I’m frequently asked for recommendations about the best markets in Paris and how to find them. The “best” markets are topics of many other posts on this website, so I won’t dive into that here. Instead, this post offers suggestions for how to navigate your way to the markets. No one wants to waste valuable time, especially during a short trip. I’ll continue offering practical tips in other posts, so keep checking back for more.
L’Indispensable
I recommend buying a copy of Paris Pratique Par Arrondissement published by L’Indispensable, which you can find at many kiosks. It’s small but remarkably thorough and up-to-date. Far more convenient than those unwieldy fold-out maps that never seem to return to their compact size, it includes all Paris street names in an alphabetical listing with a reference to their arrondissement. The maps are organized by arrondissement. GPS apps are a great option too, but sometimes I’ve been led astray by them. Personally, I wouldn’t head off to the markets without this handy little reference in my back pocket.
Before setting out, check the Markets of Paris, 2nd ed. to know which markets are open that day and when. This is critical because it’s a disappointment to show up at a market on the wrong day or shortly after it has closed. Pick one that suits your location and interests.
Then I rely on the RATP website for figuring out the best way of getting there. Many tourists consider Métro trains the only option for getting around, but in fact it’s easy and sometimes preferable to take a bus instead. The RATP site calculates the routes if going by train, bus, or foot. During my stays in Paris, I often get around on the #63 bus, a.k.a the “magic bus” because its route covers so much ground and passes numerous markets.
The Magic Bus #63
And you’re on your way!
Related Links:
Tips #2 and 3: Early vs Late & Photo Permissions
Tip #4: Timing Matters
Tip #5: The Best Flea Markets in Paris
To Market to Market But Which Kind?