Best markets in Rome

  

Rome’s markets: you don’t have to look far to find the best tomaoes and more delicious Italian products at their freshest.

Markets can be found in every rioni (or district) of Rome and are called mercati rionali. Rome locals buy their produce from the descendants of the very vendors their grandparents bought produce from. Banter is expected and usually happens in Romanaccio (or Roman slang).

For visitors and tourists to Rome, a trip to a local market can be one of the best Roman experiences. These are some of Italy’s Best favourite markets.

 

Campo dei Fiori Market

Head to the market in Campo dei Fiori, held every morning but Sunday, for a slice of local colour. Actually, Campo dei Fiori literally means field of flowers.

Besides from being the most well known, the Campo dei Fiori Market is also one of the oldest markets in Rome: It has served the city since 1869! Wander through the stalls before heading to lunch to know exactly what seasonal veggies to order.

 

Campagna Amica Market near Circus Maximus

Every Saturday and Sunday from morning until late afternoon, the indoor market off the ancient Circus Maximus sells some of the most locally grown produce in Rome. Great vegetables, olive oils, cheeses, meats, pasta, you name it, they got it! There is a Kilometre-Zero Rule at this market, which maintains that the distance travelled, from field to market, is as small as it can be. There is plenty to buy and bring home as gifts, like those lovely half-litre tins of olive oil from Lazio or jars of creamed artichokes. Via San Teodoro, 74

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Piazza Vittorio Market

One of the oldest markets of Rome, the Piazza Vittorio Market (or Esquilino Market) attests to the fact that some things about Rome do change. Once located in the centre of Piazza Vittorio, the market is now undercover at Via Principe Amedeo, 184. But, that’s not the biggest thing to have changed. At one time, most of the vendors and buyers were Italian, but now, in reaction to the changing face of Piazza Vittorio itself, the vendors, their products, and the people who buy them come from all over the world. Step into this market and be confronted with strange-shaped vegetables and wonderfully smelling spices. If you’re looking for a break from the tourist-centred vision of Rome, head to Piazza Vittorio on Monday to Saturday, 7am to 2pm.

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Piazza San Cosimato Market in Trastevere

It wasn’t so many years ago that Piazza San Cosimato got a face lift and acquired its market stalls, changing the market from a temporary set up to a permanent one. The market in Piazza San Cosimato—held on weekday and Saturday mornings—is smaller than many of the other markets listed here. But that doesn’t mean it lacks in choice or quality. Making the daily appearance are a fishmonger, several butchers, and the requisite stands of overflowing fresh fruits and vegetables. Even without the market, Piazza San Cosimato is a great place for some good Trastevere people watching.

Porta Portese Flea Market

Early every Sunday morning, the streets around Via Portuense in Trastevere fill with shoppers and sellers of every kind. The Porta Portese Market is Rome’s largest, busiest market. Though there are lots of cheap new stuff on sale (mostly made in China), there is also a significant second-hand section of the market. Go there to find anything vintage—sunglasses, clothes, you name it. The market gets pretty crowded, especially if it’s a beautiful, sunny Sunday, so it’s best to head there bright and early!

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Piazza dell’Unità Market in Prati

If you’re doing some shopping on the Cola di Rienzo, why not drop in to this covered market to see what the Romans are eating? The market is housed under a white, arched neoclassical building from the late 1920’s. Its friendly vendors hawk their goods until late evening, which makes it extremely popular. Also a bonus for Rome’s local commuters is its underground parking lot.

 

Testaccio Market

The market in Testaccio is another classic Roman standby. Though the location has recently moved from the old covered stalls in Piazza Testaccio to a new bright building near to the MACRO Museum, the energetic atmosphere has remained. At the Testaccio Market, you can find anything from artesian house furnishings to a horse butcher. Its also a perfect place to pick up some original gifts to take back home. And, if your hunger can’t wait to cook up the groceries, stop at the stand serving hot sandwiches made with tripe—a district speciality—or bollito (boiled meat). Che buono! And if you’re lucky, you might just see us there!