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Costa Blanca North markets - an overview


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The Markets of the Costa Blanca North

The Costa Blanca North is known for its beautiful coastline and charming villages such as Dénia, Jávea, Moraira, Calpe, Benitachell, Altea and Benidorm. But in addition to sun, sea and sand, this region has much more to offer. One of the best ways to experience the real Spain is to visit the many weekly markets, the covered market halls, flea markets or medieval markets.

Whether you are looking for fresh local produce for your daily shopping, a unique local souvenir, or just want to stroll among the colourful stalls, the markets in this region are a feast for all the senses. From lively coastal towns to charming inland villages, you will find markets everywhere that reflect the rich culture, flavours and traditions of the region.

verdurasHereby an overview of some of the best markets on the northern Costa Blanca.

Weekly markets: Vibrant colours and local flavours

    • Dénia (Market day: Monday)
      Dénia is known for its large weekly market, where you can find everything from fresh fish, fruit and vegetables to clothing, accessories and handicrafts. The market is a must for anyone who wants to experience local life. Don't skip a visit to Els Magazinos for a tasty tapa or lunch.
    • Jávea (Market day: Tuesday)
      The market in Jávea is a popular destination for both tourists and residents. You will find a wide range of fresh products, from fruit and vegetables to local cheeses and olive oil, as well as clothing and souvenirs. Located in and near the Old Town.
    • Moraira (Market day: Thursday)
      The weekly market in Moraira offers a varied range of fresh products, flowers, local specialities, as well as clothing and souvenirs. It is a pleasant market with a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for enjoying the local products. Be sure to try the warm, grilled chicken from the spit.
      javea markt
    • Calpe (Market day: Tuesday)
      The markets in Calpe are very popular and attract many visitors. They offer a wide selection of fresh fish, fruit and vegetables, as well as clothing, accessories and other market products.
    • Benitachell (Market day: Friday)
      Benitachell's weekly market offers a range of local products, including fresh fruit and vegetables, olive oil and handmade goods. It is a pleasant market that reflects the atmosphere of this charming little village with its blue church dome.
      Benissa markt
    • Altea (Market day: Tuesday)
      Altea's weekly market is famous for its artistic and bohemian atmosphere. In addition to fresh produce such as fruit and vegetables, you can also find art, handicrafts and jewellery. It is a place to stroll, enjoy the atmosphere and buy unique products.
    • Benidorm (Market day: Wednesday and Sunday)
      Benidorm has two markets a week: the large Wednesday market is known for its wide range of clothing, accessories and fresh produce. The Sunday market is more tourist-oriented, with souvenirs, artisan products and typical Spanish delicacies.
      benidorm-municipal-market
    • Jalón (Market day: Saturday)
      Jalón is famous for its weekly market on Saturdays, which mainly focuses on local products such as almonds, olive oil and wine. It is a fantastic place to discover the flavour of the Costa Blanca's interior and enjoy an authentic Spanish market experience. Also visit the bodegas for even more local wines and products.
    • Special mention for Jesús Pobre (Market day: Sunday)

      The Sunday market in Jesús Pobre is a unique experience and one of the most popular markets in the region in the local ríurau. It is a small-scale but charming market that focuses on local and organic products. From fresh fruit and vegetables to homemade bread and jam, traditional pastries, oil and wine, you will find a diverse range of quality products here. It is also the perfect place to buy handmade products and works of art from local artisans. The market is a great way to experience the tranquillity and charm of this idyllic village and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. There is often live music and people bring their own chairs and tables to enjoy the local products and music together.

riurau Jesus Pobre

Covered market halls: Explosions of flavour and colour

In addition to the traditional markets, you will also find indoor market halls on the Costa Blanca that offer a unique culinary experience. These often beautiful market halls, such as the Mercado de Colón in Valencia (not far from the Costa Blanca) and the market hall in Alicante, are the perfect place to buy fresh local ingredients, from fish to local vegetables, meat and cheese.

In Altea, Benissa, Dénia and Jávea, for example, there is the Mercado Municipal – a covered market hall where you can find everything from fresh fish to homemade products such as jamón, olives and cheeses. These market halls not only offer a practical way to buy the best ingredients, but also a lively atmosphere where you can talk to local vendors and enjoy their knowledge about the products. You will often find the best tapas stalls and the tastiest coffee shops there too.

Rastro markets: antique and vintage finds

In addition to the traditional markets, there are also the so-called rastros – antique and flea markets that are held in many towns and villages on the Costa Blanca. Here you can discover unique antique finds, vintage clothing, old books, furniture and all kinds of curiosities. These markets are ideal for those looking for something special or a nostalgic treasure.

    • Jalón, Pedreguer and Dénia regularly hold rastros, where you can stroll among the stalls in search of a truly unique find. Whether you are looking for an antique piece of furniture, a vintage bag or handmade jewellery, the rastros are a treasure trove of history and charm.
    • Benidorm also has a number of rastros, but unlike the traditional markets, you will mainly find second-hand goods, antiques and collector's items here. The atmosphere is often more relaxed, with a touch of retro.

Medieval markets: A journey back in time

One of the highlights of the markets on the Costa Blanca is the opportunity to visit a medieval market. These markets take you back in time with medieval crafts and clothing, accompanied by good food, music and theatre. They are often held in the spring and summer, especially around holidays and local festivals. These markets offer a colourful experience, with stalls that evoke the atmosphere of the Middle Ages and take visitors on a journey through history. Often there are attractions such as fire-eaters, medieval spectacles, falconry demonstrations or other livestock on display. It is one of the most festive markets on this list and they are well worth a visit.


Conclusion

Whether you are looking for fresh produce, unique antique finds or a trip back in time with medieval markets, the markets of the northern Costa Blanca offer something for everyone. They are part of the local culture and are also a fun way to explore the region. From coastal towns like Dénia and Jávea to the inland Jalón valley, the markets on the Costa Blanca are a true journey of discovery for your senses and well worth a visit!

José den Herder

José den Herder

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