Standing underneath the glittering Eiffel Tower, inhaling the fragrant lavender of Provence, tasting a Grand Cru in Bordeaux. When we experience lavish vacations, it’s only fitting that we search high and low for that special something to remember these sweet moments. But what’s one more keychain, magnet or t-shirt? At French Side Travel, we craft custom luxury experiences, and it only makes sense to return with extraordinary souvenirs. France is filled to the brim with unique souvenirs to remember your adventures, and we’re sharing some of our favorites.
11 Unique Souvenirs to Buy (or Make) in France
Lavender Essential Oil
No need to leave the sweet fragrance of Provençal lavender when you board your return flight. Immerse yourself in the world of organic essential oil extraction, including the alembic distillation process, with a private visit. This Provençal distillery is an expert when it comes to lavender, but you’ll also have a choice of other seasonal fragrances.
Personalized Bottle of Cognac
Wine and spirits make popular souvenirs in France, but make your beverage even more memorable by bottling it yourself. During your private workshop, you’ll discover this historic distillery in Cognac as well as bottle your own cognac with a personalized label.
France Travel Book
Why wait to get back home to review photos and make a travel book? Instead, spend the afternoon watercolor painting with a local artist on the French Riviera. Create your own book of various coastal sceneries with the perfect inspiration just a matter of steps away.
Personalized French Wine
France teems with wine and vineyards, and you’ll have ample opportunity to grab a bottle of wine during your trip. But if you’re looking for a more unique souvenir, indulge in a wine-making workshop in Provence, where you’ll discover the ins and outs of winegrowing and bottling. During this workshop, you’ll even have the chance to mix the juices in order to find your own special blend.
Original Painting
After admiring some of the world’s finest masterpieces in French museums, let yourself be inspired, too. Spend the day painting with a local artist in Montmartre as you create your own original piece.
Regional French Specialities
From its buttery croissants to its frosted pastries, it’s no secret that France is known for its cuisine. And we have a variety of tours fit for foodies. Fancy a private walking gourmet tour in Bordeaux as you sample regional cheeses, chocolate and pastries, such as the cannélé? Dream of wandering the Fourviere and Vieux-Lyon neighborhoods before feasting at a traditional Bouchon Lyonnais? Interested in chatting with local shopkeepers at a food hall in Tours, a town situated on the Loire River? Imagine wandering the Toulouse food markets on the hunt for the best local wines, baguettes and meats, such as Toulouse sausage? No matter your tastes, we’re sure we know the way to your heart and your stomach. Not only can you sample these local specialities, but you also can bring some of these treats back as souvenirs. We’re sure they won’t last long!
Be sure to check airline regulations when transporting certain goods such as meats.
Hand-Woven Basket
Looking for the perfect addition to your picnic of French cheese and charcuterie? Create your own picnic basket in a private workshop on weaving and braiding baskets in the Loire Valley. You’ll also have the opportunity to chat with wicker artists and take a peek at the wicker factory.
Personalized Perfume
Feeling inspired by Chanel No. 5 or J’adore by Dior but looking for a truly unique souvenir in France? Create your very own perfume during a private workshop in Grasse. No need to feel overwhelmed by all the sweet fragrances; the Maître-Parfumeur will help you select the perfect match.
Personalized Embossed Product from Officine Universelle Buly
Looking for chic perfume or beauty products to bring back in your suitcase? Look no further than Officine Universelle Buly, a French perfumery founded in 1803. Even better, you can personalize your purchases with embossed designs or personalized calligraphy. Its locations are sprinkled across Paris, including a storefront in department store Le Bon Marché.
Artisanal Soap from Marseille
If one thing’s for sure, it’s that you can never have too much soap. If you’re looking for a unique souvenir in France that’s also practical, consider Marseille’s renowned soaps. Spend the morning on a farmer’s market visit in the Cours Julien neighborhood of Marseille. Not only will you sample delectable cheeses and wines, but you’ll also learn more about Marseille’s artisanal, colorful soaps. These souvenirs are lightweight, easy to pack and practical.
Personalized Lipstick
L’Oréal, Caudalie, Lancôme. France is filled with renowned cosmetic brands, and it won’t be hard to find them during your trip to France. But perhaps you’d like an even more unique souvenir to bring back from France. In a private workshop in Paris with the help of its makeup artists, you can craft your own personalized lipstick. Color, texture, fragrance — it’s up to you! You’ll also be able to choose if it’s matte, satin, natural, gloss or liquid matte. Bisous bisous !
Where to Stay in France
Relais de Chambord
A mere four minutes from the Château de Chambord, this hotel is at the heels of royalty. With 16th century roots, this four-star hotel offers 55 unique rooms, including a boat suite. After a day of castle exploration, you can dine at one of the hotel’s restaurants. We’re certain that you’ll be tempted by its herb-crusted venison at Le Grand Saint-Michel or a café gourmand at Les Armes du Château.
Hôtel du Couvent
This brand new hotel opens in summer in 2024 and will charm you with its 88 rooms in the heart of Old Nice. Treat yourself to a visit to its Roman-inspired thermal spa. Stroll the hotel’s farmer’s market and nosh on the hotel’s farm-to-table dining.
Ready to search for these unique souvenirs in France? Now it’s time to prepare for your luxury trip! You might be interested in: A Historical and Cultural Escape to Paris or An unforgettable Fashion and Art Trip to the City of Light. Need some help planning your trip?