Markets in the Dordogne-Lot – a colourful holiday experience around Mauroux

The markets in the Dordogne-Lot around Mauroux are the heart of French village life – full of scent, colour and tradition. The sun rises above the hills, the air smells of lavender and fresh bread. Laughter can be heard in the village square of Prayssac, glasses clink together. A farmer lets you taste his goat cheese and a winegrower pours a sip of robust Cahors. You walk back to your car with a basket full of goodies – walnuts, honey, tomatoes. This is France at its best. In the afternoon, you can relax in the jacuzzi of your holiday home in the Dordogne-Lot. The basket of local products is next to you, ready for a picnic. From the terrace of FranceComfort Village des Cigales, you can look out over the valley: sun, silence and the gentle rustling of the cypress trees.

France is known for its lively markets – and around Mauroux in the Dordogne-Lot you will find more than a hundred within a radius of 50 kilometres. Explore these markets during your holiday in the Dordogne-Lot.

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Why are markets so popular?

The markets in the Dordogne-Lot near Mauroux are the heart of village life. Farmers, winemakers and craftsmen bring their products here directly from their land. You will hear music, smell herbs, taste local pride. The atmosphere is friendly; people talk and taste together. You will find the following here:

Truffles, foie gras and duck – the pride of the Périgord Noir
Wines from Cahors AOP and Bergerac.
Artisanal products such as pottery, linen and soap.
Seasonal products – strawberries in spring, chestnuts in autumn.

A morning at the market is not just shopping; it is an experience full of smell, colour and sound.

The 10 most famous and beautiful markets in the Dordogne-Lot near Mauroux

Whether you love local produce, antiques or French village life, there are markets everywhere that are worth discovering. Below are the ten most popular – each with its own character.

1. Cahors (35 km)

The market of Cahors is one of the most beautiful in southwestern France. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, the square near Saint-Étienne Cathedral fills up with stalls selling truffles, cheeses, herbs and wine. The smell of fresh coffee and lavender hangs between the sandstone facades.
Locals' tip: "Go before 9:00 a.m. – that’s when you’ll find the best truffles and the city is still quiet."

2. Prayssac (12 km)

Every Friday morning, the centre of Prayssac is one big feast of fragrance and colour. Producers from all over the Dordogne-Lot sell cheese, honey, walnut oil and wine here. The market attracts residents and holidaymakers alike.
In the summer there is also an evening edition with live music.

3. Puy-l'Évêque (8 km)

On Thursday morning, this medieval town by the Lot River fills up with stalls selling all sorts of goodies. The location between vineyards and river makes it extra atmospheric. Taste the Malbec wine or a piece of goat cheese AOP.
Locals' tip: "Combine your market visit with a walk along the quay – the views are beautiful."

4. Montcuq (18 km)

On Sunday morning, this town is bustling with life. Stalls selling bread, vegetables and pottery fill the streets. Children are running around, music is playing, cafes are full. The market has a village character, ideal for families spending their holidays in the Dordogne-Lot.

5. Fumel (15 km)

Every Saturday, Fumel is all about regional products. The square at the Château de Fumel fills with cheese, fruit, wine and handicrafts. In the summer, the market regularly turns into an evening version with food trucks and dancing.

6. Tournon-d'Agenais (9 km)

On Sunday morning, the round square of Tournon-d'Agenais fills with stalls selling honey, jam and wine. The bastide village is located on top of a hill overlooking the valley. A smaller market, but very authentic.

7. Montaigu-de-Quercy (24 km)

The Saturday morning market of Montaigu-de-Quercy is popular thanks to its friendly atmosphere. The square is surrounded by cafes; You can have breakfast while the market slowly gets going. In the summer a small evening market with music is also held here.

8. Monflanquin (30 km)

Under the medieval arcades of the bastide village Montflanquin a lively market takes place every Thursday. Here you can taste French village life in all its glory: vegetables, wine, flowers, handicrafts. Combine your visit with lunch under the arches.

9. Lauzerte (26 km)

On Saturday morning, the artists' village of Lauzerte turns into a colourful scene. Craftsmen sell ceramics and paintings, farmers offer cheese and vegetables. The atmosphere is creative, relaxed and full of charm.
More info: tourisme-quercy-sud-ouest.com.

10. Cazals (32 km)

The Sunday market of Cazals is located between hills and forests and attracts visitors from all over the region. Local producers offer organic products – from goat cheese to walnut oil. In the summer there is an evening version with live music and French chansons.

