Known today for its vibrancy and energy, Rue Mouffetard also has ancient roots. Rue Mouffetard dates to the Neolithic era, and it was also used as a Roman road. Located on Montagne Sainte-Geneviève hill, the thoroughfare connects Place de la Contrescarpe at its northern end to Place Georges-Moustaki at its southern.
Popular among the Latin Quarter’s students, local residents, and tourists, Rue Mouffetard is celebrated for its culinary attractions. The street hosts a bustling morning market most days of the week, where amblers can try everything from artisan cheeses and local pastries to speciality honey and beyond. Even when the market is closed, the surfeit of restaurants and bars make Rue Mouffetard busy around the clock.
Don’t be afraid to chat with the market’s vendors, as you may be rewarded with complimentary samples.
Place de la Contrescarpe, located at the street’s northern end, is a nice spot to sit outside and relax with a coffee or other beverage.
The Marché Monge, located on nearby Place Monge and held on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, is another popular culinary stop.
Conveniently located in the Latin Quarter, Rue Mouffetard is accessible from Place Monge and Censier - Daubenton Métro stations, both of which are served by line 7. It can also be reached by the 47 bus, by car, or by rental bike. As the street itself is largely pedestrianized, it is best explored on foot.
Rue Mouffetard’s market is held throughout the year, from roughly 8am–1pm, Tuesday–Sunday. Outside of those times, the street’s many eateries and bars make it a perennially popular destination.
French philosopher and writer Denis Diderot resided on Rue Mouffetard in the 18th century, while Ernest Hemingway, a former Latin Quarter resident, famously described it as a “wonderful, narrow crowded market street” in A Moveable Feast. The street was also in a famed Henri Cartier-Bresson photograph,Boy with Bottles.
