Marché d’Aligre
25-11 Rue d’Aligre, Paris, Île-de-France, 75012
With origins dating to the 18th century, the Marché d’Aligre is one of central Paris’ most bustling markets, and is particularly popular among adventurous foodies. It features an open-air section and a covered area—sometimes referred to as the Marché Beauvau—with bakeries, cheese shops, butchers, produce vendors, specialty stalls, and a flea market. Several well-rated cafés, restaurants, and wine bars surround this culinary paradise.
The Basics
With origins dating to the 18th century, the Marché d’Aligre is one of central Paris’ most bustling markets, and is particularly popular among adventurous foodies. There are bakeries, cheese shops, butchers, produce vendors, and other specialty stalls; the market is also surrounded by a number of well-rated cafés, restaurants, and wine bars. In addition to its gastronomic plenty, the Marché d’Aligre also features flea market finds, including everything from vintage glassware and cutlery to stylish furnishings.
The Marché d’Aligre can be visited on walking tours of the Bastille neighborhood, and it’s a popular stop during food-themed walks around Paris. Given the market’s convenient location, it can also be explored independently, as long as you don’t mind braving the crowds.
Things to Know Before You Go
The Marché d’Aligre attracts crowds and includes narrow thoroughfares; as such, it may be difficult for visitors with limited mobility to access.
Come prepared to chat and banter with the friendly and approachable vendors.
Arrive around closing time to score some of the best deals and discounts.
How to Get There
Located in the 12th arrondissement, the Marché d’Aligre can be reached by Metro. Take Line 8 to Ledru-Rollin or Faidherbe-Chaligny (the Bastille and Nation transit hubs are also within walking distance). Alternatively, take the 20, 29, 61, 65, 76, 86, 87, or 96 buses. The market can also be reached on foot, by Vélib’ bike, or by car.
When to Get There
The Marché d’Aligre is closed Monday. The outdoor market is open Tuesday to Friday from 7:30am to 1:30pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 7:30am to 2:30pm. The covered market (also known as the Marché Beauvau) is open Tuesday to Friday from 9am to 1pm and 4pm to 7:30pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 1pm and 3:30pm to 7.30pm.
Other Local Highlights
In addition to the market’s own attractions, there are a number of nearby shops and eateries that are worth exploring. Venture to Café Aouba for coffee, Le Baron Rouge for wine and oysters, Mokonuts for inspired baked goods, and much more.
Ways to explore
One of Paris’ liveliest markets, the Marché d’Aligre can be visited on walking or cycling tours of the Bastille neighborhood, and it’s a popular stop on food-themed itineraries and guided market visits around the city. This is where Parisians constructed the barricades in 1789, so French Revolution history buffs will also want to get a glimpse of this bustling square. Given the market’s convenient location in the 12th Arrondissement, it can be explored independently, as long as you don’t mind braving the crowds. After browsing the market, move on to other nearby sights, including Place de la Bastille, Bastille Opera House (Opéra Bastille), and Bois de Vincennes, the largest park in Paris.
Accessibility
The market is wheelchair accessible, but its crowds can be challenging to navigate.
Age limits
None; kids love browsing this colorful market for sweet treats and flea market treasures.
What to pack
Cash (not all vendors accept cards), camera, tote bag
What to wear
Comfortable shoes, layers
Not allowed
Many vendors prefer that customers refrain from handling their goods on display, so ask before touching.
Amenities
Public restrooms in nearby Square Trousseau, shops, eateries
Address
Located in the 12th Arrondissement, the Marché d’Aligre is a bit far to walk from most of the famous sights in central Paris. However, it’s well-connected by public transportation, either via metro or bus.
Driving
Navigating the narrow streets around the market can be challenging, so opt to travel by public transportation.
Public transportation
Take line 8 to Ledru–Rollin or Faidherbe–Chaligny; the Bastille and Nation transit hubs are also within walking distance. Numerous city routes stop at Ledru–Rollin.
Best times to visit
Hours vary for the indoor and outdoor sections; if you’d like to visit both, arrive in the morning as the outdoor area typically closes just after lunchtime. The indoor area shuts for a few hours in the early afternoon, before reopening for a period between late afternoon and evening.
Best days to visit
The market is packed on weekends and closed on Mondays, so browse Tuesday through Friday. Opening hours are shorter on Sundays, so only visit then if you can come in the morning.
Best months to visit
Spring or fall to enjoy browsing the outdoor section of the market when temperatures are mild.
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