Marché de Carro, Marketplace in Carro district, Martigues, France.
Marché de Carro is a marketplace in the harbor area of Martigues where fishing boats anchor right alongside the vendor stalls. The stands display fresh fish, seafood, vegetables, and regional products sourced directly from local fishermen and farmers.
The market took shape in the 1800s as a trading post where fishermen from Carro port sold their daily catch to local residents. Over time it grew into a hub for commerce, attracting buyers from across Martigues and surrounding areas.
The name Carro comes from the Provençal word for boat, reflecting the maritime heritage that still shapes daily market life. Fishermen and their families discuss the catch as they arrange their stalls, keeping this connection alive.
The market is best visited early in the morning when fishing boats have just arrived and selection is widest. Bring a bag or backpack and plan to walk, as the area is tight with narrow passages between stalls and water.
Some vendors still practice an older tradition, arranging their catch by hand in ice boxes and sharing details about where and how it was caught. This direct relationship between fisherman and buyer is increasingly rare in modern markets.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
