Celebrating local culture: Some of the most memorable markets around the world

For an authentic taste of regional dishes, traditional arts and crafts, jostling crowds of locals, fresh produce, or a bargain to take home with you… a stroll through a local market is a truly unbeatable way to get to the heart of your holiday destination. Whether it be the perfect excuse to indulge in a sunny Sunday morning, or a worthy adventure at the vibrant night market downtown, join us at Vado on a trip around some of the most memorable markets in the world…

The souks of Marrakech, Morocco

For a true taste of Marrakech, head to Jemaa el-Fna, the heart of the city surrounded by a labyrinth of vibrant, authentic souks…

There’s no doubt the world-famous Moroccan souks — the very veins of Marrakech — have gained their reputation for good reason. Bustling with locals and tourists alike from morning until evening, the labyrinth of market stalls offers everything: from spices, to lamps and rugs, or a freshly squeezed orange juice. With some adaptation to suit the modern world, the souks of Marrakech still somewhat resemble the cultural and commercial hub they were a thousand years ago.

Temple Street Night Market (廟街夜市場), Hong Kong

When the sun goes down, Temple Street Market comes to life with luminescent lights glowing in amongst the high-rise buildings of Hong Kong.

In true Hong Kong style, at Temple Street Market the fun begins when the sun goes down. From around 8pm, this open-air market comes to life, with its luminescent lights creating a neon glow in amongst the high-rise buildings.

Offering everything, from street food to clothes to electronics to souvenirs, crowds have flocked to these stalls for nearly a century, and its surrounding areas remain distinctly un-touristy and authentic. It’s arguably the only way to truly see, touch, hear, smell and taste Hong Kong.

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The Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı), Istanbul, Turkey

The Grand Bazaar, a true gem of Istanbul, provides the perfect opportunity for a leisurely wander through traditional arts and crafts, tasty treats and much more…

Said to be the largest covered market in the world, with more than 3,000 shops and roughly 300,000 people walking in and out every day, the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is a jewel of the city and a true feast for the senses. Located right in the heart of the old city, it is centuries old and has a fascinating history.

It was once a vital commercial and cultural connection between Asia and Europe and has continued to evolve and reflect modern society, expanding greatly in size. A trip to this market should not be rushed, but instead provide an opportunity to wander leisurely through its maze of stalls. Get a taste of the beautiful traditional arts and crafts, or enjoy some tea with a local vendor — the true Turkish way of welcoming visitors.

Maeklong Railway Market (Talad Rom Hoop), Samut Songkhram, Thailand

Have you ever been to a market that is built around, or rather on top of, a railway track? A trip to the Maeklong Railway Market in Thailand definitely offers something unique.

More than 100 years old, the Maeklong Railway Market was traditionally a way for the local fishermen to sell their catch. And when the government decided to build a railway there to improve the transport of these fishing goods, the market stayed put — regardless of the train that now passes straight through eight times a day!

Visitors will sense the train is approaching when vendors start to casually collect their belongings out of the way of the tracks, and fold in the umbrellas from their stalls. The other great thing about a trip to this market is that the content has remained quite traditional, consisting mainly of local produce and traditional flavours, rather than tourist-led souvenirs. A must-see!

Great Market Hall (Vasarcsarnok), Budapest, Hungary

The Great Market Hall of Budapest…not only an architectural masterpiece but any foodie’s heaven on Earth!

The Great Market Hall of Budapest is one of the city’s most visited tourist attractions, while still remaining a hub for residents doing their weekly shopping. This three-storey hall offers a plethora of local produce and freshly cooked traditional dishes — heaven on Earth for any foodie!

Spend some time amongst the friendly vendors on the ground floor selling meats, cheeses, fresh fruits and vegetables before making your way upstairs to enjoy some traditional Hungarian flavours, from goulash to strudel. The building itself is a sight to behold, a protected architectural masterpiece! A huge orange and yellow brick building, with steel beams and giant windows — it should definitely make the list on any trip to Budapest!

Do you love going to local markets on your travels? Which have been your favourites? Let us know over on Instagram (@vadoapp), Facebook or Twitter!