The Luberon region in Provence is renowned for its picturesque villages, rolling vineyards, and vibrant markets.
Today we will be guiding you through the best markets to visit in The Luberon each day of the week, providing a detailed overview of what each market offers and what makes it unique. Whether you are looking for fresh local produce, artisanal goods, or a charming day out with the family, you will find the perfect market to explore in the Luberon.
A quick note before we get going - Provencal markets typically run from about 7:30am to 12:30pm, but it’s best to check each market's specific timings before setting off. Plan to arrive early to make the most of your visit and avoid missing out on the best goods.
Monday
Lauris Market
Lauris Market offers a smaller, more intimate market experience. This market has a strong emphasis on local produce and artisanal goods, providing a curated selection that reflects the area's agricultural bounty and artisanal creativity. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the charming village of Lauris, with its narrow streets and historic buildings, the market exudes a quaint and welcoming atmosphere. It's perfect for families and visitors seeking a quieter, more relaxed market visit, away from the hustle and bustle of larger markets. Shoppers can find fresh fruits and vegetables, locally-made cheeses, artisanal breads, and handcrafted items such as pottery, textiles, and jewelry. The market also often features local winemakers and producers of olive oil and honey, allowing visitors to taste and purchase some of the finest products the region has to offer.
.
Tuesday
Marché Paysan à Apt
Marché Paysan à Apt stands out as one of the finest farmer's markets in the region, renowned for its extensive range of local produce and its vibrant, community-focused atmosphere. What makes this market unique is its direct connection to local farmers, ensuring that every item sold is fresh, seasonal, and authentically Provencal. The market is a haven for budding chefs and food enthusiasts, offering an array of the freshest fruits, vegetables, herbs, and cheeses. Visitors can even find homemade preserves, artisanal breads, and locally-produced honey. The market's lively ambiance, combined with the quality and variety of goods available, makes it a prime destination for those looking to experience the true flavors of The Luberon. The direct interaction with farmers not only guarantees the best quality produce but also provides a deeper understanding of the region's agricultural traditions and practices too.
Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt market
Located in northern Luberon, the Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt market epitomises the charm of Provence. The market itself features a variety of local goods, including fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, homemade pastries, and regional delicacies like truffles and olive oil. Visitors can also find handcrafted items, from pottery and textiles to jewelry and artwork, all reflecting the local craftsmanship. The market is perfect for those who love to browse leisurely, offering a relaxed atmosphere where you can take your time to explore each stall. It's an ideal destination for a day out with the family, with the village's narrow, winding streets and scenic vistas providing plenty to see and enjoy.
Gordes market
Gordes market is one of the most scenic in The Luberon, set around the stunning castle and winding through the cobbled streets of this historic village. The market's picturesque setting is its most distinguishing feature, with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the ancient stone buildings of Gordes. Although not very large, Gordes market offers a carefully curated selection of local produce, including fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and regional specialties such as lavender products and olive oil. Artisanal crafts are also a highlight, with handmade goods ranging from pottery and textiles to jewelry and art pieces, each reflecting the unique Provencal heritage.
Wednesday
Lacoste Market
This small but charming market offers a delightful selection of local produce and crafts, nestled in the historic village of Lacoste. What sets Lacoste market apart is its intimate size combined with the rich cultural and historical ambiance of the village, which is famously home to the ruins of the Marquis de Sade's castle. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the market, discovering fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies such as cheeses, honey, and baked goods. The market also features an array of artisanal crafts, including pottery, handmade jewelry, and textiles, each piece reflecting the artisanal heritage of the region. Set against the backdrop of Lacoste's cobbled streets and ancient stone buildings, the market provides a unique opportunity to experience the historic charm of the area while browsing for goodies.
Rustrel Market
Rustrel offers a quaint market experience with a focus on local crafts and produce. What makes Rustrel market unique is its setting in a village famous for its striking ochre deposits, which provide a vibrant, colorful backdrop. The market is small and intimate, reflecting the charm of the village itself. Visitors can find an array of handmade crafts, from pottery to textiles, showcasing the artisanal talents of the local community. Fresh, locally-grown produce is abundant, with seasonal fruits and vegetables that highlight the agricultural richness of the region. Rustrel's market is not just a place to shop but a cultural experience, where you can immerse yourself in the local traditions and the stunning, ochre-colored landscape.
