I’ve been visiting France since I was a child, and it’s one of those places I keep going back to.
Since I love cooking, I almost always end up bringing food back with me. Things like salt, cheese, and other pantry staples are usually top of the list. French butter is also incredible (easily some of the best in my opinion) but not the easiest to transport unless you want it melting in your suitcase.
That said, it’s not all about food. There are plenty of non-edible souvenirs too, from soaps and perfume to clothing and homeware. If you’re into fashion, you can snag some designer gear from brands like Chanel or Yves Saint Laurent. And if you love all things traditional, you can’t beat a beret.
Below is a list of all the best souvenirs from France to look out for.
Quick Picks: What to Buy in France
If you’re short on time or just want a quick overview, here are some of the best souvenirs from France grouped by category:
Food and Drink
- French cheese
- Fleur de sel (French sea salt)
- Dijon mustard
- French wine
- Champagne
- Saucisson
- Pâté and terrine
- Sardines
- Crème de cassis
Sweet Treats
- Macarons
- French chocolate
- Jams and preserves
- Hot chocolate mix
Beauty and Fragrance
- French perfume
- Skincare products
- Marseille soap
- Lavender products
Fashion and Style
- French beret
- Marinière (Breton striped shirt)
- Designer clothing
- Jewelry
Best France Souvenirs
French Wine
Wine is one of the most obvious things to bring back from France, and for good reason.
Each region produces something different, from bold reds in Bordeaux to lighter wines in the Loire Valley and sparkling Champagne from, well…Champagne. Even if you’re not visiting vineyards directly, you’ll find plenty of good options in supermarkets and local wine shops.
It’s one of those souvenirs that feels tied to the place, especially if you end up buying something you tried while you were there.
Macarons
Macarons are one of the more recognizable French treats, and you’ll see them in bakery windows all over the country.
They’re made with almond meringue shells and a soft filling in the middle, usually ganache or buttercream. Classic flavours like chocolate, vanilla, and raspberry are easy to find, but there are also more unusual options depending on where you go.
You can buy macarons boxed up from places like Ladurée or Pierre Hermé, which makes them easy enough to take home.
That said, they’re quite delicate, so they can get crushed if you just throw them in your bag. It’s worth keeping them in your carry-on and making sure they’re packed somewhere safe where they won’t get squashed.
Jams and Preserves
Jams and preserves are another obvious souvenir that are easy to bring home.
France produces a wide range using locally grown fruit, and you’ll find everything from classic strawberry and apricot to more regional flavours like fig or black cherry. Brands like Bonne Maman are everywhere, but smaller shops often have more interesting options.
They’re simple, but they last well and are easy to fit into your luggage.
French Cheese
Cheese is one of the main reasons I always end up bringing food back from France.
There’s a huge range to choose from, from soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert to firmer ones like Comté, and then stronger varieties like Roquefort. Each region has its own specialties, so what you find will depend on where you are.
If you’re planning to take some home, most fromageries will vacuum seal it for you, which makes it much easier to travel with. Hard cheeses tend to hold up better than soft ones, especially if you’ve got a longer journey.
Lavender
If you spend any time in the south of France, lavender is hard to miss.
It’s closely associated with Provence, where you’ll see fields of it in summer, and it shows up in everything from dried bundles to oils and soaps. The scent is quite strong but not overwhelming.
Small sachets are easy to pack and are probably the most practical option.
French Sea Salt (Fleur de Sel)
Salt is one of the things I almost always bring back from France.
You’ll see different types, but fleur de sel is the one to look out for. It’s hand-harvested from salt marshes, particularly in places like Guérande, and has a lighter texture than regular table salt. It’s usually used as a finishing salt rather than something you cook with.
It doesn’t take up much space, and it’s one of those small things that actually makes a difference when you’re cooking at home.
Eiffel Tower Souvenirs
You’ll see Eiffel Tower souvenirs everywhere in Paris.
They come in all forms, keychains, magnets, miniature statues, snow globes, tote bags, even bottle openers and jewelry. You don’t really have to go looking for them, they’re pretty much on every street corner near the main sights.
They’re definitely on the more touristy side, but still a classic French souvenir that a lot of people end up bringing home.
Dijon Mustard
Dijon mustard is one of the staples of French cooking, originally from the city of Dijon in Burgundy.
