One of a million reasons why I love Paris is the great numbers of small records shops scattered around the city that still survive being in business nowadays. Even though the news headlines shout “Vinyls Are Back” recently, the reality is that thousands of record stores have shut down in the last few years all over the world (thanks, digital music.) However, us vinyl lovers can always indulge on our weakness upon visiting Paris because there are still hundreds of disquaires (record shops) and flea markets offering something for just everyone in the city.
Here’s a (first) round up of my five favorites spots in Paris:
Crocodisc – 5e arrondisement
A crate digger paradise with excellent selection of vinyls with very reasonable price. Owners are super friendly and helpful, they know their music and you can happily chat with them for hours. Expect to find 1960’s rock, psych, new wave french bands and indie rock gems stacked on the floor.
42 Rue des Écoles, 75005 Paris, France
La Silence de la Rue – 11e arrondissement
Huge selection of new and used records of Hip Hop, Dance, Garage and basically everything else. Even if you’re not looking for anything in particular, the wide price range offers something for everyone. Oh and also, the shop is so cute I’ve had several photoshoots here.
39 Rue Faidherbe, 75011
Lucky Records – 4e arrondisement
Possibly the very best place in the entire world to purchase Madonna’s newest CD and vinyl in this little store in the heart of Marais. Lucky Records is a quirky, Madonna-centric shop (with two thirds of the store dedicated to the Material Girl), with virtually every remix and international music release available for purchase.
66 Rue de la Verrerie, 75004
Aux Comptoir du Chineur – 5e arrondissement
Just like every shop in Rue Saint Paul, this place is a hidden gem full of treasures, including lots of rare old records. Expect to rummage alot though because all of the records are not arranged on alphabetical order (but isn’t that the whole fun of it!). Also while you’re there, check out the Sunday Flea Market at the nearby Village Saint Paul.
49 Rue Saint-Paul, 75004 Paris
Marche Dauphine
If you have only one day in Paris to do crate digging and that day happens to be a Sunday, your best bet is to head down to Marche Dauphine because everywhere else will be closed anyway. This largest flea market in Paris opens on weekends and houses a dedicated music section (Espace Musique) on the second floor. There are just so many record shops with definitely something for everyone in all price range.
140 Rue des Rosiers
