One of the reasons that I keep coming back to Provence year after year is the markets. No matter how many times I’ve been to the same city, the market day always feels like I’m discovering it for the first time. As the seasons change, the tablescapes erupt with a different rainbow array of produce. Even the most sleepy little village erupts with life on market day. Medieval streets suddenly pour forth with modern life as vendors, tourists, and residences explode into the alleys and streets. The sun beating down on their vibrant market bags and woven baskets that carry their sumptuous plunder home.
While there are tons of lists of the “Best Provence Markets to Visit,” I would argue they are each beautiful explorations in their own right. Even the smaller markets, which primarily focus on produce, are full of unique discoveries. And amazingly charming vendors you can’t converse with as intimately as in the larger, more touristy markets. So let your heart guide you. Immerse yourself in the lively ambiance. Get lost amongst the green and white awnings. And explore all the vibrant colours, enticing aromas, and local delicacies you find throughout these iconic Provencal Markets.
This beginner’s guide provides essential tips and insights to help you maximize your visit. From navigating the different market stalls and knowing what’s in the season. Grab your basket, and let’s dive into the heart of Provence’s cultural heritage at the market!
- The History of Provencal Markets
- Features of a Provencal Market
- When are the Markets Open?
- What Time Does the Market Start?
- What Time to Arrive?
- Be Sure To Bring Cash
- Stop by the Tourist Office
- What to Do After the Market
- What are the Best Markets to Visit in Provence?
- Navigating the Market
- What to Buy at the Market
- Fresh Prepared Foods
- Provencal Souvenirs
- Market Day Tips
The History of Provencal Markets
Provence is such a culturally distinctive part of France. The name “Provence” is derived from the Latin term “Provincia,” meaning “province” or “territory.” During the Roman era, Provence was established as a Roman province known as “Provincia Romana .” The Romans initially divided the area into smaller regions, but “Provincia” became the word associated with the entire region. And over time, it just stuck.
Even the earliest Romans saw this land as a place which held huge agricultural potential. The combination of a favourable climate and diverse landscapes allowed a massive variety of fruits, vegetables and flowers to grow in abundance.
The First Provencal Market
Provencal markets in France have a long and rich history. The tradition can be traced back to ancient times. The Greeks established trading posts in the region around 600 BC, bringing in the concept of open-air markets. These early markets served as hubs for exchanging goods.
During the Middle Ages, Provencal markets gained even more prominence. They were crucial in supporting local economies and facilitating trade between neighbouring towns and villages. Markets were held in central squares, where merchants and farmers gathered to sell their goods. The markets became integral to daily life, offering diverse products. This time it was more than just produce. It included items like textiles, pottery, and handicrafts.
As the rest of the world began to change, grow and modernize, these markets never lost their importance. Despite other changes, like the introduction of supermarkets, Provencal markets still held great importance in people’s daily lives. The one-on-one interactions between vendors and buyers can never be replaced. The markets remain integral to the region’s identity, reflecting its agricultural heritage, culinary traditions, and vibrant local culture.
Features of a Provencal Market
There are a few key features that make a Provencal Market unique. Each city throughout Provence, no matter its size, will host their own weekly market on a specific day. Refer to my chart below to determine where you can find each city’s market day. This means that no matter where you are, you can find a market to shop at within an hour from your home base.
A Provencal Market is almost always held outdoors. Allowing vendors to simply show up on the day and set up their table or a cart on the sidewalks and squares. Busy streets are closed to vehicle traffic on market days, allowing pedestrians to easily walk up and down the streets to peruse the market wares.
A classic Provencal market will sell everything from fresh produce, cheese, flowers, souvenirs, textiles, prepared foods, and (of course) wine. You need to remember while many markets do cater to tourists, these markets are primarily a vital function of the local community. Residents greet each other weekly to catch up, gossip and, yes, do their daily shopping. Immersing yourself in this lively, friendly and electric atmosphere is a key part of how you can participate in that iconic Provençal way of life.
Marche paysans, Farmer’s Markets
In addition to Provencal Markets, there are also Marche paysans or Farmer’s Markets. These markets will focus entirely on locally grown, seasonal produce. Usually sold by the very farmer who grew it! I’ve heard some people complain or be disappointed when they discover the market they went to is a marche paysans simply because they can’t find all the souvenirs they were looking for. But personally, I often find these smaller, more local markets even more rewarding to visit. Yes, they will be missing the tea towels and soap and lavender sachets, but here, the food is the real star. They have a much higher focus on locally grown produce, and you’ll never taste anything fresher!
