Halles de la Martinière, Lyon Travel Guide

Built in 1838 at the foot of the Croix-Rousse slopes, Les Halles de la Martinière stand as Lyon's oldest covered market halls. After six years of inactivity, they reopened on November 27, 2017, following a sensitive renovation that preserved the original neoclassical architecture. Initiated by local residents and now managed by sustainability-focused organizations, the site champions accessible, quality food through artisan vendors committed to ethical sourcing.

The Épicerie des Halles specializes in bulk organic products from peasant agriculture and local producers. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and staples arrive seasonally, emphasizing zero-waste practices. Shoppers fill jars with grains, spices, and more, supporting low-impact farming. Most items are bio-certified or regionally sourced, making it ideal for eco-conscious stocking up on everyday essentials or gourmet finds.

The collaborative food court buzzes with diverse counters. Chez Marti serves bio meals, house-made desserts, daily plates around 15€ (meat, fish, vegetarian), and natural wines until late. Madamann Crêperie Comptoir offers savory galettes and sweet crêpes from noon to 10pm weekdays. Past highlights included La Criée des Monts d'Or for seafood platters, though now closed; the bar pours nature wines, craft beers, tapas, and juices from #Moi Pur Jus. Dine in or take away in this lively, convivial space.

Housed in a renovated historic structure, the halls blend industrial charm with modern functionality. Festive animations, pop-up concerts, and friperie events transform the space, fostering community. Terrace seating spills onto the square in good weather, perfect for people-watching near Terreaux and Vieux Lyon. Pet-friendly and wheelchair accessible, it welcomes all for casual bites or full meals.

Reaching the halls is effortless via metro A/C to Hôtel de Ville, buses C13/C18 Terreaux Tobia Robatel or C14/19/31/40 St Vincent. Parking nearby, Vélo'v stations, and gonnette (local currency) accepted. Epicerie hours: Mon-Sat 9:30-19:30 (Tues 15-13h break); food court daily 7h-midnight (1h Fri-Sat).