Gigi On Earth

During my week in Paris, I had the chance to explore two types of pop-up markets, and each one had its own special charm. The first was the vide-grenier, which is like a giant neighbourhood garage sale. Every Sunday, a different street in the arrondissement is closed off to cars and instead becomes a lively space filled with antiques, clothes, books, jewelry—basically, whatever people want to sell.

For 30 euros, you can rent a spot on the street for the day, set up your own little stall, and sell your treasures to passersby. Even on rainy days, the streets are bustling with residents bargaining over prices, families hunting for toys and clothes for their kids, and everyone enjoying the sense of community. It’s an old French tradition that the city keeps alive by supporting these street closures. It’s a great way for people to reduce waste, make a little money, and find new homes for things they no longer need.

The second market I visited was a food market. In the 14th arrondissement, where I stayed, the market pops up on Tuesdays and Fridays, taking over a whole Place. Here, you’ll find everything you need for the week—cheese, fresh meat, seafood, fruits, and vegetables, all directly from the producers and at really reasonable prices. We made a beeline for the seafood stands and grabbed some mussels and oysters for lunch—so fresh and delicious!

What I love about these markets is that they give you a real connection to your food. You’re not just buying ingredients; you’re learning about where they came from and who grew or produced them. The vendors are so knowledgeable and passionate about what they sell. One of my favorite moments was telling the cheesemonger about my favorite types of cheese and having them introduce me to new ones I’d never tried. It’s those personal interactions that make you want to keep coming back.

Each arrondissement has its own market days, and they’re often tucked away in little streets that feel hidden from the hustle and bustle. Stumbling upon them feels almost magical. For me, these markets are the best way to feel like a true local.