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Apt Saturday Market

4.5
·2k reviews·Apt, France

A historic Provençal market since the 12th century, offering an immense array of fresh produce, local delicacies, crafts, and more.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Freshest goods, vibrant atmosphere

CrowdHigh
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Apt Saturday Market - Image 1

Apt Saturday Market

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Freshest goods, vibrant atmosphere

CrowdHigh

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Provençal market since the 12th century, offering an immense array of fresh produce, local delicacies, crafts, and more.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"WOW! Everyone told us that this was one of the best (and largest) markets in Provence so we drove from CdP to check it out."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early!

Beat the crowds and get the best selection. Vendors start packing up after midday. :clock1:

🛍️ Bring Reusable Bags

You'll be tempted to buy a lot! Carry your own bags to be eco-friendly and manage your purchases. :shopping_bags:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Abundant Provençal Produce

Abundant Provençal Produce

Throughout the market

Vibrant fruits, vegetables, olives, and herbs bursting with color and flavor. A true feast for the senses!

Artisan Cheeses and Cured Meats

Artisan Cheeses and Cured Meats

Food stalls

Discover local goat cheeses, truffle-infused delights, and savory cured meats. Perfect for a picnic!

Handcrafted Goods and Souvenirs

Handcrafted Goods and Souvenirs

Non-food stalls

From unique jewelry and clothing to Provençal kitchenware, find treasures to take home.

Ready-to-Eat Delicacies

Ready-to-Eat Delicacies

Food stalls

Enjoy freshly roasted chickens, delicious pastries, and local specialties for a delightful market lunch.

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Planning Your Visit

Arrive Early for the Best Selection

This market is huge and popular! Arrive before midday, ideally in the morning, to snag the freshest produce and unique finds before vendors start packing up. It's worth the early start to experience the full vibrancy.

Embrace the Local Vibe

The Apt Saturday Market is a true taste of Provence, running since the 12th century. Come ready to explore, sample local delicacies, and soak in the atmosphere. Bring reusable bags for your haul!

Best Times

When
Saturday mornings
Why
Freshest goods, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Before 12:30 PM
Why
Vendors start closing
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Moving out dilemma

🎯 Arrive Early!

Beat the crowds and get the best selection. Vendors start packing up after midday. :clock1:

🛍️ Bring Reusable Bags

You'll be tempted to buy a lot! Carry your own bags to be eco-friendly and manage your purchases. :shopping_bags:

reddit.com

Apartments renting

💰 Cash is Handy

While some vendors take cards, cash is often preferred for smaller purchases. :moneywithwings:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Every Street

The market sprawls across many streets. Don't miss hidden gems by sticking to one area. :walking:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early!

Beat the crowds and get the best selection. Vendors start packing up after midday. :clock1:

🛍️ Bring Reusable Bags

You'll be tempted to buy a lot! Carry your own bags to be eco-friendly and manage your purchases. :shopping_bags:

💰 Cash is Handy

While some vendors take cards, cash is often preferred for smaller purchases. :moneywithwings:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Every Street

The market sprawls across many streets. Don't miss hidden gems by sticking to one area. :walking:

🧀 Sample Local Flavors

Many vendors offer samples of cheese, olives, and other treats. Taste before you buy! :spoon:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently rave about the Apt Saturday Market, calling it one of the largest and most beautiful markets in Provence. The incredible variety of fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal goods, coupled with friendly vendors and a historic atmosphere, makes it a highly recommended experience. Some note that it's best to arrive early and be prepared for crowds.

"WOW! Everyone told us that this was one of the best (and largest) markets in Provence so we drove from CdP to check it out. My husband and I were blown away. The market seemed to go on forever because every time you turned down a street, there was another vendor period this market truly does have everything from produce, to meat, cheese, fruit, olives, pastries, art, jewelry, clothing, shoes, woven bags, whole roasted chickens, nuts, coffee, and no doubt some items we missed. We wandered around for almost 3 hours and filled 3 good-sized tote bags! We are from the United States and have never seen anything like it. All the vendors were friendly, not pushy. No yelling at you to come by. It's incredible that this market has been held every Saturday since the 12th century! Highly recommend. It's worth an hour+ drive."

