Réunion is a French overseas region and department in the Indian Ocean, 700 km east of Madagascar and 200 km south-west of Mauritius. This volcanic island of extraordinary drama packs an active volcano, three steep-walled cirques, a UNESCO World Heritage mountain core, dense rainforest, and a warm lagoon into 2,512 km². It is simultaneously French enough to accept euros and credit cards everywhere, and exotic enough to feel like another world entirely.
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Grand Marché de Saint-Denis
Tropical produce, Bourbon vanilla, épices, madras fabric, rhum arrangé, flowers, street food (bouchons, samoussas)
Where: Saint-Denis city centre
Hours: Mon–Sat 05:00–13:00; Sun 05:00–12:00
Marché de Saint-Paul (Saturday Market)
One of Réunion's most authentic markets; street food, fresh produce, craftwork, and textiles alongside local social life
Where: Saint-Paul waterfront
Hours: Saturday only 06:00–13:00
Marché de Saint-Pierre
Fresh fish, southern Réunion produce, street snacks
Where: Saint-Pierre centre
Hours: Mon–Sat 06:00–12:00; market day Sat
Marché Artisanal de l'Hermitage
Creole crafts, jewellery, madras fabric, essential oils, and tourist souvenirs
Where: Saint-Gilles-les-Bains / Hermitage
Hours: Daily in high season 09:00–18:00; reduced hours May–June