If you’re looking to experience the best of the Dordogne, look no further than its marvellous village markets. The settings, the goods, the people – it’s all fabulously French and then some. These pop-up stalls are the perfect places for a morning mooch or to stretch your legs after a long, lazy lunch. Or use them as a one-stop-shop to stock up on all your fresh picnic essentials before a day exploring the delights of the Dordogne. There are even lantern-lit night markets to discover, where you can mingle with the locals over good food and wine under the stars. Ooh la la!

But whatever time of year you’re visiting, keep your eyes peeled for the very best seasonal spoils, as that’s what this gourmet heavyweight does best. Think juicy spring strawberries, autumnal woodland walnuts and the prized Périgord truffle. And make sure you ask to try before you buy! Without further ado, let’s get our shop on…

1. Bergerac farmer’s market

When you’ve finished saying bonjour to Bergerac’s beautiful cobbled streets of timber-clad cottages, head to this cute-as-you-like open-air market. It’s usually on from 7am-ish until just after lunch, which is typical of most morning markets around here.

When: Wednesdays and Saturdays
Where: Around the town’s central cathedral
What to buy: Vino from the nearby vineyards – we like the rich, ruby red Cotes de Bergerac. Cheers!

2. Les Floralies market

This market is actually part of an annual weekend flower festival. Each year, the locals in this delightful Dordogne village go to town as they dress their streets with spectacular flower displays. The market is a focal part of the event, showing off local art and crafts, alongside flowers, plants and garden bits and bobs.

When: Early May
Where: Village of Saint-Jean-de-Côle
What to buy: The region’s famous bright yellow sunflowers

3. Saint-Cyprien market

If you like your Sundays slow and steady, with no need to hurry, then enjoy a sunny stroll nibbling your way around Saint-Cyprien’s bustling food market. Top tip: get there early to snap up the good stuff before it’s gone!

When: Sundays
Where: Rue Gambetta
What to buy: Picnic snacks such as just-baked baguettes, sweet strawberries, saucisson and crisp, rotisserie chicken

4. Le-Bugue market

If you’re planning to visit Le-Bugue, make it market day! This medieval, riverside spot comes to life when the traders and locals are bartering over its fine French fare. The market recently turned 700 years old, as in 1319, the King of France actually declared that this popular market should be a permanent Tuesday fixture on the town’s agenda!

When: Tuesdays
Where: Outside the town hall on the Grand Rue in the centre of town
What to buy: Earthy cèpe mushrooms and fragrant garlic – grab a garland to take home and have a go at making the region’s revered garlic soup, yum!

5. Périgueux market

The popular Périgueux market is often said to be one of the biggest and best in the area, thanks to its canopy-capped stalls sprawling out over three town squares. Come hungry, with plenty of shopping bags at the ready! The locals love it too…

When: Saturdays
Where: Around the Cathédrale St-Front
What to buy: Rich duck sausage and creamy cabécou goat’s cheese

6. Sainte-Foy-la-Grande market

Turret-topped buildings? Check. Tree-lined square? Yep. Amazing French country architecture? Tick! As another of the region’s biggest and busiest markets, this shopper’s heaven is all set to impress. And as the stalls stretch out into the winding streets of town, it’s a traffic-free zone while the market’s on.

When: Saturdays
Where: Place de la Mairie and its surrounding streets
What to buy: A whole rainbow of just-plucked fruit and veg from the Dordogne’s delicious orchards

7. Saint-Aulaye market

Fish fan? Then make a beeline for this speciality market in the heart of this dinky Dordogne hamlet. When you’ve had your fill and spent up, take your fish-packed haul and enjoy a rustic riverside barbecue in le sunshine – just add a baguette and a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc, et voila!

When: Thursdays
Where: Town centre
What to buy: Fresh-out-of-the-river trout

8. Bergerac flea market

Calling all bargain hunters – this one’s for you! You can’t holiday in the Dordogne without swinging by a classic French flea market AKA brocante. Spend a summer Sunday in Bergerac scouring the stalls for eclectic finds to take home. Professional dealers will drive a hard bargain on the price, so brush up on your French if you want a seriously good deal.

When: First Sunday of the month
Where: Bergerac’s Old Quarter
What to buy: Vintage postcards, maps and books – they’ll add a certain je ne sais quois and a touch of French shabby-chic to your home décor

9. Sarlat-la-Canéda’s organic night market

Perhaps one of the Dordogne’s most famous summer markets (and with good reason!), Sarlat’s night market makes for a memorable event. For starters, the town looks like it’s straight out of the pages of a French fairytale. Then, once you’ve stuffed your basket full of organic treats, grab a plate and pull up a pew at one of the long communal tables to dine al fresco with the locals, with an accordion serenade in the background. Things kick off at 6pm and start winding down at about 10pm.

When: Thursdays
Where: Place du 14 Juillet
What to buy: For meat-eaters, it’s got to be the famous duck magret. For non-meat produce, pick up some local jam and honey.

So, ready for a little retail therapy in the dreamy Dordogne? It’s time to start your French adventure…