It’s made using finely ground brown mustard seeds mixed with liquid, traditionally verjuice or white wine, which gives it that smoother texture and sharper, slightly tangy flavor compared to regular mustard. You’ll find it used in everything from vinaigrettes to sauces and marinades.
While you can buy Dijon mustard in supermarkets all over the world, it’s nice to bring a jar back from the country where it originates from.
Perfume
Perfume is one of the more classic non-food souvenirs from France.
Places like Grasse are known for perfume production, but you’ll find shops all over the country. You’ll also come across well-known French brands like Chanel, Dior, and Guerlain in department stores and boutiques. French perfumes tend to be more subtle and layered compared to others, with a wide range of scents depending on what you like.
If you’re interested in fragrance, it’s one of the more personal things you can bring back.
Moulin Rouge Souvenirs
When I went to the Moulin Rouge, I didn’t expect to end up buying souvenirs, but I came out with a red Christmas bauble and a bright red bottle of perfume.
Before you enter the theater, there’s a small gift shop with souvenirs linked to the show. You’ll find things like posters, prints, magnets, and items featuring the iconic red windmill.
It’s one of those souvenirs that only really makes sense if you’ve been, but if you have, it’s a nice reminder of the night.
French Beret
The beret is one of those items that’s instantly associated with France.
Traditionally made from wool, it has that flat, round shape and has been worn by everyone from artists to the military over the years. These days, it’s more of a fashion piece, but it still has that classic French feel.
You’ll see them in souvenir shops as well as clothing stores, with different colors and materials depending on how traditional or modern you want to go.
Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate in France is a bit different from what you might be used to.
In places like Paris, it’s often much thicker and richer, almost like melted chocolate rather than a light drink. Spots like Angelina Paris are known for it, and it’s something people specifically go out of their way to try.
You can buy mixes to take home, which won’t be exactly the same, but still give you a decent version.
French Chocolate
Chocolate is another easy one to bring back, and there’s a noticeable difference in quality compared to standard supermarket brands.
You’ll find everything from simple bars to more elaborate boxes from chocolatiers like La Maison du Chocolat or Patrick Roger. Flavours range from classic dark chocolate to pralines and ganache-filled pieces.
Most shops package them well, so they travel fairly easily as long as it’s not too warm.
Champagne
Champagne is one of the more classic things to bring back from France.
It can only be called Champagne if it comes from that specific region, and the production process is quite tightly controlled. Houses like Moët & Chandon or Veuve Clicquot are easy to find, but there are also smaller producers worth looking out for.
If you find one you like, it’s an easy one to pack and save for a special occasion at home.
Soap from Marseille
Marseille soap is one of the more traditional non-food souvenirs.
It’s typically made using olive oil and has a fairly simple ingredient list, which is why it’s known for being gentle on the skin. You’ll see it in large blocks as well as smaller bars, often cut to size.
Scents vary, but even the unscented versions are popular. It’s practical, long-lasting, and easy to pack.
French Cookbooks
If you enjoy cooking, French cookbooks are an easy way to bring a bit of the trip home with you.
You’ll find everything from classic recipes like coq au vin and tarte tatin to more modern takes on French cuisine. Some are quite detailed, while others are more straightforward depending on your level.
It’s one of those souvenirs you’ll keep going back to rather than just leaving on a shelf.
Cookware
France is known for its cookware, especially brands like Le Creuset and Mauviel.
You’ll see cast iron pots, copper pans, and high-quality kitchen tools that are built to last. They’re not the cheapest items on the list, but they’re something you’ll use for years.
If you’ve got the space in your luggage, it’s a good investment.
French Tea
Tea isn’t as famous as coffee in France, but there are some well-known tea houses.
Places like Mariage Frères and Dammann Frères sell blends ranging from classic to more unusual flavours. Packaging is usually quite nice as well, which makes it feel more like a gift.
It’s lightweight and easy to bring back, especially if you don’t want to carry anything fragile.
Marinière Shirt
The marinière, or Breton striped shirt, is another classic French item.
It originally came from the French navy, which is why it has that blue and white stripe pattern. Over time it became more of a fashion staple, especially after designers like Chanel popularised it.
You’ll find them in different fits and fabrics depending on where you shop.
Clothing From French Designers
If you’re interested in fashion, France is obviously one of the best places to shop.
Department stores like Galeries Lafayette or Le Bon Marché carry a wide range of brands, from high-end designers to more accessible labels.