When are the Markets Open?
Most of the larger, more tourist-friendly markets are open year-round. During the winter, these markets tend to be much smaller. With fewer tourists to cater to and less fresh produce coming in they still run but just in a more condensed fashion. The smaller markets, especially the farmer’s markets, are generally only open from April to December. I always check online the opening times and dates before heading out for the day. This way, you can ensure they’ll be open when you arrive.
What Time Does the Market Start?
Provencal Markets start early in the morning. It is perhaps the one thing the French seem to be willing to get up early in the morning to do. Most markets start selling at 8 or 8:30 am. Smaller vendors will sell out as the day wears on, but I generally find that if you’re a tourist, you can almost always find what you need, no matter the time of day. Tourists aren’t as committed to buying from one particular vendor as the locals do. Each one having their own personal relationship with the vendor and their produce.
The stalls start to close around noon as people want to get packed up for lunch. By 1 pm, the town, which was once choc-a-block with stalls and busy shoppers, looked as if nothing was ever here. Street cleaners mill about ensuring there is no trance left behind from the morning mayhem.
What Time to Arrive?
Arriving early can be really important to the ease of your experience. Most of these towns see a massive influx of people on market days- with vendors, locals and tourists. And since these cities don’t have this kind of traffic throughout the week, parking is limited. The earlier you arrive, the better chance you have a spot close to the start of the market. The later you arrive, the further you might have to park out of town. You often see people circling the centre of town endlessly, looking for a spot. And trust me, they look really frustrated.
One tip for those who don’t mind walking is to search in advance for a parking lot about 10 minutes walk from the market. These are usually wide open as most people will only be searching for spots as close to the market as possible. Personally, I love the lack of street these options provide, and the walk into town is often a scenic addition to the experience.
Street parking is usually free. If you are parking in a designed parking lot, you must pay by the hour. Usually, you’ll have to pay in advance for a set amount of time and leave the ticket in your window dash to show you’ve paid. If you need more time, you’ll need to return to your vehicle and buy a new ticket for another hour or so. Be sure you don’t leave any valuables visible in your car. Place anything of note in the truck or tucked away from view.
Be Sure To Bring Cash
Most markets still only accept cash. Although a few more commercial markets, like Les Halles in Avignon and Nimes, will take cards, the smaller markets have yet to adopt this new technology. Even in Aix-en-Provence, where the market is open almost daily, I found that vendors selling more expensive goods would only take cash. So be sure to bring some money with you. The lines for the ATMs (if there are any) can be very long. It’s also essential to have some small bills and loose changes. Some vendors won’t be able to break larger bills for you. You can always pop into a nearby convenience or grocery store to break those larger bills.
Stop by the Tourist Office
If the market town you’re visiting has a Tourist Office open when you arrive, that’s always my first stop. The people who work in these tourist offices, especially in the smaller towns, are so friendly and want to show off their incredible home. They always carry free maps of the village and provide suggestions of what to see at the market and throughout the rest of the town. One of the first questions I ask at the tourist office are they recommendations of the best local park. I always try to pick up items throughout the market for a picnic. And Provence has some of the best public parks which are the perfect setting for a charming little picnic.
What to Do After the Market
If you don’t feel like bringing the goods for a picnic, one of the best ways to watch the market come to a close is to grab a spot in a cafe that faces the market square. These are the perfect place to study the vendors closing their carts down for the day. And watch as the busy streets suddenly go quiet.
After lunch, I would recommend heading back into town. It feels like you have the whole city to yourself after the crowds have all disappeared. This is the best time to do your sightseeing. During the market hours, stalls and vendors often block the roads. And cover up key sights in town. So it’s best to explore after they’ve closed up for the day. If you’ve paid for parking, you can see if free street parking has opened up once the marketgoers have gone home.
What are the Best Markets to Visit in Provence?
As mentioned above, you can’t go wrong with any market you choose in Provence. But if you’re only in Provence for a few days and want to maximize your time, I would make a few recommendations. Aix-en-Provence is one of the largest cities in Provence, and they have a market open every day of the week. This lively market is known for its fresh produce, fragrant flowers, and artisanal crafts. Don’t miss the delectable calissons, a traditional Aix-en-Provence candy specialty made from almond paste, candied melons, and oranges.
