The market in Castellane – taste, experience and discover Provence

The Provençal market: a feast for the senses

Anyone visiting the market in Castellane for the first time will quickly understand why these Provençal markets are so popular. The village's central square, Place Marcel Sauvaire, comes to life early in the morning with countless stalls. Local farmers bring their fresh produce from the land, artisans present their handicrafts and residents come together for a nice cup of coffee.
The market in Castellane takes place on Wednesday and Saturday mornings and attracts visitors from far and wide. Here you can enjoy:

• Fresh local produce: juicy tomatoes, figs, apricots and olives.
• Cheeses and cold cuts: goat cheese from the mountains, saucissons and local ham.
• Provencal specialties: tapenade, honey, herbs and lavender soap.
• Craft and atmosphere: baskets, linen clothing, pottery and handmade jewelry.

The market is so much more than just a place to do your shopping – it is an experience that brings you into contact with the true essence of Provence. According to France.fr, the official platform for French tourism, the markets in this region are among the most beautiful in all of France. They tell a story that revolves around simplicity, tradition and the art of living.

💡 Tip: start your morning with an espresso on a terrace by the square, while watching the village come to life.

Why you shouldn't miss the market in Castellane

Castellane has the charm of a small Provençal village, but the liveliness of a place where there is always something going on. The market captures this feeling perfectly.

Five reasons to visit this market:

1. Authentic Provencal atmosphere without mass tourism.
2. Pure products directly from the local producer.
3. Cozy terraces around the village square.
4. Ideal to combine with an afternoon in nature.
5. Free admission and open all year round.

The Wednesday market is the largest and most lively of all, while the Saturday market is slightly smaller and more intimate. Yet both days offer the same thing: a warm smile, a friendly chat and a piece of the real France.

Seasonal markets in Castellane and Provence

Provence brings the seasons to life. Each time of year has its unique colours, scents and flavours – and this is clearly evident at the market.
In spring, the stalls are full of colorful flowers and young vegetables. As soon as summer arrives, it is mainly sweet fruits, the fragrant lavender, and aromatic herbs that fill the market. Autumn offers an abundance of pumpkins, figs and truffles, while winter has its own charm with the tempting smell of roasted chestnuts and local wines. You can find up-to-date information about local markets and events on the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Tourism website.

The Castellane summer market

From July to the end of August, there is a summer market, marché estival, every Friday evening. Although this market is smaller, it has a cosy and warm atmosphere. On the village square, you can enjoy local wines, live music and artisan products while the sun slowly sets behind the mountains.

Local markets in the area

The surrounding villages in Provence also have their own markets – each with its own character:

• Barrême (Saturday): small organic farmers' market with fresh cheeses and honey.
• La Palud-sur-Verdon (Tuesday): with views over the gorge, ideal to combine with a walk with the dog.
• Annot (Friday): atmospheric, with local art and crafts.
• Colmars-les-Alpes (Thursday): known for Provencal soap and textiles.

Would you like to visit more markets during your holidays? Take a look at our pages on markets in Provence and Côte d'Azur, or discover the regional markets in the Salernes area and the markets in the Nans-les-Pins region.

A day in Castellane: from market to natural wonder

What makes the market in Castellane so special is that you can easily combine it with other enjoyable activities in the area. In the morning, enjoy the wonderful Provencal atmosphere, while in the afternoon you can explore the breathtaking nature of the Gorges du Verdon or the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. A visit to one of the beaches or islands off the coast is also a must. At the end of the day, dine in one of the charming seaside resorts of the Mediterranean Sea.

Markets outside Provence – for the real enthusiast

Do you enjoy visiting markets during your holidays in France? Then discover the markets in other French regions with FranceComfort holiday parks. On our website you will find detailed information about the markets in the Dordogne and Lot as well as the markets in Poitou-Charentes.
These regions exude a different atmosphere – greener, quieter and with a culinary richness that should not be underestimated. This allows you to plan your next holiday with a new French market experience as your starting point each time.

