1. Ajaccio’s central market: a must-visit destination
The Marcatu d’Aiacciu, or Ajaccio Central Market, is held in Place Campinchi, right in the city centre. It is just a short walk from the harbour, the Tourist Office and the shopping streets. Its location makes it easy to fit into a morning spent exploring the historic centre.
Among the stalls, you’ll find:
- seasonal fruit and vegetables;
- artisanal charcuterie;
- goat’s and sheep’s cheeses;
- brocciu, when available;
- Corsican olive oils and honeys;
- bastelles, fritters and various sweet specialities.
The central market is usually open from Tuesday to Sunday mornings, from 7 am to 1 pm. As opening times may vary depending on the season and the stalls, it’s best to check them before you go.
2. La Halle Gourmande, for eating in
Located on the same square, the Halle Gourmande is the perfect complement to a visit to Ajaccio’s central market. This covered space brings together a range of food specialities: fishmongers, cheese shops, delicatessens, patisseries, wine merchants, coffee roasters and fast-food outlets.
It’s a great option if you want to sample a range of Corsican produce without necessarily buying large quantities. You can stop for a coffee, enjoy a ready-made meal or put together a quick lunch using produce from the market.
The market hall is usually open from Tuesday to Sunday until 2 pm, with opening hours sometimes extended during the summer months.
3. The farmers’ market, to buy directly from the farm
On Wednesday and Saturday mornings from 9.00 am to 1.00 pm, local producers set up stalls at the market on Place Campinchi. They offer farm-fresh, local and seasonal produce, sold through short supply chains.
This is a particularly good opportunity to chat with the producers, find out where the food comes from and get tasting tips. Saturday remains the liveliest day, but also the busiest.
For a more relaxed visit, come first thing in the morning. You’ll have more choice and will be able to chat more easily with the stallholders.
4. The street market for crafts and small souvenirs
At the weekend, your stroll can continue towards the street market, set up between Square Élisa and the Halle Gourmande.
Unlike the food market, its stalls mainly offer clothing, jewellery, essential oils and various handcrafted items. It is usually held on Saturday and Sunday mornings from 9 am to 1 pm.
Do take the time, however, to check the labels and ask the stallholders: just because a product is on sale at a Corsican market doesn’t automatically mean it’s made on the island.
5. The market at Place Abbatucci: more low-key and local
Just a short walk from the railway station, the market at Place Abbatucci offers a more modest, everyday atmosphere. Fruit and vegetable growers, butchers and fishmongers set up shop there on Saturday and Sunday mornings, from 9 am to 1 pm.
This spot is ideal for travellers looking for a less touristy market or staying near the station. It also offers a glimpse into a more residential side of Ajaccio.
What Corsican specialities should you buy at the market?
To put together a basket that’s representative of the local cuisine, look out for seasonal produce first and foremost. Brocciu, for example, isn’t available fresh all year round.
Among the specialities that are easy to transport, consider canistrelli, maquis honey, jams, chestnut flour or finuchjetti, small dry biscuits traditionally flavoured with aniseed.
Cured meats and cheeses require a bit more care. Ask for them to be vacuum-packed and find out about their storage requirements, especially if you’re travelling by plane.
How to plan your morning at Ajaccio market?
Start your visit between 8.00 am and 9.30 am to make the most of the selection whilst avoiding the late-morning crowds. After the central market, continue on foot towards the old town, Place Foch, the Maison Bonaparte or Tino Rossi harbour. Ajaccio’s city centre is easy to explore without a car.
If travelling by car, there are several car parks around the city centre, particularly near Tino Rossi Harbour, Place du Diamant or the railway station. In summer, it’s best to arrive early, as the most central spaces fill up quickly.
Chalair operates flights to Ajaccio from Brive-Vallée de la Dordogne or Pau-Pyrénées, with a scheduled flight time of around 1 hour 50 minutes. Once there, a morning at the market offers a delightful first taste of the imperial city.
Book your flight to Ajaccio-Napoléon-Bonaparte
See also:
9 iconic places to discover in Ajaccio
Discover 7 exceptional viewpoints in Ajaccio
Visit Old Ajaccio: A getaway through narrow streets, the sea and history
Corsica: 7 exceptional beaches in Ajaccio
Ajaccio with the family: 5 activities that’ll make their eyes light up
9 must-try water sports in Ajaccio
Ajaccio: A sports enthusiast’s paradise between the sea and the mountains