A favorite Paris sightseeing recommendation is to visit the rue de Grenelle open air market. It’s open on Wednesdays and Sundays, from 7am to 2:30 pm. It is very large and is located between the Motte-Piquet and Dupleix Metro, under the overhead metro bridge.
The market is technically in the 15th arrondissement, but a stone's throw from the 7th, so the residents of the 7th cross the Champ de Mars with their trolleys to buy their meats, vegetables, fruits, fish, cheeses and flowers. The 15th arrondissement was built up over the past few decades and the strict building height restrictions don’t apply as they do to the historic neighborhoods. As a result, the apartment buildings are taller, modern and frankly uglier than older neighborhoods. The height of many buildings means there is less open sunlight. In places, the metro is above ground, a real eyesore. You’ll notice this the differences the moment you cross the Champs de Mars Gardens into the 15th. Apartment prices are cheaper here, but they are harder to sell when the market goes down. We prefer buying an apartment in the 7th arrondissement next door because they hold their value and appreciate over the years. It’s an easy walk to the Marche de Grenelle where you can get excellent bargains. Because of this, the Marche de Grenelle has become a mainstay for Parisians as they are able to find an excellent selection of foods and groceries for the week.
The rue de Grenelle Open Air Market: Residents flock to this market on Wednesdays and Sundays; our advice is to go early to do your best shopping. This is a true neighborhood market, not as 'chic' as the Ave de Saxe and Ave President Wilson, since the view is not quite the same. But the choice is wide, quality is high and prices very good. You will want to look for everything from fresh fish and flowers to delicious breads and cheeses to desserts.
On certain Sundays, there is an antique's market as well. The selection varies from high quality finds to 1950's memorabilia and it makes a great promenade.
We know you'll love staying in Paris and possibly buying a Paris apartment so you can enjoy living in this beautiful city as Parisians do!
