Mercado de Atarazanas central food market
Whether you’re a tourist exploring Malaga’s culinary scene or a local seeking an alternative to supermarket shopping, Atarazanas Market (Mercado de Atarazanas) is the perfect place to discover authentic Andalusian gastronomy.
Open every morning except Sundays, this vibrant food market features over 100 stalls, many of which are family-owned businesses passed down through generations. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh fish and seafood to exotic fruits, local charcuterie, and artisan cheeses.
Visiting Atarazanas market
Walking into Atarazanas Market can feel overwhelming at first – the explosion of colours, aromas and sounds creates an unforgettable sensory experience. Fortunately, the market hall is easy to navigate thanks to its logical layout.
It’s divided into three clear sections, divided vertically from east to west.
When coming through the main entrance on Calle Atarazanas, you are immersed in the central fish and seafood section. To the left of that section, you can find meat and charcuterie, and to the right, you can find fruit, vegetables, nuts and spices.
Atarazanas Market doesn’t have uniform opening hours, as each stall operates independently. However, most vendors open between 8:00 and 9:00 AM and close around 2:00 to 3:00 PM, typically once they’ve sold their daily produce.
Pro tip: Arrive early in the morning for the best selection, or visit closer to closing time if you’re hoping to snag end-of-day discounts.
Tips for shopping at Atarazanas market
- Bring cash. While some vendors accept cards, cash is preferred.
- Come with bags. Some stalls charge for bags or may not provide them.
- Ask for recommendations. Vendors are passionate about their products.
- Be ready to negotiate, especially when buying in larger quantities.
- Visit multiple stalls. Prices and quality can vary.
Try typical Malaga products
One of the joys of visiting Atarazanas market is sampling local specialties. Many vendors offer free samples of regional products, allowing you to taste before you buy.
Some of the best local Malaga delicacies to look out for are almonds, olives (countless local preparations and flavours), Jamón Ibérico premium Iberian ham sliced fresh, freshly squeezed juices and local cheeses from the nearby mountains and countryside.
Where to eat at Atarazanas market
Near the main entrance, you’ll find several tapas bars where skilled chefs transform market-fresh ingredients into authentic Malaga dishes.
Don’t miss the fritura malagueña – a delicious mixed platter of fried fish that’s a local specialty.
These bars offer the perfect opportunity to rest your feet while enjoying traditional Andalusian flavours in the market’s lively atmosphere.
The rich history of Atarazanas market
The Atarazanas Market isn’t just a place to shop – it’s a historic landmark with roots stretching back to Moorish times.
The building itself tells the story of Malaga’s multicultural past, blending Islamic architectural elements with later Christian additions.
To learn more about the fascinating history of Mercado de Atarazanas, click here.
Daryl is the co-founder of Malaga Guru. He is a copywriter, editor and translator who moved to Malaga a decade ago having first fallen in love with the city on his Erasmus year. After working for many years at local expat newspaper SUR in English, Daryl gained expert knowledge in life from the perspective of foreign residents and decided to co-found this site in 2016.