Despite the invasion of big name stores such as Gap, Zara, and H&M, the flagship branch of Galeries Lafayette, along with nearby Printemps, has remained one of the last bastions of Parisian chic. Built in 1894, this shoppers' paradise has continually reinvented itself and kept customers coming back. The resplendent main hall has an impressive array of perfumes, accessories and other products. The department store stocks all the best designer labels and also has its own deluxe grocery counter, restaurants, a travel agency, fashion shows, Internet access and more. Its incredible Christmas window displays are a Parisian institution.

A high-class restaurant on the world's most famous avenue, Ladurée (founded in 1862) also boasts a bakery. You can try the famous “macarons” (moist jam-filled cookies), a specialty of this establishment, or enjoy the raw and cooked vegetable salad along with a variable of other dishes served for lunch and dinner.

With baking in his genes and a lifetime of experience, it's no surprise that Pierre Hermé's eponymous venture has won him many accolades. From French Pastry Chef Of The Year to Presidential honors, the pâtissier is at the forefront of 21st Century pastry making. He is most famous for his colorful macarons, which must be tried when in the city. Cakes, cookies, candied dried fruits and other sweets are sold in inventive flavors like balsamic vinegar, olives and cheese. A designer of all things sweet, indulge in his line of seasonal confectionery at this shop.

A part of the newest urban development project by the same name, Val d'Europe is a trendy shopping center which has become one of the most popular shopping destinations in Serris. Aside from a variety of shops selling clothes, gadgets, home decor items, beauty products and the like, and a number of restaurants and cafes like Starbucks, Ben & Jerry's and Veng Hour, the shopping center is also home to one of the branches of the famous Sea Life chain of aquariums. So whether you feel like going on a shopping spree or simply wish to spend an entertaining day out, Val d'Europe is a great place to come to.

Craving a bit of outlet shopping? La Vallée Village, with its meticulously manicured storefronts and spacious walkways, is a sophisticated bargain hunter's dream. Located in the up-and-coming community of Marne-La-Vallée, the shops exemplify the spirit of the region.

The world's biggest flea market welcomes 200,000 visitors each weekend. You name it and this place will have it: furniture, pictures, new and second-hand clothes, all at rock-bottom prices (especially if you're a dab hand at haggling). There's a jovial fairground atmosphere with the aroma of food wafting around and people crowding round the stalls, hoping to pick up a 1970s leather jacket or a rare Louis XV chest of drawers. Make sure you have cash on you, as stallholders seldom accept credit cards and the nearest available cash machine is always lined out.