Skip the Eiffel Tower keychain. Here’s what to buy if you want a piece of France that actually feels French.
Why It Matters: Souvenirs That Tell a Story
There’s something irresistible about bringing home a piece of France. But too often, souvenir shops near tourist hotspots are filled with the same mass-produced trinkets: plastic Eiffel Towers, neon berets, and fridge magnets that say "Je t’aime" in Comic Sans.
They’re cute. But they don’t capture what makes France unforgettable.
At French Wink, we curate items that feel personal, cultural, and emotionally resonant—the kind of pieces you'd actually find in a French home, a Sunday market, or a grandmother’s kitchen drawer.
Whether you're shopping in France or from afar, here are the non-touristy souvenirs that actually feel like France—and that make meaningful, memorable gifts.
1. Savon de Marseille (Traditional French Soaps)
Forget shower gel. The French know that soap is a sensory experience—and Savon de Marseille is a national treasure.
- Made with olive oil, no additives, and cured for weeks
- Sold in humble cubes or delicately perfumed bars
- Often lasts 3–4x longer than regular soap
💡 Tip: Look for real Marseille soap made in Provence—not tourist imitations made elsewhere.
Did you know?
In France, we don’t say “une barre de savon” — we say “un pain de savon” (literally bread of soap or soap loaf)
Oui, here’s always a food-related angle when it comes to all things French ;)
✨ We carry French-made soaps crafted the traditional way. Browse our Bath & Body Collection.
2. Candles That Smell Like Paris, Not Perfume
Mass-market candles often overwhelm with artificial scents. The best French candles? They whisper.
- Inspired by places, memories, seasons
- Crafted by independent makers
- Use natural waxes and essential oils
Some of our favorites evoke:
- A walk through Montmartre in spring
- A fresh baguette at sunrise
- A rainy afternoon in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Want to bring that feeling home? Explore our French Candle Collection for boutique-crafted scents with soul.
3. Gourmet Goods You’ll Actually Eat
French food is legendary—but the best edible souvenirs aren’t fancy. They’re everyday staples made exceptionally well.
- Artisanal jam (tangerine, rhubarb, or mirabelle)
- Dijon mustard that transforms sandwiches
- Chestnut cream for toast or yogurt
- Herbes de Provence for elevating roasted veggies
The key: these aren’t just for special occasions—they turn ordinary moments into rituals. Our pantry section is packed with small-batch, chef-approved delights.
4. Textiles That Tell a Story
French homes are layered with textures—linen, cotton, woven jacquard—and textiles make the most packable souvenirs.
- Tea towels from family-run ateliers
- Table runners with navy stripes
- Scarves made with regional know-how
These are gifts people use daily—and remember you for every time they do.At French Wink, we hand-select textile pieces with charm, history, and purpose.
5. French Pharmacy Finds (That Aren’t on Amazon)
Yes, everyone knows about Bioderma and Avène. But the real gems are often lesser-known:
- Gentle hand creams from apothecaries
- Plant-based tonics from heritage brands
- Essential oil blends for stress, sleep, or digestion
They’re practical, affordable, and very French. Browse our curated French pharmacy picks—as effective as they are elegant.
6. Illustration Prints or Stationery
French artists often work in soft lines, nostalgic palettes, and timeless whimsy. A small print or notebook can instantly warm up a room.
Look for:
- Famous quartier of Paris
- Humorous Recycled Notebooks
- Whimsical scenes of cafés, cats, or chic pedestrians
These pieces feel like Paris—even if you're in Pittsburgh.
7. The Thing You Almost Didn’t Buy
Let’s be honest: the most beloved souvenir is rarely the one you planned to get. It’s the one that caught your eye, made you smile, or reminded you of a moment.
Maybe it was:
- The porcelain espresso cup from that Parisian bistro under your airbnb window you wished you discreetly put in your bag
- A dusty novel from a bouquiniste by the Seine
- A locally made jam you sampled on impulse
The real magic of a souvenir is that it holds a memory, not just a logo.
Want to Skip the Plane (But Still Get the Magic)?
That’s exactly why French Wink exists. We curate the best of French lifestyle and craftsmanship, so you can:
- Shop authentic French goods from the U.S.
- Discover new brands, makers, and traditions
- Send beautiful, meaningful gifts to fellow Francophiles
