Arles markets (Wednesdays and Saturdays): a complete guide to discovering the most beautiful market in Provence

In Arles, the market is much more than just a commercial gathering: it's a true Provençal institution and an essential part of daily life. Twice a week, the historic center transforms into a vast open-air market, where locals, producers, and visitors mingle to discover the authentic charm of southern France.

The Wednesday market and especially the Saturday market are among the most renowned in Provence. They offer a total immersion in the flavors, colors and traditions of the Camargue and Provence.

Staying in the historic center allows you to fully enjoy it on foot. Charming accommodations like La Maison de Thaïs ( https://www.lamaisondethais.fr/ ) offer direct access to the heart of the market and the unique atmosphere of Arles' narrow streets.

The Arles market: a living tradition

The Arles market is one of the largest markets in Provence. It stretches for several kilometers of stalls in the city centre and brings together several hundred traders each week.

It includes:

• local producers;

• market gardeners of Provence;

• artisans;

• cheesemongers, butchers, fishmongers;

• designers and clothing;

• Camargue and Provence specialties.

It is an essential place in Arlesian life, both for shopping and for strolling.

The Wednesday market in Arles

A more local atmosphere

The Wednesday market is more authentic and frequented mainly by locals. It stretches along Boulevard Émile-Combes and offers a calmer atmosphere than the Saturday market.

Products that can be found at the Wednesday market

Here you'll find fresh, local products such as:

• heirloom tomatoes, courgettes, Provence eggplants;

• Cavaillon melons in season;

• strawberries from the region;

• farm-made goat cheeses;

• black and green olives, tapenades;

• artisanal bread and fougasses;

• Mediterranean fish;

• Garrigue honey and lavender.

The Saturday market in Arles: a must-see

The largest market in Provence

On Saturday mornings, Arles hosts an exceptional market that stretches across several boulevards in the historic center. It is one of the largest open-air markets in the south of France.

An explosion of flavors and colors

You can find a very wide variety of products there:

• seasonal fruits and vegetables (peaches, apricots, tomatoes, courgettes, figs);

• matured goat and sheep cheeses;

• artisanal charcuterie;

• PDO Vallée des Baux olive oil;

• wines from the Alpilles and Camargue;

• Camargue rice PGI;

• flowers, aromatic plants and bouquets of lavender;

• textiles, Provençal linen and local crafts.

Specialties and dishes you absolutely must try

The Arles market is also a gastronomic experience. Here's what you shouldn't miss:

Typical dishes to discover or enjoy on site

• Gardiane de taureau : an emblematic stew of the Camargue, often served with rice;

• Saucisson d'Arles : traditional local charcuterie;

• Tellines with parsley sauce : small Mediterranean shellfish;

• Brandade de morue : a specialty from the south;

• Provençal vegetable tian : sun-ripened vegetables au gratin;

• Fougasse d'Arles : brioche flavored with orange blossom;

• Tapenade on fresh bread ;

• Camargue rice in salad or as a side dish .

Something to drink and taste

• wines from Les Baux-de-Provence;

• artisanal fruit juices;

• new olive oil;

• local honey.

Where does the Arles market take place?

The market is mainly held in the historic center:

• Boulevard Émile-Combes (Wednesday);

• Boulevard des Lices (Saturday);

• Georges-Clemenceau Boulevard;

• adjacent streets of the old town centre.

This unique setting, between Roman monuments and medieval alleyways, makes the Arles market one of the most beautiful urban markets in France.

Where can I park to go to the Arles market?

Recommended parking areas

For easy access to the market, several parking lots are available around the centre:

• Parking des Lices : the closest to the Saturday market, ideal for direct access to the boulevards;

• Croisière car park : convenient for the Wednesday market;

• Palais des Congrès car park : within reasonable walking distance;

• Gabriel Péri car park : an alternative that is often less busy;

• Parking Pont de Crau (free depending on the period) : with shuttles or walking.

Practical advice

• Arriving early on Saturday morning (before 9am) is strongly advised;

• part of the centre becomes pedestrianized;

• prioritize walking from the parking lot;

• avoid driving in the city center during the market.

Tips for making the most of the market

• Arrive between 8am and 10:30am for the best experience;

• bring a reusable bag for shopping;

• taste before buying (very common at stalls);

• take the time to stroll rather than searching quickly;

• Avoid peak hours in the middle of summer.

Why the Arles market is unique in Provence

What distinguishes the Arles market:

• its exceptional size;

• the quality of local producers;

• the diversity of products;

• its unique historical setting;

• its authentic and lively atmosphere.

It's a market where people come as much to buy as to have an experience.

Stay in Arles to enjoy the market

To fully enjoy the Wednesday or Saturday market, staying in the historic center is ideal. Everything is within walking distance: market, monuments, restaurants and museums.

Charming accommodations like La Maison de Thaïs ( https://www.lamaisondethais.fr/ ) allow you to experience this in the heart of the city, in a typically Arlesian atmosphere.

Conclusion

The Arles market offers a true immersion into the Provençal way of life. With local produce, culinary specialties, a friendly atmosphere, and an exceptional historical setting, it is one of the most beautiful markets in France.

Whether it's Wednesday for its authenticity or Saturday for its scale, it represents an unmissable stop during a stay in Arles or Provence.

FAQ – Arles Market (Wednesday and Saturday)

What is the best market in Arles?

The Saturday market is the largest and most vibrant, with a wide variety of local produce. The Wednesday market is quieter and more authentic, ideal for experiencing local life.

On what days does the market take place in Arles?

The Arles market takes place twice a week:

• Wednesday morning

• Saturday morning

Where is the Arles market located?

The market takes place in the historic center, mainly on Boulevard des Lices (Saturday) and Boulevard Émile-Combes (Wednesday), as well as in the adjacent streets.

What can you buy at the Arles market?

You can find products from Provence and the Camargue there:

• seasonal fruits and vegetables

• Alpilles PDO olive oil

• Camargue rice PGI

• goat cheeses

• tapenade and olives

• fish and seafood

• artisanal charcuterie

What are some typical dishes to try in Arles?

Local specialties include:

• bull stew

• cod brandade

• the fougasse of Arles

• tellines with parsley and garlic

• Provençal vegetable tian

Where can I park to go to the Arles market?

The main car parks are:

• Parking des Lices (closest to the Saturday market)

• Cruise Parking

• Parking lot of the Palais des Congrès

• Gabriel Péri Parking

What time is best to visit the Arles market?

The best time to enjoy the products and avoid the crowds is between 8am and 10:30am.

Is the Arles market worth a visit?

Yes, it is one of the largest and most authentic markets in Provence, renowned for its atmosphere, local producers and exceptional historical setting.