The Sarlat market: A sensory immersion in the heart of Périgord

Slow Village invites you to discover the Sarlat market, the vibrant heart of Sarlat-la-Canéda in the Périgord Noir region. More than just a place to shop, it's a veritable institution: a spectacle of colors, scents and local flavors, all in a warm, friendly atmosphere. Let yourself be carried away by the cheerful hubbub, the laughter and the lively discussions. A visit to our open-air hotel in Saint-Cybranet in the Dordogne promises authentic delights and encounters.

Sarlat market essentials

Traditional market: Wednesday and Saturday mornings

It's the beating heart of Sarlat! Twice a week, all year round, the town comes alive for its traditional market.

• Early Wednesday: mainly food products, it takes place on Place de la Liberté. Ideal for sourcing fresh local produce, from sun-kissed vegetables to mature cheeses.
• On Saturday mornings and during the day: it stretches across the old town. You'll find food, crafts and souvenirs. It's the place to be for a lively atmosphere and plenty of bargains.

Theme markets: night markets, truffle markets, foie gras markets...

Sarlat is also a town of exceptional flavours, celebrated by themed markets:

• Le marché au gras et aux truffes (Saturday mornings in winter, rue Fénelon): this is the place to go for Périgord black truffles and duck and goose delicacies, true symbols of regional gastronomy.
• The night markets (Thursday evenings in summer): these markets feature local crafts and invite you to enjoy a cool summer stroll in a different, equally charming atmosphere.
• The Sarlat organic market (Thursday afternoon, Place du 14 Juillet/Poste): a godsend for lovers of organic produce and responsible consumption.
• The Sarlat Christmas market (December, Place de la Grande Rigaudie): an enchanting town with crafts, gifts, mulled wine and a magical atmosphere for young and old.

Times, locations and parking

As for locations, the main markets are held on Place de la Liberté.

Sarlat's covered market is housed in the former Sainte-Marie church, renovated by architect Jean Nouvel. It's generally open every morning in high season (April to October), with shorter opening days in low season (November to mid-March: often Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday mornings). In summer, some days offer extended afternoon and evening opening hours. (See updated opening times on the Sarlat Périgord Noir Tourist Office website).

Paid parking is available nearby; we recommend arriving early on Saturdays for greater peace of mind.

Our tips for taking advantage of the market

Here are a few tips to make your visit a pure pleasure:

Where to park? Getting there early?

Use the Grande Rigaudie or Plantier parking lots. Try to arrive before 9:00 a.m. on Saturdays. For a quieter atmosphere, the early Wednesday market is ideal.

What to buy and which specialities to look out for

Not to be missed: fresh seasonal produce, duck and goose specialties, PDO walnuts, cheeses, honey and wines. When the season is right, the black truffle at Sarlat's truffle market is a must. Remember to bring reusable bags, a gesture in line with the slow life values and respect for the environment.

Extend the experience over a coffee or picnic

Extend the experience by sitting at a café on the Place de la Liberté, or organize a picnic on the banks of the Dordogne with your market finds. A simple and delicious moment.