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Best Market in Provence Uzes Marche

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Looking for the Best Markets in Provence? The Uzès Marché is it !

[4 images showing a display of foods from weekly markets in Provence, France Uzes. Uzès marché from left to right: images show saucisson, cheese, tomatoes and radishes.]

While there are many markets in Provence to visit, the Uzès marché is one of the most authentic markets in France.  Winding through the streets and alleys of a well-preserved medieval town, with cobblestone streets and a (living) Duke’s castle, 200 vendors offer a delectable array of terroir foods, crafts, and household goods made in Provence. Held every Wednesday and Saturday, from 7:00 am to noon, all year round, this market has captivated locals and visitors for centuries.

Personally, it brings me joie de vivre to visit every time we are au mas to enjoy the ambiance.  Each visit we sample one of the city’s many fine restaurants, pick up some *Duché d’Uzès AOC wine, and of course, buy our bio vegetables and food stuffs, for the week and perhaps some locally crafted souvenirs. Oh, and we pick up lots of fougasse.

Undoubtedly, part of the charm of town and market is that neither is overly touristic. With a focus on artisanal goods and food products that highlight local terroir, it still maintains the local air.  Additionally, the market was awarded the best market of  the Languedoc-Rousillon in 2018 (before it that region became part of Occitanie) and features up to 200 vendors. So, it’s not just our opinion!

Join us as we virtually stroll the alleys of this beloved town, looking for gourmet treasures at one of the best markets in France. And don’t forget to check out all the great restaurants, places to stay and fun tours to take!

A Feast for the Senses - Uzès Weekly Food Market in Provence

[beneath tall leafy trees people shop the weekly Uzès marché, a market in Provence with flowers and colorful stalls on a sunny provencal French day]

As a food city, Uzès’ vibrant weekly market takes place in the Place aux Herbes, which is accessible by several pedestrian streets that flow towards the center.  The plaza nestles between 18th-century buildings built from warm, golden limestone that reflects the provençal sun, many with shady, arcades built beneath. The plaza features a fountain and century-old platanes, large-leafed shade trees (part of the sycamore family) often referred to as plane trees, that provide shade on hot summer days.

Come market day, colorful canopies denote each vendor, displaying their freshly picked fruits and vegetables to please the eye.  Here the locals shop for their groceries, arriving early to beat the crowds. Tempting all shoppers, the poissonnière’s (fishmongers) glistening display speaks to the bounty of the Mediterranean. Monsieur le boucher (butcher) displays locally made saucisson sec cured with regional flavors. The Pasta man regales shoppers with the nuances of his handmade pasta, all mouth-watering.  Don’t miss the traiteurs,  cooking on-site rotisserie chicken and paella, which you can purchase in barquette (plastic “to go” containers), to take home to enjoy. 

Also to savor are the artisanal bread makers, purveyors of olives, spice, dried fruit, tapenades and so much more to delight the taste buds.  Last but not least we never miss the fromageries, who offer a wide range of cheeses including pélardons, a specialty goat cheese made in the Cévennes region.

[two photos: left photo shows a view of the Uzès marché in the place aux herbes through an arcades. Right photos shows strawberries, cantaloupes and more on display at stall in a market in Provence]

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More than Food - Artisanal French Goods and Souvenirs

[three images from the Uzès marché, a market in Provence. Left shows people walking by a display of pottery. Middle image shows a display of baskets and linens, and the third image shows a display of savon de marseille soaps examples of what to buy in provence.]

In addition to the vibrant displays of fresh produce and delectable bites, this provençal market offers a treasure trove of artisanal, quality products, many of which are locally-made and make excellent souvenirs. 

Radiating out from the city center, are dozens of non-food vendors. Explore stalls with crisp linens adorned with delicate embroidery, and jewelry or find baby clothes with French slogans.

Find unique creations carved from olive wood, each piece imbued with the warmth of the midi.  Charcuterie platters make excellent wedding gifts! And so do bags of herbes de provence.

Buy a bottle of golden olive oil, its emerald hues will evoke memories of the region to share with friends at a future dinner party. Or pick up a locally made rosé vin de table to enjoy with your picnic.

Treat yourself to bars of handmade soap, infused with lavender, rosemary, or citrus, transforming your daily routine into a sensory journey.  Find Savon de Marseille square blocks on a string!

The scent of lavender perfumes the air, and you can find it in all forms. I always pick up some lavender sachets and a bottle of eau de lavande as gifts. The scented water makes a great addition to your laundry room back home. Dash a couple of drops into the dryer with your linens and voilá, memories of the market return!

Every handcrafted piece—jewelry, leather goods, children’s clothing, linens – shares the tradition, skill, and love for the land. This makes each market find more than just souvenirs, but delightful pieces of provençal culture to bring home.

The Wednesday market is more food-focused with significantly fewer vendors.

[a display of green and black olives in large terracotta bowls with decorations of garlic and lavendar at Uzès marché a market in Provence]

Some Insider Tips for Shopping at Uzès Marché

Insider Tip 1: In the northeast corner of the Places aux Herbes near Les Terroirs is a vendor of provençal linens that are made in Provence with the label Mas de Giselle.  With affordable prices, we usually buy a set of placemats and napkins or foldable breadbaskets. Or, you can find similar ones made in France here.

Insider Tip 2: Ladies, if you are looking for the perfect South of France summer linen look, search out the vendors on the outer ring road. There’s a variety of vendors offering varying styles and quality but I’ve found that the garments labeled “Made in Italy,” to be of good quality.  The same vendors can also be found at smaller regional markets, and the price is sometimes lower. 