Overview of more than a hundred markets within 50 km of Mauroux

From FranceComfort Village des Cigales, you can reach numerous markets in the Dordogne-Lot. Every day there is a square full of scent and colour somewhere. The distance from Mauroux is listed in parentheses, which is useful for planning your holiday.

Sunday
Montcuq (18 km), Tournon-d’Agenais (9 km), Lauzerte (26 km), Montaigu-de-Quercy (24 km), Villeneuve-sur-Lot (39 km), Figeac (48 km), Puy-l’Évêque (8 km), Cazals (32 km), Mauroux (0 km), Dausse (15 km), Fumel (15 km), Saint-Sylvestre-sur-Lot (28 km), Penne-d’Agenais (32 km), Castelnau-Montratier (38 km), Saint-Cirq-Lapopie (49 km).

Monday
Prayssac (12 km), Montaigu-de-Quercy (24 km), Lauzerte (26 km), Villeneuve-sur-Lot (39 km), Cazals (32 km), Castelnau-Montratier (38 km), Montayral (11 km), Sérignac (17 km), Fargues (14 km), Puy-l’Évêque (8 km), Duravel (4 km).

Tuesday
Cahors (35 km), Fumel (15 km), Montaigu-de-Quercy (24 km), Tournon-d’Agenais (9 km), Lauzerte (26 km), Castelfranc (10 km), Cazals (32 km), Villefranche-du-Périgord (43 km), Catus (38 km), Monsempron-Libos (14 km), Frayssinet-le-Gélat (26 km), Floressas (6 km), Puy-l’Évêque (8 km), Belvès (48 km), Castelnaud (45 km).

Wednesday
Prayssac (12 km), Puy-l’Évêque (8 km), Montaigu-de-Quercy (24 km), Fumel (15 km), Saint-Cyprien (49 km), Saint-Cirq-Lapopie (49 km), Montcuq (18 km), Duravel (4 km), Cazals (32 km), Villeneuve-sur-Lot (39 km), Monflanquin (30 km), Dausse (15 km), Mauroux (0 km).

Thursday
Puy-l’Évêque (8 km), Monflanquin (30 km), Prayssac (12 km), Montcuq (18 km), Lauzerte (26 km), Domme (47 km), Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne (49 km), Villeneuve-sur-Lot (39 km), Fumel (15 km), Saint-Cirq-Lapopie (49 km), Penne-d’Agenais (32 km), Gavaudun (27 km), Mauroux (0 km).

Friday
Cahors (35 km), Prayssac (12 km), Montaigu-de-Quercy (24 km), Monsempron-Libos (14 km), Puy-l’Évêque (8 km), Fumel (15 km), Cazals (32 km), Saint-Sylvestre-sur-Lot (28 km), Lauzerte (26 km), Montcuq (18 km), Mauroux (0 km).

Saterday
Fumel (15 km), Montcuq (18 km), Lauzerte (26 km), Cazals (32 km), Villeneuve-sur-Lot (39 km), Cahors (35 km), Monflanquin (30 km), Tournon-d’Agenais (9 km), Puy-l’Évêque (8 km), Prayssac (12 km), Montaigu-de-Quercy (24 km), Mauroux (0 km).

Your own holiday home in France?

Are you enjoying Village des Cigales with its lively markets, charming villages and beautiful nature? Then you may be interested in owning your own holiday home in the Dordogne-Lot: a worry-free investment with an attractive return! Discover the advantages of having your own holiday home in France as an investment, your own residence or a combination.

Would you like to experience the atmosphere of the markets around Mauroux for yourself? Then book your stay at FranceComfort Village des Cigales and experience the French charm up close.

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Evening markets: food, music and French atmosphere

When the sun sets over the Dordogne-Lot and the light turns golden, a different rhythm begins. The sounds of the day give way to music and the buzz of the marchés gourmands – the beloved evening markets of southwestern France. Long wooden tables appear on the squares, where villagers and holidaymakers sit down together. The smell of grilled duck, garlic, fresh herbs and truffle oil hangs in the air. At the stalls, you can buy your own meal: a plate of magret de canard, fries with truffle mayonnaise, goat cheese from Rocamadour or a fresh salad with walnuts and tomatoes. A local winegrower pours a glass of Malbec or rosé from Cahors into your carafe, children choose crêpes with sugar, and a little later you are sitting in the middle of the village square among the locals.

