If you are planning to visit the French Basque Country, make sure to check which day of the week is set as a market day in the main towns of the French Basque Country. Traditional markets of the biggest cities like Baiona, Biarritz or Saint Jean de Luz are open from Monday to Saturday, but farmers, local producers and artisans from the whole region set up their stalls on market days, providing a lively atmosphere to the town.
The rich culture and gastronomy of the French Basque Country can be experienced first-hand while visiting one of its traditional markets. Below is a general overview of market days in some of the major towns and cities of the French Basque Country.
Saint Jean de Luz.
Les Halles Market is open from Monday to Saturday, but traditional market days are set for every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday (only during July and August).
Biarritz
The traditional market is open from Monday to Saturday, although Saturday is the big day at Les Halles. Additionally, there are special markets in other neighbourhoods of Biarritz, such as: Saint Martin (on Wednesday mornings at Rue du Reptou) and Saint Charles district (on Friday mornings). During summer season at Les Halles starting from 18:30h (between the 6th of July to the 28th of August).
Baiona
As the capital of Lapurdi province, the Market in Baiona opens every day, but on Saturdays local farmers set their stalls on the beautiful Carreau des Halles, down the bank of the River Nive (next to Halles Market).
Espelette
Apart from the famous Espelette red peppers, every Wednesday at Place du Marche you will be able to find a covered market with the finest local products.
Saint Jean Pied de Port
Outside the walls of the medieval town, the market is set every Monday at Place des Remparts.
Bidart
Every Saturday the traditional market takes place at Sauveur Atchoarena Place. During summer season, they also set a market at the same place every Tuesday (between the 7th of July to the 15th of September), and an afternoon market starting at 18:30h during July and August.
Guethary
Every Monday, from the 13th of July to the 19th of August, a double market session (morning and afternoon from 18:30h) takes place at Place du Fronton, and also on Sundays between the 28th of April to the 27th of September.
Sare
Traditional market at the main plaza every Thursday between the months of May and September. Also, an artisan market every Monday between the months of July and September.
Ainhoa
Afternoon market every Thursday between the 9th of July and the 28th of August from 16:30h to 19:00h.
Saint Etienne de Baigorry
The traditional market day at this beautiful town is held once a month. If you are lucky to be there the first Saturday of each month, don’t miss the opportunity.
Please note that market days can be subject to change, so it’s a good idea to verify the specific market days and times before planning your visit.
