The Best Markets of Provence | A Traveler’s Guide | Only Provence

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Discover the Best Markets of Provence: A Traveler’s Guide

At Only Provence, we pride ourselves on curating the most authentic experiences for travelers who want to explore the rich culture and vibrant markets of our beautiful region. Provence is a treasure trove of local delicacies, handmade crafts, and charming markets that bring the true essence of southern France to life. Here’s our guide to the best markets in Provence and what to buy to make your visit unforgettable.

Best Markets in Provence: At a Glance

CityMarket TypeDayWhy Visit?
AptTraditionalSat12th-century history & candied fruits
L’Isle-sur-la-SorgueAntiquesSun“Venice of Provence” & vintage finds
Saint-RémyClassicWedAuthentic atmosphere & local herbs
GordesArtisanalTueIncredible views & lavender honey
LourmarinChicFriOne of France’s most beautiful villages

1. Marché d’Apt – Authenticity At Its Best

The Satruday Apt market dates back to the 12th century, making it one of the oldest markets in Provence. Its long history adds to its charm and attracts visitors interested in experiencing a piece of living history.

Set against the backdrop of historic buildings, this market offers a sensory feast with stalls brimming with local produce, artisanal cheeses, and handcrafted goods. It has a more authentic feel than some of the other picture perfect villages making it one of our top picks. The market is known for its lively and bustling atmosphere. It is a place where locals and tourists alike can mingle, creating a vibrant and dynamic environment.  The market offers a wide range of products, including fresh produce, regional specialties, crafts, clothing, and antiques. This variety ensures there is something for everyone, whether they are looking for gourmet foods or unique souvenirs.

Provence is famous for its agricultural products, such as fruits, vegetables, olives, cheeses, and wines. The Apt market showcases the best of the region’s produce, attracting food enthusiasts and those interested in high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients.

When: Saturday mornings

What to Buy:

  • Cheese: Taste the local varieties like Banon, wrapped in chestnut leaves, and Picodon, a robust goat cheese.
  • Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh, seasonal produce like sun-ripened tomatoes, fragrant melons, and the famous strawberries of Carpentras.
  • Olives and Olive Oil: Sample different varieties of olives and take home a bottle of exquisite olive oil, a staple in Provençal cuisine.

2. Marché de L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue – Antique Lovers’ Paradise

This market is renowned for its antiques and vintage items. Known as the “Venice of Provence” due to its canals, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is one of the most significant antiques centers in France, attracting collectors and enthusiasts from around the world.

The market offers a vast array of goods, including antiques, second-hand treasures, fresh produce, local delicacies, flowers, textiles, and crafts. This wide range ensures that visitors can find something unique and interesting, catering to diverse tastes and interests.

The town is beautifully set along the Sorgue River, with waterwheels and canals adding to its charm. The market benefits from this scenic location, providing a pleasant and picturesque shopping experience. End your market shopping with a last lunch along the Sorgue river or at any of this town’s well known restaurants. 

When: Sundays

What to Buy:

  • Antiques: L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is renowned for its antique dealers. From vintage furniture to unique collectibles, this market is a treasure trove.
  • Art: Discover local artists and take home a piece of Provençal creativity.
  • Provencal Fabrics: Look for vibrant tablecloths, napkins, and lavender sachets.  There are many market vendors who also specialize in vintage linens.

3. Marché de Saint-Rémy-de-Provence – For a Taste of Tradition

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a historic town known for its charming, narrow streets and traditional Provencal architecture. The market is set in the heart of this picturesque town, creating a delightful atmosphere for visitors.

Vendors at the market sell top-quality, locally-sourced products. Fresh fruits and vegetables, aromatic herbs, olive oils, and regional specialties such as tapenade and nougat highlight the rich agricultural heritage of Provence.

Gourmet Food Stalls: The market is a food lover’s paradise, with numerous stalls offering gourmet products and prepared foods. From freshly baked bread and pastries to cured meats and artisanal cheeses, visitors can sample and purchase a wide array of culinary delights.

When: Wednesdays

What to Buy:

  • Baked Goods: Indulge in freshly baked bread, croissants, and pastries.
  • Herbs de Provence: A must-buy for any cooking enthusiast, these aromatic herbs are essential for recreating Provençal dishes at home.
  • Lavender Products: From soaps to essential oils, lavender products make perfect souvenirs.

4. Marché de Gordes – A Scenic Delight

Gordes, perched on the edge of the Vaucluse plateau, offers breathtaking views along with its market. The Tuesday market is a blend of sights, sounds, and scents that perfectly encapsulate the magic of Provence.

The market features a wide range of high-quality local products, including fresh produce, cheeses, olives, honey, lavender, wines, and artisanal goods. The emphasis on locally-sourced, seasonal products ensures freshness and authenticity.

In addition to food items, the Gordes market offers a variety of handmade crafts, pottery, textiles, and other souvenirs. These items often reflect the region’s rich artistic heritage and make for unique, memorable purchases.

Charming Atmosphere: The market is set against the backdrop of Gordes’ narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and charming squares. The ambiance is enhanced by the village’s traditional architecture and the friendly, welcoming nature of the vendors.

