70 YEARS OF DIOR / GALERIES LAFAYETTE

From September 20 to October 10 2017 the very expensive and internationally renowned Galeries Lafayette honoured 70 years of Dior fashion by erecting a life-size hot air balloon inside the very shop itself.

While it may sound hard to believe, in the central dome of the female store (the department store is so huge that there are three separate buildings to house it all) a beautifully designed navy and gold hot air balloon appeared to float in the sky.

Unfortunately, the balloon has been taken down, but I know that Galeries Lafayette constructs a breathtaking Christmas display each year, which I am looking forward to.

Some advice for Galeries Lafayette

The metro station Chausée d'Antin La Fayette (often shortened to La Fayette) has an entrance right into the store, which is so convenient! It's serviced by lines 7 and 9, but metros close by, such as Opéra and Haussmann Saint-Lazare service even more lines. 

Definitely try to visit Galeries Lafayette with a lot of patience - this store is so busy! I honestly feel as if I have never been in a busier shop before. That being said, don't let it put you off going. It's a tourist landmark as much as it is a regular shop, but it really is incredible so well worth a visit, even if it's only quick. In that regard, since it will be busy, stay vigilant for pickpockets.

Remember to cross the road and visit the kitchen and home departments of this store, here you can find all manner of delicious and good quality goodies. 

The Opera House

My final piece of advice is to make sure you climb to the top floor (if you can - I believe there is a loft to all floors bar the roof, though ask a shop assistant if you are unsure, the majority will be able to speak some English too). The terrace of Galeries Lafayette boasts an impressive view over the Opera house just next door, as well as views of the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower in the distance. It's totally free to come up here, and what's to stop you from buying a croissant and a coffee somewhere else and enjoying it with this view. 

This destination is in the heart of the city, being close to the 8e and 9e arrondissements, you could walk from here South to the Champs Elysées for more shopping paradise, or North into trendy Montmartre.

It may seem weird to have a shop on your itinerary, but this one's pretty special.