CityPharma

Sure, there are pharmacies all around Paris, but when I’m really in need of a French beauty product fix, I head directly to CityPharma in Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

This massive, multi-level pharmacy offers the best prices in Paris with discounts of up to 30%!

CityPharma carries over 500 different cosmetic brands from labels you can find worldwide to smaller brands that you can only buy in Paris. You’ll find everything from skincare products, makeup, vitamins, haircare, organic products, to sunscreen and more. You can also purchase medicine and fill prescriptions.

Because of its size and incredible selection, the CityPharma experience can be a little bit overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help make your shopping experience go as smoothly as possible. 

• Go early. CityPharma opens at 8:30 am during the week and 9am on Saturday, and those are the best times to go. There’s nearly always a crowd and the aisles can get a little tight. Even though there are always lines, the checkout process moves quickly. CityPharma offers soft baskets to use when you’re shopping and has bags available for free after checkout. 
• Do your research. Make a list of products you’re interested in before you go, it’ll make your shopping trip more efficient. 
• Ask for help. Whether you need help finding a product’s location or just want a recommendation, there are over 30 employees who are there to help. These employees can usually take a quick glance at your skin and immediately identify products that will work for you. 
• Bring your passport. CityPharma offers a VAT refund of 12% on purchases over 175€ for traveler, but you’ll need your actual passport, not just a photo. 

Products I always have in my basket include Bioderma Micellar Water, Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse, Emboryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré, Caudalie Hand and Nail Cream, and Homéoplasmine (available behind the counter at checkout). 

CityPharma is open Monday–Friday 8:30 am–9 pm and Saturday 9 am–9 pm. It’s closed on Sundays.

Get the full French beauty experience at one of these Top Spas in Paris for a day of pampering or add a creative touch with our Beauty & A Bag experience.