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Recommendations:

Puy-l'Évêque (Wednesday evening) – food, wine, live music and river views.
Prayssac (Friday night) – large, lively food market with music.
Tournon-d'Agenais (Sunday evening) – village atmosphere with grilled dishes and desserts.
Montaigu-de-Quercy (Saturday evening) – local products and wine under plane trees.
Fumel (Friday evening) – food trucks, wine tastings and family atmosphere.

You can read more about these summer evenings on the official website of Tourisme Lot.

Seasonal and themed markets

The markets in the Dordogne-Lot live with the seasons and reflect the rhythm of French rural life. In spring it smells of strawberries and fresh herbs, in summer apricots, tomatoes and lavender fill the streets, in autumn chestnuts and mushrooms dominate, and in winter the smell of truffles and red wine meets you. Each season has its own colour, atmosphere and flavour – and that's what makes the markets in this region so special.

Truffle Markets

When the days get shorter and the mornings chilly, the truffle season begins in the Dordogne-Lot. In December and January, the markets of Lalbenque (49 km) and Cahors (35 km) attract gourmets, chefs and traders from afar. The black truffle of Quercy – one of the most refined products in France – is proudly offered. In Lalbenque, the truffle market takes place every Tuesday; The smell of earth and garlic hangs in the air as traders whisper about the best price. Some markets have demonstrations where chefs show how the truffle is processed into dishes.

Wine markets

The wine markets of the Dordogne-Lot bring together the pride of the region: the Malbec wine from Cahors. In villages such as Cahors, Prayssac and Puy-l'Évêque winegrowers present their wines with passion in the summer months. You can taste, talk to the winemakers and learn more about the soil, the climate and the centuries-old winemaking tradition. Some markets are small-scale and artisanal, others are combined with music and regional dishes. If you want to know more about wine routes and tastings, you will find detailed information on the official site of Cahors Vallée du Lot Tourisme.

Flea markets and art markets

Not only food and drink, but also arts and crafts have a permanent place in French markets. In Monflanquin, Lauzerte and Puy-l'Évêque you will find regular flea markets and art markets, where you can browse among paintings, antique furniture, linen tablecloths and old books. There's no rush here – you can stroll quietly among the stalls, talk to artists and enjoy village life. Many visitors combine a market visit with lunch on a terrace or a walk through the medieval streets.

Christmas markets

As December approaches, the Dordogne-Lot turns into a sea of lights. The Cahors Christmas market is the largest and most atmospheric in the region. In the square near the cathedral there are wooden chalets selling handmade gifts, hot wine (vin chaud) and regional delicacies. You will also find cozy winter markets in Prayssac and Fumel where villagers come together to end the year with music, local products and festive lighting.

Combining markets with trips

A morning at the market is often just the beginning of a wonderful holiday. The villages and towns in the Dordogne-Lot offer plenty of opportunities to explore, walk or relax afterwards. This way you can turn your market visit into a complete day full of flavours, culture and nature.

Cahors – market, medieval charm and the Valentré bridge

After your visit to the lively market at the Saint-Étienne Cathedral, you can wander through the old town of Cahors. The narrow streets, shady squares and historic facades exude medieval atmosphere. Be sure to walk across the famous Valentré Bridge, a UNESCO monument and symbol of the city. From the bridge you have beautiful views of the river Lot and the surrounding vineyards. Combine your visit with lunch in one of the many bistros where the wines of Cahors are served.

Puy-l'Évêque – market and boat trip on the Lot

The Puy-l'Évêque market fills the riverbank with fragrance and color. After strolling between the stalls with wine, cheese and honey, you can take a boat trip on the Lot from the quay. As the boat glides quietly through the water, you can see the village rise up in terraces, with sand-colored houses and narrow streets. The tour offers a unique perspective on the region and is highly recommended for families.

Lauzerte – market and artistic village walk

Lauzerte, one of the most beautiful villages in France (Les Plus Beaux Villages de France), has a charming market on Saturdays. After the market, it is wonderful to walk through the artists' village. Galleries and studios open their doors, and you can see sculptures, murals and ceramics everywhere. The village square, Place des Cornières, is a nice place for a coffee or lunch. From the viewpoint above the village, you can look out over the rolling Quercy hills – a picturesque panorama.

Monflanquin – market and Bastides museum

Monflanquin's Thursday morning market is an experience in itself, with stalls under the arcades of the square. Stay a little longer and visit the Bastides Museum, which tells the story of these medieval fortified villages. The museum is interactive and fun for young and old. End the day with a walk through the narrow streets or a drink on a terrace overlooking the valley.

