Known as ‘Mercat Central’ in valenciano, this market  showcases nearly 100 years of Valencian food, drinks, and architecture – discover the heart of Valencia in the old centre. Since 1928, ‘Mercado Central’ has provided “marisc fresc”, “fruita fresca”, and much more to the local community in the City of Valencia. Discover the beautiful architecture of this meeting point and immerse yourself in the city’s most famous market.

Located in the bustling barrio of ‘Ciutat Vella’ (Old Town), ‘Mercado Central’ (Central Market) was designed by Francisco Guardia and Alexandre Soler with influence from the Art Nouveau movement. It boasts over 8,000 square metres of indoor space, featuring captivating stained glass, ceramic structures, and iron domes. The main central dome looms 30 metres above the market and is topped with a weathervane shaped like a parrot (the symbol of the market).

Hosting over 1200 stalls, Mercat Central is renowned for its local specialities such as fresh seafood, oranges (a Valencian staple), fartons, horchata and more. Despite Mercat Central being a current tourist hotspot, it is still used daily by locals; the song of the Valencian language will surround you, as you sample the wide array of stalls.

A vendor at Amparo said, “I’ve been working here for 15 years, but this market has been here for 100”. The cultural significance of this market is truly unmatched, and vendors, generation after generation, have continued to keep the market lifestyle alive in a world that is rapidly moving towards an online-based style of vending.

The market itself is in the centre of town, so wherever you are in the city, it’s easily accessible. After you’ve had a look, why not give one of the nearby terraces a visit for a sangria or an afternoon tapa?  For the most authentic experience, aim to arrive between 07:30h – 10:00h. Most fresh food stalls start to pack up in the afternoon; however, the market itself remains open until around 14:30h – 15:00h… the early bird catches the worm!

Report by Elliot Fryatt

Article & photos copyright Elliot Fryatt /  ‘24/7 Valencia’

MERCADO CENTRAL

Plaza de Mercado, 6

46001

Valencia

https://www.mercadocentralvalencia.es/

Opening times: Mon to Sat from 07:30h to ~14:30h, Sun – closed.