Open-air Markets

Porto

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DESTINATIONS portugal porto Shopping Open-air Markets

Open-air Markets

There is no better way to get a glimpse of daily Portuguese life, than by paying a visit to one of the many open-air markets this city has to offer. So, here's a list of the three ones worth visiting when in Porto: - Mercado do Bolhão One of the most popular and lively markets in Porto, the Mercado do Bolhão and its several floors of fresh fruit, vegetables, and meat are a true feast for the eyes, nose, and palette. Centrally located, this market is also a nice place to hunt for souvenirs. Address: Rua Formosa, Porto Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 8am–6pm - Mercado Porto Bello Although more compact than its namesake market in London, the Mercado Porto Belo still boasts the same hipster vibe from its Notting Hill's distant cousin. Here you will find antiques, vinyl records, vintage clothing and accessories, organic goodies such as homemade jams, olive oil, and soap, as well as a few food stalls. It takes place every Saturday from 10am–7pm at Praça de Carlos Alberto. - Vandoma Fleamarket Even if you are not searching for anything to buy, a visit to this flea market is worth just the experience alone. Started in the 1970s by students who would sell their old clothes and books, now this traditional and eclectic flea market offers a vast array of second-hand goods that range from clothes, vinyl records, and books to stamps, electronics, and household utensils. It is held every Saturday, from 8am–1pm at Avenida 25 de Abril.

Shopping

Porto’s main shopping street is the pedestrianised Rua de Santa Catarina in the city centre, where you will find famous international brands as well as the large Centro Comercial ViaCatarina Shopping Center. However, the small streets off the main streets are also worth a visit, brimming with independent shops selling fresh bread, cheese, and cakes, interspersed with bookstores and traditional shoe shops. Gold jewellery is another speciality of Portugal, a reflection of its colonial past and its conquests of gold-rich lands in South America. For a taste of daily Portuguese life, pay a visit to one of Porto’s many open-air markets to mingle with the locals and try some local delicacies.