FAQ
Questions and answers about the Marais in Paris
What is the history of the Marais?
Le Marais is one of the oldest districts of Paris, dating back to the Middle Ages. It was home to the French aristocracy, then to a large Jewish community, and is today a trendy and dynamic district, mixing history and modernity.
Originally, the district was a marsh. Hence its name. In the 14th century, Charles V, known as the Wise, and his son Charles VI, known as the Beloved, took up residence there (there are no buildings left). They were the only kings to have lived there. In the 16th century, King Henry II died on Rue Saint-Antoine during a gala tournament on horseback. A lance pierced his armor and mortally wounded him. His armor can be seen at the MET Museum in New York!
In the 17th century, the Parisian nobility and bourgeoisie settled in the Marais. Many private mansions were built. In the middle of the following century, the district was gradually abandoned by the elite, who moved closer to the Louvre and Versailles.
The French Revolution eventually drove out the wealthy landlords and the area became home to the working class. In the early 1962th century, Jews fleeing pogroms in Central Europe settled around Rue des Rosiers. In 1970, André Malraux, De Gaulle's Minister of Culture, ordered the restoration of the Marais. In the late 2000s, the gay community moved to the Marais, where real estate prices were still ridiculous. By XNUMX, the Marais was undergoing gentrification. Fashion boutiques, trendy restaurants and art galleries now predominated.
What to visit in the Marais?
Le Marais is full of treasures:
the Carnavalet Museum, the Place des Vosges, the Picasso Museum, the Hôtel de Sully, Ile Saint-Louis, the banks of the Seine, the Cognacq-Jay Museum, the Saint-Paul Church, the Rue des Rosiers, the Place des Vosges, the Rue Vieille du Temple, the Marché des Enfants Rouges…
These are some examples of the must-see places that make the Marais so magical, in addition to its many art galleries, its unique boutiques, its many cultural sites, not to mention its picturesque streets.
Where to park in the Marais?
Parking in the Marais can be difficult. It is advisable to use underground public car parks or public transport.
Here are some car parks that we recommend:
- Beaubourg Horloge car park – Indigo. 31 rue Beaubourg 75003 Paris.
- Parking Centre Georges Pompidou – Rambuteau. 42 rue Beaubourg 75003 Paris.75003 Paris....
- City Hall Parking – Rue de Rivoli. 4 rue Lobau 75004 Paris.
- City Hall Parking – Saint-Paul. 6 rue de Moussy 75004 Paris.
- Haut-Marais car park – 14 Brittany Street, 75003 Paris
- Saint-Martin parking. 75003 Paris
Where to go shopping in the Marais?
This street is one of the busiest in the Marais for shopping enthusiasts. It features international brands including many perfume and cosmetics houses such as Diptych, Guerlain, Juliette has a gun, MoroccoMorocco, Balmain, Frédéric Malle but also fashion brands Sandro, Maje et The Kooples, as well as more confidential boutiques. It is an essential street for fans of contemporary fashion.
Bakerdjian Dressing who skillfully dresses elegant men, Chevignon known for its iconic jackets, Springsioux the brand inspired by the rock and gothic universe, Balibaris classic, casual-chic, the avant-garde Black by Comme des Garçons, Paul Smith bristish chic, AL'O the authentic workwear brand, Blue of plenty Inspired by Japanese minimalism, L'Hailleur…
Sugar bread Founded by a couple of pastry chefs and caterers, this address is renowned for its artisanal know-how and its refined creations, notably its macaroons, croissants, pâté en croute, etc. The Little Mousse, a friendly restaurant specializing in seafood and fish.
What to visit in the Marais?
Le Marais is full of treasures: the Carnavalet Museum, Place des Vosges, the Picasso Museum, the Hôtel de Sully, Ile Saint-Louis, the banks of the Seine, the Cognacq-Jay Museum, the Saint-Paul Church, Rue des Rosiers, Place des Vosges, Rue Vieille du Temple, the Marché des Enfants Rouges…
These are some examples of the must-see places that make the Marais so magical, in addition to its many art galleries, its unique boutiques, its many cultural sites, not to mention its picturesque streets.
What are the events not to be missed in the Marais?
Le Marais hosts many events throughout the year: festivals, exhibitions, markets, concerts, etc.
- Fashion week (January, March, June, October)
Le Marais combines a location in the heart of Paris, a unique atmosphere and suitable infrastructure, making it a favorite place for Paris Fashion Week events.Men's Menswear Fall/Winter 2025-2026 from Tuesday 21 January to Sunday 26 January 2025
Women's Fall/Winter 2025-2026 from Monday March 3 to Tuesday March 11, 2025
Men's Spring/Summer 2026 from Tuesday, June 24 to Sunday, June 29, 2025Clothing
Women's Spring/Summer 2026 from Monday, September 29 to Tuesday, October 7, 2025
- Drawing Now Art Fair (March)
The first contemporary art fair in Europe exclusively dedicated to drawing, brings together a selection of international galleries.
