Traditional markets in France
Colourful, lively, warm and aromatic... Markets in French cities and villages are the chance to discover local flavours, so when in town, let yourself be tempted by their fresh specialty products.
Get in the Mood
Merchants set up their stands at the crack of dawn heedless of the weather, usually on Saturdays or Sundays but also during the week in bigger cities. For the best selection of ultra-fresh products, grab your basket and arrive early in the morning. Otherwise, take advantage of some good last minute deals just before vendors start packing up.
Open-air or covered, Christmas or professional
Stroll down the aisles of open-air Provencal markets, from the Lubéron to the Aix country. In other cities, markets tend to be covered, like the Halles de Paul Bocuse in Lyon or the Capucins Market in Bordeaux. Make your way to Alsace in winter to explore the traditional Christmas markets, and on the second Friday of each month, head to Rungis for the biggest fresh produce market in the world.
Unique, not-to-be-missed markets
- In Charente-Maritime, the La Flotte Market in Ré is located in the picturesque halls and pedestrian streets of one of France's most beautiful villages. Well worth a visit.
- The Samatan foie gras market, in the Gers department, is on every Monday morning. Discuss with the Gascon merchants about their geese, ducks and incredible foie gras.
- The Louhans-Châteaurenaud Market in Saône-et-Loire pays tribute to the Bresse poultry and also runs on Mondays.
- The Ribérac Market in Dordogne happens every Friday morning. This showcase of local specialties also hosts a market for fats, truffles and nuts, depending on the season.
- The truffle market in Richerenches, in the Vaucluse department, is held each Saturday from mid-November to the end of March.