Isle-sur-la-Sorgue‘s Sunday Market is famous for its antique treasures in addition to its expansive Provencal market. The Saint-Rémy Market takes place every Wednesday. The picturesque town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence was made famous by Van Gogh’s paintings. And it was also the birthplace of Nostradamus. But today, Saint-Remy is best known for its fabulous market that offers a delightful mix of fresh produce, local specialties, artisan crafts, and more.
Nestled in the hilltop is the quaint village of Bonnieux. This charming and picturesque market occurs every Friday. Although smaller than others, the town itself is an absolute delight, and there is nothing like wandering these streets which explode with colourful produce and beautiful textiles on market day.
Farmers Markets
To explore one of the most expansive local farmer’s markets, I would check out Coustellet. The Coustellet Farmers Market takes place every Sunday, and during the summer months, they also have a Wednesday evening market. Situated in the whimsical village of Coustellet, in the heart of the Luberon region, this market is renowned for its focus on local and organic produce that highlights the unique agriculture of the Luberon.
Rainy Day Options
If you happen to be in Provence on one of those rare rainy days, you should visit the Avignon or Nimes indoor Market, commonly known as Les Halles. These vibrant indoor markets are a bustling hub of activity. Since these markets are enclosed, making them an ideal destination during inclement weather. Les Halles are renowned for their incredible selection of fresh produce, local delicacies, cheeses, meats, seafood, pastries, and much more. Rainy days often create a cozy ambiance. And exploring these markets allows you to discover and savour the region’s culinary offerings.
Navigating the Market
When you arrive, I often find first-time visitors can be overwhelmed. Provencal markets are a sensory feast, so allow ample time to wander through the stalls and get adjusted to the bustling atmosphere. There is nothing is worse than feeling like you must rush through the experience to rid yourself of the true Provencal way of life. Take your time to soak in the ambiance and engage with the vendors.
Aside from the sprawling markets like in Aix, I generally find that doing one lap around allows you to get the lay of the land. And its good to do before buying anything. Although you might spot something you like, you’ll find that a few stalls downs, further away from the road and the crush of people, the same item is half the price! So, if you have the time, do a general scope of the vendors and their wares before committing to a purchase. If you spot something special along the way, make a note of it. Jot down the location on the map you got from the tourist centre. Or use your phone to drop off a location pin at that spot. That way you can find your way back.
Greeting & Interacting with the Vendors
One of the joys of visiting a Provencal market is interacting with friendly and passionate vendors. You shouldn’t expect everyone to speak English, especially in the smaller, more remote towns and villages. In the larger, more touristy markets, you’ll find lots of vendors who will speak to you in English. But it shouldn’t be expected. Even if you don’t speak French, everyone is so patient and helpful in walking you through purchases. So don’t ever be afraid of interacting simply because you don’t speak the language. Remember to always say “bonjour” when greeting the vendor. This is considered very polite, and starting a conversation without doing so is almost rude.
Merci (thank you) and au revoir (goodbye) are other key phrases that will go a long way in fostering a positive connection with the seller. Feel free to inquire about the origin of the produce, the best way to use a particular spice or which fruits are ready to eat and perfectly ripe. They are so passionate about their produce. I even had one woman write me down a recipe she wanted me to try after I bought her white asparagus.
What to Buy at the Market
There are so many things to buy at the market, and it can be overwhelming to know what is unique to Provence and worth purchasing. For produce, you want to know what’s in season in Provence, as this will always yield the most delicious fruits and vegetables. As mentioned above, I adore filling my basket with different items to create the perfect afternoon picnic. This gives you an aim and a goal for your shopping adventure. And eating it right after purchasing, you get to taste the freshness of everything in the market.
Goat Cheese
Be sure to pick up some fresh bread at the market and pair this with a smattering of cheese. Goat cheese is the Provencal specialty. The weather in Provence has a combination of low rainfall, intense sun and wind. Growing tall, healthy grass for cows to graze on is difficult in Provence. Goats, on the other hand, happily eat dry plants and herbs. Plus, they produce really flavourful milk. You’ll find goat cheese in so many different varieties. Some are smothered in olive oil, others have ivory-coloured rinds, but my favourites are the ones covered in dried herbs and flowers.
