Marché des Enfants Rouges Paris
Paris's oldest covered market, a vibrant hub for diverse street food, fresh produce, and a lively local atmosphere in the historic Marais district.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed browsing
Marché des Enfants Rouges Paris
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed browsing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Paris's oldest covered market, a vibrant hub for diverse street food, fresh produce, and a lively local atmosphere in the historic Marais district.
"A must-visit for food lovers seeking a global culinary journey in a historic setting, offering something for every palate."
⏰ Arrive Early on Weekends
Hit the market no later than 12 PM on weekends to avoid long waits at popular food stalls .
🗺️ Explore All Food Options
Don't just stick to the famous spots; try Moroccan, Caribbean, or other diverse cuisines .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Chez Alain Miam Miam
Inside the market
Taste legendary, generously filled sandwiches and crepes from this iconic stall, a must-try for many visitors despite potential waits.

Global Street Food Stalls
Throughout the market
Embark on a culinary journey with diverse options from Moroccan tagines to Japanese bento, Caribbean dishes, and Italian pasta, all under one roof.

Historic Market Ambiance
39 Rue de Bretagne
Soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Paris's oldest covered market, dating back to 1615, offering fresh produce, flowers, and a lively local buzz.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Plan Your Feast
Beyond the Hype: Explore All Stalls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏰ Arrive Early on Weekends
Hit the market no later than 12 PM on weekends to avoid long waits at popular food stalls.
🗺️ Explore All Food Options
Don't just stick to the famous spots; try Moroccan, Caribbean, or other diverse cuisines.
🗓️ Check Holiday Hours
Official website confirms closures on public holidays like Pentecost Sunday, so always check ahead.
🚶♀️ Wander the Marais
The market is in the Marais district; combine your visit with exploring the charming surrounding streets.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏰ Arrive Early on Weekends
Hit the market no later than 12 PM on weekends to avoid long waits at popular food stalls.
🗺️ Explore All Food Options
Don't just stick to the famous spots; try Moroccan, Caribbean, or other diverse cuisines.
🗓️ Check Holiday Hours
Official website confirms closures on public holidays like Pentecost Sunday, so always check ahead.
🚶♀️ Wander the Marais
The market is in the Marais district; combine your visit with exploring the charming surrounding streets.
💳 Be Ready for Payments
Most stalls accept card, but having some cash for smaller purchases or quick snacks is always handy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Marché des Enfants Rouges for its vibrant atmosphere and incredible diversity of international street food, making it a culinary highlight in Paris. While popular stalls like Chez Alain Miam Miam draw crowds, some find the waits long, encouraging exploration of the market's many other delicious options. It's celebrated as a lively, historic spot for a unique dining experience.
"This is a nice small market with quite a few vendors! We had some Moroccan food there and it was really good! You just order from different vendors and if they don’t have a seating area, go find somewhere to sit. It’s small and intimate. I had the eggplant with beef and my mom had what the person recommended! I just said surprise me and he did! They were both very good. 13E a plate."
duyen tong
"One enters expecting a quaint Parisian market and instead stumbles into what feels like a cheerful riot of smells, languages, and moderately controlled chaos. A Mr Wang once remarked only half the stalls were open… I suspect Mr Wang may have accidentally wandered into a nearby broom closet, or perhaps a quieter dimension entirely. When I visited, the place was brimming with life, elbow-to-elbow crowds, sizzling pans, and a queue outside nearly every counter and neighbouring bistro. A scene, frankly, more lively than most family reunions.
Alas, I had two small companions in tow — charming, sticky-fingered liabilities, which made any gastronomic escapade utterly impractical. Still, we soaked in the atmosphere: the aromas, the clatter, the murmurs in French, Japanese, Moroccan, and Brooklyn-accented English. It’s not just a market, it’s a compressed version of the world with a roof on it.
Return I shall, next time unencumbered by the under-ten demographic."
Le Duc des Critiques Malicieuses
"Great open market!!!
