Beauvais Shopping
Travelers, who land at the low-cost airport at Beauvais, France, and zip off to Paris some 85 km south, may miss some fun shopping opportunities within Beauvais itself. The airport is located 3.5 km northeast of the city of Beauvais.
In addition to its ambitious cathedral, Beauvais also carries in its heritage the state manufacture of tapestry, and has worked in this industry, by royal charter, since 1664. This city also manufactures various kinds of woolen and cotton goods, toys, brushes, and shoes and boots. Manufacturers in Beauvais also make bricks and tiles.
With this manufacturing background, the city of Beauvais offers an industrial area replete with large department stores, which carry a multitude of items.
And, in the town center, shoppers will be cheered to learn that Beauvais has a very compact shopping zone. Those prowling for great finds can walk from one end of the shopping area to the other within 15 minutes. Watch for antique shops in this central zone. If you've a hankering for French fashion, whether it be clothing, eyewear, footwear, or other accessories, trolling time will be well-spent at the Gambetta and Carnot streets, where shops showcase such items as fashion apparel, jewelry, books, decorative art, sporting goods, perfume, wine, fresh French products, pottery, toys, furniture, and the department store "Les Galeries Lafayettes."
Les Galeries Lafayettes, as can be imagined, offers a plethora of products, ranging from baby care and clothing items, to clothing items for children, men and women; food items ranging from luxury lines to a wide scope of grocery needs; and fashion accessories, including jewelry, hats, bags, shoes and leather goods.
While downtown, shop the selection of regional products, and pick up a souvenir or two, as well.
Food shopping opportunities are also available, including bakeries and pastry shops, butcher shops, delicatessens, and chocolate, cheese and fishmonger shops.
Watch for the fresh produce market offered in Beauvais on Wednesday and Saturday mornings; it will be found at the Place des Halles.
After shopping, plenty of food and drink establishments are available to take the edge off your hunger; options range from sit-down restaurants to cafes; you can also sample French beverages in the local cafes/bars.