Viens Market
Viens Market offers a serene and intimate market experience perfect for those seeking a quieter visit. This small market, held weekly, sells a selection of local produce and artisanal stalls. Visitors can browse fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables, alongside handmade goods that reflect the traditional crafts of the region. It is incredibly tranquil, providing a peaceful alternative to the busier markets in larger towns. The market is an excellent opportunity to interact with local vendors and gain insight into the village's way of life.
Thursday
Roussillon market
Roussillon market is located in one of the most colourful villages in Provence. The market features a curated selection of local produce, artisanal goods, and regional specialties such as fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and handmade crafts. The intimate scale of the market and the utterly unique pastel backdrop make it a must-visit for market lovers.
Ménerbes market
Ménerbes market is set in a gorgeous location against the backdrop of the village and rolling vineyards. The market features a carefully selected range of local goods and regional specialties like olive oil and lavender products. You can also find handcrafted pottery, textiles, and jewelry, reflecting the rich artisanal heritage of the region. The relaxed and friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal place to experience local life and interact with vendors.
Friday
Bonnieux market
Bonnieux offers a smaller market with about twenty stalls, beautifully arranged on the main square. Bonnieux Market is focused on quality over quantity. Despite its modest size, the market sells a huge selection of high-quality goods, including fresh, locally-sourced produce such as fruits, vegetables, and herbs, as well as artisanal cheeses, breads, and regional delicacies. The market also features handcrafted items, from pottery and textiles to jewelry and artwork. You can be sure to find a gem in Bonnieux.
Lourmarin market
Lourmarin market is one of the largest and most popular in The Luberon region, attracting both locals and tourists every Friday. With a huge diversity of offerings, visitors can browse an extensive selection of fresh produce as well as artisanal products, like handcrafted pottery, textiles, jewelry, and regional specialties like olive oil and lavender products. The stalls wind through the village’s narrow, cobbled streets, surrounded by historic buildings and shaded by plane trees, creating a picturesque and inviting ambiance.
Saturday
Apt Market
Apt Market is the largest market in The Luberon with over three hundred stalls. Shoppers can find an impressive selection of fresh produce, including seasonal fruits and vegetables, aromatic herbs, and an array of local cheeses and meats. The market also sells a wide range of artisanal products, such as handmade pottery, textiles, jewelry, and regional specialties like lavender and truffle products. The sheer size and diversity of Apt Market, combined with its vibrant, community-focused atmosphere, make it a unique and essential destination in the Luberon.
Sunday
Isle-sur-la-Sorgue market
L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is situated on the edge of The Luberon. Every Sunday, this market transforms the town. Renowned not only for its wide array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local specialties but also for its impressive selection of antiques and bric-a-brac. What sets the Isle-sur-la-Sorgue market apart is its reputation as one of the best places in Provence to find antiques. Numerous antique dealers set up stalls every Sunday, offering a diverse range of items from vintage furniture to rare collectibles. The antiques section of the market is a treasure trove for enthusiasts and casual shoppers. With its charming canals and historic buildings, as you wander through the market, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of this beautiful Provençal town.
Coustellet Market
Coustellet Market is a famous farmer’s market in The Luberon, held from April to December, featuring exclusively local produce. This market stands out for its commitment to offering only the freshest fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and other agricultural products directly from local farmers. The authenticity and quality of the goods available make it a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing the true flavors of Provence. Visitors can enjoy interacting with the farmers and producers who are eager to share their knowledge and passion for their products. The market also serves as an educational experience, where one can learn about seasonal produce, traditional farming practices, and the importance of supporting local agriculture. It’s an ideal spot for food lovers and families alike.
We hope you now feel well-prepared to explore the vibrant markets of The Luberon. Each market offers a unique experience, brimming with local charm and diverse offerings, ensuring that you will find the perfect spot to suit your tastes and interests.
A bientôt,
