I love Paris markets (marchés). They are great opportunities to buy fresh produce, meats, fish, and of course cheese. But they also offer a glimpse into French life. The vendors vary from friendly to pushy to bored to wildly enthusiastic. And in amongst the food you'll also find clothing, household goods, and flowers. And don't forget about the famous Paris Flea Markets!

By law, each arrondissement must have a market at least two days a week. Some of these are open air markets that travel from place to place, and there are also about a dozen covered markets that are open every day (minus a day off).

The covered markets of Paris are quite varied, from the oldest at Les Enfants Rouges to the upscale Marché couvert Saint-Germain. More...

Paris open-air street markets move from location to location, so you need to know when the quiet square you walk through will be transformed into a paradise of produce and other products. Most markets take place in the morning, and there are few on Mondays. If there is an open air market, dates and times will be posted on signs in the area. More...

There are also "market streets," that may not appear on an official list of markets, but they definitely count. Places such as Rue Mouffetard, Rue de Buci, Rue Cler, and Rue Montorgueil offer wonderful markets along with a variety of restaurants and shops. More...

Looking for organic produce? In France that's called bio, short for biologique. Many markets will include organic stalls, and there are also three strictly bio markets.

Don't forget the flower markets, particularly on Île de la Cité and by the Church of the Madeleine. The large flower market on Île de la Cité (Marché aux Fleurs) is transformed to a bird market on Sundays.

And of course, Paris has long been known for its flea markets, or Marché aux Puces. Although Clingnancourt (St. Ouen) may be the best known, there are several to choose from. More...

Some markets include restaurants or informal eating areas within their boundaries, while others will provide you with an abundant picnic. If you rent an apartment, market shopping can help you produce simple and nourishing meals at home, when you need a break from restaurant meals (and prices).

If you're headed to nearby Versailles, try to arrange your visit on one of the market days there to see a beautiful large market.

Paris markets are a true delight to the eyes and the stomach. Identifying local markets and market days is always one of the first things I do when I arrive in Paris.

---

Paris Shopping Covered Markets in Paris Market Streets What to See and Do Covered Passages Paris Hotels Restaurant Areas in Our Meals in Paris Food & Drink in Paris Paris Transportation Finding Your Way in Paris