The Apt Market in Provence, One of France’s Best

If you’d like to visit one of the best markets in France and Provence, don’t miss the Apt market in the capital of the Luberon Valley. Don’t just take my word for it: Apt’s market has been named one of France’s 100 “exceptional markets” by the French National Council of Culinary Art. Not bad!

Shop for Whatever You Want

The market is the biggest in the Luberon Valley and is also historic—it goes back to the 12th century. It has everything you want: wonderful fruits and vegetables, olives, cheese, wine, honey, flowers, colourful tablecloths…the list goes on and on. During the peak summer months, nearly 500 vendors sell their goods—if you can’t find what you are looking for, it may not exist!

The market starts at the Place de la Bouquerie and spreads throughout the old city center, filling the town’s squares and narrow streets. Wander to your heart’s content, smelling here and tasting there, and when you need a break, stop at one of the Apt’s many cafés. Enjoy a cold drink, do a little people-watching, and then return to shopping!

While you are in Apt, be sure to try some of its famous candied fruit. It’s so good that the town has been named a site remarquable du gout (remarkable site of taste). Apt is also known for its beautiful terres melées pottery, where different coloured clays are mixed to create beautiful swirling patterns.

©Office de tourisme Pays d’Apt Luberon

Practical Information

The market occurs on Saturday morning, starting at 8 am and running until the vendors pack up around 12:30 pm. It is very popular, so go early to avoid the crowds.

There is limited parking near the market, and you may have to hunt to find a spot. One good option is at the Tourist Office at 788 Avenue Victor Hugo. It’s a 10-minute walk from there to the market, and there is a free shuttle service between the tourist office and the market in July and August.

Spend a Week Touring from Apt

Where to Stay?

Apartment in Apt: Cent Cinq welcomes guests all year round for short and long stays. These fully renovated self-catering apartments are in an 18th-century townhouse in Apt. It is a vibrant market town in the heart of Provence’s Luberon. Each apartment has a bedroom and bathroom and an open plan kitchen and living area and sleeps a maximum of 3 guests.

Guide to Markets in Provence and Côte d’Azur.

Keith Van Sickle

Keith and Val Van Sickle made their first trip to Provence decades ago, and it was love at first sight. After that, they came back every year until 2008, when they began a part-time life there, splitting their time between Provence and California.

Over the years, they’ve travelled all over Provence, seeing sights both well-known and obscure. Their French friends have introduced them to favourite restaurants and wineries and picnic spots and taught them funny local expressions (not all for polite company).

Keith now shares this local knowledge in his new book, An Insider’s Guide to Provence. Packed with the Van Sickles’ favourite things to see and do, it’s a must-have for anyone travelling to this glorious corner of France.

Keith previously published two books about the couple's experiences in Provence. One Sip at a Time: Learning to Live in Provence, and Are We French Yet?, both are available from Amazon.

You can see all of Keith’s blog posts at Life in Provence.