The Bastille Market (Marche de la Bastille) is the perfect place to start a lazy Sunday in Paris. Located on boulevard Richard Lenoir (Metro Line 1 or 5), the outdoor market is open every Thursday and Sunday.
I found it to be one of the best neighborhood markets in Paris to get fresh produce and a variety of international foods. It also makes a great stop for tourists to pick up artisan cheese, bread, and fruit for an impromptu picnic at any of the great public gardens or tourist attractions nearby.
One side of the market is also devoted to scarves, souvenirs, antiques, and flowers. If my nephew Noah was with me we would have grabbed the vintage Mickey Mouse chair. He already has an eye for shopping and a major Mickey Mouse obsession.
The market has changed over the years, but it still a local neighborhood tradition that is open every Thursday and Sunday (until 3 pm). During holidays there are usually special stands to pick up jewelry and art for gifts. I had splurged on this necklace and earnings set at a Christmas market years ago and I still get asked where I bought it every time I wear it.
The number of live cooking and tasting stations have increased over the years. The variety is amazing – everything from fresh crepes, to oyster tasting, and paella stations.
There are several African and Lebanese food stands as well.
Plenty of food stalls for meat lovers too!
The produce, cheese, and spice stalls are filled with top quality French produce and exotic fruit from all over the world.
Unfortunately, the artisan cheeses I purchased were confiscated at the airport (next time I will have to pack them in checked luggage).
A stroll through the market reminds me that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to eat or live well in Paris.
Spring flowers were out in abundance as well.