Ann-Marie

"I was impressed by the varieties , freshness and low prices of fruits. They have many other items here- cheese , clothes, bread, jam , honey and many more. The market occupied many streets . You will find something to buy here. Do scheduled your visit to Apt on Saturday. Market ends 12.30 pm. After this market there was nothing much to do on a Saturday in Apt. Fortunately our visit coincide with the French Music Festival."

Chiew Kheng Phua

"We enjoyed having our lunch here. Friendly staff, affordable and nice selection on the menu."

Dolf de Haan

What People Like

Vast selection of goods
Fresh Provençal produce
Historic atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Parking challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The market is centrally located in Apt, taking over many streets downtown. If you're driving, be aware that parking can be challenging on market days. Consider arriving early or looking for parking slightly outside the immediate market area. Some visitors suggest it's easier to access if you're staying downtown, as everything is within walking distance.Reddit

Parking is available in Apt, but it can be very busy and difficult to find close to the market on Saturdays. It's advisable to arrive early or be prepared to walk a bit from designated parking areas.

Yes, if you are staying in Apt or a nearby town with public transport links, you can easily visit the market on foot. Staying downtown means you won't need a car for market access.Reddit

Apt is accessible by bus and train, though services might be less frequent than in larger cities. For market days, arriving by public transport can help avoid parking hassles.

The market covers many streets, some of which may have uneven cobblestones. While many areas are accessible, navigating the entire market might be challenging for those with significant mobility issues.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Apt Saturday Market is completely free. You only pay for the goods you choose to purchase from the vendors.

The market typically runs every Saturday morning and starts to wind down around 12:30 PM. It's best to arrive early to experience the full market atmosphere and selection.Reddit

Most vendors begin to pack up shortly after midday, with the market generally concluding around 12:30 PM. It's crucial to plan your visit accordingly to avoid missing out.

There is no admission fee. The Apt Saturday Market is a public event, and you can wander through its stalls freely.

The main, large-scale Apt Saturday Market only takes place on Saturdays. Other smaller markets or events might occur on different days, but the renowned Provençal market is a Saturday affair.

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Finds

You'll find an incredible variety, including fresh produce, cheeses, cured meats, olives, pastries, bread, honey, lavender products, clothing, jewelry, Provençal pottery, and more. It truly has everything! Reddit

Many visitors find the prices to be reasonable, especially considering the quality and freshness of the products. You can find great deals on produce and local specialties.Reddit

Don't miss the local cheeses (especially goat cheese with truffles), marinated olives, fresh foccacia, and regional pastries. Lavender products and handmade jewelry are also popular souvenirs.

Haggling is not common practice at this market. Vendors generally have set prices, and they are usually friendly and not pushy.Reddit

Absolutely! Look for handmade jewelry, Provençal-style kitchenware, lavender sachets, local soaps, and artisanal food products like honey and jams.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the market offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy delicious food. You can find stalls selling ready-to-eat items like roasted chickens, crepes, and sandwiches, as well as places to sit and have a meal.Reddit

Expect a wide range of options, from fresh produce for a picnic to prepared foods like savory crepes, sandwiches, and even whole roasted chickens. You can also find local wines and pastries.

While the market itself is primarily stalls, there are often cafes and small restaurants adjacent to or within the market streets where you can enjoy a more leisurely lunch.Reddit

Visitors rave about the fresh bread, local cheeses, olives, and sweet pastries. Trying a fougasse or a local specialty sandwich is highly recommended.

Yes, you can assemble a wonderful meal from various stalls or find a spot to enjoy a prepared dish. It's a great way to sample a variety of local flavors.

📸 📸 Photography

Absolutely! The market is incredibly photogenic with its vibrant colors, diverse produce, bustling crowds, and charming stalls. It's a photographer's dream.TikTok

Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the market's essence. As the day progresses, the energy and activity increase, offering different photographic opportunities.

Focus on the colorful displays of fruits and vegetables, close-ups of artisanal products like cheese and olives, and candid shots of vendors and shoppers interacting. The sheer scale of the market provides endless compositions.

Both smartphones and dedicated cameras work well. A smartphone is convenient for capturing spontaneous moments, while a camera with a good lens can offer more control over depth of field and detail.

