Where to get the Best Macarons in Paris in 2023
Arguably, where to get the best macaroons in Paris is one of the most debated topics of the city. Food addicts and tourists alike come from around the world to get their hands on the best macarons in Paris. As someone who was born with a sweet tooth, I can tell you I have eaten a ton of French Macarons in Paris!
Before I jump into where to get the best macarons in Paris, I’m going to give you a quick history lesson on macarons. While the origin of the macaron isn’t 100% clear, many believe it was actually brought over to France from Italy in the 1500s by Catherine de Medici and her pastry chefs. However, it wasn’t until 1792 that Macarons begin to become popular.
During the French Revolution, Carmelite nuns baked and sold macarons and became known as the macaron sisters. At the time, the macarons were very simple. They were made with ground almonds, egg whites, and sugar. No special flavors. No filling. Just 100% cookie. Today, a macaron is much more complex and flavorful.
Below, I’m breaking down for you everything you need to know about macarons in Paris. I will talk about where to get the best macarons in Paris, the most famous macarons in Paris, the average price of a macaron, and where you can buy macarons in Paris. Warning, this article might leave you hungry.
Where to get the best macarons in Paris
Welcome to the macaron showdown. In short, the top 4 places to get Macarons in Paris are Pierre Hermé, Laudrée, Carette, and Fauchon! I’ve enjoyed macarons at each of these places multiple times, and I highly recommend them all! Keep reading for more details at each place.
Pierre Hermé – If you’ve never been nor heard of Pierre Hermé when you are in Paris, that must change. In my opinion, Pierre Hermé has mastered the macaron. His macarons are baked to perfection and are bursting with unique flavors.
Pierre Hermé is known for constantly pushing the envelope when it comes to new flavors. He is always mixing different ingredients to come up with incredible creations. Of course there are the traditional flavors that you can always find, but every season he releases new flavors for a limited time.
My favorite Pierre Hermé flavors are Mogador (milk chocolate and passion fruit), Infiniment Vanille de Madagascar, and Salted-Butter Caramel. It's very hard for me to choose my favorite because I love them all!
Ladurée – In the 1900s, Laudrée was accredited to taking two cookies and fill them with Ganache. You’ve most likely seen Laudrée on Instagram, as it is one of the most Instagrammable macaron shop in Paris. My first experience hearing about Laduree was on gossip girl. I remember Blair Waldorf talking and snacking on Ladurée macarons.
This is definitely a place where you can go for a chic tea-time, or just sit and relax while you are in Paris. They are known for having incredible, simple flavor macarons. Some of my favorite flavors include: Vanilla, chocolate, and rose.
Carette – Another popular place in Paris to get macarons is Carette. Although Carette is mostly known for their famous hot chocolate, they also have delicious macarons. Expect to find simple yet delicious flavors at Carette. If you visit Paris in the summer, I highly recommend you grab an outdoor seat, relax and stay a while.
Carette offers simple yet delicious flavors. My favorite flavors include: salted butter caramel, dark chocolate, and a few fruity flavors. It is important to note that Carette is a full café where you can even order food.
Fauchon – Fauchon is often overlooked for macarons because they make some of the most delicious éclairs and chocolate in the city. However, if you haven’t already been to Fauchon it is a definite must if you're visiting the city.
They make very traditional macarons and are bursting with flavor. These tasty macarons make for a delicious dessert. My personal favorite includes the white chocolate with milk chocolate center, fruity dark chocolate, and caramel.
What is the price of a macaron in Paris
The price of the macaron in Paris can vary by location. On the high end, you have macarons costing upwards of 4 Euros for a macaron. On the low end, a macaron in Paris will cost you about 1 Euro (sometimes you can find them even cheaper!).
On average, you will probably spend about 2.50 Euros per macaron. The reason these french cookies hold a hefty price tag is because they are very complicated to make. Trust me, I’ve attempted to make my own a few times at Galeries Lafayette macaron class!
Are the best Macarons in Paris worth the price?
I can say 100% without a doubt in my mind that macarons are definitely something you should splurge on while you are in Paris. I typically splurge on macarons once or twice a month. If you are trying to save money, avoid buying those fancy boxes the macarons come in, you can always opt in for the bag.
Where can I find Cheap Macarons in Paris?
Perhaps, you are traveling to Paris on a budget and want to indulge in macarons in Paris. I’ve listed 3 places below that you can buy cheap macarons in Paris, but still satisfy your macaron craving. You don’t have to spend a hefty price tag on these little cookies. These cheaper alternatives are very delicious.
One place that might come as a shock to you is that McDonald's café has macarons, and surprisingly these cheap macarons taste great! The second place I recommend is more of a generic recommendation: at your local bakery. Most bakeries in Paris carry macarons at a discounted price. They know that they aren't specialized in macarons, but still like to offer them to tourist. The final place to get cheap macarons is at a chain called Paul's. At Paul's, you'll be able to get macarons for slightly under 1 Euro.
Where to buy the best macarons in Paris?
The great news about Paris is that you can buy macarons at several different locations. You can buy them at a macaron only shop, at a bakery, and pastry shops. Even inside big department stores in Paris, you will find macarons. Finally, if you don’t have time to buy or try macarons while you are in Paris, there are a few places at the airport that allow you to buy them.
If I only had time to go to one Macaron Place in Paris where should I go?
If for whatever reason, you only have time to visit one macaron place while you are in Paris, or even if you are stopping through the airport. I highly recommend Pierre Hermé.
It is hands down the best, most flavorful, and delicious macaron in Paris. I can guarantee you will be left satisfied. If you are like me, you'll become addicted to his macarons. As I mentioned above, my favorite flavor is Mogador. I highly recommend you order this one in your bundle of macarons.
How long are Macarons good for?
By the time you buy a macaron, it is already 24 hours old. They have a short shelf life, of only 48 hours. Macarons are not the best gift to bring back home if you are traveling internationally. If you put them in the refrigerator, you may be able to get another 48 hours out of them. Macarons taste the best when they are fresh.
To summarize, where to get the best macarons in Paris. If you are looking for a macaron that is bursting with flavor and unlike any other macaron you will try in Paris, then Pierre Hermé is where you should go. If you are looking for traditional flavors such as vanilla, rose, chocolate then I highly recommend Laudree.
I would love to hear your thoughts on the best macarons in Paris in the comments below. What is your favorite macaron in Paris?
Sincerely Petite in Paris,
Diane
