One of the great pleasures of a stay in Provence is exploring its local food markets. From village squares filled with the scent of fresh herbs to bustling regional markets overflowing with seasonal produce, these markets are at the heart of Provençal life. Staying at De Provence near Cotignac, you are perfectly placed to enjoy some of the best food markets in the region.
Here are ten of our favourite food markets in Provence, each offering a unique taste of local culture and cuisine.
Whether you're searching for sun-ripened tomatoes, artisan cheeses, fresh bread, olives, honey, local wines, or simply the atmosphere of a lively village square, food markets offer an authentic way to experience the flavours and rhythms of the region.
Some markets are small and beautifully local, perfect for a leisurely morning wander and a coffee in the square. Others are larger, drawing producers, artisans, and visitors from across Provence with stalls overflowing with seasonal ingredients, flowers, charcuterie, spices, and handmade goods.
From gathering ingredients for a relaxed lunch at the villa to discovering local specialities and meeting regional producers, market days quickly become one of the highlights of a Provençal stay.
What You'll Discover
Seasonal fruit and vegetables grown locally.
Artisan cheeses, breads, olives, and charcuterie.
Regional wines, olive oils, honey, and preserves.
Fresh herbs, flowers, and Provençal specialities.
Bustling village squares and authentic local atmosphere.
A Few Market Tips
Arrive early: Morning markets are at their liveliest early in the day, when produce is freshest and the atmosphere is at its best.
Bring a basket or bag: You’ll almost certainly leave with more than planned — from fresh bakery treats and cheeses to seasonal fruit and local delicacies.
Embrace the seasons: Markets change throughout the year, reflecting Provence’s seasonal produce — from spring asparagus and summer tomatoes to autumn figs, mushrooms, and truffles.
Take your time: Markets in Provence are about more than shopping. Wander slowly, chat with producers, enjoy a coffee, and soak up the atmosphere of village life.
Our Top 10
Explore our top 10 market recommendations below and discover some of the very best food markets within easy reach of De Provence.
1. Cotignac Market
When: Tuesday mornings
Right on your doorstep, Cotignac’s weekly market is a Provençal classic. Browse seasonal fruit and vegetables, local cheeses, olives, charcuterie, flowers, and artisan products beneath the village’s famous cliff backdrop.
2. Aups Market
When: Wednesday & Saturday mornings
Known as the truffle capital of Provence, Aups offers one of the region’s most loved food markets. Expect excellent local produce, olive oils, cheeses, seasonal vegetables, and a wonderful village atmosphere.
3. Salernes Market
When: Sunday mornings
A relaxed and authentic local market with fresh produce, bakery treats, regional delicacies, and a lovely Sunday morning feel. Ideal for stocking up before a long lunch back at the villa.
4. Lorgues Market
When: Tuesday mornings
One of Provence’s largest and most popular markets, Lorgues is well worth the visit. Discover artisan food stalls, fresh seafood, local wines, charcuterie, cheeses, and bustling Provençal energy.
5. Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume Market
When: Wednesday mornings
A vibrant market blending fresh food producers, local specialities, flowers, and traditional Provençal ingredients in the heart of a lively historic town.
6. Entrecasteaux Market
When: Thursday mornings
Smaller, charming, and wonderfully local, this market offers a slower pace and an authentic village experience with seasonal produce and regional favourites.
7. Brignoles Market
When: Saturday mornings
A larger regional market with plenty of choice, from fresh fruit and vegetables to cheeses, olives, herbs, honey, and Provençal specialities.
8. Villecroze Market
When: Saturday mornings
A smaller market with real local charm, perfect for a leisurely morning exploring seasonal produce, artisan products, and village life.
9. Aix-en-Provence Markets
When: Several days weekly
If you're heading further afield, Aix offers some of Provence’s most iconic markets — overflowing with flowers, artisan food, spices, cheeses, fresh produce, and beautiful Provençal atmosphere.
10. Saint-Tropez Market – Place des Lices
When: Tuesday & Saturday mornings
A classic Provençal market experience combining local produce, artisan foods, regional specialities, and the unmistakable atmosphere of Saint-Tropez.
