Food Markets: Taste Paris like a Local

Despite its capital status, Paris is perfectly capable of serving up a laid-back village vibe if you know where to go – and since the market is an unmistakeable symbol of French al-fresco life, it makes no sense to leave here without tracking one down.

One of Paris’ largest is the Marché Bastille, which floods Boulevard Richard Lenoir with stalls of local cheeses, free-range chicken, excellent fish, olives and saucisson. Alternatives are the Marché Mouffetard and neighbouring Marché Monge, where stallholders take particular pride in their produce – the beekeeper turns up in person to sell his honey – and senses will be overwhelmed by the perfectly-positioned patés and piles of sticky pâtisserie. Organic food fans should keep Saturday and/or Sunday morning free for the fabulous Marché Biologique des Batignolles and Marché Raspail. Head to the cosmopolitan Marché des Enfants Rouges if you want a meal you can eat on the spot.