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Pisa is a vibrant city with a lot of interesting markets perfect to buy typical Tuscan food, clothes, gifts or antiquities. Most of these markets take place on weekends, so if you are planning to visit the town, and to do some cool shopping, remember it.

Antique Market in Piazza dei Cavalieri

Historical Landmark, Architectural Landmark

If you are visiting the city centre of Pisa on the second weekend of the month, you are a lucky guy! If you are asking yourself why, it’s because in Piazza dei Cavalieri – the large square in which one can find the famous Normal School of Pisa, founded by Napoleon – is one of the coolest flea markets of Tuscany. The Antique Market is where it’s possible to buy special gifts and unconventional souvenirs, such as old paintings, books, furnishings and so on. The market takes place on the second Saturday and Sunday of every month, all day long.

Mercato delle Vettovaglie

The main Pisan market is Mercato delle Vettovaglie. The centre of this market is the small arcades in the square of Vettovaglie, but stalls continue through the arch and into the nearby streets. In Vettovaglie you can buy fresh products sold by the farmers of the Province, such as fruits and vegetables, and others selling a variety of other Italian culinary delights and colorful flowers. It’s a pleasure to walk through the vibrant market and be part of its lively and typical atmosphere. The Vettovaglie’s Market is open daily (except Sunday) from 7 a.m. till 3 p.m., but some sellers are there longer into the afternoon.

Antique Market in Ponte di Mezzo

Another interesting market in Pisa is the one held in Ponte di Mezzo, the main bridge of the town. For those who are into antiquities and old crafts, this is the place to visit. Thanks to its excellent location, you can visit the market and, at the same time, admire the surrounding panorama of the buildings reflecting in the Arno river. This market is near Palazzo Blu, so you can easily combine cultural and shopping visits. The Antique Market in Ponte di Mezzo is open every second weekend of each month.

Market in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele

Piazza Vittorio Emanuele is one of the largest squares in Pisa and is located just a two-minute walk from the Central Station, so you can easily find it. This big square is home to a variety of markets throughout the year, but one of the coolest is undoubtedly the European Market specializing in European products. Here, you’ll find pizza and gelato along with sausages from Germany, Austrian pretzel, French jams and more. The market takes place every April.
Flea Market in Via San Martino

If you are looking for clothes, dresses, accessories, bags and shoes, the flea market in Via San Martino is a good option. It is mostly frequented by locals searching vintage stuffs and, indeed, it is possible to find them. The market is located in the centre of the city, near Caffè Letterario Volta Pagina, which is one of the coolest bars in Pisa. The best thing you can do here is order a coffee, relax a few minutes and then prepare yourself for shopping! The market is open every Wednesday and Saturday of the week until lunch time.

Christmas Market in Palazzo dei Congressi

At Christmas, Pisa becomes a magical place, the streets are busy with decorations, lights and other adornments. If you are a Christmas fan, or travel with children, the best place to go is the Santa Claus Factory, a market with stalls full of gifts, craft products and typical Christmas food and treats. In the palace, children will also meet Santa and the elfs and could write their Christmas letters to ol’ St. Nick. This market is located inside Palazzo dei Congressi, which is a building used by Pisans for fairs and big events.

About the author

Coffee-addicted, autumn enthusiast and self-taught photographer – I am Francesca, a travel journalist. After living in Italy and Spain, now I spend my days in the lively city of Tirana, Albania. If I'm not exploring the Balkan peninsula, you’ll find me at the local food market or writing about my travels.

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