Paris Souvenirs: Monge Pharmacy & Bordier Butter Guide
Leave room in your suitcase! From legendary French skincare at Monge Pharmacy to rich Bordier butter, here are the must-buy Paris souvenirs for your next trip.
The Ultimate Paris Souvenir Shopping Guide
Bordier Butter • Monge Pharmacy • Gourmet Treats
When packing for your dream trip to Paris, make sure to leave at least a quarter of your suitcase completely empty.
Why? Because Paris is a shopper's paradise, and you will want to bring a piece of it back home!
🌟 So, what are the absolute must-buys? 🌟
I have curated a list of the best Paris souvenirs based on my actual purchases, local recommendations, and pro shopping tips to help you find the perfect gifts!
📌 Inside This Guide
✅ Monge Pharmacy Skincare
✅ Artisanal Bordier Butter
✅ Sweet Chestnut Jam
✅ Luxury Truffle Salt & Oil
1. Monge Pharmacy (Citypharma Alternative)
Monge Pharmacy is a legendary spot for French pharmacy skincare. While the popular items shift slightly each season, there is one classic gift set you can never go wrong with:
✔️ Hand Cream + Lip Balm Sets
You'll also find high-quality French beauty brands like Algologie, NYM, Condensé, and Darphin at incredible prices. They make amazing gifts for friends or a well-deserved treat for yourself! Plus, don't forget to bring your passport to claim your tax refund on-site.
2. Le Beurre Bordier (Bordier Butter)
Le Beurre Bordier is widely regarded as the holy grail of French butter, and importing it back home can be incredibly expensive. Buying it fresh in Paris is an absolute must!
I picked mine up at La Grande Épicerie de Paris (the food hall of Le Bon Marché). Keep in mind that the main department store and the gourmet food market are in separate buildings!
The flavor selection is mind-blowing: unsalted (doux), semi-salted (demi-sel), yuzu, lemon olive oil, vanilla, and more. If you're buying gifts, the classic Demi-Sel (semi-salted) is the crowd-favorite.
💡 Pro-Tip: You absolutely must ask for vacuum packaging (sous-vide). It only costs an extra $1 to $2, and it keeps the butter fresh during travel. If you're visiting during the warmer months (from May onwards), make sure to purchase an insulated cold bag and ice packs!
3. French Chestnut Jam (Crème de Marrons)
When it comes to iconic French sweet spreads, chestnut jam is the ultimate choice. The two most famous brands are Angelina and Clément Faugier (Crème de Marrons).
The premium Angelina chestnut jam is incredibly popular. It comes in various sizes, including glass jars and squeeze tubes. I bought a mix of both! The vintage-style tubes are especially beautiful and make for easy packing.
4. Truffle Salt & Truffle Oil
France is famous for its high-quality truffles, and bringing back truffle salt or oil is an easy way to elevate your home cooking. The two major brands you'll see everywhere are Artisan de la Truffe and Maison de la Truffe.
Think of Artisan de la Truffe as a casual, everyday brand perfect for home kitchens, while Maison de la Truffe is the ultra-luxe, high-end option. Both make spectacular gifts for foodies!
✨ More Quick Paris Shopping Tips: ✨
👉 If you want classic French snacks, look for LU cookies at any local supermarket!
👉 Visit a weekend flea market to hunt for beautiful vintage postcards.
👉 If you are exploring Le Marais, don't miss out on grabbing an iconic canvas tote bag from Ofr. or Merci!
Paris Guesthouse Recommendation: Eiffel Tower View Private Honeymoon Stay
Paris Day Tour: Mont Saint-Michel Sunset Day Trip
Paris 3-Night 4-Day Itinerary: Museum Pass TipsFrequently Asked Questions
How should I package Bordier butter when purchasing it?
When purchasing Bordier butter, you can get it vacuum-sealed for an additional fee of 1 to 2 euros. If you visit after May when the weather is hot, it is recommended to add an ice pack.
I want to buy chestnut cream in Paris. Which brands are famous?
Angelina and Crème de Marrons are the most representative chestnut cream brands in Paris. Among them, the premium version, Angelina chestnut cream, is highly popular and sold in various sizes, including tubes and glass jars.
What are the representative brands to buy truffle salt or oil in Paris?
Artisan de la Truffe and Maison de la Truffe are the representative brands. Artisan is a casual brand that is easy to use at home, while Maison is classified as a high-end brand.
What are good products to buy as gifts at Pharmacie Monge?
At Pharmacie Monge, it is highly recommended to buy hand cream and lip balm sets. In addition, famous products from brands like Algologie, NYM, Condensé, and Darphin are great for gifts, and you can also get a tax refund.
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