A specialty in Provence made from goat cheese is Banon. This cheese dish is made by wrapping a ball of goat cheese in chestnut leaves. While it ages, it soaks in the taste of the chestnut leaves, creating this nutty and creamy flavour!
Olives and Tapenade
Olives are immensely popular in Provence and have grown almost across the country. If you’re staying in a rental home, you’ll probably have an olive tree, or grove, in your backyard. Olives thrive in Provence due to favourable conditions, including those mentioned above. But one unique aspect of Provencal weather is their mistrals. A mistral is a strong, cold north-westerly wind that blows through Provence. While it can sometimes be intense, the Mistral positively impacts olive cultivation. It helps to reduce humidity levels, prevent diseases and pests, and promotes good air circulation.
You won’t find olive oil in the markets (or you shouldn’t) as the sun makes olive oil less flavourful. But you will find huge tubs and pots of fresh olives. Seasoned in a variety of different herbs and spices. But one of my favourite ways to eat Provencal olives is in a tapenade! Provençal tapenade is made primarily from olives, capers, anchovies, garlic, and olive oil. In fact, the word “tapenade” comes from the Provençal word “tapeno,” meaning caper. Mixing this all together, you get this wonderfully flavourful paste. Best spread over bread for easy eating. Tapenade also comes in all different flavours with additions like sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and nuts.
Arles Sausage
If you’re looking for a little bit of meat for your spread, make your way to one of the many different saucissons stands. The most famous is the Arles sausage, also known as Saucisson d’Arles. The Arles sausage is typically made from pork and pork fat, seasoned with various herbs and spices characteristic of the Provencal cuisine. The recipe can vary, but common ingredients include garlic, thyme, rosemary, fennel seeds, black pepper, and sometimes red wine.
Unlike in North America, these sausages are cured. They don’t need to be kept in the fridge; just stored in a cool, dark and dry place. They are edible for about two months if stored this way, but trust me, once you start to eat them, you’ll finish it off in less than an hour!
Lavender Honey
To add some sweetness to the spread, grab some Lavender Honey. Lavender honey is created by bees that predominantly gather nectar from the lavender flowers that bloom abundantly in the region. This adds a delicate floral aroma and distinct flavour to the honey. And it’s unlike anything else you’ll taste. It’s a perfect accompaniment to soft goat cheese or dipping sauce for apples. Lavender Honey also makes a wonderful gift for anyone back home. And very Provencal.
French Radishes and Butter
A traditional French snack is a plate of radishes from the garden served with some salty butter. Sounds like a strange combination but trust me, it’s fantastic! The two ingredients’ complementary flavours and textures (butter’s creaminess and the radish’s sharp peppery taste) create this amazingly harmonious blend. French radishes are generally smaller and more cylindrical than the varieties you might have had before. They also typically have a crispier texture and spicy flavour that makes them a unique flavour to try!
Wine & Grapes
Provencal is known for its special terroir. Terroir is a term which refers to the unique combination of soil, climate, and geographical features that influence grape growth. The Provencal coastal cliffs, rolling hills, and inland plains provide a range of microclimates and soil types. This diversity contributes to the complexity and character of Provencal wines and their grapes. Add to this the hot, dry summers and mild winters with ample sunshine, and the result is a balanced wine with bold fruity flavours.
Rosé Wine
The most popular variety of wine you’ll find in Provence is Rosé. In fact, it is the largest rosé wine-producing region in France. Provencal rosé is known for its pale pink colour, delicate aromas of red berries, and refreshing acidity. Almost every market will have a wine seller where you can get a bottle of wine for less than ten euros. And no doubt it will have been made from grapes grown less than a kilometre from where you’re purchasing it. It really doesn’t get any more local than that!
Muscat Grapes
If you happen to be in Provence late in summer and early fall, don’t miss the opportunity to buy some Muscat grapes. Muscat grapes have a sweet and floral taste with pronounced notes of musk and exotic fruits. They often exhibit flavours of apricot, peach, orange blossom, and sometimes a hint of citrus. They are beyond amazing, and getting them fresh from the source makes them taste all the better!
