Weekly Brocante Market of Place des Lices in Saint-Tropez

Place des Lices, the beating heart of Saint-Tropez

At the centre of the Tropezian village, Place des Lices is the popular soul of a town that glamour has never quite conquered. Between century-old plane trees, pétanque players and the terraces of Café des Arts and nearby Café Sénéquier, one of the most photogenic antique markets of the Var unfolds every Tuesday and Saturday morning. It starts early - from 8am - and runs until early afternoon.

A preserved Provençal tradition

Unlike occasional flea markets, this is a market of brocanteurs and semi-professional antique dealers who know their products and charge Riviera prices. Saturday is particularly lively, doubled by the traditional Provençal market (fruits, vegetables, olives, Marseille soaps, Provence herbs). Tuesday is more intimate but often more conducive to negotiation.

What to find

Monogrammed antique linen, Provençal boutis quilts, Moustiers faience, Vallauris pottery, Biot glassware, silverware, antique jewellery, wrought-iron lighting, painted Provençal furniture (wardrobes, kneading troughs, sideboards), copper cookware, Provence santons, antique books and postcards illustrating the Riviera from 1900-1960.

The atmosphere, a show in itself

Strolling Place des Lices on a sunny morning, hearing the click of pétanque balls, breathing the scent of strong coffee and market flowers, crossing an eternal and popular Saint-Tropez: this is why this brocante attracts local bargain hunters, second-home residents of the gulf, and visitors from around the world.

Practical tips

Arrive early (8-9am) for the best pieces and a seat on the terrace. In summer, prefer Tuesday for easier browsing. Negotiate tactfully - Tropezian dealers know the value of their pieces.