Seville is a stunning city in Spain, famous for its beautiful historical landmarks and strong traditional influences. While you may already have planned to explore the Gothic Cathedral, Alcáza castle or the Giralda belltower, don’t restrict yourself to this capital city’s architecture as a way of immersing yourself in its culture.
Other markers of this Spanish town’s heritage are its numerous covered markets. Ranging from daily to weekly, the residents are particularly proud of the many stalls which pop-up across the city and have become staples of local life. These mercados boast everything from traditional crafts and antiques to fresh fruit and vegetables, from locally-sourced fish and meat to Andalusian delicacies. To experience an authentic taste of life in Seville, there is nothing better than visiting one of these amazing markets.
Seville’s Many Charming Mercados
- Lonja Del Barranco: A Delicious Food Market
This chic mercado is situated on Calle Arjona.
Located on Guadalquivir waterfront, Mercado Londa del Barranco is a sophisticated food market that caters to the refined culinary taste of the pijo (posh) locals. The bars and food stalls that cluster together every day but Sunday offer an impressive array of modern and creative dishes that can be savoured in any of the comfortable seating areas. If you are stopping for lunch, the pork cheeks or the bulls tail are both popular choices. If you are just looking for a quick snack though, flamenquines are a meaty Andalusian classic. On a warm and sunny day, the freshly-prepared cuisine is best enjoyed on the riverbank terrace.
- Jueves: A Colourful Flea Market
These vintage stalls are located at 4 A-460 in Seville Burguillos.
To truly immerse yourself into local life, a trip to Seville’s most lively flea market is essential. Even if you don’t buy anything, the local vendors’ cheerful and friendly attitude make it a lovely place to spend the morning. Every Thursday, the city streets are overrun by endless stalls selling traditional flamenco dresses, locals artists’ paintings and sculptures, as well as keep-sake ornaments and one-off antiques.
Insider Tip: If you do spot something that grabs your fancy, don’t hesitate to haggle on the price a little. The vendors are open to a little friendly interaction.
- Triana: An Atmospheric Covered Market
Make you way to Plaza del Altozano to catch a glimpse of daily Sevillian life.
Set around the ruins of an old castle, this charming market boasts rows of fruit, vegetable and meat stalls. Every day the locals gather together for a chat and a quick shop. The area is also home to several quaint tapas bars, perfect places to sit back and soak in the local ambiance while enjoying a cool drink and some freshly fried fish or succulent meatballs in tomato sauce. It’s the most relaxing way to feel like a true Andalusian.
- Feria: The Oldest Market in Seville
Head over to Plaza Calderón de la Barca to discover Seville’s longest-running market.
Tuesday through Saturday, the oldest mercado in Seville sets up shop just outside of the stunning thirteenth-century Church in Calle Feria. Offering an extensive assortment of blooming flowers, succulent fruit and vegetables as well as tender meat and fresh fish, this market is one of Seville’s finest. It’s also the home of La Cantina, a popular bistro that serves delicious tapas. Admire the charming surrounding Andalusian architecture while sharing a platter of elegant finger food and a nice glass of wine.
- Encarnación: A Market Hidden Within A Stunning Edifice
Las Setas tower, located in Plaza de la Encarnación, towers over an array of food stalls.
It’s not difficult to find this covered mercado. Simply keep your eyes peeled for an imposing wooden monument with a mushroom-shaped roof that towers over the surrounding buildings. Its intricate and eye-catching top took six years to build. Interestingly, while the monument was in construction, Roman remains were uncovered, making it an even more architecturally-interesting building. You can even walk around the rooftop and soak in panoramic views of the town below.
Within the culturally-significant walls, you will also find a daily food market that sells fresh local produce. After a little mooch around the stalls, enjoy the glass of prosecco that is included in the ticket entry price.
How To Get To Seville
Travelling to Seville airport couldn’t be easier. British Airways, Iberia as well as several low-cost airlines, including easyJet and Ryanair, all offer direct flights from London. After a three-hour flight, you won’t want to be messing around hopping on and off public transport or trying to hail a taxi. Make your journey a stress-free one by booking a private airport transfer with Shuttle Direct. A friendly driver will meet you outside the terminal building, help you with your luggage and safely take you to your luxury hotel. You can also order a luxury car for extra comfort to make the fifteen-minute drive an even more relaxing experience.
About Shuttle Direct
As Europe and North Africa’s leading transport provider, Shuttle Direct always puts its customers’ comfort and convenience first. They offer a wide range of airport transfers, including private, group and shared. To make your journey as easy and hassle-free as possible, you can book your transfer before you travel via their user-friendly website. You will then be met at the airport terminal by a local driver. All you need to do is sit back, relax and watch Seville come into view as you smoothly make your way to the city centre.