From Thursday 27 to Sunday 30 March 2025 - The Pont Louis Philippe Flea Market (April)
This charming flea market took place on the charming Louis-Philippe bridge, located between the right bank and the Île Saint-Louis and crosses the Seine. - The Rue de Bretagne Flea Market (May or November)
Twice a year in spring and autumn, one of the most popular flea markets in Paris takes place. You can find designer furniture, designer clothing, lighting, decoration, etc. The exhibitors are residents of the Marais or professionals. The dates are on the Marais Mood calendar.
From Friday, November 22, Saturday, November 23, Sunday, November 24, 2024 - Flea market Place des Vosges, rue de Birague and rue Saint-Antoine (october)
Flea market Place des Vosges rue de Birague and rue Saint-Antoine.
Saturday October 19, 2024, Sunday October 20, 2024.
- Jogging Festival (May)
This festival at the crossroads of art and sport takes place every year in the spring at the Carreau du Temple.
Thursday May 22, Friday May 23, Sunday May 25, 2025 - Midsommar + Music Festival (June)
Midsommar takes place between June 20th and 25th each year, at the time of the summer solstice. Every year the Swedish Institute celebrates this very traditional holiday, which is very important to the Swedes, on the day of the music festival.
Saturday June 21 2025 - The White Night (June)
This nocturnal artistic event transforms Paris, and in particular the Marais, into a huge open-air gallery. The streets are filled with installations
Saturday, June 7, 2025 - Festival of Jewish Cultures (June)
This artistic event takes place in many institutions in Paris and in the Marais - Marais Culture + Festival (June)
This festival celebrates the rich heritage of the Marais with concerts, shows, exhibitions, and guided tours. It highlights the cultural diversity of the neighborhood with free or discounted events at various venues. - National Day (July 14)
The area is ideal for enjoying the July 14 festivities, with street entertainment, firefighters' balls (notably at the Caserne Sévigné), and easy access to military parades from the Seine. - LGBTQ+ Festival and Pride March (June)
Le Marais, a historic district of the LGBTQ+ community in Paris, is a central place for the Pride MarchThe area is abuzz with parades, concerts and parties in the streets and iconic bars. - Music Festival (June)
In the Marais, the Fête de la Musique is a particularly lively event. You can hear street concerts in emblematic squares such as Place des Vosges or Rue des Rosiers, with varied musical genres ranging from jazz to pop.
Saturday June 21 2025 - The Food Temple (September)
This festival dedicated to cuisine and which changes country or theme takes place every year at the Carreau du Temple. - Crossings of the Marais (September)
The emblematic cultural institutions of Paris-Centre open their doors to you for a weekend and offer a unique, participatory and contemporary program.
Saturday, September 20, 2025 and Sunday, September 21, 2025 - European Heritage Days (September)
Every year, in mid-September, the Marais opens the doors of its monuments, museums and private mansions normally closed to the public. You can discover exceptional places like the Hôtel de Sully, the Maison de Victor Hugo or the Musée Carnavalet.
Saturday, September 20, 2025 and Sunday, September 21, 2025 - AKAA Art & design fair (october)
This contemporary art and design fair promotes artists from the African continent and is held every year at the Carreau du Temple.
Friday, October 18, 2024, Saturday, October 19, 2024 and Sunday, October 20, 2024. - Vintage Show (November)
This event attracts lovers of vintage fashion and design to the Marais. It's a great opportunity to find unique pieces of clothing, furniture and accessories, right in the heart of this trendy neighborhood.
Saturday, November 23, 2024 and Sunday, November 24, 2024 5 rue Saint-Merri 75004 Paris
Visit our Marais news agenda to stay up to date with the latest news!
Why is the Marais called the Marais?
The Marais district of Paris gets its name from the fact that it was once a marshy area.
During the Middle Ages, drainage works allowed this area to be drained, making the land arable. Little by little, the district was developed and urbanized, particularly from the 12th century, gradually becoming popular with the Parisian nobility in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Le Marais Is it suitable for families?
Le Marais can be a good option for walking or staying with family. It is central in Paris and has many parks, museums, restaurants, shops and even activities for children like the magic museum. Be careful though, some areas of the Marais district can be a little noisy and very busy, especially at weekends.
Are there markets in the Marais?
Yes, several markets liven up the Marais: the Marché des Enfants Rouges (covered), the Marché Bastille (Sunday) and the Marché Richard Lenoir (Thursday and Sunday).
Le Marais is it a safe neighborhood?
Yes, the Marais is considered a safe neighborhood, even at night.
It is still advisable to remain vigilant at night in places with a lively nightlife, between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. in particular.
How to keep up to date with the latest news from the Marais?
Le Marais Mood keeps you informed of the news, life and events of the Marais in Paris.
To not miss anything and make valuable discoveries, we advise you to subscribe to theMarais Mood Instagram and of course to the MaraisMood newsletter !
Le official website of Paris City Hall also provides a lot of information on current events in the Marais.
Le Marais Is it a gay-friendly neighborhood?
Yes, the Marais is known for being one of the most gay-friendly neighborhoods in Paris, with many LGBTQ+ bars, clubs and businesses.
What are the inhabitants of the Marais called?
The inhabitants of the Marais are commonly called: The Marsh People, although this name is not official.
