Nice has always had a market early in its history, as the buying and selling of produce was a necessity of rural life. By the 14th century, Nice had its first wholesale market. This was the beginning of what is now the Marché d’Intérêt National de Nice or MIN. It started humbly on the Cours Saleya in the Old Town. Today, this is where you find the present Marché aux Fleurs - the famous nice Flower Market. By 1965, the wholesale market of MIN had exceeded its space so it needed larger quarters. The decision and solution was to move to St. Augustine.
Today, the Marché d’Intérêt National de Nice operates out of the large space provided there. Several of the wholesalers have been in the business for generations. They supply the restaurants and shops with the necessary fresh produce. Here retailers can also purchase flowers and, more recently, seafood and meat products. MIN is only open for producers to sell to wholesalers, retailers and restauranteurs, but there is one exception. Once a year, MIN allows public access. Check the calendar. If you want to see the city’s oldest wholesale market, plan ahead. Be sure to book your budget hotel in Nice close to the Marché d’Intérêt National de Nice well in advance.