The atmospheric markets of the Costa del Sol

They are a colourful aspect of living in southern Spain, the friendly markets that create an important shopping and community outlet for towns on the Costa del Sol. Most municipalities, no matter their size or location, have a weekly market that serves local residents and incoming visitors with food produce, household items and a dose of Spanish life.

Trading normally takes place between 9.00hrs and 14.00hrs, but poor weather conditions can affect opening times if stall holders feel the need to pack up early to avoid heavy rain. Most venues are located outdoors, although larger towns and cities in the region, like Marbella and Málaga, will also have an extensive indoor daily market dedicated to fresh vegetables, cheese, meat, fruit and fish.

The outdoor affairs, often referred to as ‘rastros’, are similar to flea markets and sell a combination of locally grown fruit and vegetables alongside herbs, spices, clothes, jewellery, gifts and flowers. The more established markets will also have kiosks and some shop spaces that stock other products such as antique furniture, paintings and cosmetics.

And of course there are the famous ecologial markets with quality, you guessed, ecological produce. Surely not to be missed. We are lucky to have them set up every 1st Saturday of the month directly behind our office. Other dates are: first Sundays of the months in Cartama and Fuengirola, Second Saturday in Málaga (La Malagueta) and second Sunday in Mijas (Las Lagunas). Third Saturday in Marbella (La Campana) and third Sunday in Benalmádena (feria ground). Fourth Saturday Málaga (Parque Huelin) and Fourth Sunday La Cala de Mijas.

You won’t have fully appreciated life on the coast until you have checked out one of these busy bazaars to pick up ingredients for a healthy salad or new outfits for the children – all available at very reasonable prices.

The following is a list of some of the main markets to be found on the Costa del Sol each week:

Monday

Marbella: held in the Zona de las Albarizas at the east side of town

Tuesday

Fuengirola: can be found at the Recinto Ferial grounds

Benahavís: the weekday market is hosted at Avenida de Andalucía

Wednesday

Estepona: the Wednesday market is held at Avda. Juan Carlos, near the feria ground

Thursday

San Pedro Alcántara: large market above Calle Jorge Guillen at the top of the town

Friday

Marbella: situated in the historic streets of Marbella’s Old Town

Saturday

Istan: located at the entrance of the village

Nueva Andalucía: flows throughout the roads adjacent to the Puerto Banús bullring

Sunday

Sotogrande: by the water at Sotogrande Puerto Deportivo

Estepona : the Sunday market is resident in the town’s Puerto Deportivo

Benahavís: car boot style market held at the southern edge of the village

About Residencia Estates

Residencia Estates is a prominent real estate business based on the Costa del Sol, which specialises in property sales and rental accommodation in Marbella East and in particular the Elviria area. For more information about our prestigious portfolio and the local lifestyle, contact Residencia Estates.