The luxurious covered market in the heart of the capital
Next stop: Saint-Germain-des-Prés. In the midst of literary cafés, theaters and universities, a new cultural rendezvous awaits you. In the heart of this bustling epicenter, discover the Marché Saint-Germain. Refined and uncluttered, this covered market welcomes international names and renowned restaurants under its arches. It’s the perfect place for a chic, serene stroll.
The historically artistic district of Saint-Germain-des-Prés is the host, and welcomes you. A residence for Parisian intellectuals of the time, it bears a strong cultural and architectural heritage. Stroll its streets, hang a padlock on the Pont des Arts, visit its abbeys, and take a break at Café de Flore.
Anecdotes and curiosities about Marché Saint-Germain
1.A market and two Napoleons
Inspired by Italian public squares, architect Jean-Baptiste Blondel proposed the creation of 4 galleries surrounding a 6,900 m2 rectangle as part of Napoleon I’s project to beautify Paris. The first Marché Saint-Germain was born in 1817. In 1960, Napoleon III added a roof to the building at the request of shopkeepers, transforming it into the covered market we know today.
2. Saved by an association
In the 1970s, the City of Paris planned to demolish the Saint-Germain market to build a massive housing complex, including a supermarket, public facilities, housing and offices. To counter this demolition, in January 1971, an association for the defense of the market proposed a project respecting the original architecture while integrating modern facilities. After an 18-year struggle , a project more respectful of the original building was finally chosen in 1989, and the market site and its surroundings were declared a heritage site.
What can you do at Marché Saint-Germain?
The Saint-Germain market offers a diversified shopping experience in addition to its food halls, with the presence of four international brands: Apple Store, Nespresso, Uniqlo and Mark & Spencer Food. And if you fancy a gourmet break or an exceptional meal, two prestigious restaurants await you. Chef Baptiste Trudel, a Top Chef 2021 candidate, treats visitors to his cuisine at Le Mordu, while Bistro Camdeborde offers a refined culinary experience. A variety of options to suit all tastes in this iconic location.
At the moment, you can discover the Spanish dance show We Call it Flamenco in Paris. Treat yourself to an Andalusian evening without paying for a ticket, and let yourself be carried away by singing, guitar playing and fiery dance steps.
