Marche Couvert des Enfants Rouges

Nestled in the heart of the 3rd arrondissement, Marche Couvert des Enfants Rouges is a historic covered market that has been a beloved local institution since the 17th century. The market gets its name from a nearby orphanage where children dressed in red, and today it remains a bustling hub for food lovers. Visitors can wander through a maze of stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, and flowers, but the real draw is the array of prepared food vendors offering everything from Moroccan tagines and Japanese bento boxes to classic French crêpes and Italian pasta. The market's narrow aisles are always crowded with locals grabbing lunch or shopping for dinner ingredients, creating an authentic Parisian experience. Unlike many tourist-heavy spots, this market retains a genuine neighborhood feel, making it a perfect place to soak up local culture while enjoying delicious street food at communal tables.

Don't miss

• Sample international street food: Moroccan, Japanese, Italian, and French specialties.
• Shop for fresh produce, cheeses, and charcuterie from local vendors.
• Enjoy a meal at the communal tables surrounded by locals.
• Visit the flower stall for a colorful bouquet.
• Explore the surrounding Marais neighborhood after your visit.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Marche Couvert des Enfants Rouges

Cheapest way inMontmartre and the Sacré-Coeur with the best guides in Paris4.1★ · 305 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$29 per personSee dates →Most bookedParis Montmartre Walking Tour Best Art Culture and Food4.9★ · 2,820 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$37 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleMontmartre District and Sacre Coeur - Exclusive Guided Walking Tour5★ · 362 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$60 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Bring cash, as some smaller vendors don't accept credit cards.
• Come hungry! The food stalls offer a wide variety of cuisines to try.
• The market is closed on Mondays; check for other closures.
• Expect crowds, especially during peak lunch hours.

A bit of history

Established in 1615, Marche Couvert des Enfants Rouges is the oldest covered market in Paris. It was named after a nearby orphanage for children dressed in red uniforms, which operated until the 18th century.