I like to begin my Rue Moufftard shopping excursion with a beverage at one of the two cafes on the Place de la Contrescarpe.

The walk South from here, down the market street, or the “Mouffe” as locals call it, is a classic Parisian experience.

The cobblestoned street is ancient. It was once a main artery between Lutecia (Paris in Roman times) and Italy.

Produce stands line the narrow, merchant street, along with a variety of cafes and clothing stores.

You can eat a crepe, try on a pair of sandals and then buy some fine cheese at an Italian grocery, By the time you get to the beautiful church of St Medard, you might be ready for a glass of wine at Cave la Bourgogne.

At #60 Rue Mouffetard, you might notice the old fountain, the Fontaine du Pot-Au-Fer.

It’s origin is Roman but in the 1600s, it was connected to an aquaduct and conducted water to Marie de Medici’s Palais du Luxembourg.

At #6, there is a sign representing a butcher, dating from the 1700s.

The street is a village and it’s easy to feel at home here with people going about their business or enjoying a leisurely stroll. The market stalls are closed on Mondays.

Rue Mouffetard
5th Arrondisement
Metro: Monge

Paris is a shopper’s paradise. Whatever your budget or style, expect to be tempted by treasures wherever you go. Fact is, Paris is obsessed with providing us with beautiful objects of every nature, from food to shoes and beyond. To walk is basically to shop, as each neighborhood displays its wares in irresistible fashion. Streets are lined with sweet boutiques. What was designed to be a brisk walk, becomes a slow prowl through the lovely shops. When you least expect it, you find yourself standing in front of the shoe store of your dreams, or a window display of really funky jewelry that has your name written all over it. It just happens, nothing you can do, except keep on walking.

So, the question, “Is it easy to shop in Paris?” has a definitive answer, which is also a question. “Is it easy to find water in a lake?” There are many unique shopping destinations, certain to please and even more certain to challenge your budget.