The Marche aux Fleurs et Oiseaux is one of the oldest markets in Paris.
In the middle of the Seine on the Ile de la Cite, the flower markets are just down the road from Notre Dame and have been there for over two hundred years.
On Sundays the bird markets open and the cut flower vendors take a rest day.
Wandering through markets is one of my favourite things to do when travelling, but especially in Paris. I love the food, the remarkable finds at the flea markets and the flowers are so charming.
I did a high school exchange and lived on the outskirts of Paris when I was a teenager. I developed an exceptional system of having a late breakfast at the boulangerie, making it to roll call then sneaking out of class to catch the train into the city.
I could spend all day wandering the streets and markets in Paris. I think it’s such a beautiful city. It took a little convincing to get Mr R to see my view of Paris but he now sees it the way I do.
As a side note, oiseaux is one of my much-loved French words to pronounce. I think it’s so funny to say – “wah-zoh” (go on, say it out loud and you’ll see what I mean!). Don’t you think it makes you sound a bit like a bird?
You can find the flower markets at place Louis-Lepine on Ile de la Cite. They’re open all day, every day.
What’s your much-loved French word?
Images by Mrs Romance.