Les Halles
1st Arrondissement, Paris, Île-de-France, 75001
Affectionately known as “the belly of Paris,” Les Halles was once the site of Paris’ bustling central food market. A focal point of the city since the 11th century, the food stalls were dismantled in the 1970s to make room for the Forum des Halles shopping center and metro station. Completely renovated in 2010, the undulating glass-and-steel covering—known as La Canopée—is one of the most striking examples of contemporary architecture in the city.
The Basics
With an abundance of cafés, restaurants, specialty food shops, and kitchen supply stores, Les Halles remains a destination for food lovers. Take a guided food tour of Les Halles and immerse yourself in French food and wine culture. Stroll through the vibrant pedestrian area of Rue Montorgueil and discover some of Paris’ best patisseries and boulangeries. The Les Halles neighborhood is also home to the Centre Pompidou, which houses the Musée National d’Art Moderne.
Things to Know Before You Go
Les Halles is located in the 2nd arrondissement, walking distance from the Louvre.
Les Halles is a must-see for foodies and wine enthusiasts.
Rue Montorgueil is pedestrian-friendly and wheelchair accessible.
The Centre Pompidou is a must-see for any first time visitors to Paris.
How to Get There
Les Halles is located in in Paris’ 2nd arrondissement, within walking distance of the Louvre. Les Halles is easily reached via public transportation from nearly anywhere in the city. The Châtelet-Les Halles station serves several regional city and metro lines, and is considered the biggest underground station in the world.
When to Get There
Les Halles is a lively destination at all hours of the day. During the summer months, start your day early to avoid large crowds. Les Halles is known for some of the best jazz bars and nightclubs in the city making it a great place to explore in the evening as well.
Visiting the Centre Pompidou
Located between the Les Halles neighborhood and the Marais, the Centre Pompidou’s fascinating industrial facade is a work of modern art in itself. The center is home to the Musée National d’Art Moderne, which houses one of the world’s most impressive collections of modern art, including pieces by Picasso, Matisse, Léger, and others. Centre Pompidou is a popular sight, so book tickets and tours in advance to save time in lines.
Ways to explore
With an abundance of cafés, restaurants, specialty food shops, and kitchen supply stores, Les Halles remains a destination for food lovers. Take a guided food tour to immerse yourself in French food and wine culture as you stroll through the vibrant pedestrian area of Rue Montorgueil. Les Halles often features on walking or bike tours of Le Marais and itineraries focused on the city’s contemporary architecture, along with the nearby Centre Pompidou and the Musée du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac in the Eiffel Tower area.
Accessibility
The Forum des Halles is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available for loan from the reception.
Age limits
This bustling hub for dining and shopping is ideal for visitors of all ages.
What to pack
Bring a healthy appetite if you plan on sampling the fare at Forum des Halles.
What to wear
Comfortable shoes, clothing that can be layered (shops and restaurants are climate-controlled)
Not allowed
Shopping centers in Paris generally do not allow scooters, skateboards, roller blades, or bikes inside.
Amenities
Wi-Fi, storage lockers, restrooms, rest areas with electrical and USB outlets
Address
Les Halles is located in Paris’ 2nd arrondissement, within walking distance of the Louvre and other famous city sights. It’s easily reached via public transportation from nearly anywhere in the city.
Driving
Forum des Halles offers 24-hour parking with access from Rue Turbigo, making it relatively easy to reach by car. The parking lot has video surveillance, extra-wide spaces, and charging stations.
Public transportation
The Châtelet-Les Halles station sits along several regional city and metro lines, and is considered the biggest underground station in the world. Take metro lines 1, 4, 7, 11, or 14 to reach the shopping center.
Best times to visit
This urban shopping and dining hub is at its most lively at lunch and dinner times, when locals and tourists stop by to have a bite and browse the stores.
Best days to visit
Forum des Halles is open daily and is generally busiest on the weekends (opening time on Sunday is late morning). Visit on a weekday morning to shop and dine without the crowds.
Best months to visit
With climate-controlled stores and dining outlets located underneath the ground-level plaza and park, Forum des Halles is an ideal destination for all seasons.
Special events
Fashion shows, markets, food festivals, and other events are often held in the Forum des Halles spaces. Check the official website for an updated calendar.
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