Marché des Enfants Rouges

The basics

Located right off the bustling Rue de Bretagne, the Marché des Enfants Rouges has origins dating back to the 17th century. Following an extensive refurbishment in 2000, the market has evolved into one of the city’s most popular shopping destinations for both local and visiting food lovers. On-site vendors cook up everything from Japanese dishes to Lebanese platters, and it’s also possible to browse for bread, fruits and vegetables, and other edible souvenirs.

The Marché des Enfants Rouges is included on Marais walking tours, culinary itineraries, and private sightseeing tours. If you find yourself in the area, it’s also easy to swing by for a quick and tasty lunch.

Things to know before you go

• The Marché des Enfants Rouges is a good alternative for those seeking a more casual or relaxed way to dine out in Paris (no reservations required).

• As the market has narrow walkways and attracts crowds, it may pose challenging for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.

• Many of the traders have their own seating areas; alternatively, take your food to go and head to a nearby public square for a picnic experience.

How to get there

To reach the Marché des Enfants Rouges by public transportation, take Métro line 8 to Filles du Calvaire station. Alternatively, use bus lines 75 or 96, or travel on foot, by car, or by Vélib’ bike. Note that the market has two entrances: one on the Rue de Bretagne, and one on the Rue Charlot.

When to get there

The Marché des Enfants Rouges is open Tuesday–Saturday, from approximately 8:30am–7:30pm, and on Sunday from roughly 9am–2pm; note that individual traders’ hours may vary. The market is at its busiest during lunch hours (or brunch on weekends); visit during other times if you wish to avoid the crowds.

Highlight vendors

Among the many individual eateries at the Marché des Enfants Rouges, highlights include the L’Estaminet des Enfants Rouges bistro, Chez Takeo (popular for its bento boxes), and Le Traiteur Marocain, which serves up couscous and other classic Moroccan dishes.

Ways to explore

Stroll through the market’s narrow aisles, lined with vendors, and soak up the always buzzing atmosphere before settling on a venue and dining at one of the stall’s counters or communal tables or taking your food to eat in a nearby square, like the Place des Vosges. It’s a great place to refuel while exploring the Marais district, as it’s near attractions like the Picasso Museum. The Marché des Enfants Rouges is typically included on Marais walking tours, food-focused tours, and bike tours around Paris.

Accessibility

While surfaces are flat, the market’s narrow walkways and crowds may pose a challenge for visitors with limited mobility.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Bring cash for vendors who don’t accept cards.

What to wear

Comfy shoes, stretchy pants

Not allowed

Pets, smoking indoors

Amenities

Basic restrooms

Address

The Marché des Enfants Rouges is in Paris’ Marais district. It has two unassuming entrances: one on the Rue de Bretagne and one on the Rue Charlot.

Driving

While you could drive to the Marché des Enfants Rouges, navigating Parisian traffic and vehicle restrictions is tricky. Hail a taxi or book a rideshare instead.

Public transportation

The market is a 5-minute walk from Filles du Calvaire Métro station, on Line 8. Alternatively, bus lines 75 and 96 stop nearby at Square du Temple.

Best times to visit

The market gets very crowded at lunchtime, so try to arrive before or after.

Best days to visit

While Saturdays and Sundays are busy, weekends offer the widest choice of vendors (not all stalls are open on weekdays).

Best months to visit

The warm days of spring are best for strolling around Marais and dining outdoors. Plus, the fruit and vegetables are ripe.