One of my very favourite days in Paris. Actually my very favourite day in Paris!
Bastille Market / Marché Bastille is one of the largest markets in Paris and spans the length of Boulevard Richard Lenoir twice a week. Thursday from 7am – 2.30pm & Sunday from 7am – 3pm. The Thursday market is my favourite – mainly because it is a little quieter, as long as you visit early. I have since discovered that there is also a Saturday market in the same locations for arts & crafts from 9am – 6pm….. Though I am more of a food fan myself. As you know!
Bastille Market is especially atmospheric – falling in the shadow of Colonne de Juilet, ( July Column ). The column makes quite an impression -reaching up 47 metres into the sky. And so she should do – the column is engraved with the names of those who died during the July 1830 revolution. There is no sign of incarceration now, quite the opposite. A lively bustling space surrounded by cafés, bistros and the imposing Opéra Bastille.
Unfortunately, we only ventured to Bastille Market on our last day in the city…. so we couldn’t buy too much. But, true to form, we did buy plenty. Lunch that day was AWESOME. There is no shortage of stalls with spots selling everything from oysters and sea urchins to custard tarts and a stunning selection of flowers. Go hungry, leave full with supplies for days! The perfect spot if you are lucky to have bagged yourself an AirBnB or other self-catering option for your holiday. And I beg of you – EAT THE CUSTARD TARTS. EAT 5 FOR YOU, EAT 5 MORE FOR ME. They are so worth it!
Useful Info
Opening Hours – Thu 7am-2.30pm; Sat 9am-6pm (arts & crafts); Sun 7am-3pm
Address – Boulevard Richard Lenoir, 11e, Paris
Nearest Metro – Bastille
Have you visited Bastille Market? Any tips for what we must try / pick up on our inevitable return trip?