Always be respectful. Ask for permission before taking close-up portraits of vendors or shoppers. Candid shots of the general market scene are usually fine, but be aware of your surroundings.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Apt Saturday Market is a fantastic outing for families, offering a sensory adventure for children. The vibrant colors of the produce, the variety of sights and sounds, and the opportunity to sample local treats can be very engaging for kids. Encourage them to pick out their favorite fruits or help you choose some local honey or pastries. It's a great way to introduce them to local culture and food in a fun, bustling environment.

Practical tips for families: Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds and make navigating with strollers easier. Bring plenty of snacks and drinks, or be prepared to purchase them from the market stalls. Consider setting a small budget for your children to choose a special souvenir or treat, giving them a sense of ownership over their market experience. The ready-to-eat food options also make it easy to grab a quick and tasty lunch for everyone.

💰 Budget Travelers

The Apt Saturday Market is a paradise for budget-conscious travelers looking for authentic local experiences and delicious food without breaking the bank. You can assemble a fantastic picnic lunch with fresh bread, local cheeses, olives, and seasonal fruits for a fraction of the cost of a restaurant meal.Reddit Many vendors offer excellent value for money, especially when buying produce in season.

Tips for saving money: Focus on purchasing produce, bread, and local specialties directly from the farmers and producers. While artisanal crafts can be tempting, prioritize food items for the best value. Bring your own reusable bags to avoid purchasing them. Also, consider having your main meal from the market stalls rather than dining at a restaurant, as prepared market foods are often more affordable and equally delicious.

foodie Explorers

For food lovers, the Apt Saturday Market is an absolute must-visit. It's a culinary journey through Provence, offering an unparalleled selection of fresh, local, and artisanal products. From the famed goat cheeses, some infused with truffles, to an incredible array of marinated olives and sun-dried tomato pesto, your taste buds will be delighted.Reddit Don't miss the opportunity to try freshly baked fougasse, sweet nougat, and regional pastries.

Recommendations for foodies: Make sure to sample the local olive oils and wines. Look for vendors selling herbs and spices, which are quintessential to Provençal cuisine. If you're lucky, you might even find seasonal delicacies like truffles. The ready-to-eat options, such as whole roasted chickens and savory crepes, are perfect for a delicious market lunch. Be adventurous and try something new – it's all part of the experience!

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Legacy of Commerce: The Apt Saturday Market

The Apt Saturday Market is not just a place to shop; it's a living piece of history, boasting a legacy that stretches back to the 12th century.Reddit This makes it one of the oldest and most established markets in Provence. Its enduring presence speaks to its importance as a central hub for commerce and community in the region. The market's longevity is a testament to its ability to adapt while retaining its core identity.

Each Saturday, over 300 exhibitors converge, transforming Apt's streets into a vibrant tapestry of commerce. This gathering attracts locals from surrounding areas and tourists alike, eager to experience the authentic Provençal atmosphere. The sheer scale and variety of goods on offer are astounding, reflecting the rich agricultural output and artisanal traditions of the region. From the freshest seasonal produce to handcrafted items, the market provides a comprehensive shopping experience.Reddit

Visitors often describe the market as seemingly endless, with new vendors and treasures around every corner. This expansive nature, combined with the friendly, non-pushy demeanor of the vendors, creates a welcoming and enjoyable environment for exploration. It's an experience that engages all the senses, from the visual feast of colors to the aromas of fresh food and the sounds of lively chatter.

Navigating the Vast Market

The Apt Saturday Market is renowned for its immense size, sprawling across numerous streets in the heart of Apt.Reddit This vastness means that exploring it thoroughly can take several hours, and it's easy to get lost in the sheer abundance of stalls. To make the most of your visit, it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a lot of walking.

Many visitors suggest arriving early in the morning, ideally right when it opens, to experience the market at its most vibrant and to secure the best selection of produce and goods before they sell out. This also helps in navigating the crowds, which can become quite dense as the morning progresses. The market typically starts to wind down around 12:30 PM, so planning your visit before midday is crucial.Reddit

When exploring, don't be afraid to wander down side streets or alleys, as you might discover unique artisans or specialty food vendors tucked away. Bringing reusable shopping bags is essential, as you're likely to find many tempting items to take home. The friendly nature of the vendors, who are often happy to offer samples, makes the experience even more enjoyable and interactive.

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