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Discover the flavours of the markets of Provence

Written on : 15 January 2024
By : Steve Dunne
The Best Market Towns in Provence

The Best Market Towns in Provence

Long popular with the locals, the traditional markets of Provence never fail to delight all who visit the beloved region for their holidays. As you make your way past the stalls, you are tempted with an assortment of gourmet delights, the colours and aromas stimulating the senses and capturing wonderfully the essence of this sun-drenched land - a land where pride of place is reserved for local producers, and the quality of flavour is paramount. We've selected 6 of the most beautiful markets in Provence: Aix-en-Provence, Arles, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Avignon, Vaison-la-Romaine and Brignoles.

Those who choose to stay in a luxury villa with a cook are in for a multitude of culinary treats. Provence is, of course, known for the splendour of its natural surroundings, and there is no better way to experience them than in a traditional country house with a garden, savouring the natural fruit of the land.

The Markets of Aix-en-Provence

Every day, the markets of Aix-en-Provence bring the city to life with their colours, smells and vibrant atmosphere. For many, they're a place to meet and chat, but they're also the very expression of the richness of the local gastronomy. On Place Richelme, you'll even find fresh fish caught that very morning. And if you want to explore the other products of Provence, the Cours Mirabeau textile and antiques market comes to life on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Meanwhile, the daily flower market is a veritable ray of sunshine, perfect for bringing an extra touch of colour to your day.

What are the market days in Aix-en-Provence?

Every day from 8am to 1pm at Place Richelme and at Place Comtales on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Flower market at Place Comtales on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays and at Place de l'Hôtel de Ville on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Arles: The Largest Market

If it’s a huge market in Provence you’re looking for, Arles is the place to go. With 450 producers distributed across more than 2.5km of colourful stalls, it's undoubtedly among the biggest. Better still, not only does it offer Arles sausages, Camargue rice and a wide range of fruit and vegetables, it also features a number of fairground rides for the whole family to enjoy. This large, family-friendly Provencal market is also open on Wednesdays, when it's children's day, and Saturdays.

What are the market days in Arles?

Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Boulevard Émilie-Combes and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. Boulevards des Lices and Georges-Clémenceau.

The Market of Avignon

The Market of Avignon

The main market of Avignon is located under Les Halles and gives pride of place to Provençal cuisine, with plenty of mouthwatering local dishes prepared by caterers on show. Among the delicacies waiting to be sampled are the famous jambon d'Avignon, local herbs and spices and olive oil. And let us not forget the local crafts, well-represented by essential oils and soaps. Meanwhile, outdoor markets are held throughout the town every day.

What are the market days in Avignon?

Halles d'Avignon Tuesday to Sunday, 6am to 2pm. There’s a market on Tuesday at Place de l'Eglise, Wednesday at Rocade district, Thursday along Avenue Wetzlar, Friday in Place de la Méditerranée, Saturday on Boulevard Limbert, Sunday on Avenue Pierre de Coubertin.

St-Rémy-de-Provence: a charming local market

The market takes place every Wednesday in the old streets of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. With its welcoming atmosphere and wide range of products, it's a true feast for both the taste buds and eyes. Olives, spices, herbs, vegetables, fruit, fabrics and antiques can all be discovered as you go about your morning stroll. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a beautiful Provencal market, the epitome of all we love about the region. 

What are the market days in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence?

Wednesday from 8:30am to 1pm, Place Jules Pellissier.

Vaison-la-Romaine: a 500-year-old Market in Provence

Vaison-la-Romaine: a 500-year-old Market in Provence

With a population of less than 6,000 inhabitants, Vaison-la-Romaine is a tiny haven for those looking to recharge their batteries. And its traditional Provencal market is one of the town's star attractions. The market is an age-old institution in Vaison-la-Romaine, its origins stretching back an impressive 500 years. At the summer high season, regional products are sold alongside crafts, market produce and delightful items of clothing.

What are the market days in Vaison-la-Romaine?

Tuesday from 8am to 12:30pm, in the village centre

The Market of Brignoles

Despite the town being one of Provence's best-kept secrets, Brignoles actually draws a good crowd to its Saturday market. Every week, locals and visitors alike flock there to discover the scents, colours and flavours on show across a variety of stalls. A local favourite is the selection of goats' cheeses, which take pride of place among the bountiful array of vegetables and sweet fruit. Once you've wandered the aisles, make your way to the café terraces, where the pretty town of Brignoles bustles with life.

What are the market days in Brignoles?

Saturday from 7:30am to 12:30pm, avenue Maréchal Foch.

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