Marquises Square

This emblematic square, facing the Town Hall, takes its name from the wives of the Marquises of Civrac, who once owned land in the region. For over a century, it has been the bustling heart of Arcachon’s commercial life. Its history is closely tied to that of its market. The first market halls were built between 1883 and 1885 but were demolished less than a century later during major urban redevelopment works. For forty years, the square remained without its covered market, until 2012 when, as part of the town centre’s transformation, new halls were built. Modern and inspired by the famous Baltard market halls in Paris, they blend seamlessly with Arcachon’s contemporary architectural style. With their elegant metal structure and glass roof, they offer a bright and airy setting for traders and visitors alike. Beneath these halls and across the square, a daily market showcases around thirty colourful stalls brimming with fresh local produce and regional specialities. This is where you will find the true gastronomic treasures of the region. The undisputed local star is, of course, the oyster from Arcachon Bay. Grown in the brackish waters of the bay, these oysters develop a unique flavour that combines the softness of freshwater with the briny tang of the ocean. Purists enjoy them plain, while others add a dash of lemon, a shallot vinaigrette, and a slice of buttered rye bread. Arcachon also has some surprising delicacies, starting with its Aquitaine caviar. Don’t miss the famous Dunes Blanches from Chez Pascal, delicious crispy choux pastries created in 2007. The artisanal salt from the Saline du Bassin in Gujan-Mestras brings an authentic local touch to any dish. For local drinks, La Teste-de-Buch’s MIRA beer is brewed with exceptional spring water aged 22,500 years, while nearby vineyards produce Bordeaux wines and, further north, the pineau des Charentes, a fortified aperitif blending cognac and grape must. Sweet-toothed visitors will be delighted by the artisan chocolates from Les Gourmandises d’Aliénor, including their mini-canelés filled with caramel and chocolate oyster shells studded with almond pieces, as well as the buttery Dune shortbread biscuits by Jean-Marc Roumat, perfect with coffee. The Place des Marquises and its market thus offer a true gastronomic journey into the flavours of Arcachon Bay, where maritime traditions meet culinary innovation to give visitors a unique taste experience.