The Best Markets in Granada, Spain

Every couple of months, intriguing arts and crafts fairs take place on two of Granada’s prettiest squares. One of these is on Plaza Romanilla, a beautiful space underneath the cathedral’s lone tower and known locally as “Donkey Square” (it’ll be obvious why when you visit). The other is on the Paseo de los Tristes, a spacious plaza/promenade that stretches along the Darro at the foot of the Alhambra and the Albaicín barrio. At both of these markets – usually held on Saturdays and publicized in local media beforehand – you can find original works produced by Granada’s most innovative, up-and-coming painters, sculptors, jewelry makers and photographers; snap one up and, who knows, in a few years’ time you might be sitting on something worth a small fortune.

Plaza Romanilla, Granada, Spain

Paseo de Los Tristes, Granada, Spain

Granada’s delightful Christmas market will charm even the most cynical of Scrooges. Every year, from the first week of December until January 5, Plaza de Bib-Rambla is home to a vast number of stalls selling nativity scenes hand-carved out of wood, traditional sweets and cakes, handmade jewelry and leather goods, as well as various toys and souvenirs with a Christmas theme. There is also often a huge Christmas tree at the plaza’s center, around which large groups of Granadinos volubly exchange season’s greetings. Even if you just fancy a wander around, the atmosphere on Bib-Rambla throughout December makes visiting this market a pleasure. Most years there is also a stall run by local nuns outside the Correos post office on the Puerta Real de España, from which you can buy biscuits and other sweet treats.

Plaza de Bib-Rambla, Granada, Spain

Puerta Real de España, Granada, Spain

Spaniards love a good medieval market, and Granada’s is one of Adalusia’s biggest and best. Held every summer (usually in July, but check local media for details) on Plaza de Bib-Rambla, this gastronomic blow-out features enormous BBQs and several spit-roasts on which entire hogs slowly rotate. To really get into the spirit of things, many stall owners are kitted out in full medieval attire, making for a great atmosphere and plenty of fun photo opportunities. There are stalls selling handmade leather and wood artifacts too, but the smoky aromas emanating from the food stands will distract your attention until you’ve had a boar-burger or a steak to take the edge off your hunger. Quite simply a wonderful morning or afternoon out.