Paris has a lot of open markets in its 20 arrondissements, but Marché de la Bastille will always be a nostalgic favorite for me. Substantially, it’s about the same as the others. It’s one of the bigger markets in the city, with over 100 stalls selling everything from produce and meats to flowers and clothing and knickknacks. And as one of the easiest and most central open air markets, it’s an easy one to hit whenever you’re visiting.
The market extends from Place de la Bastille along Boulevard Richard-Lenoir every Thursday and Sunday morning, filling the tree-lined street with an abundance of things to see, hear and smell. Like any good French market, there are dedicated stands to all sorts of local goods: fresh bread, rotisserie chicken, a stand specializing in brie, another one in local olives, and another on local soaps and candles.
But the reason I go to this market is for breakfast on the go. Not something you get to do often in this city, but it’s somewhat socially acceptable in this setting. There’s a Breton vendor about halfway into the market that sells galettes fresh made to order, as well as kouign amanns (a rare sight in Paris).
If you’re ever in the neighborhood on a Thursday or Sunday, make it a point to walk through. It’s a lovely detour and outdoor activity. You won’t leave empty handed (or at least, with an empty stomach).
the details
| Address | Boulevard Richard-Lenoir, 75011 Paris |
| Yelp | https://www.yelp.com/biz/marché-bastille-paris-3 |
| Hours | 07-14h Thursday and Sunday |
| Price | $-$$, some pretty affordable bites here, but it’s not necessarily cheaper than your local Monoprix |
| Aesthetic | charming open market vibes that immerses you in the neighborhood |
good to know
Go here for: a nice morning walk, picking up some picnic goods
Don’t miss: my favorite stand from Brittany for savory buckwheat galettes (highly recommend the egg, cheese and sausage galette – oeuf, fromage, saucisse)
Amount of time to spend: give yourself at least 30 minutes to leisurely walk through
When to come: mid-morning is best for when the market is in full swing
Getting here: the market is very easily accessible by metro, Bastille (lines 1, 5, 8) and Bréguet – Sabin (line 5).
Other things to note:
- On Saturdays, there is an arts and crafts market here instead.
- Generally pretty tourist friendly, since this market gets a lot of traffic.
- Bring cash!
Last visited: May 2019
Last updated: May 2021
