It’s no secret that Provence is my favorite place in the world. It truly speaks to my artisan soul on every single beautiful French level but especially the french markets.
There is something about being in the countryside, surrounded by vineyards, orchids, mountains and villages that always makes my heart overflow. Sure, it helps that I am normally with loved ones or our dear couples, slightly sun kissed and seeking beauty in everyday, but I truly have never felt more connected to a place. Alas, it is natural that I want to share it with you.
When in Provence, the best life is one of a slow paced but no matter what, one of my favorite things to do while I am there is wake up early, make a coffee at home and stroll through a local market. Nailing down exact days and understanding the towns takes some time so we hope this guide helps you plan your next trip.
All of these markets are known as Marche Provencal which is where you will find local produce as all clothing, fabrics (napkins & tablecloths are most popular), ceramics and other local crafts, costume jewellery, leather goods. If you are more of an antique lover, the market for you is called a Brocantes and the very best one is found in L’Isle sur la Sorgue. But do note, the markets start early and as always- the early bird gets the worms.
Monday
Bedoin, Fontvieille, Forcalquier
Tuesday
Aix en Provence, Avignon, Gordes, Vaison la Romaine
Wednesday
St. Remy, Arles, Avignon, Aix en Provence, Riez
Thursday
Avignon, Aix en Provence, L’Isle sur Sorgue, Roussillon, Goult, Roussillon, Maussane-les-Alpilles
Friday
Avignon, Aix en Provence, Bonnieux, Carpentras, Eygalieres, Lambesc
Saturday
Villeneuve les Avignon, Apt, Le Thor, Aix en Provence, Arles, Uzès, Avignon (flower market)
Sunday
Avignon and Brocantes at L’Isle sur la Sorgue (for antiques)
Most of the time, these markets are really spread out so it might take a bit of time plugging in villages into google maps to find the best one for you. Or, venture further out on a road trip through the countryside and make a day of exploring.
As always, we have written this blog post to the best of our knowledge but it is always good to check with locals to confirm the market is on before heading out.
Loving wanderlust as much as us? Keep an eye on our journal for more inspiration.
We cannot wait to see what times you bring home.
Au Revoir,
Alexis
The comprehensive list of markets for each day of the week, along with recommendations for other attractions and activities in each location, makes it easy to plan an itinerary that takes full advantage of all the area has to offer. The inclusion of charming villages like Gordes and Roussillon. The guide is easy to follow and well-organized, making it a great reference tool for anyone looking to explore the markets of Provence. Thank You Soo Much for this blog!!
Bonjour Alexis et Merci Beaucoup for the list of Markets. I will be in Arles from May 10-12, 2024. I am finding conflicting information on which days and times the markets will be in the Luberon. Do you have an updated list? We will have a driver on Friday the 10th and can go just about anywhere but the plan was Gordes, Roussillon, Fontaine de Vaucluse. Anywhere else we shouldn’t miss?
Bonjour Cecilia, I’m pleased this page was helpful! I don’t have an updated list to hand I’m afraid, but I’d also recommend seeing Avignon if you can. It’s a beautiful old city, well worth stopping off at. Have a great time!
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