When: Tuesday mornings

What to Buy:

  • Honey: Provence is famous for its lavender honey, a delightful treat that captures the essence of the region.
  • Ceramics: Beautiful, handcrafted pottery that makes for a wonderful keepsake.
  • Truffles: In season, Gordes is a great place to find this luxurious ingredient.

5. Marché de Lourmarin – The Quintessential Provençal Experience

Lourmarin, nestled in the Luberon mountains, is often cited as one of the most beautiful villages in France. The Friday market here is a true delight, offering a mix of high-quality goods and a picturesque setting. Wander through the cobblestone streets and browse stalls filled with everything from fresh produce to exquisite crafts.

Lourmarin’s market is more than just a shopping destination; it’s an immersive cultural experience that captures the essence of Provençal life. Whether you’re looking for a unique souvenir, a delicious local treat, or simply want to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, Lourmarin’s Friday market is a must-visit on your Provençal journey.

When: Friday Mornings

What to Buy:

  • Handcrafted Jewelry: Discover unique, locally made jewelry that reflects the artistic spirit of Provence.
  • Fresh Flowers: Brighten your day with beautiful, fragrant bouquets sourced from local gardens.
  • Gourmet Foods: Indulge in regional specialties such as tapenade, fresh pasta, and artisanal jams.

6. Marché d’Aix-en-Provence – The Chic City Experience

Aix-en-Provence offers one of the most diverse and elegant market experiences in the region. Spreading across several squares, it feels more like a city-wide celebration of Provençal life than a simple market. The flower market at Place de l’Hôtel de Ville is particularly iconic, providing a fragrant and colorful backdrop for your morning stroll.

The atmosphere in Aix is distinctly upscale, where you can browse high-end textiles and local fashion alongside traditional food stalls. After shopping, the many cafes lining the Cours Mirabeau offer the perfect spot for people-watching with a café au lait.

When: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings

What to Buy:

  • Calissons d’Aix: A traditional French candy made from a smooth, pale yellow paste of candied fruit and ground almonds topped with a thin layer of royal icing.

  • Fresh Flowers: Fragrant seasonal blooms from the dedicated flower market.

  • Lavender Sachets: Elegant, locally-made sachets to bring the scent of Provence home.

7. Marché d’Eygalières – Authentic Alpilles Charm

Located in the heart of the Alpilles, the Friday morning market in Eygalières is widely considered one of the most beautiful in the area. Smaller and more intimate than the major city markets, it captures the quiet, refined authenticity of village life.

The market is set against a backdrop of stunning stone houses and the distant Alpilles mountains. It is the perfect place to pick up picnic supplies before heading out for a hike or a lazy afternoon at your luxury villa.

When: Friday mornings

What to Buy:

  • AOC Olive Oil: Sourced from the surrounding groves of the Baux Valley.

  • Goat Cheese: Freshly made “chèvre” from nearby farms, often flavored with rosemary or peppercorns.

  • Artisanal Breads: Crusty baguettes and olive-studded breads perfect for a midday snack.

8. Marché de Bonnieux – A View Like No Other

The Friday morning market in Bonnieux is a highlight for anyone staying in the Luberon. While smaller than the massive city markets, it offers an incredible atmosphere as the stalls wind through the village’s steep, winding streets.

The primary draw here, besides the local produce, is the panoramic view from the market square looking out across the valley toward Gordes and Roussillon. It is the quintessence of a Provençal hilltop village market, breezy, scenic, and filled with the highest quality local goods.

When: Friday mornings

What to Buy:

  • Provençal Fabrics: This market often features excellent vendors selling traditional quilted table runners and linens.

  • Local Honey: Look for stalls selling “Miel de Provence,” specifically lavender or wildflower honey harvested from the surrounding hills.

  • Seasonal Fruit: Depending on the time of year, Bonnieux is a great spot for fresh cherries or melons sourced directly from the Petit Luberon valley below.

Insider Tips for Market Visits

  • Arrive Early: Markets start bustling early in the morning. Arriving early ensures you get the best picks and experience the markets at their liveliest.
  • Cash is King: While some vendors accept cards, it’s always a good idea to carry cash, especially for smaller purchases.
  • Bring a Basket or Bag: A traditional market basket not only looks charming but is also practical for carrying your purchases.
  • Engage with Vendors: Don’t be shy! Provençal vendors are friendly and love to share stories about their products. A little French goes a long way.

At Only Provence, we believe that the markets of Provence are more than just places to shop—they are windows into the soul of our region. Whether you’re a foodie, a collector, or simply someone who loves to explore, the markets of Provence offer something truly special. We invite you to join us on a journey through these vibrant markets and discover the best that Provence has to offer.

Bon voyage et bon appétit!

Stay in Provence: Your Villa Awaits

Only Provence offers the largest curated collection of luxury villas in the region, from historic stone farmhouses to contemporary estates with sweeping views. Each property is hand-selected for character, comfort, and authenticity, with concierge services available to arrange everything from private chefs to guided tours.

Ready to experience the magic of Provence for yourself? Contact a Villa Rental Specialist today to begin planning your stay and find the perfect villa from which to explore.

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