The Most Exciting Markets in The World

Otavalo Market, Ecuador

Photo: depositphotos.com

Known as the "Otavalo Market" to tourists, it is called Plaza de los Ponchos and also Centenario Market by locals.

Otavalo is a town located in the northern Andes. The town center is located at 8345 feet (2543 meters) above sea level. This is a homeland for the indigenous Quechua people, who are still dressed in traditional clothing. Each village in the area specializes in its own craft, from woodworking to leather goods. During the week, the artisans of these small towns converge in Otavalo to sell their products.

The largest day for the market is Saturday, and the second largest is Wednesday. On those days you can see many stalls in the main plaza and in the alleyways of the town. Try to come here early in the morning, before the market becomes crowded with numerous visitors. Here you can also visit the animal market, with chickens, alpacas, goats and sheep.

La Boqueria, Barcelona

Photo: depositphotos.com

Entering this market, you can find all the tasty, healthy and famous products of Barcelona in one place! This market was first described in the 1200s, and at that time it was a travelling market for stallholders from Catalonia. Later, in 1470, pigs were sold here.

Originally, the market was not fenced in, as it had no official status. It was not enclosed and had no official status, as it was regarded as a simple extension of the Plaça Nova. It also had no definite structure. Nowadays, this market is the largest covered market in the region. It is located in the Ciutat Vella district and has a very diverse selection of food.

Marché Place Monge, Paris

Photo: equipement.paris.fr

The capital of France can impress you with more than 80 outdoor food markets. However, if you are visiting Paris, we suggest that you check out Marché Place Monge, one of the local favorites, with a great food selection and decent prices. Here you can buy fruits and vegetables, organic salads, meat and fish from Boulogne and Dieppe, cheese and wine, and many other products. Even clothing and footwear are available. The busiest day of the Market is Sunday, attracting many visitors, both locals and foreign tourists. Plus, you can taste some of your acquisitions in the nearby Jardin des Arènes (the ruins of Paris's Roman arena), the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic.

Yashow Market, Beijing

Photo: depositphotos.com

The concept of the market is reminiscent of the Silk Market, one of the most famous in Beijing. It is located at Sanlitun, the street where all the famous bars and clubs are situated. In the basement of the market you can find shoes, suitcases and handbags. The first and the second floors are famous for designer clothes, while the third has a big selection of silk and suit fabric and fabric for children.

The two best spots in the city for tourists are the Silk Market (8 Xiushui East St, Chaoyang) and the giant Yashow Market next to Sanlitun.

Cai Rang Floating Market - Mekong Delta, Vietnam

Photo: depositphotos.com

It is impossible not to mention a Vietnamese floating market on our Market list. The Cai Rang Floating Market is one of the largest floating markets in the whole country.

Here the shops are located on boats, and products are fresh, tasty and traditional. You can buy separate ingredients, such as vegetables, fruits, fish and salads, and also prepared meals. Try to come here early in order to avoid it being overcrowded. Visiting the floating markets of Vietnam is a perfect way to study and feel local Vietnamese life.

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