Les Halles
A Bustling Commercial Neighborhood
Les Halles
Châtelet‑Les Halles, Quartier des Halles, or simply Les Halles, is a neighborhood of Paris located in the heart of the city center.
It takes its name from the former market market that took place in this area until the 1970s.
What to See in Les Halles
In Les Halles you can find lively streets, with many shops for those who are not interested in or don't have the budget for shopping designer department stores, but rather prefer great deals and the most popular, affordable brands.
It is an area with many restaurants, museums, and an open space called Nelson Mandela Garden, formerly Jardin Des Halles, with a children's playground and sports courts.
Next to the garden stands the Bolsa de comercio de París, where you can see the Colección Pinault, featuring more than 10,000 works by 350 artists representing the most diverse artistic expressions. It is open every day (except Tuesdays) from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. You can buy your ticket here.
Also next to the Nelson Mandela Garden is the Iglesia de Saint Eustache or Iglesia de San Eustaquio de París. A masterpiece of late Gothic architecture where Louis XIV received his first communion, Mozart held his mother's funeral, and where Molière, Richelieu, and Madame de Pompadour were baptized.
Beneath the Nelson Mandela Garden in Les Halles lies the largest station in Paris, Estación Châtelet-Les Halles.
Next to the garden and the station you'll also find a popular underground shopping mall with many stores for shopping, the Forum de Les Halles.
The Forum des Halles is the most popular shopping center in central Paris. With a huge variety of stores from the best-known brands, several venues dedicated to sports and entertainment, and 23 movie theaters.
Part of the popular shopping street rue Montorgueil belongs to this neighborhood. Stroll along it to enjoy its shop windows and the vibrant atmosphere that always surrounds it.
Another interesting street in this area is the lively rue Rambuteau, which connects Les Halles with Le Marais, another area of Paris worth a visit.
Walking a short distance from this area toward the river you can reach the Louvre Museum, and a couple of blocks from the Estación Châtelet-Les Halles you'll find the George Pompidou modern art center. Two of the most visited museums in Paris.
You can check these Hotels in Les Halles if you want to stay in this area of Paris.
More attractions in Paris
Keep planning your trip to Paris with these ideas
Info about the Louvre Museum
The most famous museum in the world. More than 3,000 works in an exhibition of fine arts, archaeology, and decorative arts from before the Impressionist period.
What to See on Île de la Cité
A natural island in the Seine River that is a must-visit, as it is home to some of Paris's most famous landmarks, including the Cathedral of Notre-Dame.
The Le Marais Neighborhood
One of the best neighborhoods in Paris for atmosphere. Shops, galleries, museums, bars, and kosher restaurants (it was the historic Jewish quarter of Paris).
Nelson Mandela Garden
A green space in Les Halles, between the Louvre and the Pompidou. A place to relax, with an underground station and a large shopping center.
