Nothing is perhaps more French than going to a market. Parisians often buy their vegetables, fruits, meats, and cheeses at marchés, preferring cheaper offerings that aren’t produced en masse like many of the goods found in healthy foods stores like Naturella and Carrefour bio are. If you find yourself in the City of Lights and want an authentic experience in a market that’s full of Parisians, head to the 12th arrondissement for the Marché d’Aligre.

Operating since the late 18th century, Marché d’Aligre is on a street less than a quarter mile long, between rue de Charenton and rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine. As you make your way down the street, lively vendors shout in friendly tones to buy des figues, des pommes, and more. Vendors will be there every day except Monday, but on the weekends expect large crowds flocking to do their shopping. With the jubilant energy, haggling, and bustling Parisien(ne)s, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time to La Belle Époque. On Sunday, a Frenchman wears a black top hat as he winds the orgue de barbarie and sings classic French songs. Where you can easily spend 20 euros without blinking an eye at les marchés in the chicer 6th arrondissement, at Marché d’Aligre, for ten euros or less, you can stock up for the week on all your favorite fruits and leafy greens.

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