Samaritaine (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Samaritaine?
What makes it 86% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler can enter free, photograph the Art-Nouveau décor, join €15 history tours, relax in cafés, and reach the store easily by metro, so it offers varied low-stress activities for one.
Positives:
- Free Admission: No entry fee. You can explore all public areas at your own pace.
- Central Location: Steps from Châtelet–Les Halles station and within walking distance of the Louvre and Notre Dame.
Challenges:
- Weekend Crowds: Narrow galleries fill quickly on Saturdays and Sundays after 11:00.
- Advance Booking Needed: Tours and spa treatments require online reservation to secure a spot.
What is Samaritaine?
- A landmark Parisian department store housed in a restored Art Nouveau and Art Deco complex
- A multi-level retail emporium presenting luxury fashion, beauty products, home décor and food and beverage venues
- An architectural ensemble melding 19th-century decorative heritage with sleek contemporary design
What is so special about Samaritaine for solo trip?
- Free solo exploration of Art Nouveau and Art Déco architecture
- Guided tours reveal hidden design stories
- Cafés and mini spa treatments for quick solo indulgence
- Central Seine-side spot near Louvre and public transit
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to admire the Art Nouveau decor, join the 1.5 h architecture tour, and enjoy a café break without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Samaritaine
Admire Art-Nouveau Details:
Wander beneath the restored iron staircases, glass-brick domes and decorative frescoes.
Tip: Start on the ground floor and circle up each level to catch all design details.
Join Guided Architecture Tour:
Take the weekly group tour to access hidden corners and historical stories.
Tip: Book in advance on the DFS Samaritaine site and arrive 10 minutes early.
Coffee & Pastry Break:
Grab an espresso and fresh croissant at the level 1 café.
Tip: Sit by the window for people-watching along the Seine.
Express Spa Mini-Treatment:
Relax with a 30–50 min facial or massage at Cinq Mondes.
Tip: Drop in after your tour; express slots fill quickly on weekends.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Samaritaine
- Visit Weekday Mornings: Arrive around 9:30 to beat peak visitor flow.
- Pre-book Tours: Reserve your architecture tour at dfs.com/samaritaine at least one day before.
Reviews of Samaritaine
Ignatius Lim
Special thanks to Yaya and Laurina at the Samaritaine watch department for going above and beyond to secure a great deal on my watch in November 2025. Extra thanks to Yaya for patiently guiding us through the CDG tax return process and helping us with shopping requests in other departments as well, truly appreciated!! Outstanding service overall, and looking forward to see you both again soon!!
Azar
The Samaritaine department store was founded in 1870 by Ernest and Marie-Louise Cognacq, who started with a small shop on the Seine near the Pont Neuf bridge. The secret of their success was not in sudden wealth, but in the gradual accumulation of capital, the ability to work together, and the ability to capture the spirit of the times — the growing demand for affordable fashion for the middle cla...
Putri Dumadi
Best shopping mall in the heart of Paris city, the classic and most iconic one. I love this one better because it less crowded and the toilet is warm. Located near the Pont Neuf and make it reachable to enjoy the beautiful city sunset moment 🌅
K Palatianos
Extraordinary interior design (with a metal truss building), very fashionably renovated, part of the LVMH Empire, with Louis Vuitton across the street. Purchased a few little souvenirs, but the all-designer merchandise was out of my price range.
Amrita Tej Kaur
Beautiful mall with many different shops. Very delightful place in the middle of Paris to get some shopping experience. I loved their women shoes department on the top floor! Many beautiful choices to buy or to see the latest trends in fashion.
When is the best time to visit Samaritaine (Paris, France)?
In summer, dine on the rooftop terraces for open-air views. On rainy days, explore the covered galleries and inner courtyards without getting wet.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry (free) | EUR 0 |
| Architecture tour | EUR 15 |
| Coffee & pastry | EUR 8 |
| Express facial | EUR 70 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 93 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Samaritaine
Address: 9 R. de la Monnaie, 75001 Paris, France
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About Samaritaine
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+33 1 88 88 60 0010 BEST nearby Activities
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