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Best supermarkets in Paris: Where to go grocery shopping?
Discover the five best supermarkets in Paris, so you can organise your shopping and budget in the ‘Ville lumière’ (City of Light).
The French capital is a vast and diverse city divided into 20 districts, which function almost like small cities within the same metropolis. Therefore, finding supermarkets in Paris near your home becomes essential, especially if you don’t have your own transport and rely on public transportation or daily walks for your shopping.
Another important detail is that Paris has one of the highest cost of living in Europe, making it crucial to organise where and how you shop to keep your budget under control.
While central neighbourhoods are full of convenience stores and smaller supermarkets, in residential areas and the outskirts, larger hypermarkets with more competitive prices are easier to find. Knowing this dynamic from the start can save you time, money, and more than a few headaches.
What types of shops and supermarkets are there in Paris?
In a city as large as Paris, where you shop depends on the district you live in. Prices, variety, and even supermarket size vary between a central and a residential area. It’s important to know which stores dominate each area so you can organise your daily routine without surprises.
If you’re about to move to the ‘City of Light’ or ‘Ville lumière’, knowing the best neighbourhoods and areas to live in is just as important as discovering where to shop. This depend a lot on whether you’re a student, a digital nomad, or if you’re moving to Paris for a specific job offer. If it’s the latter, you might want to live near your office
Let’s now take a look at the most common types of shops in Paris. This way, you can find the most convenient options in your neighbourhood or nearby areas.
Discount Supermarkets
Discount chains like Lidl, Aldi, and Leader Price are the most economical options, mainly found in residential areas. You’ll find several branches in District XIX (La Villette), District XX (Belleville and Ménilmontant), and nearby suburbs like Saint-Denis or Montreuil.
These stores are ideal for low prices on basic products. However, keep in mind that the variety is more limited compared to other chains.
Standard Supermarkets
In this category, Carrefour Market, Franprix, and Monoprix stand out, particularly in central neighbourhoods.
Franprix is common in District XI (Bastille and Oberkampf) and District V (Quartier Latin), while Carrefour Market has branches in almost every district, including residential areas like Boulogne-Billancourt and Issy-les-Moulineaux. Monoprix, on the other hand, is more concentrated in wealthier areas like District XVI (Trocadéro) and around Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
These supermarkets offer more variety and international brands, although at higher prices than discount stores.
Premium Supermarkets
If you’re looking for a gourmet experience, chains like La Grande Épicerie de Paris (in District VII) or premium formats of Monoprix offer high-end products, wines, and French specialties.
It’s also common to find bio stores like Naturalia and Bio c’ Bon, which are widespread in areas like District IX (Opéra and Pigalle) and District XI. They’re more expensive but perfect if you prioritise quality and organic products.
Local Markets
Like many other European cities, in Paris, outdoor and covered markets are an essential part of neighbourhood life. Marché d’Aligre in District XII, Marché des Enfants Rouges in District III (Marais), or Marché de Grenelle in District XV are examples where you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses.
Although it’s true that markets tend to be a little more expensive than discount supermarkets, the quality of the products and the experience make them worthwhile.
Epiceries and Convenience Stores
Epiceries are small traditional corner shops that are often open late, even on Sundays. You’ll find bread, dairy, drinks, fruits, and basic pantry items. They’re very common in central neighbourhoods like District V (Quartier Latin), District XI (Bastille and Oberkampf), and District XVIII (Montmartre). Their great advantage is convenience and extended hours, though the prices are higher than in Carrefour Market or Lidl.
Convenience stores, on the other hand, are often run by foreign communities (for example, Asian or Maghreb communities) and operate under the “épiceries de nuit” model, meaning they’re open until midnight or even 24 hours. They’re spread across nearly all districts, but mainly concentrated in areas like Pigalle, Belleville, and Gare du Nord. They’re the perfect solution for an emergency shop or if you arrive home late with nothing in the fridge.
What are the best supermarkets in Paris?
If you’ve read our article about the best supermarkets in France, you’ll already have an idea of the most popular chains in the capital. That said, we’ll name the best spots in the city for your daily, weekly, or monthly shopping.
1- Carrefour
Carrefour is one of the largest chains in France, and therefore also in Paris. Its main difference lies in its variety of formats: Carrefour Market in residential neighbourhoods, Carrefour Express in central and touristy areas, and large Carrefour Hypermarkets on the outskirts, like in Créteil or Porte de Montreuil.
In central Paris, Carrefour Express stores are very popular, visited by many Parisians and expats for quick shopping, while in more distant districts, Carrefour Markets offer a better selection for weekly shopping.
As for prices, Carrefour is in the mid-range: A litre of milk costs around €1.20 ($1.30), a fresh baguette is about €1.10 ($1.20), and a kilo of whole chicken is around €6.00 ($6.50). Additionally, they have private labels like Carrefour Bio, highly appreciated by those looking for organic products at competitive prices.
