Markets- Indoor and Outdoor

I love visiting markets, as a child my grandmother often took me and my sister to our local market, so this has stuck with me as a favourite memory. Today in the UK many of the original indoor markets have closed but these are now having a revival as well as numerous farmers markets, which I think is great as this is encouraging local businesses.

In Spain, the markets both inside and outside are a riot of colour and a buzz of activity, a celebration of the Spanish love of good food and drink. The array of fresh produce, seafood, meats, breads, delicatessens, wine, spices, freshly squeezed fruit juices and cheese are wonderful I can smell the oranges and lemons and fresh bread in my head,  It makes me hungry just thinking about it!

Many of the famous markets are tourist attractions however, the amazing architecture of La Boqueria in Barcelona, with 200 stalls is the oldest and largest market, and the Art Nouveau inspired Mercado Central in Valencia are still worth going to see. Perfect to have tapas and a glass of wine or Hotcha and Churros and watch the world go by and one of the best ways to observe the local culture.

I try to go to the markets that the locals visit, the produce is better and there is a chance to practise my language skills: In Mallorca: Santa Maria Del Cami is a small outdoor market on Sundays with a good selection of Organic vegetables, the Market in Pollenca also on Sunday is more expensive but more varied in produce and it’s a beautiful town to visit. Arta, on Thursdays has an Authentic craft and Artisan market, which is a big step up from the other weekly markets, which tend to have stock imported from China and are really just for tourists. If you do go to the larger markets like Inca  always haggle because the prices have been inflated, you could end up paying half the marked price if you do.  The covered markets:Mercat de Oliver in the centre of Palma and Mercat De Santa Catalina (Food Co-op) are both good markets for local foods and are surrounded by small eateries. In Madrid, Mercado San Miguel is a lively market to eat and drink and perfect for the day and evening. In Malaga the Mercado Central De Atarazanas is away from the main city but well worth a short walk as this is an upcoming area, with smaller independent shops and bars and this lively market has a stunning glass arch.  

Many hotels and travel companies do offer trips to local markets but if you can go on your own do, as you will find this to be a much more authentic experience.