The Best Markets In Almera Spain

No visit to Almería would be complete without taking in one of its lively weekly markets – mercadillos or rastros, as they’re called in Spanish. Selling everything from fish and meat to clothing and antiques, they’re a great way to sample the city’s local street life. Read on for our selection of the best markets in Almería.

Mercado Central

The main food markets in Spanish cities offer an incomparable way to experience local street life, and Almería’s is no exception. A loud, pungent and chaotic cluster of stalls selling everything from fresh fish and meat to spices and wine, the city’s Mercado Central is a must-visit. Its ambience is further enlivened by the clattering rhythms of Andalusian Spanish, as the locals exchange gossip whilst shopping.

Mercadillo de los Martes

Market

The clue is in the name: this general street market is held every Tuesday, from 8am to about 4pm, and is home to over 300 stalls. These offer a wide range of goods, from cheap clothing and accessories to fresh flowers. Shoppers to the Tuesday Market can also enjoy the unique experience of browsing for bargains in a major sports stadium.

Mercadillo de los Viernes

Market

If you’re visiting Almería and miss the city’s bustling weekly Tuesday mercadillo, fear not: another is held on Friday mornings. The aptly named Mercadillo de los Viernes (Friday Market) comprises around 260 stalls and runs until about 2pm, when the vendors head off for a cold beer and tapas. Even better, the market’s location in the city centre means its ideally located for a stop-off while you’re sightseeing.

Mercadillo de la Bola Azul

Market

Almería’s ‘Blue Ball’ flea market is held on Monday mornings in a residential part of the city, surrounded by modern apartment blocks. Its offers 200 stalls selling the eclectic mishmash of goods that you’d expect from a good Spanish rastro: sartorial bargains, aromatic flowers, bargain household items and much more. A great place to practise your haggling skills.

Mercadillo de los Sábados

On Saturday mornings, Almería’s bargain hunters gravitate towards the city’s spacious fairground – the recinto ferial – to see what’s on offer. The Mercadillo de los Sábados (Almería’s markets, it has to be said, are not the most imaginatively named) consists of about 230 stands selling a wide range of goods, including fruit, vegetables and clothing.