In Versailles, going to the market is much more than just part of daily life: it is the continuation of a centuries-old tradition, alive with colors, flavors, and conviviality.
Since 1561, when the lord of Versailles, Martial de Loménie, obtained
...In Versailles, going to the market is much more than just part of daily life: it is the continuation of a centuries-old tradition, alive with colors, flavors, and conviviality.
Since 1561, when the lord of Versailles, Martial de Loménie, obtained authorization to set up fairs and markets, the city has continually kept this warm spirit alive at the heart of its neighborhoods.
Even today, the markets of Versailles bring the city to life every day of the week. From the emblematic Notre-Dame market to that of Saint-Louis, each district has its own atmosphere and loyal crowd, gathered around fresh, local, and high-quality products. A true crossroads of daily life, the Notre-Dame market — voted “Most Beautiful Market in Île-de-France” — embodies this vibrancy. Since the 17th century, it has occupied the very spot chosen by Louis XIII, who wanted functional halls to protect merchants and their goods.
The Notre-Dame market is made up of covered halls (open Tuesday to Sunday) and the famous open-air *Carrés*, where organic farmers, food vendors, and non-food traders set up each week. A lively and ever-evolving place, it adapts to modern trends: consuming better, eating healthy, favoring short supply chains, and supporting sustainable products. Since 2016, the *Carré Bio* has enjoyed growing success, and since 2018, banners have clearly marked local, organic, or environmentally responsible products.
But the Versailles market is also an experience to live. People stroll through the stalls in search of seasonal products, meet neighbors at a tasting stand, and discover passionate chefs showcasing artisan flavors. New food spaces are also emerging — such as *Carré à la Marée* and *Carré à la Farine* — to extend the visit with a gourmet break.
And that’s not all: non-food stalls also offer clothing, accessories, small appliances, crafts, and practical services (bike repairs, watchmaking, tailoring…). Each visit is an opportunity to find great deals or discover a new vendor.
In Versailles, markets are not just places to shop — they are places of meeting, exchange, and tradition. Spaces where past and present come together generously, at the heart of a cherished French art of living.
**Notre-Dame Halls (covered market):**
* Tuesday to Saturday: 7:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
* Sunday: 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
* Closed on Monday
**Notre-Dame Carrés (open-air market):**
* Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday: 7:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
