If you can only go to one market in Provence (I sure hope you can go to more!), make it the Sunday market in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue.  It is one of the largest, most attended markets in Provence, and it envelops the whole town with a festive atmosphere.   I can't even guess how many stalls there are! Fruits and vegetables, fresh pastries, regional products, baskets, textiles, antiques ...  there is something for everyone.  Bring your market basket (or two) or buy an extra one here. Plan to come early, and that parking will be, well, an adventure!  The market goes from 8 am to 1 pm.  When you have had your fill of shopping, the lovely restaurants lining the river invite you to lunch.   

 

 (There is a smaller market on Thursday mornings from 8 to noon, but it is a fraction of the Sunday sprawl.)

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The Sorgue River, which splits into 4 canals, competes for your attention.  The rushing waterfalls and waterwheels, as well as the flower baskets lining the riverbank all add to the magic of this town.  

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The wonderful thing about coming to the market is that you can easily spill into the surrounding boutiques.  (I tend to get lost quite easily!). This is the "antique capital of the south", with a large collection of shops found on Avenue des Quatre Otages and Avenue de la Liberation.

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If antiques aren't quite your thing, there are many other shops to tempt you as well:

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Les Colorades has a large selection of Provençal linens, tableware and gifts.  Find them at 2, rue Michelet.  You will want to fill your suitcase!  The owners are very helpful and friendly, and will even ship to you. 

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