The Easy Guide to Nature’s Bounty at Cours Saleya Market, France

There is nothing like enjoying the smell fresh produce at a market. The pleasure is kicked up a notch when the market happens to be the venerable Saleya Market in Nice, France.

Flower Market

There is lots to see in Nice, France, starting with the sun, sea, and that South of France ambience. If you are looking to bring some of that home with you head to Cours Saleya market, one of the most well known and largest flower and food markets in the region.

Location

Located between the Old Town and Quai Etats-Unis, the open air market is filled with locals and tourists who come to enjoy the amazing harvest on display. A bonus is the the proximity of the market to the Chapelle de la Miséricorde, which is illuminated at night.

En y va!/ Let’s go!

The best deals on goods are at the end of market day as some vendors try to make a deal on the perishable goods. There is a flurry of activity as the vendors call out their goods hoping to attract buyers

Although Cours Saleya is historically famous as a flower market there is also a wonderful variety of produce on display. It was in 1897 that this market became the first wholesale cut flower market in Europe, as time passed it eventually opened up to the general public.

As you make your way along Promenade des Anglais carried by the throng of tourists and locals all eager to review the fresh fruits and vegetables from the region, take note of imports such as mangos from Mexico, not to mention seafood on a smaller scale.

 There are lots of varieties of olives, spices and everything you need for Niçoise cuisine, patriotically grown by local farmers. Follow your nose and it will lead you to Lavender vendors. What would the South of France be without lavender?

Food

For those with a sweet tooth choice ranges from patisseries to pizzerias. The market is renowned Socca, a culinary treat special to the region. For those whose taste buds have been activated by a day at the market the area becomes a eating locale during night time where you find can find a lively bar or relaxing concert, you have plenty of choices to enjoy the hot summer breeze of Nice.

After the official market ends, the space is transformed to a craft and antique market where you can buy local jewellery and souvenirs which is very different from the official market.

Time to Shop

• All year

• Tuesday 06:00 – 13:30
• Wednesday 06:00 – 13:30
• Thursday 06:00 – 13:30
• Friday 06:00 – 13:30
• Saturday 06:00 – 13:30
• Sunday 06:00 – 13:30