Pêche de Vigne
Another unique fruit variety special to Provence is the Pêche de Vigne. The Pêche de Vigne, also known as Vine Peach or Vineyard Peach, is only in season in August in Provence. The Pêche de Vigne has an intense aroma with a honeyed, floral, tangy taste. The fruit is typically smaller in size compared to regular peaches. But its small size packs a punch. In addition to the taste, the colour of the peach is totally different than other peaches. It is almost black with a deep, blood-red interior flesh. A dramatic fruit to be sure! Although the season for this peach is short, lots of producers make jam out of this variety of peaches so you can taste it year-round.
Cavaillon Melon
I’m not usually a Melon fan, but you must try Provence’s local variety, the Cavaillon Melon. The Cavaillon melon is grown from all the way from May to September. This fruit benefits from the long hot summers and sunlight of Provence. All growers hand-picked each melon to ensure its soft flesh wasn’t damaged or bruised. Because it is so precious, this melon isn’t widely exported and makes it a special Provencal treat.
The taste of these melons is so sweet but with just the gentlest hint of acidity, making it miles better than any “cantaloupe” I’ve ever had. To tell if your melon is ready to eat, you simply smell the navel of the melon, where the steam would grow. It should have a strong melon scent; if it doesn’t, you know it’s not ready just yet.
Vaucluse Cherries
The Vaucluse region in France, with its favourable climate, became a hub for cherry growing, particularly for the confectionery industry. There are various cherry varieties, including Bigarreau, Guigne, Amarelle, and Morello Cherry. The largest concentration of cherry trees in France can be found in the Vaucluse, specifically in the Monts de Venasque. Cherries are delicate and best consumed shortly after purchase. And remember, if it’s been raining, don’t bother with the cherries. Rain sweeps the sweetness out of these berries, so they are best bought only when it’s hot and dry!
Carpentras Strawberries
A unique variety of strawberries, special to Provence, is the Carpentras strawberry. This variety is highly regarded for its unbeatable taste and is one of the four main varieties in France. The French consume an average of 2 kilograms of strawberries per person each year! And Carpentras produces over 4,000 tons annually, selling in markets all over Provence. Carpentras strawberries come into season as soon as the first buds of Spring begin to emerge. And they continue producing until late October, meaning you can almost always find fresh strawberries in the market!
Flowers
When I arrive at my first Provencal Market, I am always sure to pick up a few bouquets of flowers to place around my vacation home. Provence has some of the most incredible flower fields in the world, and the sheer abundance of incredibly lush blooms at every market makes me wish I had this kind of selection (and price) at home! I keep used glass drink bottles and pluck loose stems into these containers for easy vases if there aren’t any floral vases in the house. There is nothing like fresh flowers to make any rental feel more homely, and carrying a bouquet of flowers in your arms while sauntering through the market is like something out of a fairytale.
Fresh Prepared Foods
In almost every Provencal Market, you’ll find rotisserie chicken stands. Usually, you can smell these all the way down the street, and their enticing smell lures you in. These chicken stands also sell roasted potatoes and frites. Those roast potatoes are one of the best things you’ll find at the entire market. They are covered in herbs de Provence as well as sauteed onions and peppers. And the chicken? Probably the most moist chicken you’ll ever eat! Trust me, you won’t regret picking one up for your picnic.
Another popular food many locals get to-go to or “à emporter” is Spanish paella. The locals line up for this even as early as breakfast. Anytime you see a line, you know it will be good. Although we think of paella as a typically Spanish dish, Provence shares a border with Spain, and there is a significant cross-cultural exchange between the two regions. As a result, Spanish culinary traditions, including paella, have entered Provencal gastronomy. Paella is also a dish that takes a long time to cook but can be made in large quantities. Making it a perfect dish for the large crowds at the market.
Provencal Souvenirs
Provencal Markets are awash with amazing things to bring home for your friends, family, and yourself. I always feel like something you can consume at home is a fantastic gift from your holidays. These consumables have an essence of the terroir of the place you’ve visited. And it’s like bringing back a slice of the country itself.
Lavender
Perhaps the most iconic souvenir from Provence has got to be its lavender. If you visit during the hot summer months, you’ll be greeted by seas of purples blooms spread across the landscape as you drive across the country. Stepping out of your car on the side of the road near the lavender fields is an incredible sensory experience. You can even smell the fields from miles away.
