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Shopping for the Portuguese is serious business. Clean and prices have always gone hand in hand. Precisely for this reason, in the city, you will find numerous markets ideal for your purchases. Here are some of Porto’s markets not to be missed during your vacation.
PORTO MARKETS
MERCADO BEIRA-RIO
Photo ©, Domjisch
A historic market, whose origins date back to the mid-19th century, but which only began to take on its current appearance between 1904 and 1937, with the opening of the famous fish market and, subsequently, of fruit and vegetable stalls.
Today it is one of the most beautiful markets in Porto, thanks to its suggestive position near the river, and to its innovative soul that combines innovation and tradition, with the aim of combining the traditional market with the more contemporary and modern one, ranging from fresh products such as fruit, vegetables and meats, to restaurants, wine stands and craft beer.
A market that promotes the “sharing” of flavors and cultures, encouraging visitors to experiment with different gastronomic combinations.
The Beira Rio market is open every day from 11:00 to 22:00. The stands are open from Monday to Saturday, from 11:00 to 18:00, and are closed on Sundays and public holidays.
The market is located at Av. De Ramos Pinto 148. Several bus lines stop near the entrance to the market. Alternatively, with metro D, get off at the Jardim do Morro stop and walk for about 800 meters.
MERCADO DO BOLHAO
The centenary city market, a true purple reference point for Portuguese and tourists. It is located in the lively Rua Formosa, and is among the most famous places in the whole capital.
Great selection of fresh fruit, vegetables, meats and of course souvenirs.
The market is in an excellent position, perfectly reachable also by public transport.
More info from here.
MERCADO BOM SUCCESS
Fairly popular market but less touristy than the previous one and, for this reason, not to be missed among the markets of Porto. It is located in Praça do Bom Sucesso, a few steps from the Casa da Musica.
You will find 40 shops and restaurants, 26 stalls and a large entertainment area. Contrary to what one might think, in fact, this is not just a place dedicated only to the sale of products. Here, there is no shortage of cultural activities and initiatives and, often, the building is the setting for numerous events.
An excellent concept with the aim of being experienced by the inhabitants and by those who visit the city.
Like Bolhao, this market was also classified (in 2011) as a Monument of Public Interest.
Among the numerous gastronomic proposals, there are Munchie, Risott8, RT Foccacias by Reitoria, Forno do Leitão do Zé, Gelados Neveiros, Cremosi, Leitaria Quinta do Paço, Confeitaria Moura, Chocolates Arcádia, Cervejas do Mundo, Lado B, and many others.
Also ideal for stopping for lunch or dinner.
The market is open every day, from Sunday to Thursday, from 08:00 to 23:00. Friday and Saturday, from 08:00 to midnight.
You can get there by Metro A and B, getting off at the Casa da Musica stop.
FEIRA FROM VANDOMA
Photo ©, Laszlo Daroczy
The realm of bargaining, second-hand and junk. If you like to rummage, you cannot miss the Vandoma Fair, the traditional city flea market. Here, once upon a time, students gathered to sell their used items (especially books).
Today, the offer includes all sorts of items, almost all second-hand: used clothes, old vinyls, magazines, comics and objects of all kinds. For the most part, it is junk but the deal is always around the corner!
The market is held only on Saturdays, from 07:00 to 13:00.
It is preferable to arrive early in the morning. Here, more than the other markets in Porto, it is good to pay close attention to your items, always keeping an eye on them.
It is located at Av. 25 de Abril, not far from the Dragao Stadium in Porto and from the A and B metro stops.