Buying Perfume in Paris
 

I'd like to buy a bottle of Chanel #5 at a better price than I'd have to pay in the USA. Will I be able to do that in Paris or in the duty free shops at CDG? If so, where is the best place to find it?

it won't be any cheaper in France than in the States. And it very likely could cost more. The VAT is 20% and you only get back about 12%

We were in Sephora at the Champs and .... it will definetly be more expensive than the States! (don't forget the U.S. dollar is worth nothing compared to the Euro!).

ALso check out Cite Pharmacie on corner of rue Bonaparte and Rue du Four in the 6th. They have the best prices in all of Paris and all brands. I havemy list read for fall!

Surprised no one here mentions Catherine on Rue Castiglione. I've not been in years but they used to have good prices on perfume and makeup. Having said that, your best bet might be duty free.

Duty Free better than downtown

usually but amazon and shopzila

with free shipping still usually cheaper for me.

The only real deal I have ever found in Paris are the crepes

sold on the street and they are still 1 euro with no VAT tax

when I was there last they super tasty with no cover tip or

service charge.

Duty Free really isn't much cheaper than in town -- or marginally at best. They is no 'duty' but for many products the base price is higher than it should be.

I haven't priced perfume in duty free for quite some time, but for some other products I have researched pretty well -- prices at home were as good or better.

I think Catherine on rue Castiglione went out of business a couple of years ago, which is too bad b/c it was a great place.
Correct me if I am mistaken about this.

Catherine is closed and has been for some time.

You'll almost certainly find it cheaper here than anywhere in France.

Also, French Chanel No. 5 and that which you buy in the US is different! The French perfume has a different alcohol base than the US and it has a stronger and different fragrance. I've been wearing Chanel No. 5 for more than 30 years and the bottle I bought is Paris is a pretty souvenir on my dresser but I never wear it - I can't abide the smell!

Thanks to all of you! I'll buy my Chanel here at home.

Try Fragrance net often have free shipping too and the prices are good!