Experience the sights and sounds of Central Market (Mercat Central), one of the oldest-running food markets in Europe. Valencia’s traditional market has more than 1,000 stalls that sell a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, cheeses and Spanish cured meats. Fresh produce vendors have been setting up here almost every day since King Alfonso XIII opened the market in 1928.
Central Market is split up into different produce sections. Buy some fresh fruits and juice in the fruit section and snack as you explore the expansive marketplace. The fish market is filled with stalls selling crabs, lobsters and other seafood. A wide selection of authentic cured hams and salamis can be purchased at the meat stalls and many products are available for sampling. At the offal stands, you can find almost every edible part of the pig for sale.
If you visit at lunchtime, enjoy the biggest meal in the Spanish day at the food stands outside the market. Traditional foods are on offer here, such as tapas and paella. Try a sweet treat at artisanal ice cream stalls. Some traders also sell cookware and souvenirs.
Those with an interest in architecture will notice the early 20th-century design of the market building, by Alejandro Soler March and Francisco Guardia Phial. The two Barcelona-trained architects built the indoor marketplace between 1914 and 1928. Note the building’s distinctive stained-glass windows and domes made of iron and glass. Spot the green parrot that sits on top of one of the domes. The parrot is symbolic of the chatty interactions in the market below.
Central Market is located in Valencia’s Old Town and can easily be reached on foot from many attractions in the city. Those driving to the market can use its indoor car park. Collect shopping points as you buy produce and exchange them for parking ticket credit before you exit.
Visit Central Market for free any day except Sunday. The market operates from early morning to the middle of the afternoon.
