The fish market is the most famous of Marseille’s markets. It began in 1909 in the old port and hasn’t moved since. It takes place every morning of the year, but get there early to be sure to find the fish you want. Opening hours: daily, 8am to 1pm
Marché Place Jean Jaurès (food, household and clothing)
This is where the locals shop and it’s reflected in the cheaper prices. Place Jean Jaurès is known to the locals as la plaine (literally “the plain”), because it’s the flat part in an otherwise hilly area.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 7:30 am to 1:30 pm
This is another locals market that takes up one entire side of the large Avenue du Prado (from Castellane metro station onward). It sells everything from food to clothes to household items. It can get busy, so turn up early.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 7:30am to 1:30pm
The market in the centre of Marseille is one of the noisiest and messiest but also one of the most interesting. Don’t be intimidated by the hustle and bustle – get stuck in it. It sells everything from food to household items, but it’s noteworthy because you can find lots of fresh herbs and spices here, some that are uncommon to Northern European or American cuisines.
Marché Cours Julien (fruit, vegetables and local produce)
The Cours Julien is an eclectic and interesting place to hang out, and the market is a favourite with people who like to look at the street art and window-shop at the quirky independent stores.
Mega Vide Greniers (antiques, household and clothes)
Every Sunday there is a giant car-boot sale, just by the hippodrome. Vide grenier literally means “to empty the loft” and it’s a favourite French pastime to search for bargains in other people’s unwanted items. Check their Facebook page for updates and times.
For over 20 years there has been a flea market here. There’s a covered market selling antiques and bric-a-brac, as well as outdoor fruit and vegetable stalls. Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30am to 7:30pm.
This little market is on one of the most famous streets in Marseille; it’s one of the main thoroughfares in the centre of town. The market is small and a great place to pick up some fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as artisanal products, like yummy bread.
At the foot of the Hotel Intercontinental behind the Old Port you’ll find the small square called Place 23 Janvier 1943. It’s here that there’s a small market every Thursday with produce from local growers.
