Traditional markets for good, luxury food
· 4 min. read
We are used to buying much of our food in supermarkets and it is very convenient. But when it comes to perishable products, such as fruit and vegetables or fish and meat, it is much fresher, more local, and even more fun to buy them in traditional markets. We recommend going to traditional markets to eat well, enjoy really good food, and to support local businesses. This is an investment in health and a commitment to reducing transport and its pollution on the planet.
Here is a list of the best Traditional Markets on the Costa del Sol
Atarazanas Central Market in Malaga
This market is very special. It has a very old stone façade from the Muslim period of the city and a beautiful 19th century iron and glass structure. For this reason alone, as a monument, it is worth a visit. But it is also a traditional market. Spices, almonds, oranges, fresh tuna can be bought every day. The atmosphere is always very cheerful, and food is the protagonist. But the best thing is that you can also eat tapas inside. There are small bars offering very appetizing snacks. In fact, the Atarazanas Traditional Market is especially festive on Saturdays.
Municipal Market in the Center of Marbella
This is a building that goes somewhat unnoticed despite being right in the centre. Every morning the atmosphere is very lively because there are bars where you can have breakfast or tapas. The food stalls are on the fourth floor and there are sections for meat, fish, fruit and vegetables, bakery, and delicatessen. There is another municipal market with slightly cheaper prices, especially for fresh fish, the Mercado de la Divina Pastora, but this one in the centre is very easy to access due to its underground car park.
In addition to the products you will already know because you can find them all over Europe, we recommend trying some more local items. In the fish section you will find delicious anchovies, sardines, and prawns, very typical of the Costa del Sol. For fruit, the variety is very colourful so it is difficult to recommend anything in particular. However, if you can, buy peaches from Periana, mangoes from Axarquia or try very special fruits such as pomegranates or custard apples. If you like fruit you will enjoy them.
The Street Markets
Almost every day of the week there is an open-air street market somewhere on the Costa del Sol. They include stalls selling handicrafts, flowers, clothes and accessories. They also sell locally-grown produce, often organic. These traditional street markets are very picturesque and are reminiscent of the bazaars in Morocco. The prices are very good, and the raw materials are first class. Just be aware that you have to pay in cash, so make sure you have some with you.
Some stalls even let you choose the pieces of fruit you want. You mainly buy by the kilo, so it’s best to take a trolley so you don’t have to carry the weight around with you. And of course, if it’s summer, don’t forget to apply sun cream, wear a good hat and, if possible, don’t go too late in the morning so you avoid the hottest hours. It is a very authentic local experience and a way to fill your larder with local produce.
Markets we recommend
In Marbella the Saturday market in Nueva Andalucía, the Monday market in Las Albarizas or, in Coín, the Sunday market at La Trocha. But if you happen to be in another town on the Costa del Sol, here is the list of market days and villages.
For any other aspect of the Costa del Sol, keep reading our Blog.
Of course, for luxurious and beautiful properties in Marbella and the surrounding area, do not hesitate to contact us.