Var concentrates some of France's most beautiful markets. Sanary-sur-Mer was elected most beautiful market in France in 2018 — and every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday it transforms the harbour into a colourful and aromatic celebration. Each village has its day: Lorgues on Tuesday, Cogolin on Wednesday, Cotignac on Tuesday, Aups on Thursday (truffles in winter).
The Provençal markets are much more than a shopping moment — they are the soul of the village, the social hub, the place where producers, tourists, residents and chefs cross paths. We organize guided tours with chef (2-3h) to give you the keys: how to choose the right tomato, which olive oils are AOP, which cheese-maker doesn't cheat on aging.
Beyond the visit, you bring home produce, knowledge, and often the urge to come back. The Var markets work year-round, with seasonal highlights: lavender in July, truffles November-March, olive oil at the end of November, strawberries from Carros in spring.
The 8 must-visit markets
By zone and day:
- Sanary-sur-Mer (Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat 8am-12.30pm): the most beautiful market in France 2018. Fish stalls, organic vegetables, AOP olive oils, fougasse with olives.
- Lorgues (Tue 8am-1pm): the largest in the Var hinterland. Truffles in winter, all the Provençal classics.
- Cogolin (Wed 8am-12.30pm): close to Saint-Tropez but more authentic. Esparterie (rope shoes), brioche, regional cheeses.
- Cotignac (Tue 8am-12.30pm): village market in shaded plane tree square. Truffles, honey, lavender.
- Aups (Thu 8am-12.30pm in winter, especially for truffles, mid-Nov to mid-March).
- Saint-Tropez (Tue & Sat, Place des Lices, 8am-1pm): more touristic but well-stocked, with quality stalls.
- Hyères (Sat 8am-1pm, in the historic centre): organic produce, regional crafts.
- Le Lavandou (Thu morning, on the harbour): smaller but charming, with fresh fish stalls.
All markets are easily accessible by car (parking nearby) or by partner shuttle for groups of 4+.
What to buy at the markets
Specialties not to miss:
- AOP olive oils from Var (Aix-en-Provence Vallée des Baux): try and buy in 250-500ml glass bottles. €15-30 per litre.
- Honey from Provence: lavender, rosemary, thyme. Producers in Aups, Cotignac. €8-15 per jar.
- Aged cheeses: chèvre de banon (AOP), tomme de Provence, brebis from the hinterland.
- Black truffles in winter (Aups): €600-1,200 per kilo. Buy fresh, keep airtight 5-7 days.
- Tapenade, anchoïade, olive paste: in 200g jars, perfect to bring back.
- Charcuterie: dried sausage with herbs of Provence, jambon de pays.
- Lavender: dried bouquets, essential oil, soap. Best at end of June-July, the harvest period.
- Calissons d'Aix, navettes, lavender shortbread.
Tip: bring a foldable cool bag for cheeses and charcuterie. Most producers will vacuum-pack on request for transport.
Guided tour with chef
Our 'market and tasting' formula (2-3h, €60-90 per person):
- Meet the chef at the market entrance, brief introduction to the day's market and its history.
- Walk-through with the chef who introduces you to his trusted producers, explains how to choose each product, lets you taste (olives, oils, cheeses, charcuterie, honey).
- Possibility to combine with a cookery class afterwards (€110-150 extra per person) — you cook with what you've bought.
- Or just enjoy the chef's tips and have lunch in a village restaurant we recommend.
Available in English or French. Children welcome (we adapt the pace to attention spans).
Practical tips for visiting markets
A few rules of conduct to enjoy the visit:
- Arrive early (8-10am) to enjoy without crowds and pick the best produce.
- Cash and card both accepted, but smaller producers prefer cash. Have €20-50 in small notes.
- Most producers love a chat — ask about the origin, the recipe, the family. It's part of the experience.
- Don't haggle in the village markets (it's seen as impolite). Prices are fair and fixed.
- Bring a fabric tote or wicker basket — plastic bags are no longer free.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Sanary market really worth it?
Yes — elected most beautiful market in France in 2018. 4 mornings a week, it's one of the most colourful and authentic markets in Provence. Best to do early (8-10am).
Where to find truffles?
Aups market on Thursday mornings, mid-November to mid-March. Black truffle (tuber melanosporum) fresh, with the trifolaus. Be ready for €600-1,200 per kilo.
Markets every day?
Yes — in Var you can find a market every day of the week in some village. We provide a full weekly calendar by zone.
Can we shop without the guided tour?
Absolutely. The guided tour is for those wanting to understand and learn. Otherwise the market is open and free to all visitors.
Can we bring back fresh produce on a plane?
Cheeses (under 1kg, vacuum-packed) and dried products (charcuterie, herbs, oils up to 100ml) are fine in cabin. Fresh produce >100g liquid: only in checked luggage.