[an outdoor patio is filled with people during the Uzès market in summer a market in Provence]

Watch Some Video from a Busy Summer Market Day

I filmed this video in May before the height of the summer season, and you can get a feel of how crowded the market becomes.  And why you might want to arrive early.

More Than Just a Market, a Legacy

The Uzès marché boasts a rich history dating back to 1241, when the first documented market was registered according to the Ville d’Uzès. 

Other first-hand accounts, from a Swiss medical student who studied there and wrote about daily life in the 16th century, reveal how there were several markets taking place in different locations throughout the week.  There were markets for eggs, meat, herb markets, etc. The herb/vegetable market took place on the plaza now named “Places aux Herbes.” And on the big market day, there was a “costel,” or the pillory which was used to punish people for crimes such as theft.

[an artists rendering of a crowd of people in 18th century France gathering to watch a punishment by pillory]
The New York Public Library. "Exposition au pilori des Halles au dix-huitième siècle; d'après une estampe du temps" The New York Public Library Digital Collections. 1875 - 1882.

What Makes the Uzès Marché Truly Special? Here Are Just a Few Reasons...

🏰 Location: The market’s location,  in the well-preserved medieval Place aux Herbes is not to be missed.

🏰 Authenticity: Forget tourist traps; this market is a vibrant part of local life. Connect with genuine interactions, discover traditional recipes, and taste the passion in every product.

🏰 Quality: Strict regulations ensure the highest quality of produce and goods. Be confident you’re buying fresh, local, and sustainable offerings.

🏰 Variety: From vibrant vegetables and delectable cheeses to handcrafted souvenirs and gourmet treats, the market caters to every palate and desire.

🏰 Ambiance: Immerse yourself in the lively buzz, colorful stalls, and friendly vendors, creating an unforgettable sensory experience.

More Insider Tips for a Memorable Provence Market Experience

  • Arrive Early! During peak season (late May to August), consider arriving early on Saturday to beat the crowds. Or consider visiting the market on Wednesday.  It’s not as large as the Saturday market, but still enchanting.
  • Cash is king: While cards are becoming more common, having cash on hand is always a good idea. ATMs can be found throughout the town.
  • Bring your own bag: Eco-conscious travelers can bring their shopping bags, though vendors will provide plastic bags if needed. Or better yet, buy the classic shopping basket at the market and use it carry home your treasures!
  • Follow the ring road. There are several paid parking lots around the exterior ring road which goes in one direction. The lots at the entrance of the city usually fill quickly.
  • Bonjour! Start all your interactions by saying bonjour and making eye contact.  Even if your French is limited, this will go a long way in making the exchange pleasant. And, pay attention to the line, don’t accidentally cut in front of someone.
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What to Buy In Provence? Our Favorite Souvenirs - Made In Provence

Based on years of experimentation, I recommend looking for the following items as recipient-pleasing gifts or for your own enjoyment.  These items are easy to pack, usually lightweight and spill-proof. The shopping basket is great as a carry-on.

  • Lavender products – sachets, eau du lavande and soaps
  • Spices – peppercorns (provençal mix0 and Piment d’Espelette (a sweet peppery spice from the French Basque region)
  • Tapenades in jars
  • Provençal napkins, tablecloths and placemats
  • Olive oil (look for the award-winning symbols)
  • Shopping basket
  • Opinel folding knife with carved handle or wine opener
  • Dish towels
  • Summer linen dress
  • And don’t forget to buy a bottle of Duchè d’Uzès rosé !

Beyond the Market

Your provençal adventure doesn’t have to end with the market. The city was named one of the most Welcoming Cities in 2024 by Booking.com, and we share 9 reasons why you should make it your home base to discover Provence and the southern Rhône wine region. 

If you are making a day trip from Avignon or Nimes, make sure to wander the town’s charming winding streets, tour the Duché (Duchy), or take a meal (café or ice cream) at one of the many excellent restaurants. All the while, you can appreciate the medieval architecture and this town’s Roman roots.

For the wine enthusiast, don’t miss the opportunity to sample the Duché d’Uzès AOP wines or visit nearby vineyards and sample the region’s renowned wines.

The Uzès marché is more than just a market; it’s a journey into the heart of Provence. So plan your trip, pack a shopping bag, and come to embrace the vibrant atmosphere, and let yourself be seduced by the flavors, colors, and stories that unfold on this culinary stage. 

[people walking in an outdoor market passing a table with artisanal pottery at the uzes marche, best market in provence]
[a man in a hat reading a newspaper at an outdoor restaurant]
Phil. D enjoys his paper while waiting for a meal at Les Terroirs in the Place aux Herbes in Uzès France on a market day.
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[photo from the Uzès marché best market in provence south of france with a display of vegetables on a yellow provencal tablecloth in front of a fountain]

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12 thoughts on “Best Market in Provence Uzes Marche”

  3. Tania

    Wow, I would really enjoy the market in Uzes. The lavender products sound wonderful and make lovely gifts. But I would definitely buy some of the cheeses to sample local fromageries.

    Reply
  4. Marina

    This market sounds like a truly incredible place. I love shopping at authentic markets, and I’m definitely putting The Uzès Marché on my list.

    Reply
  6. Melanie

    Love that there’s a legacy going back to the 1200s! I would love to wander and smell all the lavender products that southern France is know for 🙂

    Reply

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