Woman selling vegetables at farmers' market ()
No matter the season, a trip to the farmers’ market, or Bauernmarkt in German, is a much-loved activity for many. Wandering through stalls, seeing gorgeous fruits and vegetables of the season, grabbing jars of local honey or preserves and maybe talking with local vendors (a great way to practice your German), there is always something new to discover and get excited about. Luckily, towns big and small throughout the state of Rheinland-Pfalz host weekly markets so that wherever you live, you can find your own go-to market. However, don’t limit yourself to just one, as each market will have some unique products and specialties.
Most farmers’ markets will offer fresh vegetables, fruits, flowers, eggs, meat and sausages, cheese and bread, but you may also find fish, baked goods, honey, soaps and other unique products. Here are some markets worth exploring:
Kaiserslautern: Tuesday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Königstrasse
Landstuhl: Friday from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. outside Stadthalle Landstuhl
Wiesbaden: Wednesday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Dern’sches Gelände
Frankfurt: Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Konstablerwache
Mannheim: Tuesday and Thursday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Market Square
Homburg: Tuesday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Market Square
Metz: Covered market, Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Cathedral Square
Luxembourg City: Wednesday and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Place Emile Hamilius
Mainz: Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the City Center
Darmstadt/Hessen: Wednesday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Marktplatz
Trier: Tuesday and Friday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Viehmarkt Square or Augustinerhof
Zweibrucken: Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Hallplatz
Saarbrucken: Saturday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Gustav-Regler-Platz
Event dates and times are subject to change, so be sure to check websites and local resources to verify the schedule and any restrictions or guidelines for attending the market.
Things to Know
It’s always safe to have euro on hand, as sometimes vendors do not accept card. Always bring your own bags in case vendors do not provide them. No one wants to be left scrambling around and carrying too much. Pack your patience, particularly on weekends, because you may have to wait in line to pick out your favorite products. Prices might be higher than what you could find at the supermarket, but remember you’re paying for fresh and local produce, supporting local farmers and receiving high-quality products.
Many of these cities will also offer flea markets and other opportunities to buy local goods, so make sure to check out the town’s websites for other market events in your area. Shopping at your town’s farmers’ market is a great way to feel more connected to your town and community. It also helps you discover what the region specializes in, often providing inspiration and ideas for your home cooking.
