Paris is home to The Marché International de Rungis, the largest wholesale food market in the world. Spanning 232 hectares, this monster market caters to all of your culinary needs. Set up in the city centre in the 10th century, demand for suppliers was so high by 1969 that Rungis had to relocate. The current market site is in the southern suburbs, a little further afield than the original site but easily accessible by train or car.
Rungis is a go-to supply spot for many a Parisian chef. And it’s no surprise: high-quality, fresh products are sold here in large quantities from fruit and vegetables to fish, meat, dairy products and flowers. As a wholesaler, 50% of sales happen on-site and the other 50% are deliveries. The market even recycles its waste, using the energy generated by the incinerator to heat the market and the Orly Airport nearby.
Because Rungis is so big and mainly sells in bulk, it’s no market for the casual stroller. Yet over 20,000 people visit the market every year, making it one of the most frequently visited professional locations in France. It’s one for early-risers: guided market visits start at 4.30am and go on until 8am, followed by a breakfast of the freshest market produce.