
Gourmet markets, storehouses of flavour. #GastroSpain
We present a new generation of markets. These are places packed with flavour where in addition to buying fresh produce you'll be able to try a variety of delicious dishes. There are many in Spain, and most of them serve as showcases for Spanish gourmet cuisine. Here are a few of the best-known. Why not come and sample them yourself?
-
San Miguel, in Madrid
This market with over 100 years of history is located beside the Plaza Mayor square in the very heart of the city, and is an obligatory stop for anyone who wants to savour Spain's gourmet produce, along with exquisite foods from all over the world.
-
San Antón, also in Madrid
Three different environments all packed with flavour. In one part you can do your shopping in a traditional market selling top-quality products, another is dedicated to show cooking, and the third features a restaurant and terrace. And all in the well-known gay quarter of Chueca.
-
Still more in Madrid
There are many different options to choose from. For example, in Colón you'll find the Platea market, with many specialist options in a space in the style of a theatre. In Fuencarral, you can enjoy the Mercado de San Ildefonso, based on the street market concept. If you're looking for a slightly edgier option you'll find it at the San Fernando Market in Lavapiés: popular bars, shops selling curiosities and lots of atmosphere.
-
La Boqueria, the symbol of Barcelona
This is one of the landmark markets in the city and we recommend strolling along its aisles to take in all the colours and aromas to be found on its stalls. You'll also be able to taste the fare, sample fresh produce and take part in regular cooking courses featuring famous chefs.
-
Santa Caterina market, Barcelona
The most eye-catching feature of Santa Caterina market is its undulating multicoloured ceramic roof. Inside you can buy fresh local produce and sample a range of tapas.
-
Victoria market, in Cordoba
The cuisine of Cordoba, typical Andalusian and Spanish dishes and the best international cuisine on offer in over 30 stalls set out in the middle of the La Victoria gardens, very near the historic centre with its UNESCO World Heritage designation.
-
Lonja del Barranco market, in Seville
Imagine eating splendidly while you gaze out over the Triana neighbourhood in Seville, or the banks of the Guadalquivir river. That's what you can do here, as well as taking part in cooking courses, gastronomic visits and exhibitions, among other activities. The building will remind you of the work of Eiffel, who is thought to have initiated the design.
-
Central Market in Valencia
It's synonymous with tradition, flavour and aromas to tempt your senses. A good place to find typical products from Valencia to take home, and –of course– to savour them at any of its stalls or bars. And what's more, the market is housed in a lovely modernist building.
-
El Puerto market in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
It's located in one of the most popular tourist areas in the city, near the Las Canteras beach. You can sample typical Canarian dishes, recipes from other regions in Spain, and a wide selection of international gastronomy. And all in an open-air setting with a fantastic atmosphere.
-
Colón Market, in Valencia.
A modernist building from 1916 located near the Town Hall, offering a gastronomic selection with flavours for every taste. For example, the typical horchata drink from Valencia and elaborate, cutting-edge, modern cuisine dishes made with products of the region.
-
La Merced Market, in Malaga
Near to the Picasso Museum, the market combines traditional stalls with more than 20 gastronomical spaces. Together, they constitute a culinary offer that includes the most popular flavours of Malaga and a varied selection of international cuisine. It also hosts exhibitions, talks, tasting sessions, workshops, etc.
-
Puerta Cinegia Gastronómica, in Zaragoza
This modern market is next to the district El Tubo, a popular area in the city centre. In this gourmet leisure space, you can buy ingredients and have them cooked on the spot, see a cooking display or chat over cocktails and tapas.
These are just a few of the vast array of gourmet markets you'll find in Spain. There are many more where you can enjoy creative cooking, like the fish market in Mahón (Menorca), La Ribera market un Bilbao (Basque Country) and Mercado del Este market in Santander (Cantabria).You can tell us about your experience on social networks with the hashtag #foodieSpain
Travel plans for inspiring you