airports to ensure you are getting a good deal.
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Buying cologne at Sephora
When it comes to buying cologne at Sephora, there are a few things to keep in mind. Sephora has a wide range of colognes for men, including popular brands such as Chanel, Dior, Armani, and Yves Saint Laurent. They also offer gift sets, which can be a great option if you're looking for a present for someone or if you want to try out a variety of scents.
One advantage of buying cologne at Sephora is that they often provide free samples with purchases. This can be a great way to try out new fragrances before committing to a full-sized bottle. In addition, Sephora has a loyalty program called Beauty Insider, which offers perks such as free shipping and exclusive discounts to members. If you plan on making multiple purchases, signing up for this program could be worthwhile.
When deciding whether to buy cologne at Sephora, it's also worth considering the price. While Sephora may not always be the cheapest option, they often have sales and promotions that can make their prices more competitive. Additionally, if you're looking for a particular scent that is hard to find elsewhere, Sephora might be your best bet.
Another benefit of buying cologne at Sephora is the convenience it offers. With both online and physical stores, you have the option of shopping from the comfort of your home or browsing in-store to get a better sense of the different fragrances. The website also provides detailed descriptions of each cologne, including notes, scent families, and customer reviews, which can help you make a more informed decision.
Overall, buying cologne at Sephora can be a great option, especially if you're looking for a popular brand or want to take advantage of their loyalty program and convenient shopping experience. By keeping an eye out for sales and promotions, you may be able to find some good deals as well.
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Buying cologne at Marionnaud
When it comes to buying cologne at Marionnaud, you'll be spoilt for choice. Marionnaud is one of the largest luxury beauty retailers in Europe, offering a wide range of high-end brands in its stores and online.
The Cologne Selection
Marionnaud offers a diverse range of colognes and perfumes to suit every taste and preference. You can find classic, woody, fresh, sweet, and even mixed fragrances. Whether you're looking for an eau de toilette, eau de parfum, or a traditional cologne, Marionnaud has something for everyone.
They stock renowned fragrance houses such as Maison Margiela, Viktor & Rolf, Guerlain, Dior, Chanel, Lancôme, and Paco Rabanne, to name a few. Marionnaud also offers exclusive brands that you won't find anywhere else.
Online Shopping
If you prefer to shop online, Marionnaud's website provides a seamless experience. You can explore their selection, discover unique fragrances inspired by ingredients from around the world, and place your order with ease. They offer quick delivery, so you won't have to wait long for your new cologne to arrive.
In-Store Experience
For those who enjoy the sensory experience of in-store shopping, Marionnaud's boutiques provide a delightful journey. You can test the various fragrances, seek advice from their knowledgeable staff, and even take advantage of their beauty institutes, which offer a range of skincare and beauty treatments.
Price and Value
While prices for fragrances can vary between brands and types, Marionnaud caters to a range of budgets. Additionally, you may be able to take advantage of tax refunds when shopping in France. The VAT (Value Added Tax) is already included in the displayed prices, so there are no surprises at checkout.
Final Thoughts
Marionnaud is a trusted destination for those seeking a special fragrance for themselves or as a gift. With their diverse selection, knowledgeable staff, and convenient shopping options, you're sure to find the perfect cologne to match your personality and preferences. So, whether you're browsing online or strolling through their stores, Marionnaud is a great choice for buying cologne in Paris.
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Buying cologne at Galeries Lafayette
If you're looking to buy cologne at Galeries Lafayette, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, Galeries Lafayette is a renowned department store in Paris known for its extensive selection of luxury brands and designer products. The store offers a wide range of fragrances, including well-known brands such as Atelier Cologne.
When purchasing cologne at Galeries Lafayette, you can expect to find a variety of options for both men and women, with different sizes available to suit your needs. The store also offers a unique shopping experience, with elegant packaging and knowledgeable staff who can provide recommendations and assistance.
Price Comparison
In terms of pricing, it's important to note that fragrance prices in France are typically inclusive of VAT (Value-Added Tax), which is already built into the displayed price. This differs from the US, where sales tax is added at checkout. While some travellers have reported finding better deals on fragrances in the US or through grey market sources, buying cologne in Paris can still be advantageous due to the VAT refund option for non-duty-free purchases.
To take advantage of the VAT refund, remember to retain your receipts and follow the necessary steps, which can be found by searching "VAT tax refund and France." This process is now largely automated and can be completed at a kiosk at the airport upon departure.
Additional Tips
To get an idea of the price range before your visit, you can check the websites of popular French beauty retailers such as Sephora.fr or Nocibe.fr. Simply multiply the listed price by 0.80 to estimate the final cost after the VAT refund. Additionally, online discounters like Notino.fr can be a convenient option if you plan ahead and have your purchase delivered to your hotel.
When it comes to specific brands, Chanel fragrances are often mentioned in discussions about buying cologne in Paris. While opinions vary, some travellers have reported finding Chanel perfumes at similar price points or slightly cheaper in Paris, especially at duty-free shops in airports or at the Chanel store on Rue Cambron.
In summary, buying cologne at Galeries Lafayette can offer a premium shopping experience with a range of well-known fragrance brands. By taking advantage of VAT refunds and exploring price comparisons, you may find competitive deals compared to purchasing fragrances in the US or through other sources.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends. Some people say that certain fragrances are cheaper in Paris, especially at duty-free shops, while others say that fragrances are cheaper in the US. It may be a good idea to check the prices of the cologne you want in both countries before making a purchase.
Yes, some people say that the quality of colognes is better in Paris. Additionally, buying cologne in Paris can be a memorable experience, and you may be able to find fragrances that are not readily available in the US.
You can buy cologne at cosmetics chain stores such as Sephora and Marionnaud, shopping malls like Galeries Lafayette and Printemps, duty-free shops like Paris Louvre Kam's Duty Free, and exclusive shops like Musée du Parfum Fragonard and Palais Royal — Serge Lutens.
