It is often said that diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but we beg to differ. We say shoes are a girl’s best friend darling sweetie. Paris, the most chic of European capitals, is considered by all self-respecting shoe worshippers as the absolute mecca, and a visit here a dream to fulfil at least once in a lifetime, if not once a year. Indeed, a shoe shopping spree in Paris is considered by some to be a religious experience like no other.

The French capital is renowned for being the cradle of style, elegance and effortless beauty. Paris is not only home to some of the most famous shoe-brands in the world, but it also attracts the most talented up-and-coming artists and designers, meaning you will find that ‘one of a kind’ pair of heels no matter how much (or little) you spend. When planning your trip to Paris, we suggest you concentrate on THE shopping district of St. German-des-Prés.

Stylish, gorgeous and very Parisienne, St. Germain is not only one of the most elegant parts of Paris, but it is also a bubbly and vibrant university quarter. Long established boutiques sit alongside trendy new bars; perfectly coiffed middle-aged madams rub shoulders with pierced and tattooed young scholars. A sojourn in St. Germain is a feast for all the senses, and you can make your vacation even more authentic by renting a vacation apartment nearby.

To help you better plan your shoe-shopping expedition, we’ve compiled a list of our very favourite shoe stores in St. Germain. Grab a map, a baguette and shop your feet out!

Boulevard Saint-Germain
The main shopping street in St German bears its name, and is home to some of the most iconic names in shoe fashion, from Armani to Gucci to Chanel. Located on the left bank of the River Seine, this boulevard is tree-lined, vibrant and très chic! Don’t forget to rest your tired feet by pausing at one of the many cafés and enjoying a pastry (or three). Shoe shopping is hard work we know, so reward yourself regularly.

Le Bon Marché, rue de Sevres
Known as one of the best shopping centres in Paris, the ‘good market’ is reputedly the world’s first ever department store. Just about every brand is found here and the seasonal sales attract thousands here every single day. Found on Rue Lobineau, Le Bon Marché could well become a daily place of pilgrimage for shoe lovers.

Rue du Dragon
St. Germain may be stylish and designer oriented BUT it is also a hip and trendy university quarter, meaning this is also where you’ll find fantastic bargains, aimed at the cash-flow-challenged local uni students. For great deals on top-notch shoes, head to Rue du Dragon (a side street of Boulevarde St. Germain) and follow it all the way past the Rue du Four intersection.

Rue de Rennes
Yet another fabulous shopping experience is to be had on Rue de Rennes.

For a more specific recommendation, head to Jonak shoe store, just off Rue de Rennes. Local residents are faithful followers and here you’ll find well known brands, at heavily discounted prices. We’re not sure how they do it…but we’re so glad they do!