Even if you’re not buying anything major, it’s worth browsing just to see what’s available.
Jewelry
Jewelry is another option if you’re looking for something a bit more long-lasting.
You’ll find everything from smaller independent designers to big names like Cartier or Van Cleef & Arpels. Styles range from simple pieces to more intricate designs.
It’s definitely more of a splurge, but you can end up with a piece you’ll wear for years.
Art Prints
Art prints are an easy way to bring a bit of France home without spending too much.
You’ll find reproductions of famous works from places like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, as well as prints from local artists. Montmartre in Paris is probably the best-known spot for browsing art, with artists set up around Place du Tertre, but you’ll also find pieces in smaller galleries, markets, and museum gift shops across the country, including places like Monet’s garden in Giverny.
Sizes vary, so it’s usually easy to find something that fits in your luggage, and it’s one of those souvenirs that lasts long after your trip.
Sardines
Sardines might not be the first thing you think of, but they’re quite a staple in parts of France.
Coastal towns, particularly in Brittany, are known for them, and you’ll find tins in a range of flavours, often packed in oil or with added ingredients like lemon or chilli. Some are quite high quality and are even collected by enthusiasts.
They’re easy to pack and last a long time, and you can eat them in a few different ways, on toast, in a salad, or just straight from the tin.
Crème de Cassis
Crème de cassis is a blackcurrant liqueur that comes from the Burgundy region.
It’s most commonly used in a Kir, which is white wine mixed with a small amount of cassis, or a Kir Royale with Champagne. The flavour is quite sweet and rich.
A small bottle is easy to bring back, and it’s great to have on hand if you like making cocktails at home.
Skincare Products
French skincare has a strong reputation, and you’ll see brands like La Roche-Posay, Caudalie, and Bioderma in most pharmacies.
Products tend to focus on simple, effective formulas rather than anything too complicated, and you’ll find a good range depending on what you’re looking for, things like sunscreen, moisturizers, cleansers, and eye creams.
Prices are often better than what you’d pay elsewhere, especially in local pharmacies.
Foie Gras
Foie gras is one of the more traditional French delicacies.
It’s made from duck or goose liver and has a very rich, smooth texture. You’ll usually find it sold as a pâté or in jars, often vacuum sealed.
Personally, I don’t eat it because of the animal welfare concerns, but it’s still a well-known part of French cuisine and something you’ll see widely available.
Saucisson
Saucisson is a type of cured sausage that you’ll see in markets and shops across France.
It’s usually made from pork and can include different flavourings depending on the region, things like garlic, herbs, or even nuts. Textures vary from quite firm to softer varieties.
It keeps well, which makes it a practical food souvenir.
Pastis
Pastis is an anise-flavoured spirit that’s especially popular in the south of France.
It’s usually diluted with water, which turns it cloudy, and has a strong, slightly herbal taste similar to licorice. Brands like Ricard and Pernod are the most common.
It’s quite distinctive, so worth trying before buying.
Pâté and Terrine
Pâté and terrine are both part of the French charcuterie tradition.
They’re made from meat, fat, and seasonings, with pâté usually smoother and terrine more rustic with visible pieces. You’ll find a wide range depending on the region.
They’re often sold vacuum sealed, which makes them easier to transport.
Orléans Vinegar
Orléans vinegar comes from the city of Orléans and is made using a traditional method where wine is slowly fermented in oak barrels over time.
Rather than being produced quickly, the process allows the vinegar to develop a more rounded, slightly richer flavour. You’ll often see it sold in smaller bottles, sometimes labelled with the type of wine used, like red or white.
Whether used for dressings, marinades, or to elevate dishes, Orléans vinegar will add a nice flavor to your meals back home.
A Final Word
France is one of those places where food naturally ends up being a big part of what you bring home.
I usually leave with things I’ve actually used or eaten while I’m there, cheese, chocolate, salt, or anything I want to cook with again later. It’s an easy way to hold onto a bit of the trip.
More than anything though, France is just one of those classic destinations. It’s known for its fashion houses, style, cuisine and art, and there’s always more to see beyond the souvenirs.
For a well-rounded trip, I’d recommend spending a few days in Paris and then heading down to the French Riviera, where you’ll find some really beautiful coastal towns. You can even add in a day trip to Monaco while you’re there.
