Background

Les Halles: Paris's Reborn Marketplace

Explore Les Halles: a historic Parisian marketplace reborn as a modern shopping, dining, and cultural destination in the heart of Paris.

4.1

Les Halles, once the bustling central food market of Paris known as the city's 'Belly,' has transformed into a vibrant hub of shopping, dining, and culture. Today, it features the underground Forum des Halles, topped by the modern La Canopée, and is surrounded by lively streets and historical landmarks.

A brief summary to Les Halles de Paris

  • 101 Rue Berger, Paris, 75001, FR

Local tips

  • Visit Rue Montorgueil near Les Halles for a taste of the traditional Parisian market atmosphere and local food shops.
  • Explore the Westfield Forum des Halles for a modern shopping experience with a wide variety of brands and restaurants.
  • Take a break in the Nelson Mandela Garden, a green space offering a relaxing escape from the bustling city.
  • Visit the Église Saint-Eustache, a magnificent Gothic church located near Les Halles, showcasing stunning architecture and history.
  • Check out events and exhibitions at La Médiathèque de la Canopée, a modern public library with creative spaces.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Les Halles is easily accessible via the Châtelet-Les Halles station, one of Paris's largest transportation hubs. Take Metro lines 1, 4, 7, 11, or 14, or RER lines A, B, or D to reach the station. From there, follow the signs to Les Halles. A single Metro ticket costs €2.50.

  • Walking

    From the Louvre Museum, walk east along Rue de Rivoli, then turn right onto Rue du Louvre. Continue straight, and you'll arrive at Les Halles in about 15 minutes. The walk is approximately 1.2 kilometers. No costs involved.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Paris. A taxi ride from the Notre Dame Cathedral to Les Halles, for example, typically costs between €11 and €20, depending on traffic. The base fare is around €4.10, with additional charges per kilometer.

  • Parking

    If driving, several parking garages are available near Les Halles. Parking Les Halles-Saint Eustache offers direct access to the Forum des Halles. Expect to pay around €42.90 for 1 day for a car. Parking Saint-Eustache is another option, about a 5-minute walk away, with hourly rates ranging from €3 to €6.

Unlock the Best of Les Halles de Paris

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Les Halles de Paris

Les Halles has a rich history dating back to the 12th century when King Louis VI established a public market in the area. Over the centuries, it evolved into a sprawling complex of iron and glass pavilions designed by Victor Baltard in the mid-19th century, becoming the city's central marketplace and earning the nickname 'the Belly of Paris'. However, by the 1960s, the market faced issues with traffic congestion and hygiene, leading to its relocation to Rungis in 1969. The historic pavilions were demolished, and the area was redeveloped into the Forum des Halles, an underground shopping center. This initial structure was not well-received, leading to further renovations in the 2010s. Today, Les Halles is a modern complex featuring the Westfield Forum des Halles, a largely underground shopping mall topped by La Canopée, a 2.5-hectare undulating canopy of glass and steel. The area includes shops, restaurants, a cinema, a library, and cultural centers. The Nelson Mandela Garden provides green space for relaxation. Nearby, the Rue Montorgueil offers a taste of the old market atmosphere with its food shops and eateries, while the Église Saint-Eustache stands as a historic landmark. Les Halles remains a vibrant and ever-evolving part of Paris.

Popular Experiences near Les Halles de Paris

Popular Hotels near Les Halles de Paris

Select Currency