Provence, a sun-kissed region in South France, is known for its warm summers and stunning lavender fields. It offers the opportunity to explore the spectacular landscapes, soaking up local history and culture. Provence also offers fantastic food markets, offering local delicacies to the finest fruits and vegetables, perfect for re-creating the local dishes you will love during your stay.
Marche Provencal d’Arles
At Cooking Classes in Provence, we believe the most famous and biggest food market is Marche Provencal d’Arles. This large market spans over a mile, spanning from Boulevard des Lices to Boulevard Celemenceau.
It takes place every Saturday morning, with an excellent farmers market selling the freshest produce. Most are organic producers. You will also find an amazing selection of olives, olive oil, and regional wines.
Being its vast size, this food market offers everything you need to create a delicious Provencal meal.
The market, which is located in Arles, is home to Roman monuments, that have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which is why we recommend make Arles a Saturday excursion. Start with the market, enjoying the brightly coloured stalls, before venturing into the town to explore the monuments.
Other Food Markets in Provence We Recommend
While Marche Provencal d’Arles is the most famous food market in Provence, it isn’t the only one. Provence comes alive with its day and night markets, offering everything from fresh produce and wines to arts and crafts, clothing, antiques, and more. We can also recommend the following Provencal markets:
Aix-en-Provence Market
This lovely market boasts colourful stalls, spanning from Cours Mirabau to Place Richelme. It offers you the opportunity to talk to the producers, try local specialities, and find the fines ingredients. You will also find authentic confectioners and olive oil.
Cavaillon Market
This fun food market takes place every Thursday night from April through to October. This melon-capital area offers an excellent farmers market, offering a fantastic selection of fresh and local produce. You will also find a good selection of jams and honey.
Marseille Market
Do you want to learn how to make authentic Provencal bouillabaisse? Then you will want to head down to Marseilles Market at Vieux-Port. Be sure to get there early before 10am where you can choose from a selection of fish, direct from the fisherman on the dock.
Conclusion
As you can see, if you love Provencal food, then you will not be disappointed with the great selection of food markets in Provence. Each market offers a good selection of fresh produce, providing you with an opportunity to make a fresh bouillabaisse or ratatouille. How about trying a private cooking class in Provence using fresh, local produce? Interested? Get in touch with Chef Clement at Cooking Classes in Provence now to find out more.
