Printemps vs Galeries Lafayette: The Ultimate 2025 Comparison Guide

Deciding between Printemps and Galeries Lafayette? Both iconic department stores on Boulevard Haussmann offer world-class shopping experiences, but each has distinct personalities and specialties. Our comprehensive 2025 comparison guide helps you choose the perfect store for your Paris shopping adventure, or plan visits to both during your stay.

Quick Comparison Overview

Architecture & Atmosphere

Galeries Lafayette: Art Nouveau Magnificence

Galeries Lafayette's crown jewel is its breathtaking Art Nouveau dome, completed in 1912 and designed by Ferdinand Chanut. The stunning stained-glass cupola rises 43 meters above the main floor, creating a cathedral-like shopping atmosphere. The Byzantine-inspired dome features intricate ironwork and colorful glass panels that filter natural light throughout the store.

Best Photo Spot: Stand on the main floor looking up at the dome, or visit the free panoramic terrace for exterior shots and city views.

Printemps: Art Deco Elegance

Printemps showcases exceptional Art Deco architecture from 1923, with its elegant stained-glass cupolas and refined geometric details. As a designated Monument Historique since 1975, the building represents one of Paris's finest examples of early 20th-century commercial architecture. The steel and glass framework creates an airy, sophisticated shopping environment.

Best Photo Spot: The 360-degree rooftop terrace on the 9th floor offers unparalleled views of Sacré-Cœur and the Paris skyline.

Shopping Experience Comparison

Galeries Lafayette: Fashion Forward & Sustainable

Signature Features 2025:

• "Go for Good" Floor: Level 3 dedicated to sustainable luxury brands including Patagonia, Veja, and emerging eco-fashion labels
• Fashion Shows: Free weekly fashion presentations every Friday showcasing current trends
• The Glasswalk: 9-meter glass walkway 16 meters above ground for dramatic photos
• International Brands: Largest selection of international designer brands in Paris

Best For: Fashion enthusiasts, sustainability-conscious shoppers, and visitors seeking the widest brand selection.

Printemps: Beauty Paradise & Heritage Luxury

Signature Features 2025:

• Beauty Market: Exclusive pre-launch access to Hermès cosmetics months before global release
• "L'Appartement" VIP Lounge: Private shopping experience with personal stylists
• Heritage Tours: Free guided tours during Journées du Patrimoine (September 20-21, 2025)
• Luxury Focus: Curated selection emphasizing French luxury heritage brands

Best For: Beauty enthusiasts, luxury heritage lovers, and visitors seeking exclusive French brands.

Dining & Refreshments

Galeries Lafayette Dining Options

Rooftop Dining: Air France restaurant pop-up (June 25-August 20, 2025) offers gourmet French cuisine with panoramic city views.

Quick Options: Multiple cafés and food courts throughout the store, including international and French options.

Printemps Dining Options

Café Pouchkine: Elegant Russian pastry café in the basement, perfect for afternoon tea and luxury desserts.

Brasserie Printemps: Traditional French brasserie on the 9th floor with terrace seating.

Tourist Services & Amenities

Both Stores Offer

• Tax-Free Shopping: VAT refunds (12-20% discount) for purchases over €175
• Multilingual Staff: English, Chinese, Japanese, and other languages
• Tourist Welcome Desks: Dedicated assistance for international visitors
• Personal Shopping: Complimentary styling consultations by appointment

Transportation Access

Both stores are easily accessible via the same metro stations:

• Havre-Caumartin (Lines 3, 9): 2-minute walk to either store
• Chaussée d'Antin-La Fayette (Lines 7, 9): 4-minute walk
• Auber (RER A): 6-minute walk, perfect for airport connections

See our detailed Metro Transportation Guide for specific routes from major Paris locations.

Which Store Should You Choose?

Choose Galeries Lafayette If You:

• Love contemporary fashion and international brands
• Are interested in sustainable luxury shopping
• Want to see the famous Art Nouveau dome
• Prefer a more cosmopolitan shopping atmosphere
• Are visiting during summer 2025 for rooftop dining

Choose Printemps If You:

• Are passionate about beauty and cosmetics
• Appreciate French luxury heritage and craftsmanship
• Enjoy Art Deco architecture and design
• Want exclusive access to pre-launch products
• Prefer a more intimate, curated shopping experience

Money-Saving Tips for Both Stores

Summer Sales 2025 (June 25 - July 22)

Both stores participate in France's legendary summer sales with discounts up to 70%. Visit during weekday mornings for the best selection and fewer crowds.

Tax-Free Shopping Strategy

Consolidate purchases at one store to maximize tax-free benefits. Both stores offer digital refund processing, making the VAT refund process faster and more convenient.

Our Recommendation: Visit Both!

The stores are only 50 meters apart, making it easy to experience both during your Boulevard Haussmann visit. Start with Galeries Lafayette for fashion and the iconic dome, then walk to Printemps for beauty products and the rooftop views. Allow 2-3 hours for each store to fully appreciate their unique offerings.

Plan your perfect Boulevard Haussmann shopping day by combining visits to both iconic department stores with nearby attractions like Opéra Garnier (5 minutes walk) and Place Vendôme luxury boutiques (10 minutes walk).