Lots of great looking food spots and wares
Very Parisian!!!!"
Ra Chag
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There & Around
The Marché des Enfants Rouges is conveniently located in the 3rd arrondissement of Paris, specifically at 39 Rue de Bretagne. You can easily reach it via the Paris Metro. The closest stations are Filles du Calvaire (Line 8), Arts et Métiers (Lines 3, 11), and Saint-Sébastien – Froissart (Line 8), all within a short walking distance. Many visitors enjoy combining a market visit with exploring the charming Marais district.
Yes, the market is very well-served by Paris's extensive public transport network. Several metro lines have stations nearby, making it an easy destination to reach from anywhere in the city. Buses also stop close by, offering another convenient option for your visit.
The market is a covered space, but it's quite compact. It's best to walk through slowly, taking in all the sights and smells. On busy days, especially weekends, it can get crowded, so be prepared to move at a slower pace. Don't hesitate to walk around the perimeter first to get a sense of all the different food stalls and offerings before deciding where to eat.
As the market is in a central, historic district, street parking is limited and often expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport. If driving is necessary, look for underground parking garages in the Marais area, but be prepared for a short walk to the market.
Absolutely! The market is nestled in the heart of the Marais, a vibrant neighborhood known for its boutiques, art galleries, and historic architecture. You can easily spend an entire day exploring the area, including the Picasso Museum, Place des Vosges, and numerous independent shops, making it a perfect day out in Paris.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter Marché des Enfants Rouges. It's a public covered market, so you can walk right in and browse the stalls freely. You only pay for the food, produce, or other items you choose to purchase from the vendors.
The market generally operates from Tuesday to Saturday, typically from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM, and on Sundays from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM. It is usually closed on Mondays. However, it's always a good idea to check the official website or a local guide for the most up-to-date hours, especially around public holidays like Pentecost, when it might be closed.
Generally, no. Most food stalls at Marché des Enfants Rouges operate on a first-come, first-served basis. For popular spots like Chez Alain Miam Miam, you'll join a queue. Seating is often communal or limited, so be prepared to stand or share a table. Arriving early can help you snag a spot.
As a public market, there are no specific entry requirements beyond general public etiquette. During peak times, it can get very crowded, so be mindful of your belongings and other visitors. There are no age restrictions, making it a family-friendly destination.
It depends on the specific holiday. While some markets might remain open, Marché des Enfants Rouges has been known to close on major public holidays, such as Pentecost Sunday, according to the official city website. Always check their official schedule in advance to avoid disappointment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining Experience
Marché des Enfants Rouges is a culinary melting pot! You'll find a fantastic array of international street food, including Moroccan tagines, Japanese bento, Italian pasta, Caribbean dishes, and, of course, classic French crepes and sandwiches. Beyond prepared meals, there are also stalls selling fresh produce, cheeses, and other gourmet items.
Chez Alain Miam Miam is highly popular on social media for its generous and delicious sandwiches and crepes.
Many visitors find it a highlight, but some Reddit users suggest that while good, the long waits might not always be 'worth it' given the other excellent options in the market. It's a personal preference, but if you go, try to arrive early to minimize your wait.Yes, with its diverse range of international food stalls, Marché des Enfants Rouges offers various vegetarian and often vegan options. Many stalls are happy to customize dishes or point out suitable choices. Look for fresh salads, vegetable tagines, and specific vegetarian sandwich options.
While not 'cheap' in the sense of a fast-food chain, the market offers relatively budget-friendly options compared to sit-down restaurants in Paris. Street food portions are often generous, and you can get a satisfying meal for a reasonable price. It's a great spot for trying different small eats without breaking the bank.