Provençal cuisine and local crafts

The Castellane market is the ideal place to discover the delicious flavours of Provence. Try fresh herbs, olives, garlic, goat cheese, and local wines. Many of the products have an AOP label, which stands for Authentic and Original Products, and this guarantees both the origin and the quality. You should try, the olive oil from the Var, the lavender honey from the Hautes-Alpes or the soft cheeses from local farms. Combine your purchases with a visit to a cosy bistro nearby or organise a picnic at the Lac de Castillon. With fresh delicacies from the market and a refreshing glass of rosé, you can fully enjoy the real French life.
On the dedicated page you will find plenty of inspiration for a lovely holiday in Provence, from the delicious gastronomy to the rich culture and beautiful nature.

Evening markets in Castellane and the surrounding area

As the sun slowly disappears behind the mountains and the square is enveloped in a soft glow, a new life begins at the market in Castellane. During the warm summer months, a special evening market takes place every Friday evening: the marché nocturne. Here, music, craftsmanship and conviviality come together.
The air is filled with the delicious scent of lavender, roasted nuts and wine. Artists display their paintings, while artisans offer their jewellery for sale. Tourists mingle with the locals on terraces, and the atmosphere is relaxed, cheerful, and so typical of southern French life. The Castellane Tourist Office has up-to-date information on market days, events and hiking trails.

You can also visit beautiful evening markets in the area:

• Gréoux-les-Bains (Monday) – atmospheric with live music and Provençal cuisine.
• Moustiers-Sainte-Marie (Thursday)– one of the most beautiful villages in France, with market stalls between the cliffs.
• Aiguines (Saturday) – directly on the Lac de Sainte-Croix with a view of the lake.

According to Lonely Planet – Provence these markets are among the most atmospheric in the South of France.

Your stay in Castellane

After a day full of new experiences, it is wonderful to come home to one of the villas of Domaine de Castellane. Here, surrounded by mountains, you will find modern villas and holiday homes offering peace, space and luxury. Each accommodation has a spacious terrace and a modern kitchen, and some even have a private swimming pool. As you relax in your sun lounger, you can enjoy the view over the mountain slopes as the evening sun slowly sets. Would you like to enjoy the same comfort in other places in France? Then visit our pages about holidays in France and holiday homes in France, or view the extensive range of our holiday homes.

Other holiday regions in France

France has many markets, each reflecting the local identity. In addition to Provence, you can also enjoy atmospheric markets in other regions. We are happy to provide you with information about a  holiday in the Dordogne or a stay in the Poitou-Charentes. Also view the villas in the Dordogne and the holiday homes in the Poitou-Charentes. . You will also have a pleasant stay in these regions on your next holiday.

Enjoy your own holiday home

We regularly have properties for sale in these and other regions. The returns are attractive, everything is arranged for you, and you can stay there whenever you wish. Read our special page with houses for sale.

Practical tips

• Come early (08.00 – 10.00 am) for the best produce.
• Bring cash; Not all stalls accept debit card payments.
• Feel free to ask for samples – it's part of Provençal hospitality.
• Combine your market visit with a lunch or picnic by the river.
• Visit the evening market for a completely different atmosphere.
• Make sure you know the traffic rules of France to avoid traffic fines. Also read our article about the environmental zones.

Frequently asked questions

1. When is the market in Castellane?
Every Wednesday and Saturday morning at Place Marcel Sauvaire, and in July and August also on Friday evenings.
2. What can I buy at the market?
Vegetables, fruits, cheeses, lavender products, clothing, jewelry and artisanal specialties.
3. Are there markets nearby?
Yes, in Barrême, Annot, Colmars-les-Alpes and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, among others.
4. Is the market open all year round?
Yes, the weekly markets are active all year round; the summer market runs from July to the end of August.
5. Where can I stay near Castellane?
At Domaine de Castellane, you will find comfortable Provençal style holiday homes, ideal for families and nature lovers.