Montcuq – market and swimming in the lake

On Sunday mornings, Montcuq is buzzing with life. Local farmers sell vegetables, cheeses and artisanal products. After the market, it's time to relax at Lake Montcuq, just a few minutes' drive from the centre. The water is clear and surrounded by green hills – ideal for a picnic with goodies from the market or a refreshing dip on a summer's day.

Cultural and local background

The markets in the Dordogne-Lot are often located in villages steeped in history and authentic charm. Villages such as Monflanquin, Lauzerte and Domme are among Les Plus Beaux Villages de France – officially recognised for their beauty and heritage.

Places like Rocamadour, included on the UNESCO World Heritage List, also show how culture and tradition come together here. It is precisely this combination of market life, history and local pride that makes the Dordogne-Lot so special. You can find more information about these villages on the official website of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France and at UNESCO Rocamadour.

Gastronomy and wine

The Dordogne-Lot is a paradise for gourmets. The markets are all about pure flavours and craftsmanship: from goat's cheese and foie gras to walnut oil and truffle. The region is also known for its Malbec wines from Cahors, which you can taste at many markets at local wineries.

Those who want to delve into the culinary traditions of the region can find more information on the official website of Vins de Cahors. The site Les Truffes du Périgord offers a wonderful glimpse into the world of truffles, markets and seasons. For those who want to know more about local producers and sustainable gastronomy, Saveurs du Lot is an inspiring source.

Sustainability and local pride

What makes the markets in the Dordogne-Lot so special is the deep connection between human, nature and craft. Farmers, winemakers and beekeepers bring their products directly from the land to the market, often still in the baskets in which they were harvested that morning. There is no middleman, no wholesale – only local pride and craftsmanship. In many markets you will see the label Marché des Producteurs de Pays, which guarantees that all products are local. Cheese from the farmer, honey from the beekeeper, bread from the village's wood-fired oven – it's all about the Dordogne-Lot.
Locals’ tip: "Visit the Friday market of Prayssac – almost everything comes straight from the Lot valley." More background on sustainable agriculture in this region can be found on Agriculture et Territoires du Lot.

General French inspiration

In addition to local sources, there are also broader sources of inspiration which help to understand the atmosphere of France and the Dordogne-Lot even better. Travel sites such as Routard Dordogne-Lot give practical tips and often share those small, hidden gems where you as a traveller would never come yourself. Lonely Planet Dordogne & Lot is also a valuable resource for those who want to read more about the culture, gastronomy and nature of this region.

"During my first visit to the Dordogne-Lot, I had a Routard guidebook in my hand. A little further than the described route I ended up at a village market where the smell of freshly baked bread and lavender hung," a guest told the manager of the park.

🔗 Also read: Markets in the Dordogne-Lot – a colourful holiday experience around Lanzac

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FAQ – frequently asked questions about Mauroux

Are the markets open all year round?
Yes, all year round; night markets are added in the summer.
What is the best market for families?
The evening markets of Puy-l'Évêque and Prayssac – safe, lively and child-friendly.
When is the best time to go?
Between 8:30 and 10:00 – it is quiet and everything is fresh.
Which markets are the biggest?
Cahors (Wednesday/Saturday) and Prayssac (Friday).
Can I taste local specialties?
Sure – cheese, wine, foie gras and truffles.
Are there markets on Saturdays?
Yes, in Fumel, Montcuq, Lauzerte, Cazals and Monflanquin, among others.

Practical tips

Time: 08.00 – 12.30 hrs; evening markets 19.00 – 23.00 hrs.
Payment: cash recommended, not every market stall allows you to pay by card.
Parking: free outside the centre, arrive early so you have a parking space.
Traffic rules: Check the laws and regulations of France on our special page.
Best months: May – September, with extra evening markets.
Tip: bring a cloth bag or basket; plastic is rare.

More regional information can be found on Cahors Vallée du Lot

The charm of the Dordogne-Lot – coming home to France

When you walk through the market of Cahors or Puy-l'Évêque, you can smell fresh bread, lavender and wine. The sun shines through the plane trees, someone plays the accordion, children laugh. Later you can relax by the pool of your luxury villa in the Dordogne-Lot with private pool; the basket of goodies from the market is next to you. At FranceComfort Village des Cigales you will find peace, comfort and the warm French village feeling. Here you will experience holidays as they were meant to be experienced: slow, tasty and full of little moments of happiness.

Let yourself be carried away by the scents of the market, the smiles of the market women, and the rhythm of the French summer.
Book your stay at FranceComfort Village des Cigales today and experience the real France – sunny, welcoming and unforgettable.

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