Where to go on holiday for the world’s best food markets

If you’re going to Italy on holiday you’d be mad to miss the experience of a traditional food market. These aren’t just places to pick up some bread and milk; they are a whole cultural and culinary feast.

First off there are some rules that you should learn before you go to avoid offending the locals. Don’t touch the merchandise if it’s edible. It might seem odd to us, after all if you don’t give that piece of fruit a squeeze how will you know if it’s ripe? However this is just the way it is and the assumption, usually correct, is that all the food is high quality so there’s no need to paw it before you buy. Plus at least you know your fruit and veg has been protected from not just your germs but everyone else’s too. If you find you’ve bought more than you can carry there are plenty of car rental options in Italy to help you get your shopping home. 

No matter where you are holidaying in France there is likely be a great food market nearby. The French are renowned for their love of food and the plethora of speciality markets across the country bears this out. Food markets in France are full of regional specialities you can’t find anywhere else so take your time and sample as much as possible. 

Of course Paris is the place to go for produce from all over the world including Middle Eastern flavours and Asian spices. Visit the Richard Lenoir in the 11ème arrondissement on a Sunday and choose from the freshest meats and cheeses while enjoying music from street performers and the general hubbub.

If you are in France around the festive period make your way to the city of Strasbourg to visit the oldest and largest Christmas market in the country. The market attracts over 1.6 million visitors each year and it’s easy to see why with picturesque streets decorated with lights, a huge Christmas tree, a skating rink and more mulled wine and stollen than you could possibly eat or drink. 

If you have decided to take a break in Germany then stroll over to the Marktplatz on a Saturday morning and feast your senses on the smells and sounds of the bustling food market. However, Germany is world famous for its seasonal Christmas markets.

If you’re tired of Christmas commercialisation then head over to one of these truly romantic markets and re-discover the spirit of the season. Bonn, Bamberg, Munich and Hildesheim all have celebrated markets. In Bonn they even go so far as to turn the enormous town hall into an advent calendar, lighting a new window each night as Christmas Day approaches. 

Italian Markets

French Markets

German Markets

25 Top Food Markets

Christmas Markets