Parisian markets, that beautiful heritage of old Paris and the history of the City of Light. It's a habit that hasn't aged a day, despite the weight of time. The capital's first market, on the Ile de la Cité, dates back to the 5th century, when Paris was still called Lutetia.
Today, Parisian markets are everywhere, in every arrondissement, in every neighborhood. They are the soul of the streets and their inhabitants. A bouquet of colors, scents and flavors. Like Parisians themselves, the capital's markets are multi-cultural and lively. There's something for every taste, every taste and every budget!
So if you'd like to take a stroll and buy some fresh produce, here's a list of the most emblematic Parisian food markets!
Le marché couvert des Enfants Rouges
39, rue de Bretagne
It's a favorite destination for residents of the 3rd arrondissement and surrounding area to buy the week's fruits and vegetables. The capital's oldest food market, opened in 1615, boasts numerous stalls. What's more, you can eat in one of the many Lebanese, Japanese, West Indian, Moroccan or Italian delicatessens and counters... A dream come true for lovers of world cuisine and street food, who can visit Tuesday to Saturday from 8.30am to 8.30pm and Sunday from 8.30am to 5pm.
Raspail organic market
Boulevard Raspail, between Rue du Cherche Midi and Rue de Rennes
This organic market has been offering a wide variety of shops on Sundays from 9am to 3pm since 1989 (yes, organic food already existed back then!). Plenty of choice and quality products ensure its place in the hearts of organic enthusiasts. In addition to traditional merchants, there are numerous Asian, Portuguese and Italian caterers on site. The only downside: prices are high.
Le marché couvert Saint-Quentin
85bis, boulevard de Magenta
If it's raining on your shopping day, why not take a trip to the Saint-Quentin covered market. In fact, even if the weather is fine, this market, housed in a beautiful covered market hall, is well worth a stop. Primeurs, cheesemongers, fishmongers, delicatessens and butchers await you to show you their specialties. And you can even eat right there at the counter. Open daily from 8am to 8pm and Sunday from 8am to 1:30pm.
Le marché couvert Saint-Martin
31-33, rue du château d'eau
Not far from the Saint-Quentin market is another attractive covered market. Smaller than its counterpart, Marché Saint-Martin still boasts a number of attractive stalls. Butchers, cheesemongers, fishmongers and delicatessens. You'll find plenty of good things to eat here, from Tuesday to Saturday, 9am to 8pm, and on Sundays, 9am to 2pm.
Belleville market
On the boulevard de Belleville median strip
The Marché de Belleville is an authentic market where local residents gather for a chat. It stretches along the central median strip, from Belleville to Ménilmontant, and offers fruit, vegetables and other goods from all over the world at very, very low prices. A cosmopolitan place, like its neighborhood, where it's a pleasure to stroll on Tuesdays and Fridays from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Le marché découvert Beauvau (formerly marché d'Aligre)
Rue d'Aligre and place d'Aligre
The Marché d'Aligre is one of the capital's most famous and liveliest markets. It attracts a rather affluent population, although there's something for everyone! Inside or outside the market hall, you can buy all sorts of things (food, of course, but also spices, flowers...), browse the second-hand stalls outside or enjoy a coffee on one of the terraces lining the market square.
Brancusi Organic Market
Place Constantin Brancusi
Just a stone's throw from the Montparnasse cemetery, this small, friendly market offers fresh, natural produce. Fish, oysters, butter, bread, pastries... There's something for everyone! What's more, prices are pretty affordable for organic produce. A must on Saturdays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.!
Les Batignolles organic market
34 boulevard des Batignolles
If you're a fan of organic produce, the Marché des Batignolles is the place for you, every Saturday from 9am to 3pm. Here, it's all about the quality of the produce. No chemicals, no pesticides, just real taste. Quality fruit and vegetables, but also fish, bread, poultry, honey, cheese and eggs. And all organic! But don't forget to budget.
Barbès market
Boulevard de la Chapelle
Also known as the 'Marché Lariboisière', this market opened in 1922 and is held on Wednesdays from 7am to 1.30pm and on Saturdays from 7am to 2.30pm, under the aerial metro. It's an authentic and lively market, where you can fill whole bags with fruit and vegetables for next to nothing. A real people's market, it attracts an eclectic mix of people. With so many people moving around, don't be afraid to make your way through the crowds!
The Place des Fêtes market
On the Place des Fêtes boulevard
Nestled at the very top of the 19th arrondissement, the Place des Fêtes market is held Tuesdays and Fridays from 7am to 1:30pm, and Sundays from 7am to 2:30pm. We go there to find fruit and vegetables direct from the growers (and to take the time to talk to them). A few organic stalls and fair prices make this market a great getaway in the neighborhood.
Food market opening times in Paris this weekend, Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th January 2025
Parisian food markets come alive every weekend for a gourmet getaway in the capital! The stalls are overflowing with local delicacies and fresh produce ready to delight your taste buds. But before you set off to discover these culinary institutions, don't forget to check the opening times. [Read more]