Galeries Lafayette Haussmann: reviews and practical tips

Galeries Lafayette Haussmann at a glance

Located in the 9th arrondissement, Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is a historic Parisian department store defined by its 19th-century facade. Spanning 70,000 square meters and featuring 2,000 brands, it is a primary destination for fashion enthusiasts. As the second most visited site in Paris, it sees over 100,000 visitors daily and generates nearly 1.5 billion EUR (about 1.6 billion USD) in annual revenue.

Founded over 125 years ago by Théophile Bader and Alphonse Khan, two cousins from Alsace, the store quickly became a staple for local office workers and the bourgeoisie. Its location between the Grands Boulevards, the Opéra Garnier, and the Gare Saint-Lazare station proved ideal. To accommodate rapid growth, the owners acquired five full buildings across rue Lafayette, boulevard Haussmann, and rue de la Chaussée-d'Antin. Architects Georges Chedanne and later Ferdinand Chanut expanded what the owners envisioned as a luxury bazaar. They increased shelf space and added amenities like tea rooms, a reading room, and a smoking lounge, all designed to keep shoppers comfortable and engaged for longer visits.

In 1912, the Art Deco dome was installed 43 meters above the floor, becoming the signature icon of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann. The neo-Byzantine stained glass was the work of artist Jacques Gruber. A grand staircase designed by Louis Majorelle was also installed at the time.

The store has hosted notable spectacles, including aviator Jules Vedrines landing on the roof and a concert by Edith Piaf. The window displays, particularly during the Christmas season, remain a major draw for locals and travelers alike. The holiday decor is typically unveiled in early November. Shoppers also look for the 3J, a ten-day promotional event held in March and October.