The Ultimate Guide to the Wednesday Market in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Written By Eva Simpson

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a town that feels like a living painting. With its sun-drenched landscapes famously captured by Vincent van Gogh and the nearby ancient Roman ruins of Glanum, it’s a must-visit in the heart of les Alpilles.

While the town is charming every day of the week, it becomes a bustling destination on Wednesday mornings. The weekly market is a sprawling, vibrant celebration of Provençal life, offering everything from fresh produce and sauces to artisanal linens and art.

To help you make the most of your visit, here are my top tips for navigating the St. Rémy market:

1. Stay in St. Rémy

Staying in St. Rémy removes a lot of the headache of trying to find parking and arriving early to the market. It is a beautiful town with so much to see. If you’re serious about visiting the market, I recommend staying in an area where you can easily walk into town and experience all the charm that St. Rémy has to offer.

2. Arrive Early (Seriously!)

The market officially kicks off around 8:00 AM, but by 10:30 AM, the narrow streets become a sea of people. Arriving early not only helps you beat the heat and the crowds, but it’s also your best bet for securing a parking spot, which can be a challenge in small historic towns. 

3. Bring Cash (and a Basket)

While most larger vendors take cards, many of the smaller local farmers and artisans are cash-only.

  • Pro Tip: Bring a sturdy market basket or a reusable tote. If you forget one, this is the perfect place to buy a traditional French basket to use for your shopping and to take home as a souvenir. I personally have many - they’re so beautiful and it’s hard to resist buying one each time I’m there! 

4. Come Hungry

The air is thick with the scent of lavender, fresh bread, and spices. You will want to graze your way through the stalls.

  • The Must-Try: Look for the vendors selling rotisserie chicken (poulet rôti) and potatoes. The potatoes sit at the bottom of the rotisserie, soaking up all the savory juices and herbs from the chickens roasting above. It is to die for!! 

5. Give Yourself Time to Wander

The market isn't just in one square; it winds through the narrow alleys and spills out into the larger boulevards. Don't rush. Make time to:

  • Taste along the way: The vendors are happy to offer a slice of cheese or a sample of tapenade. Don’t hesitate to engage with the vendors and try their wonderful products. It’s a full sensory experience! 

  • Shop for non-perishables: Look for high-quality Savon de Marseille, dried Herbes de Provence, and olive wood kitchenware. We own and have gifted many olive wood spoons - they’re essential additions to any kitchen. There is also a local artist, Franck, who we love. We’ve gotten several paintings from him. It’s one of those treasured, collected items that bring so much warmth to our home.

Here are some of my other favorite items to take home: 

  • Calanquet Olive Oil

  • Locally made Tapandes 

  • Herbs and Spices - I especially love the mixed peppercorns with white, black and pink pepper.

  • Local Camargue salt

  • Provençal baskets - they make great gifts too! 

  • Colorful dresses and clothing - they have so many affordable clothing options, and many of the fabrics are 100% cotton or linen. 

6. Stay for Lunch

The market begins to pack up around 1:00 PM. Once the stalls disappear, the town’s cafes and bistros remain. Grab a table at a sidewalk cafe, order a chilled glass of Provençal rosé, and enjoy the "slow life" as the town settles back into its quiet, afternoon rhythm. Just be sure to make a reservation if you have a specific restaurant in mind.

A Quick Note on Logistics:

  • When: Every Wednesday, roughly 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

  • Where: Throughout the center of town (Place de la Mairie and surrounding streets).

  • Parking: Try the lots on the perimeter of the town center, but again—arrive early!

Eva Simpson
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