Paris Sightseeing from Galleries Lafayette

If you’re in Paris for only a few days – and you’re torn between going sightseeing or going shopping, there’s a way you can get the best of both worlds.

Just make sure you decide to shop at the Galleries Lafayette main branch on Boulevard Haussman, near Opera. While I love their stained glass ceiling there is more to be seen from the premier department store in Paris, and this is all in addition to the brands that they carry.

The impressive stained glass ceiling.

Just make sure you go to the 8th floor of the main building, to start enjoying the main landmarks of Paris.

La Terasse at the 8th Floor has a wonderful view of the city.

Here are the main attractions:

 Palais Garnier et de l'Opéra

Le Tour Eiffel

I couldn't resist a shot with the Eiffel Tower

The top of the Arc de Triomphe

Invalides

There are a lot of comfy chairs on the terrace where people come to eat their packed lunch, or just to relax and enjoy the view.

There is also a small monument for Jules Vendrine. 

Jules Vendrine was a pilot who was able to land a plane
on this terrace in 1919, during the war, I think.

Here's the plane Jules Vendrine landed on the same terrace many years ago.

You can also grab lunch or a snack at the Food Court of Galleries Lafayette.

There is a huge selection of food, and they also have restaurants,
if you want a less casual dining experience.

Don't forget to pass for dessert at Pierre Herme!
I think they do macarons the best. They have a booth on the first floor.

So next time, if someone says that shopping is not a cultural experience, you can tell them they're wrong. Hahaha. just saying.

Galleries Lafayette

40, Bd Haussmann

75009 Paris