Aix-en-Provence, a city known for its historical charm and vibrant culture, is also a haven for market enthusiasts. Expats and digital nomads will find a delightful array of markets that offer everything from fresh local produce to artisan crafts and antiques. Whether you’re looking to fill your pantry, decorate your home, or simply enjoy the bustling atmosphere, Aix’s markets are a must-visit. Here are some of the best markets in Aix-en-Provence that offer a true taste of local life.
Marche aux Fruits et Legumes
Location: Place Richelme
Type of Market: Farmers Market
Open: Daily, 8 am – 1 pm
Located in the heart of the city, the Marche aux Fruits et Legumes is a daily farmers market where locals and visitors alike can find a colorful selection of fresh fruits and vegetables. The market is a feast for the senses, with vendors proudly displaying their seasonal produce and the air filled with the fragrant aromas of the region’s bounty.
We Recommend: Try the sun-ripened Provencal tomatoes or the fragrant strawberries, which are often said to be some of the best in France.
Marche aux Fleurs
Location: Place de l’Hotel de Ville
Type of Market: Flower Market
Open: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, 8 am – 1 pm
The Marche aux Fleurs is a picturesque flower market that transforms the Place de l’Hotel de Ville into a colorful oasis. Here, you can find a wide variety of flowers and plants, from classic roses to exotic orchids, all adding a touch of natural beauty to the city’s historic setting.
We Recommend: Pick up a bouquet of fresh lavender to bring a piece of Provence’s signature scent into your home.
Marche aux Livres
Location: Place de l’Hotel de Ville
Type of Market: Book Market
Open: First Sunday of each month, 9 am – 6 pm
For book lovers, the Marche aux Livres is a treasure trove of literature. This monthly market offers a wide selection of books, from vintage classics to modern novels, and is a great place to find rare editions or simply enjoy the literary atmosphere.
We Recommend: Look for books on Provencal cuisine and culture to deepen your understanding of the region’s rich heritage.
Marche aux Textiles
Location: Cours Mirabeau
Type of Market: Textile Market
Open: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8 am – 1 pm
The Marche aux Textiles is a haven for fashion enthusiasts and those looking for quality fabrics. Stroll along the elegant Cours Mirabeau and discover a variety of clothing, linens, and fabrics that reflect the latest trends and traditional Provencal patterns.
We Recommend: Purchase some traditional Provencal fabric, known as “les indiennes,” to create your own tablecloths or curtains with a local touch.
Marche a la Brocante
Location: Place des Precheurs and Place de Verdun
Type of Market: Antiques Market
Open: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, 8 am – 1 pm
The Marche a la Brocante is a paradise for antique hunters and collectors. This market features a wide array of vintage items, from furniture and decorative objects to jewelry and art. It’s the perfect place to find unique pieces that tell a story.
We Recommend: Keep an eye out for vintage Provencal ceramics, which can add an authentic and rustic touch to your decor.
Marche des Producteurs
Location: Place de la Madeleine
Type of Market: Producers Market
Open: Saturdays, 8 am – 1 pm
The Marche des Producteurs is where you can meet local farmers and producers directly and sample the freshest regional specialties. This market is a celebration of Provence’s agricultural heritage and a great place to support the local economy.
We Recommend: Try the locally produced goat cheese, known for its creamy texture and distinctive flavor.
Marche aux Poissons
Location: Place des Precheurs
Type of Market: Fish Market
Open: Daily, 8 am – 1 pm
Seafood enthusiasts will appreciate the Marche aux Poissons, where the catch of the day is brought in fresh from the Mediterranean. This market offers a variety of seafood, from fish to shellfish, all sourced sustainably and ready to be enjoyed.
We Recommend: Sample the bouillabaisse, a traditional Provencal fish stew that is a local culinary staple.
Marche Nocturne
Location: Cours Mirabeau
Type of Market: Night Market
Open: Summer evenings, usually starting in July, from 7 pm until midnight
For a different market experience, the Marche Nocturne offers a chance to shop and browse under the stars. This evening market is particularly enjoyable in the summer months, with a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse selection of goods, from artisan crafts to street food.
We Recommend: Look for handcrafted jewelry or artwork as a unique souvenir or gift that captures the spirit of Aix-en-Provence.