The opening hours are quite extensive. Most branches open from 8:00 to 21:00, although Express stores often extend their hours until 22:00, which is useful for those working late.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Wide variety of formats (Express, Market, Hyper) | Hypermarkets are only on the outskirts |
| Good coverage in all districts | Express stores offer limited ranges |
| Mid-range prices, with accessible bio options | Can be more expensive than Lidl or Aldi |
| Extended hours in many stores | Can be crowded during peak hours |
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2- Franprix
Franprix is probably the most visible chain in central Paris neighbourhoods. Its stores are spread across almost all districts, with a strong presence in District XI (Bastille and Oberkampf), District V (Quartier Latin), and District XV (Montparnasse). What makes it so popular is its convenience: These are usually small supermarkets, located just a few streets away, ideal for quick daily shopping.
In terms of prices, Franprix is slightly higher than Carrefour or Lidl; a bottle of mineral water costs around €0.90 ($1.00), a litre of milk is about €1.30 ($1.40), and a tray of cherry tomatoes can reach €3.50 ($3.80). While not the cheapest option, it’s ideal if you live in the city centre and don’t want to travel to a hypermarket.
Franprix stores are open from 8:00 to 21:00, but in highly trafficked areas like near Gare de Lyon, some locations stay open until midnight.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great coverage in central districts | Higher prices than discount chains |
| Ideal for quick and daily shopping | Limited range compared to Carrefour or Auchan |
| Extended hours in busy areas | Not the best choice for big shopping |
| Stores always just a few steps away in the centre | Fresh products are less affordable |
Pros and cons of Franprix supermarkets in Paris
3- Monoprix Supermarkets in Paris Monoprix
Monoprix is one of the most iconic chains in Paris, especially in wealthier neighbourhoods like District VII (Invalides), District XVI (Trocadéro), and Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Its offering goes beyond a traditional supermarket, as it combines food with fashion, cosmetics, and home items, making it a very convenient space to solve multiple shopping needs in one place.
In terms of prices, Monoprix is generally more expensive than Carrefour or Franprix: A fresh baguette costs around €1.40 ($1.50), a litre of milk is about €1.50 ($1.60), and a bottle of basic wine starts from €5.00 ($5.50). The difference lies in the experience: The stores are modern, well-organised, and include gourmet sections offering bio, vegan, and high-quality French specialties.
Many Monoprix branches are open until 22:00, and some even until midnight in busy areas like the Champs-Élysées.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Combines supermarket with fashion, cosmetics, and home items | Higher prices than average |
| Gourmet sections and quality bio products | Less widespread in outer districts |
| Modern stores well located in central areas | Not always ideal for large weekly shopping |
| Wide opening hours, even until midnight in some cases | Fashion and home items can make shopping more expensive if you’re only buying food |
Pros and cons of Monoprix in Paris
4- Lidl
Lidl is the strongest discount chain in Paris and one of the favourites for those looking for low prices on basic products. Its branches are mainly found in residential areas of the capital like District XIX (La Villette), District XX (Belleville and Ménilmontant), and in nearby suburbs like Montreuil or Saint-Denis, though you’re seeing more Lidl stores in central areas as well.
Lidl sticks to its German formula: Simple stores, good-quality private-label brands, and in-store bakeries with really competitive prices. Shopping at Lidl could mean paying just €0.99 ($1.10) for a freshly baked baguette, around €0.95 ($1.00) for a litre of milk, and about €1.50 ($1.60) for a kilo of oranges.
Another unique aspect of Lidl is its international promotions, such as the “Spanish week” or the “Greek week”, making it a fun option to try different flavours without spending too much.
In terms of opening hours, most stores are open from 8:00 to 21:00, though some in the suburbs stay open later.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very low prices for basic products | Less variety than Carrefour or Monoprix |
| In-store bakery with fresh and cheap products | Less presence in central districts |
| Thematic weekly promotions of international products | Stores can be crowded during peak hours |
| Ideal for budget-friendly weekly shopping | Limited selection of premium or gourmet products |
Pros and cons of Lidl
5- Auchan
Auchan is one of the largest hypermarket chains in France, and although it doesn’t have as much of a presence in central Paris, it’s very popular in the outskirts and in large shopping malls. Its stores closest to the capital are located in Bagnolet (Bel-Est Shopping Centre), La Défense, and Vélizy 2, making it the best option for those with a car or those who don’t mind taking the metro to do a large shop.
Auchan’s proposal is clear: Competitive prices and a huge variety that includes food, fresh products, clothing, electronics, and home goods. Prices are lower than Monoprix and similar to Carrefour. For example, a kilo of whole chicken costs around €5.50 ($6.00), a litre of milk is about €1.00 ($1.10), and a bottle of basic wine starts from €3.00 ($3.30).