Lavender is not only prized for its visual appeal but also for its aromatic and therapeutic properties. The essential oil derived from lavender is used in perfumes, cosmetics, soaps, and aromatherapy products. The scent of lavender is often associated with relaxation. One of the most popular things for tourists to buy is lavender sachets. These are inexpensive and make for beautiful gifts to give out. The sachets can be popped into clothes drawers to keep things smelling fresh and discourage insects. You can find barrels of lavender ready to be bought in bulk at the market, often from local farmers. This lavender is easy to harvest and, therefore, cheaper to buy than oils and beauty products, which require more production.
Herbs de Provence
One of the most famous and easy-to-carry slices of Provence you can bring home is Herbes de Provence. Herbes de Provence is a mixture of fragrant herbs, including thyme, rosemary, savoury, oregano, and marjoram. They can add an authentic Provençal touch to your cooking and are ideal for seasoning meats, vegetables, and marinades. You can buy Herbs de Provence in bulk at the market. Then you can divvy it up into smaller containers when you get home. This is the most cost-efficient method. Although if you prefer something a little fancier, you can buy little tins and cloth bags with provencal designs that will look beautiful on your kitchen counter.
Camarague Salt
Akin to the Herbs de Provence, another classic cooking essential is salt. And some of the best finishing salt in the world comes from the Camarague. The Camargue is a unique and ecologically diverse delta where the Rhône River meets the Mediterranean Sea. The salt is harvested here through evaporation, where seawater is channelled into shallow salt marshes called salins. The salt concentration increases as the water evaporates under the Mediterranean sun and wind, eventually forming salt crystals.
The Camargue region’s unique environmental conditions contribute to the salt’s distinct flavour and characteristics. The salins are rich in minerals and trace elements, which give Camargue salt its subtle, briny flavour and slightly greyish or pinkish colour. It is often considered a gourmet salt due to its unique flavour profile. It can enhance the flavours of various dishes, from seafood and meats to vegetables and even desserts.
Provencal Fabric
What we now consider typical Provencal fabric designs were heavily influenced by Indian textiles. These were first imported to France through the ports in Marseille in the 17th century. These Indiennes, as they were called back then, were extremely expensive and owning these textiles was a way to show off your wealth and status. As these imported fabrics became more and more popular, the French silk weaver found that their goods were no longer being purchased. So the weavers of Provence began learning how to craft their own unique rendition of traditional Indian designs. Employing their own Provencal colour schemes and modifying the patterns.
Provencal Designs
Over time, they created a style all their own. And these fabrics are one of the most characteristic images of the Provence dining table. Provence doesn’t shy away from colour. Provencal fabrics are known for their rich and vibrant colours, like bright yellows, deep blues, rich greens, and blood-reds. These vivid colours are reminiscent of the vibrant landscapes, sunny climate, and Mediterranean influences.
The patterns found in Provencal fabrics are also heavily influenced by nature. Common motifs include flowers, such as lavender, sunflowers and poppies. Also found in these patterns are images of fruits, herbs, birds, and insects (especially cicadas). These designs celebrate the agricultural abundance and natural beauty of Provence.
To be fair, many of these fabrics are actually produced outside the country today, but the patterns are still unique to Provence. And you won’t be able to find these designs anywhere else. My favourite combination to buy is a lovely tablecloth and some matching (or contrasting) placemats. Napkins and placemats also make for great presents to bring home as gifts.
Savon de Marseille
You’ll often see rows of rainbow-coloured soaps decorating different market stalls. These aren’t just any soaps but the iconic Savon de Marseille. The production of Savon de Marseille dates back several centuries. Savon de Marseille holds a special place in the world of soap-making. It is renowned for its simplicity, gentle formulation, and rich history. The soap is made primarily with olive oil, creating mild, hypoallergenic soap. In addition to this, the bars contain no synthetic fragrances, dyes, or preservatives.
The soap is often stamped with markings indicating its origin and authenticity. These markings typically include the “Savon de Marseille” logo. As well as the percentage of oils used in the soap. 72% olive oil is considered the highest quality. Despite not using synthetic fragrances, they are myriads of different scents. Each one is made using natural oils that enhance the natural smell of the soap. Getting these soaps directly from the market, so close to their manufacturer, means you can get such a high-quality product at a low cost. I love buying these in bulk and giving them out as gifts!
