Shopping in Provence, Provençal Markets

Shopping in Provence is a delightful experience, offering a wide range of unique products and local specialties. The region is known for its vibrant markets, where you can immerse yourself in the Provençal way of life and discover an array of goods.

The market in French is called “marche.” More often than not, you can come across mixed markets where food items are displayed alongside clothing and various Provençal souvenirs. There are also farmer’s markets, where only food products are featured. Craft markets exist as well, where you can find items like Provençal textiles and products made from them, local ceramics, and more. Flea markets are referred to as “Brocante.”

  • Brocante – Flea market
  • Marché couvert – Covered market
  • Marché aux Poissons – Fish market
  • Marché Floral – Flower market
  • Marché Artisanal – Craft market
  • Marché Provençal – Provençal market
  • Marché local – Local market

More information: Timetable of all Provençal markets in Provence

 

Some tipps about shopping in Provence

Provençal Markets

Provence is famous for its colorful outdoor markets, or “marchés,” which are held regularly in towns and villages throughout the region. These markets are a feast for the senses, featuring fresh produce, local cheeses, olives, spices, herbs, flowers, and artisanal products. You can find markets specializing in everything from food to antiques and crafts.

 

Lavender Products

Provence is renowned for its lavender fields, and you can find a wide range of lavender products, including essential oils, soaps, sachets, and dried lavender bundles. The town of Sault is particularly known for its lavender.

Provence provencal market souvenirs lavender products cosmetic

 

Pottery and Ceramics

The region is home to many skilled potters and ceramic artists. You can find beautifully crafted pottery, tableware, tiles, and decorative items in vibrant Provençal colors and patterns.

 

Provençal Fabrics

Fabrics with traditional Provençal designs, such as the iconic “Pierre Deux” or “Pays d’Arles” patterns, are popular purchases. You’ll find tablecloths, napkins, and other textiles in these charming designs.

Provençal Fabrics

 

Wine and Local Spirits

Provence is a renowned wine region, so it’s an excellent place to purchase local wines, including rosé, red, and white varieties. Local spirits like Pastis are also popular choices.

 

Handcrafted Soaps

Provence is known for its high-quality, natural soaps. Marseille soap, in particular, is famous, and you can find a variety of scents and shapes in local shops.

Provence provencal market souvenirs provence souvenirs marseille soap savon de marseille

 

Antiques

Many towns in Provence have antiques markets or shops where you can discover unique treasures, including furniture, vintage textiles, and collectibles.

 

Art and Crafts

Provençal artists and artisans produce a wide range of art and crafts, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and handmade textiles.

 

Food and Culinary Products

Aside from fresh market produce, you can also shop for regional specialties like olive oils, tapenades, spices, and gourmet treats like calissons (almond candies).

Provencal cuisine - tapenade

 

Provençal Clothing and Accessories

You’ll find boutiques offering clothing and accessories inspired by Provençal fashion, including flowy dresses, straw hats, and espadrilles.

When shopping in Provence, it’s common to engage in a bit of haggling at markets, especially for non-food items. Be prepared to bring cash, as some smaller shops and market vendors may not accept credit cards. Exploring the markets and local shops in Provence is not just about shopping; it’s a cultural experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the region’s traditions, flavors, and creativity.

 

Provençal markets

Provençal markets, often referred to as “marchés provençaux,” are an integral part of life in Provence, and they offer a quintessential experience for locals and visitors alike. These markets are a vibrant and colorful reflection of the region’s rich culture, culinary traditions, and artisanal craftsmanship. At Provençal markets you can buy:

  1. Fresh Produce: Provençal markets are renowned for their abundant supply of fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. You’ll find stalls brimming with colorful tomatoes, fragrant herbs, juicy melons, and a variety of seasonal delights. The emphasis is on quality, flavor, and the farm-to-table experience.
  2. Local Cheeses and Dairy: Cheese lovers will be in heaven at Provençal markets, where you can sample and purchase a wide array of regional cheeses, including creamy goat cheese, pungent blue cheese, and firm sheep’s milk cheese.
  3. Olives and Olive Products: Provence is famous for its olive groves, and the markets showcase an impressive selection of olives, olive oils, tapenades, and other olive-based products.
  4. Herbs and Spices: Aromas of Provencal herbs fill the air at these markets. You can purchase bundles of fragrant lavender, thyme, rosemary, and other herbs, as well as a variety of spices to enhance your culinary creations.
  5. Seafood: In coastal towns, you’ll find a mouthwatering selection of fresh seafood, including fish, oysters, mussels, and more. The catch of the day is often on display, tempting seafood lovers.
  6. Bread and Pastries: Bakeries and patisseries offer an assortment of freshly baked bread, croissants, pastries, and delicious desserts. Be sure to try the local specialty, “fougasse,” a type of flatbread often flavored with olives or herbs.
  7. Crafts and Artisanal Products: Provençal markets are also treasure troves for handmade crafts and artisanal goods. You can find unique items like Provençal pottery, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and artwork.
  8. Flowers and Plants: Many markets feature vibrant flower stalls with bouquets of fresh blooms, potted plants, and herbs for sale. It’s a lovely place to pick up a bouquet to brighten your day.
  9. Food to Go: Market-goers can indulge in delicious prepared foods, including rotisserie chicken, paella, socca (chickpea pancakes), and other Provençal specialties. It’s a perfect opportunity for a picnic or a quick, authentic meal.
  10. Regional Wines: Some markets have wine vendors offering tastings and sales of local wines. It’s an excellent chance to sample the wines of the region and purchase bottles to enjoy later.

 

Provençal markets are a sensory delight, filled with the sights, sounds, and scents of the region. They often take place in town squares, under colorful awnings, and in winding alleys, creating a festive and lively atmosphere. These markets are an excellent way to immerse yourself in Provençal culture, discover local flavors, and interact with friendly vendors who are passionate about their products.

 

Best Provençal markets in Region:

Provence is renowned for its vibrant markets, each with its own unique charm and offerings. It would be for you a really nice experience to visit of the best and most famous Provençal markets in the region:

  1. Aix-en-Provence Market: This is one of the region’s most celebrated markets. Held in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, it features a wide range of products, from fresh produce and flowers to clothing and crafts. It’s especially known for its colorful food stalls. On Saturdays (Place Verdun) in the moring.
  2. Cours Saleya Market, Nice: Located in the historic heart of Nice, this market is famous for its flower market, where you can find beautiful blooms and plants. It also offers fresh produce, local foods, and antiques.
  3. L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue Market: Often called the “Venice of Provence” due to its canals, this town hosts a renowned antique market on Sundays, attracting collectors and enthusiasts from across Europe. The market also offers Provençal products and food.
  4. Arles Market: The market in Arles is a lively and traditional Provençal market. It’s known for its fresh produce, local cheeses, and a variety of regional specialties. The market also features artisanal crafts.
  5. Forcalquier Market: Held on Mondays, this market is one of the largest in Provence and offers an impressive selection of local produce, meats, cheeses, and textiles. It’s a bustling and colorful affair.
  6. Avignon Les Halles Market: Located in the historical Les Halles building in Avignon, this indoor market is a food lover’s paradise. You can find everything from fresh seafood and meats to Provençal herbs and spices.
  7. Carpentras Truffle Market: If you’re a truffle enthusiast, this market is a must-visit. It takes place on Friday mornings from November to March and is one of the most famous truffle markets in France.
  8. Marseille Fish Market (Vieux-Port): Marseille’s Old Port hosts a lively fish market where you can witness fishermen selling their catch of the day, including an impressive array of Mediterranean seafood.
  9. Lorgues Market: Known for its authentic Provençal ambiance, the market in Lorgues offers a mix of fresh produce, artisanal products, clothing, and more. It’s particularly famous for its colorful textiles.
  10. Sanary-sur-Mer Market: This picturesque seaside town hosts a bustling market on Wednesdays. It’s known for its fresh fish, regional products, and a pleasant atmosphere along the waterfront.

These markets not only provide opportunities for shopping but also offer a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, taste authentic Provençal flavors, and engage with friendly vendors. Be sure to check the specific market days and times when planning your visit, as they may vary by location and season.