Markets in Malaga
As well as lots of great shops and stores, Malaga also does markets very well. From feasts of fresh produce to the best artisan produce with just about anything else in between, you’ll find it at a market in Malaga.
Read on to discover where the best markets in Malaga are, when they’re held and their opening times.
Indoor markets
There are three indoor markets in Malaga, all easily reached from the city centre. They all open Monday to Saturday from 8am to 3pm, and you’re free to browse at them all and try before you buy.
But, make sure you do buy something and remember, these are working markets where locals buy their food so try not to block the aisles.
Did you know?
Fresh fish stalls are closed on Mondays
because fishermen don’t go out on Sundays.
Atarazanas Market
Built as shipyards in Moorish Malaga and still conserving the 14th century gateway to the port, this bustling market sits under a wrought-iron structure backed by a huge stained glass window depicting the city’s main monuments.
It’s a big tourist attraction, but locals still flock here with their trolleys for their daily shopping. Tiny bars on the south side offer tapas and snacks – eat inside at the packed bar counters or perch at outdoor tables. Feast your senses (all five of them) on the laden stalls, most of which sell local produce.
Calle Atarazanas 10
Salamanca Market
Slightly off the beaten track to the north of the city centre, the Mercado de Salamanca has a simply stunning façade built in the Neoclassical style. Built in 1922, it has a wrought-iron outside with lots of brightly coloured tiles.
This market had a full facelift recently and now sparkles in its full former glory. While you’re there, take a tour of the outside and feast your eyes on the architectural details.
There are just a handful of stalls inside but the atmosphere is truly authentic. Read more about Salamanca Market.
Calle San Bartolomé 1
Carmen Market
The Mercado del Carmen is located in El Perchel district between the mainline train station and the city centre. This modern structure doesn’t offer much in the way of architecture but it’s a quieter way to see and sample local produce without the tourist crowds. The adjacent San Andrés Convent and church are well worth a peep inside too.
Calle La Serna 3
Street markets
Spain does street markets well and Malaga is no exception. Here’s a round-up of some of the flea markets in Malaga.
Fairground Market
A giant weekly market – there are over 300 stalls – sell everything from clothes and household linen to fruit and sweets via bric-a-brac and cheap toys. In the warmer months, go early to escape the heat.
Recinto Ferial. Take the 20 bus from Alameda (every 10-15 mins) and get off at the stop (2413, Recinto Ferial).
Sunday 8am-3pm
El Palo Market
Located just next to the bridge into El Palo, this small market has stalls selling bric-a-brac, clothes, fruit and vegetables, and flowers. Combine a visit with lunch at one of the great fish restaurants in El Palo. Read more about this part of Malaga.
Satuday 8am-3pm
Handicraft Markets
Some of the best artisans in the area sell their creations at handicraft markets in Malaga. Check out our monthly round-up of events in Malaga for specific details for each month of the following markets:
El Zoco
This arts and crafts market takes place on Sundays along the portside at Muelle Uno. Lots of homemade crafts, jewelry and clothes (new and second hand) as well as local artwork stands next to the Pompidou Centre. Great views of the city skyline and there’s often live entertainment too.
11am-5pm
Soho Market and La Merced Market
These are also arts and crafts markets that take place on one Sunday a month. Soho Market sets up its stalls in Calle Tomás Heredia, parallel to the Alameda Principal, and La Merced Market is in Plaza de la Merced. They usually take place from 11am to 7pm.
For details on exact dates, check out our what’s on post for the appropriate month.
Organic Markets
Stock up on treats for your picnic at these organic markets held twice a month where local food producers from the Guadalhorce Valley to the north of Malaga city sell their organic wares such as fruit and vegetables, cheeses, honey and conserves, and bread and cakes.
Paseo de Reding/ Cervantes – second Saturday of the month 10am – 2pm
Parque de Huelin – fourth Saturday of the month 10am to 2pm
Red Friday
Definitely a market in Malaga with a difference, this once a month event takes place at La Térmica cultural centre (check our What’s on in Malaga post for details). Known as Red Friday, this market offers a feast of retro items – phones, clothes, vinyls and antiques – as well as collectables such as stamps, coins, comics and Playmobile characters.
There are food trucks, live music and performances. And while you’re browsing, take the stunning architecture (don’t miss the original coloured floor tiles) in La Térmica cultural centre built as a hospital in the early 20th century.
Avda de los Guindos 48. Take the 7 bus from the Alameda Principal and get off at Santa Paula stop (1524).
Usually first Friday of the month 7pm to midnight
Christmas Markets
Christmas in Malaga wouldn’t be the same without the markets. They take place at various locations throughout December and early January including Muelle Uno and the Paseo del Parque. There are also one-off markets, usually at the Concepción Botanical Gardens and in Soho.
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