Fruit Jam
As mentioned above, Provence is home to some of the best fruits you can get anywhere in the world. And lucky for you, even if you aren’t there when your favourite fruit is in season, you can taste the essence in their fruit jams and spread. These are also great to bring home to keep the flavours of Provence in your pantry year-round. While the plain jams are wonderful, my favourites are those with herbal and floral flavours. Peaches and thyme or apricot and lavender and even strawberry and basil are just some of the delicious concoctions these Provencal chefs have bottled to perfection!
Provencal Street Art
Buying street art in Provencal Markets is a remarkable opportunity to connect with the vibrant artistic heritage of the region. And to also support local artists. Provence, known for its picturesque landscapes, has long been a source of inspiration for artists. But no one made Provence more famous than Vincent van Gogh.
During his time in Arles and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Van Gogh created some of his most iconic works, capturing the essence of the region’s beauty through his unique artistic style. And today, many artists are still doing the same thing. Street art is usually fairly cheap, yet these little vignettes capture some of your favourite spots in Provence. A wonderful memory to bring home and hang on your wall. I always look for their works in progress on tables nearby to assure myself that the works they are selling as their own. And not just mass-produced printings.
Provencal Pottery
Provençal pottery adorned with vibrant colours and intricate patterns is something you can bring home to remind yourself of your travel every day. Provencal Pottery has been made here since Roman times. And over the years, they have developed a signature style of pottery. The most common type is terra cotta, made from the red clay most commonly found in the region of Roussillon. The style may vary slightly, but Provencal pottery generally relies on those vibrant reds, yellows and greens to decorate the flatware. A reflection of the landscape of Provence. While plates and bowls are great, my favourite pieces are the ornate olive oil cruets or olive dishes. These remind me of the olive groves in Provence and make my table spread feel all the more special.
Market Day Tips
BYOB | Bring Your Own Bags
Before leaving for the market, always bring high-quality reusable bags. Other than some thin plastic bags for the produce, sellers won’t typically have bags for you to use, as locals know enough to bring their own. If you prefer to buy yourself a Provencal market bag, they always carry a variety of those at most markets. These are generally made in Morroco but are beautiful and the perfect way to carry your groceries.
If you prefer to bring your own bags, my tried and tested recommendation are the bags from Baggu. These delightfully patterned bags are some of the strongest reusable bags I’ve ever owned and also, when not in use, fold up into these tiny little squares. So they won’t take up extra room or weight in your suitcase. All the more room for souvenirs!
How to Escape the Crowds
A day at the busy market day can get overwhelming. There are so many people, and often some of the streets the market is held on are very narrow, and you can feel like cattle, all squished together. Especially for those who can get anxious in crowds, which I totally understand, there is one thing I recommend when faced with this situation. And that is to quickly duck down a side street. The streets where the main market stalls are located are surrounded by many smaller alleyways and narrow pedestrian lanes. I was amazed in Isle-sur-la-Sorgue how after walking along a side street for less than a second, I went from hundreds of people to a few silent locals wandering the cobblestones. It went immediately silent and is bliss for those needing a minute of peace.
What to Pack for the Picnic
As mentioned throughout this post, my favourite way to wind down after a busy day at the market is with a picnic. If you are going to have a picnic in town after your shopping, there are a few items I always bring with me. Here is my list of Provence picnic essentials
- Wet wipes or napkins
- Disposal forks and butter knives (you can find great ones made of bamboo)
- A good bread knife (also good to slice sausage and fruit)
- Wine bottle opener (if you plan on having wine)
- If you want to sit on the grass, bring a nice big blanket
- Bring your reusable water bottles to drink out of, or dump them out and pour in some rose wine!
- A small plastic bag for garbage (you’ll often get these with your produce, but be sure you keep one as we don’t want to be littering visitors)
No need for plates; just lay your food out on the wrappings they are often packaged in. It’s family style; just grab what you want! But if you feel like you need plates, be sure to bring some paper plates with you.
Embarking on a visit to a Provencal market is an experience like no other. Hopefully, by following this ultimate guide, you can unlock for yourself the secrets to shopping like a local and fully immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and flavours of Provence. Whether you’re seeking the perfect ingredients for a picnic or searching for unique souvenirs, these markets are a treasure trove of authentic Provencal delights.
Happy Travels, Adventurers
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