From food to books and flowers to antiques, Parisian markets offer a multitude of shopping opportunities. These marchés, which pop up on a weekly (or even daily) basis around the city, are popular with locals and tourists alike. We’ve put together a list of the best of the city’s timeless and charming markets, including a much-awaited Christmas special.
Trocadéro on Ice: Christmas Village
Paris’ beloved Christmas event is returning to the 16th arrondissement on December 15 this year. With an extensive market, including stalls of treats and presents, snowmen, igloos and even an ice rink, the Place du Trocadéro’s Christmas Village is not one to miss this winter.
Marché Mouffetard
As Hemingway described it, Marché Mouffetard is a “wonderful, narrow crowded market street.” Rue Mouffetard’s cobbled road is transformed into a culinary dream with fishmongers, butchers, greengrocers and bakers selling some of the best regional and national organic produce. It’s hard to get more traditionally French than this.
Marché aux Fleurs et aux Oiseaux
Marché aux Fleurs et aux Oiseaux is one of Paris’ most unique and long-standing markets, specializing in flowers and birds. Near Notre Dame cathedral and the Conciergerie, the flower part of the market is open every day whereas the bird traders only arrive on Sundays. With doves, budgies and plants galore, you’re in for quite a sight.
Les Puces de Montreuil
A bargain-hunter and antiquarian’s dream, Les Puces de Montreuil is a charming flea market that’s a bit of a trek from central Paris. Although patience and a keen eye are virtues here, it’s rare to go home without a treat – there’s something for everyone, from vintage clothes to retro furniture. For the best dealers, head to the end of the alley near the Periphérique and don’t forget your haggling skills.
Marché des Bouquinistes
Marché des Bouquinistes – the booksellers’ market – has existed since the 16th century. Stitched on both the Left and Right Banks of the Seine, this daily market runs for almost two miles and is a cultural must-do in Paris. Old books, new books, comics, novels – you name it, one of the many bookstalls will have it.
Marché des Enfants Rouges
As the oldest covered market in Paris, the Marché des Enfants Rouge is a gastronome’s heaven. From Tuesday through Sunday, fishmongers, butchers, cheesemongers, bakers and florists congregate in Paris’ 3rd arrondissement for some of the best produce in town. Be ready for a gastronomic delight (and probably some crowds).
(Main image: © iStock/Thinkstock)
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose Paris guide covers all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas
