It’s great to visit markets in Europe but what about the amazing streets markets, how many of them are there and what are they like? Read more to find out.
Exploring the Street Markets in Europe
As the hours of sunlight are slowly coming to an end in these northern latitudes, the streets of Europe are becoming more and more alive. As businesses close in the morning and people start heading back to their homes, street food begins to fill the streets. Some of the most vibrant street markets are located in Europe’s major cities. Here is a list of some of the best ones:
- El Rastro, Madrid – The El Rastro is a small plaza located in the Río de la Piedra area of the Spanish city of Madrid, in the district of Chamberí, which is, in turn, part of the greater Madrid conurbation. El Rastro is a great street market in Madrid, Spain. Situated in the heart of the city, this market has a very cool vibe to it. The market is a great place to pick up a Spanish specialty like Jamón Serrano (Ham) and specialty cheeses or to simply eat a snack and have a coffee. Since November 2016, the plaza has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Torvehallerne, Copenhagen – Torvehallerne is not just a local Copenhagen experience. It is one of the great street markets in Europe you must experience. Here you can eat food from every country in the world, and maybe even more. Not only is the food amazing, but the experience of being in this place is one of a kind. The atmosphere is super fun as well.
- Viktualienmarkt, Munich – Munich has many street markets, but it is the Viktualienmarkt (food market) that is the most famous and popular. The market is located next to the Viktualienmarkt (food market) cathedral, in the center of the city, and it is so big that you will often find it difficult to find direction in the market. There are over 1,200 traders in the market, each with his or her own special products. That is why it is called the Viktualienmarkt (food market). On the Viktualienmarkt (food market), there is a wide variety of food and drinks. You can choose to eat barbecue or fried meat and potatoes; you can drink coffee or beer.
- Marché aux Fleurs, Paris – The Marché aux Fleurs is a wonderful little market located in the heart of Paris, France. It is the city’s oldest public market and offers an array of fresh and prepared foodstuffs. Everything is open for the taking: from fresh fruit and vegetables to flowers, produce, trinkets, and so much more.
- Portobello Market, London – This market is famous for its rows and rows of stalls selling everything from cheeses to fresh fruit, vegetables, and meat. It is also a great place to eat – we recommend walking from stall to stall, tasting as you go. Portobello is a great place to experience fine dining all in one place; we recommend ordering the market’s famous sausages to share as a main.
- Albert Cuyp Market, Amsterdam – The Albert Cuyp Market in Amsterdam is one of the most authentic markets in the world, and it is 5-star rated by various travel websites as one of the best street markets and shopping experiences in Europe. The market isn’t just a market. It is a whole experience, where you can wander around, pick up souvenirs and food items, and even sit down at a café for a cup of hot coffee and a slice of your favorite cake.
- Campo de Fiori, Rome – Campo de’ Fiori is one of Rome’s most famous street markets, as it’s within walking distance of most of Roman’s major tourist attractions. It’s a good place to come for souvenirs, food, and drink, and the throngs of people can make it feel more like a festival than a market. The area has something for everyone: local food stalls, food and craft stalls, clothing stalls, bookstalls, and more.
The European Street market is a unique cultural phenomenon that can be found all over the continent. In every country, customers can choose from an array of fresh food, traditional products, clothing, and crafts. And while holidays are geared towards special occasions, street markets are a celebration of everyday life. From food to clothing, music to gifts, street markets are a weekend or weekender’s best friend.
So, which of these street markets in Europe have you been or looking forward to exploring?