Additionally, its hypermarkets offer large sections of international products and bio options, making it an attractive choice for a complete shopping trip.
The opening hours for Auchan supermarkets are from 8:30 to 21:30, but some remain open until 22:00.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Large variety of products, from food to home and electronics | No branches in central Paris |
| Competitive prices compared to Monoprix or Franprix | Requires transport or a car to access |
| Large sections of international products and bio options | The size of the stores can be overwhelming |
| Ideal for large or monthly shopping | Not practical for quick daily shopping |
Pros and cons of Auchan in Paris
Other notable stores and shops in Paris
In addition to the large supermarket chains in Paris, there are shops and stores that are an integral part of daily life and are essential for newcomers to the city. From traditional corner shops to gourmet spaces or those specialising in bio products, these options complete the shopping experience in the French capital.
Epiceries are the traditional corner shops found in nearly all districts. These small family-run businesses sell bread, fruits, vegetables, drinks, and pantry items.
In neighbourhoods like District V (Quartier Latin) or District XVIII (Montmartre), these stores are abundant, and many stay open until midnight, even on Sundays. Convenience is their biggest attraction, although prices are usually higher than in Carrefour Market or Lidl.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Proximity: There’s always one just a few streets away | Higher prices than in larger chains |
| Extended hours, even on Sundays | Limited stock, mainly basics |
| Personalised service and neighbourhood feel | Not ideal for large shopping trips |
Advantages and disadvantages of épiceries
Naturalia and Bio c’ Bon reflect Paris’s strong trend towards organic consumption. These chains have branches in districts like District XI (Oberkampf and Bastille), District IX (Pigalle and Opéra), and District XIII (Butte-aux-Cailles).
There, you’ll find bio fruits and vegetables, vegan products, artisan bread, and natural cosmetics. They’re ideal for those prioritising health and the environment, although prices can be twice as high as in discount supermarkets.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Specialised in bio, vegan, and sustainable products | Much higher prices than Lidl or Carrefour |
| Modern stores well located in urban areas | Not ideal for large or budget shopping |
| Variety of healthy and gourmet options | Less presence in peripheral districts |
Advantages and disadvantages of stores like Naturalia and Bio c’ Bon
Galeries Lafayette Gourmet, finally, is a space located on Boulevard Haussmann (District IX) and the most exclusive shopping experience in Paris. This is not about low prices, but high-end products: Artisan cheeses, French wines with origin designations, chocolates, spices, and delicatessen from around the world.
It’s more of a gastronomic destination than a supermarket, but it’s a must-visit if you want to explore the gourmet side of the city or surprise someone with a special gift.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unique gourmet experience in Paris | Very high prices |
| Wide selection of French and international products | Not practical for daily shopping |
| Central location on Boulevard Haussmann | More geared towards occasional experiences than everyday routines |
Advantages and disadvantages of Galeries Lafayette Gourmet
Tips for shopping in supermarkets in Paris
Shopping in Paris supermarkets can be a bit challenging at first. The city is huge, and not all districts offer the same options: While areas like Bastille or Quartier Latin are full of Franprix and Monoprix, on the outskirts, it’s more common to find Lidl or Auchan. Therefore, before choosing where to shop, it’s wise to check what’s near your home and balance convenience with price.
Something to keep in mind is that Paris supermarkets tend to be smaller than those in other European capitals, so you won’t always find everything you’re looking for in one place. Many newcomers end up combining shopping: Basics at Lidl, fresh products at a local market, and some gourmet treats at Monoprix.
Also, remember that most chains close on Sundays or operate with reduced hours, so it’s best to plan ahead and avoid leaving shopping until the last minute.
Supermarkets in Paris: Frequently Asked Questions
If your priority is saving money, discount stores like Lidl are the most convenient. Their basic product prices are much lower than Monoprix or Franprix. The downside is that stores are usually located in peripheral areas rather than the heart of the city.
The only supermarket that combines food with fashion is Monoprix. In its stores, you’ll find everything from basic items like t-shirts and jeans to seasonal clothing, accessories, and cosmetics. Complete branches are common in areas like Saint-Germain-des-Prés or District XVI. Although prices are higher than in low-cost chains like H&M, the advantage is that it lets you complete multiple shopping tasks in one place.
In Paris, it’s common to order online from Carrefour, Monoprix, or Auchan, which offer home delivery in most districts. There are also platforms like Franprix en ligne and third-party services like Deliveroo or Uber Eats, allowing you to order supermarket products and receive them within hours. It’s a convenient option if you don’t have time or transport.
Most large supermarkets are closed on Sundays or open for just half a day. However, chains like Franprix and Carrefour Express have branches open until late in central and tourist areas. There are also épiceries de nuit, which stay open late or even 24 hours, though at much higher prices.
