Food and travel go hand in hand. When asked about your most recent holiday, we bet more often than not food comes up as a definite highlight… Well it does for us anyway! We’re suckers here at dealchecker for a fab food market recommendation, so with all that food-filled knowledge we’ve collected, we thought it was only right to share the love with you all. Here are some of our favourites…

1. La Boqueria, Barcelona

Known by many as one of Europe’s largest and most famous food markets, La Boqueria is an absolute must when visiting sunny Barcelona. Located just off the famous Ramblas, it’s easy to find and is full of local and regional delights for all to feast on. Travel through a maze of hanging jamón legs, freshly caught seafood and mountains of crisp fruit and veg, before heading to one of the many tapas bars within the market for a well-needed bite to eat!

2. La Merced, Mexico City

Mexico City has its fair share of food markets, but if you only have time to visit one during your trip, then make sure it’s La Merced, the oldest and most famous of them all. It can be a little overwhelming inside, with so many alleys to wander down, and so many stalls to see, but once embraced it is a foodie’s dream come true. Stroll past hundreds of different chilli varieties and make sure you grab a taco or two before you leave. If you’re feeling a little more daring then why not try pancita, a vibrant stew made from cow’s stomach… anyone?

3. Torvehallerne, Copenhagen

With over 80 stands selling a range of Danish, and international, delicacies, Torvehallerne is a fantastic spot for those looking for their foodie fix whilst visiting Copenhagen. We say a spot, it’s actually two halls in one space, making the food choices even greater for everyone visiting. Hand-brewed coffees, fresh pasta, smoked meats and the freshest of seafood are just some of this markets starring roles. It’s also a great place to pick up some of Denmark’s most beautiful flowers and potted plants.

4. Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne

The largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere, Queen Victoria in Melbourne just can’t be missed on a trip down under. Spanning over several blocks and consisting of over 600 traders, it may take a while to find that kangaroo biltong you’ve been searching for. But one thing’s for sure, you’ll have the best time seeking it out. Just make sure you stop by the impressive deli-hall at some point during your visit to get some goodies to take home with you.

5. Nuovo Mercato Esquilino, Rome

Loud, colourful, fragrant and diverse are just some of the words that spring to mind when thinking of Nuovo Mercato Esquilino. If you want a taste of the real Rome, then head here and wander through the labyrinth of food stalls selling fresh international produce, as well as a variety of local delicacies. From fresh fruits, exotic spices and a crazy selection of nuts, to silky homemade pasta, local cheeses and freshly baked breads, the food choices here are endless. Barter away and bag yourself a tasty bargain in one of Rome’s oldest and most loved markets.

6. Or Tor Kor, Bangkok

Known as one of the world’s best fresh markets, Or Tor Kor in Bangkok is home to a vast array of home-grown exotic fruits and vegetables, as well as delights and specialties from all over Asia. Sample spicy-hot curry pastes and explore a world of vibrant and unique ingredients, before heading to the food court for some traditional food. The market is extremely clean and well-lit too, making it a great spot for those all important Instagram foodie photos!

7. Jemaa el-Fnaa, Marrakech

Here’s a market that you’ll want to visit again and again. Although not primarily a food market during the day, Jemaa el-Fnaa comes alive in the early evening when restaurants fire up their grills and the local music begins. Even if you don’t eat at any of the food stalls on here, a browse through the aisles of treats on offer is well worth your time. From couscous, kebabs and salads, to sheep heads and snails, you can eat as adventurous as you like here.

8. Marche d’Aligre, Paris

Open six days a week from morning to early afternoon, a visit to Marche d’Aligre should definitely be worked into everyone’s itinerary when visiting Paris. Containing three markets in one, there’s plenty of food for all, and with friendly vendors and tasty treats each way you turn, it’s hard to know where to begin. Slabs of butter, delicious pastries, local cheeses and cold meats, to name just a few of the joys on offer here.
Image © Joe Tabacca

9. Union Square Green Market, New York

Located in the heart of downtown Manhattan, the Union Square Green Market, founded in 1976, is home to some of the region’s very best locally grown produce. Expect to see a rainbow of colours as you walk amongst the many stalls all whilst soaking up the lively atmosphere around you. From homemade jams, pickles and syrups, to fresh artisan breads, award-winning cheeses and amazing meats, this famous New York market is a must!

10. Borough Market, London

We couldn’t write an article on food markets and not include over beloved Borough Market now could we? Home to a crazy amount of different cuisines, this amazing market is definitely one of London’s best, and is well worth seeing for anyone visiting the capital. From Spanish paellas and cured meats, to raclette topped potatoes and olive-filled breads, you’ll be sure to leave with a few bags filled to the brim with yummy goods.