Arras’ markets are an excellent opportunity to discover local specialties, meet the locals and enjoy the warm, friendly atmosphere of this charming town in Northern France. In this article, we present the five main markets in Arras: the Place des Héros and Place de la Vacquerie markets (twice a week), the Place Lanvin market, the Rietz market and the Place Verlaine market.
The large central market at Place des Héros (twice a week)
The Place des Héros (and Place de la Vacquerie behind the Belfry) market is a weekly event that takes place all year round, every Wednesday and Saturday, from 8am to 1pm; note that on Saturdays, the market is larger and also runs along the pedestrian streets and sometimes the Grand’Place. This beautiful market (the city’s largest) is located in the heart of Arras, on the historic square surrounded by magnificent Flemish architecture.
The market is renowned for its diversity of fresh produce, including fruit and vegetables, meats and cheeses, as well as local specialties such as beer, stuffed waffles and andouillettes d’Arras, which are celebrated locally. Don’t hesitate to sample the delights offered by the many stalls at this lively market. Market opening times may vary according to weather and season, so be sure to check before you go.
Market address: Place des Héros 62000 Arras
A wide variety of products and services can be found at an Arras market. Here are a few categories of items you can usually find at the market, especially on Saturday mornings :
- Fruit and vegetables : Shopkeepers often offer fresh, local, seasonal fruit and vegetables, often sold directly by producers. Products available vary according to season and region ;
- Meat and fish : Some may offer butcher’s and fishmonger’s stalls, where you can find fresh meat, poultry, fish and seafood ;
- Cheese and dairy products : There are often stalls with a selection of local cheeses, milk, yoghurts and other dairy products ;
- Bakery and patisserie : Freshly baked breads, pastries, cakes and other pastries are available at the markets ;
- Ready-made meals and delicatessen : Traders inevitably offer ready-made meals, sandwiches, quiches, pizzas and other dishes to take away or eat in ;
- Groceries and local products : We offer local products such as jams, honeys, oils, spices, wines and regional drinks;
- Flowers and plants : The ideal place to buy fresh flowers, plants, herbs and shrubs;
- Household goods and clothing : On Saturdays, you’ll find a wide range of merchants offering home decoration, kitchen utensils, clothing, shoes and accessories ;
- Crafts : Local artisans can sometimes be found selling handmade items such as jewelry, pottery, sculptures, paintings and textiles.
The Place Marc Lanvin market
The Place Lanvin market is another must-see in Arras. It takes place all year round, every Thursday from 8am to 1pm.
This market is also located in the western districts, not far from the Hippodrome, on Place Lanvin, just a few minutes’ walk from Molière elementary school :
This market offers a varied selection of fresh produce, including seafood, fruit and vegetables, as well as household goods and clothing. As with the Place des Héros market, opening times may vary according to weather and season.
Market address: Place Lanvin 62000 Arras
Place du Rietz market
The Thursday afternoon market at Parc du Rietz is located in the south of Arras, behind the railway station.
This market is an excellent opportunity for local residents and visitors to do their weekend shopping and enjoy the variety of products on offer. Here are a few things to remember about the market: Day and times: The market takes place on Thursday afternoons. Exact times may vary, but markets are generally held between 2pm and 6pm.
To avoid disappointment, it’s best to check with local traders or the town hall.
Address: Parc du Rietz Quartier Sud (behind the SNCF train station) 62000 Arras
Products and services : At this market, you’ll find a variety of products, including fresh fruit and vegetables, meats, cheeses, seafood and dairy products, as well as household goods and clothing. You’ll also find stalls selling ready-made meals and local specialities to eat in or take away.
The Place Verlaine market
The Place Verlaine Sunday morning market is located in the Résidence Saint-Pol in Arras. This market offers an excellent opportunity for local residents and visitors to do their weekend shopping and enjoy the fresh, quality produce on offer. Here’s some important information about the market:
Day and times: The market takes place on Sunday mornings. Exact times may vary, but markets are generally held between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Address and map: Place Verlaine Résidence Saint-Pol 62000 Arras
Products and services: At this market, you’ll find a variety of products, such as fresh fruit and vegetables, meats, cheeses, dairy products, as well as household goods and clothing. You’ll also find stalls selling ready-made meals and local specialities to eat in or take away. The Place Verlaine Sunday morning market is a friendly, lively place, perfect for buying fresh, quality produce while supporting local traders. Don’t hesitate to visit it during your stay in Arras to take full advantage of the cultural experience offered by local markets.
R.C.
