The Mercado Central in Cádiz is not only a famous indoor food market located in the historic center of the city, but also one of the oldest covered markets in Spain, having served the people of Cadiz for over 186 years. Visitors can stroll through the market’s stalls and indulge in the traditional Andalusian cuisine, such as fried fish, tapas, and sherry.
The Mercado central in Cádiz is, of course, included in our audio guided tour of the city. Read more here: https://visitingcadiz.com/immerse-yourself-in-cadizs-rich-history-a-guided-audio-tour/
The market, located in the Plaza Libertad was designed by Torcuato Bejumeda in the neoclassical style, featuring a square plaza enclosed by a Doric portico. The market is not only a place to shop for a wide variety of fresh seafood, meats, fruits, vegetables, and other local products, but also a hub of local culture and a meeting place for the people of Cádiz.
Opening times are 9am to 3pm every day except Sundays.
The Rincón Gastronómico
The Mercado Central in Cádiz also features the “Rincón Gastronómico”, which has different opening hours from the rest of the market. It’s open from Monday to Saturday from 9am to 3:30pm and on Tuesday to Thursday from 8pm to midnight On Fridays and Saturdays from 8 pm to 1am.
If you are vising Cádiz and want to try the local food then the Rincón Gastronómico is the place to taste typical products of Cádiz.
The Mercado Central is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city of Cadiz, not only for its historical significance but also for its fresh and delicious local produce. Whether you’re looking for fish, fruit and vegetables, meat, groceries, or local tapa and tastes, the Mercado Central is a great place to visit.
Further reading
Wondering what to eat whilst you are visiting Cádiz? Take a look here for a few tips about the gastronomy of Cádiz: https://visitingcadiz.com/what-to-eat-in-cadiz/
Frequently Asked Questions About the Mercado Central in Cádiz
The Mercado Central in Cádiz is a historic indoor food market located in the heart of the old town. Designed in neoclassical style by Torcuato Benjumeda, it has served the local community for over 186 years. Today, it remains one of the most vibrant and culturally rich spots in the city.
Visitors can explore a diverse range of stalls offering fresh local produce—especially seafood, meats, fruits, and vegetables. It’s also a fantastic place to sample traditional Andalusian cuisine like fried fish, tapas, and local sherry. The lively atmosphere gives a true taste of everyday life in Cádiz.
The main market is open:
Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Closed Sundays
The Rincón Gastronómico is a food court within the market where visitors can enjoy freshly prepared tapas, local drinks, and typical regional dishes. Its hours are:
Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Tuesday to Thursday (Evenings): 8:00 PM – Midnight
Friday and Saturday (Evenings): 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM
You can do both. While the central area is filled with vendors selling groceries, the Rincón Gastronómico offers sit-down dining options with quality tapas and drinks in a casual atmosphere.
Yes, it’s featured in the Visit Cádiz audio guided tour, which highlights major historical and cultural landmarks throughout the city, including the market.
It’s a cultural hub that blends history, gastronomy, and daily life in Cádiz. Whether you’re shopping for ingredients or tasting local delicacies, the market offers an authentic and memorable experience.
Clive Muir is a long-term resident of Western Andalucía and the voice behind the Visit Cádiz audio tour. He also runs several English-language travel websites including Ronda Today and The Caminito del Rey. His articles often include affiliate links that help support continued travel content for the region.
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!