Seating varies by stall. Some have small counter spaces or a few tables, while others are primarily for takeaway. On busy days, seating can be very limited, and you might need to stand or find a spot to eat outside the market. Communal tables are common, adding to the lively atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience Tips
Absolutely! The market's vibrant atmosphere, colorful produce, beautifully arranged food stalls, and historic setting make it a fantastic location for photography. Capture the bustling energy, the intricate details of the food, and the unique character of Paris's oldest covered market. Many TikTok and Instagram creators highlight its photogenic qualities.
Focus on the food displays – the fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and the beautifully prepared dishes at the various stalls. The lively interactions between vendors and customers also make for great candid shots. Don't forget to capture the overall ambiance of the historic covered market itself, showcasing its unique charm.
When taking photos, be respectful of vendors and other patrons. Always ask permission before taking close-up shots of people or their stalls. Keep the flow of traffic moving, especially in crowded areas, and be mindful of your belongings. It's a friendly, local market, so a polite 'Bonjour' goes a long way.
Yes, in addition to the prepared food stalls, Marché des Enfants Rouges still functions as a traditional market. You'll find vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, bread, and flowers. It's a great place to pick up high-quality ingredients if you're staying in an apartment with a kitchen or just want some gourmet snacks.
The market has a wonderfully lively and authentic Parisian vibe. It's a blend of locals doing their daily shopping and tourists exploring the culinary delights. Expect a bustling, friendly, and aromatic experience, filled with the sounds of chatter, cooking, and the general hustle and bustle of a vibrant food hub.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the biggest crowds, making it easier to navigate with strollers or young children. While seating can be limited, the market's covered nature provides shelter from the elements. It's a great way to introduce children to different cuisines in a fun, informal setting, and they might even enjoy picking out fresh fruits or pastries.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize your budget, consider sharing dishes with travel companions to sample more options. Look for stalls offering daily specials or smaller portions. It's also a great place to pick up fresh produce or artisanal bread and cheese for a picnic, which is an even more budget-friendly way to enjoy Parisian flavors.
❤️ Couples & Romantics
Consider grabbing some delicious food and then finding a quiet spot in a nearby park, like the Place des Vosges, for a romantic picnic. The shared experience of discovering new flavors and the bustling energy of the market can be a memorable part of your Parisian adventure together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Culinary World Tour in the Marais
The market's charm comes from its ability to offer both quick, delicious street food and more substantial, sit-down meals. Many stalls have small seating areas, creating a communal dining experience where you can watch your food being prepared fresh. It's a fantastic place to try a bit of everything, making it a popular choice for those looking for a food hall experience in Paris.
Don't be swayed solely by social media hype; while popular stalls are good, the real gems are often found by venturing off the beaten path within the market. Reddit users often recommend trying the Moroccan stall or other less-hyped options for a more authentic and equally delicious experience without the long waits.
The Enduring History of Paris's Oldest Covered Market
Today, while it still offers fresh produce and artisanal goods, its primary draw has become its vibrant array of prepared food stalls. This transformation from a traditional market to a gourmet food hub showcases Paris's ability to blend history with modern culinary trends. The market's enduring presence in the Marais district makes it a living piece of Parisian history, offering a glimpse into the city's past while serving its present-day appetite.
Visiting the market is not just about eating; it's about experiencing a piece of Parisian heritage. The structure itself, with its covered walkways, evokes a sense of timelessness, making it a unique backdrop for a meal or a leisurely stroll. It's a testament to the market's resilience and adaptability that it continues to thrive as a beloved local institution and a popular tourist attraction.
Navigating the Bustle: Tips for a Smooth Visit
Once inside, the market can feel a bit like a maze of delicious aromas and tempting sights. Take your time to walk through all the aisles before committing to a single stall. This allows you to compare options, check out daily specials, and find seating if available. Be prepared for communal seating or standing room only, particularly at the most popular spots.
- Arrive early: Especially on weekends, before 12 PM.
- Explore widely: Don't just focus on one stall; discover the market's full diversity.
- Be patient: Queues are common, but the food is often worth the wait.
- Mind your belongings: As with any crowded place, be aware of your surroundings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit