La Boqueria – Barcelona, Spain: Arguably one of the best markets in the world, La Boqueria is a must for any traveler in Barcelona. Located on Las Ramblas, the market is housed in a building originally designed in 1840. With colorful fruit, freshly caught seafood, and the famous jamon iberico, it’s easy to eat for hours.
Ferry Plaza – San Francisco, US: San Francisco’s waterfront Ferry Plaza Farmer’s Market is worth a visit simply for the view. Housed in the restored 1898 Embarcadero transit center, local vendors and restaurant favorites offer patrons the very best artisanal products the area is known for. Make sure you try the just baked sourdough bread and fresh-shucked oysters.
Queen Victoria Market – Melbourne, Australia: Covering more than 17 acres of land, Melbourne’s Queen Victoria market is the largest open air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Popular with locals and tourists alike, visitors can shop for everything from fruit and vegetables to seafood, as well as clothing and handmade arts and crafts.
Jemaa el Fnaa – Marrakesh, Morocco: Located in the heart of the medina, the Jemaa el Fnaa is Marrakesh’s main square. During the day, travelers can sip on freshly-squeezed orange juice and take in the distinct smell of Middle Eastern spices and cooked lamb. At sundown, the market becomes the center of life in the city, filled with live entertainment and aromatic delicacies.
La Merced – Mexico City, Mexico: For more than 150 years, La Merced has been Mexico City’s largest and most popular market. With over 3,000 stalls selling every possible ingredient imaginable, it’s easy to be swept away in the madness. Let your nose guide the way, as there is no bad decision to be made in this labyrinth of delicious food.