The Paris Flower Market, known as “Marché aux Fleurs – Reine Elizabeth II” or “Marché aux Fleurs et aux Oiseaux,” is a picturesque and charming place to visit if you have an interest in flowers, plants, and gardening, or need a dash of colour in your pied-à-terre.
Known for its colourful array of blooms, the flower market is a great spot to explore, especially if you’re in the central part of the city, near the historic Île de la Cité, one of the two natural islands on the River Seine in the heart of Paris.
The wrought iron pavilions feature a glass roof to allow natural light to filter through. Two historical Wallace fountains can be found amongst the beautiful cut flowers and potted plants.
The extensive array of plants and shrubs includes both seasonal and exotic flowers that display their colors and fragrances year-round.
The free flower market is located near some of Paris’s most famous landmarks, making it an excellent addition to your visit to the Île de la Cité. You can explore the nearby Notre-Dame Cathedral, the historic Sainte-Chapelle, and the picturesque streets of the Latin Quarter.
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| The Paris Flower Market, “Marché aux Fleurs – Reine Elizabeth II” is located on Place Louis Lépine, near the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Sainte-Chapelle. The full address is: Marché aux Fleurs – Reine Elizabeth II Place Louis Lépine 75004 Paris France |
The Paris Flower Market is easily accessible by public transportation, including the Paris Metro. The Cité Metro station (Line 4) is nearby, and you can also reach it from other parts of central Paris with a pleasant walk along the Seine. The flower market is near Pont Notre Dame in the 4th arrondissement.
The market is free and usually opens daily between 8 am and 7.30 pm, but it’s a good idea to check the specific opening hours, as they can vary depending on the season and any special events.
The Paris Flower Market on Place Louis Lépine offers a delightful and vibrant atmosphere for both tourists and locals. Here are a few more details about this iconic market:
The market features a wide variety of flowers, plants, and gardening accessories. You can find everything from cut flowers, potted plants, and seeds to gardening tools and supplies. The selection of plants and flowers varies by season, so you can expect to see different blooms and colors throughout the year.
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In addition to flowers and plants, the market also hosted a section dedicated to birds and pet accessories. However, the sale of birds will no longer allowed from 2025 due to a long campaign by animal welfare activists. This is one tradition that the French decided not to keep. You might still find petit bird cages and bird nesting boxes for the garden.
The market is beautifully decorated for various seasons and holidays, offering unique displays and themed arrangements for events like Christmas, Easter, and more.
The Paris Flower Market has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. It was officially established in its current location in 1808 and has been a popular destination for flower and plant enthusiasts ever since.
Previously named the Marché aux Fleurs et aux Oiseaux Cité, it underwent a name change to honor Queen Elizabeth II following her state visit in 2014 for the commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings.
The Paris Flower Market is not only a place to purchase flowers and plants but also a charming and lively spot to soak in the city’s ambiance. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, a flower lover, or just a tourist looking to explore some of Paris’s most iconic landmarks, a visit to the Flower Market on Île de la Cité is a pleasant and picturesque experience.
Wallace fountains are public drinking fountains that were designed by the English sculptor Charles-Auguste Lebourg and donated to Paris by Sir Richard Wallace, a British philanthropist.
The fountains are not only functional but also ornate and artistic, featuring decorative ironwork and sculptures.
Wallace fountains are known for their distinctive design, which includes four caryatids (sculpted female figures) supporting a dome.
The water is dispensed from a spout at the center of the fountain, making it easily accessible to the public.
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