Traveling across Spain in a rental car from SOLO rent a car opens up an array of opportunities to explore its culture through gastronomy. From fresh produce to local delicacies, the markets and grocery stores offer some of the best food experiences you can have in Spain. Let’s dive into the most popular grocery stores and markets, what you can buy, how to get there, and how to prepare these delicious foods.
1. Mercado de Atarazanas, Malaga
Address: Calle Atarazanas, 10, 29005 Málaga
Google Maps link: Mercado de Atarazanas
This historic market in Malaga is a fantastic place to discover local produce. Conveniently located in the city center, it's easily accessible for travelers renting a car from Malaga airport. You’ll find a wide variety of fresh seafood, meats, fruits, and vegetables.
Unique products to try:
- Sea urchins (Erizos de mar): Considered a delicacy in Spain, these can be eaten raw with a squeeze of lemon or used in pasta sauces.
- Anchovies from Malaga (Boquerones): Typically marinated in vinegar and served with olive oil and garlic. A perfect tapa paired with a glass of local wine.
Approximate prices:
- Sea urchins: €10-15 per dozen.
- Anchovies: €5-8 per portion.
How to get there: From Malaga airport, it’s a 15-20 minute drive via the MA-20 highway.
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2. Mercado de San Miguel, Madrid
Address: Plaza de San Miguel, S/N, 28005 Madrid
Google Maps link: Mercado de San Miguel
One of Madrid’s most famous markets, Mercado de San Miguel is a paradise for food lovers. Here, you’ll find everything from Jamón Ibérico to fresh oysters, making it a must-visit for those exploring Spanish cuisine.
Unique products to try:
- Jamón Ibérico (Iberian ham): Widely regarded as Spain’s finest ham, it’s produced from acorn-fed pigs, offering a sweet and rich flavor.
- Croquettes (Croquetas): Tasty fried bites filled with cheese, ham, or fish, perfect as a snack.
Approximate prices:
- Jamón Ibérico: €60-150 per kilogram.
- Croquettes: €2-3 each.
How to get there: From Malaga airport, you can drive to Madrid in around 5 hours via the A-45 and A-4 highways.
3. La Boqueria, Barcelona
Address: La Rambla, 91, 08001 Barcelona
Google Maps link: Mercado de La Boqueria
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Located on Barcelona’s main boulevard, La Boqueria is one of the city’s most iconic markets. It’s a must for food enthusiasts.
Unique products to try:
- Butifarra: A traditional Catalan sausage, often grilled or stewed.
- Calçots: These long, green onions are typically grilled and served with a special romesco sauce, available during their seasonal period (winter-spring).
Approximate prices:
- Butifarra: €8-12 per kilogram.
- Calçots: €10-15 per portion.
How to get there: Driving from Malaga airport, you can reach Barcelona in about 9 hours via the A-7 and AP-7 highways.
4. Mercado Central, Valencia
Address: Plaza Ciudad de Brujas, s/n, 46001 Valencia
Google Maps link: Mercado Central
Mercado Central is Europe’s largest market, offering a variety of local products. It’s a perfect stop to buy fresh fruits, meat, seafood, and spices.
Unique products to try:
- Horchata: A traditional Valencian drink made from tiger nuts (chufa). It’s sweet and refreshing, especially popular during summer.
- Gambas al ajillo: Fresh prawns cooked with garlic and chili in olive oil. You can buy the prawns at the market and make this dish yourself.
Approximate prices:
- Horchata: €2-4 per glass.
- Prawns: €15-25 per kilogram.
How to get there: From Malaga airport, the drive to Valencia takes around 6 hours via the A-7 and AP-7 highways.
5. Mercado de Triana, Seville
Address: Calle San Jorge, 6, 41010 Sevilla
Google Maps link: Mercado de Triana
The Triana Market in Seville is not only a place to buy food but also a cultural hub. You’ll find an array of meat, fish, and ready-to-eat dishes here.
Unique products to try:
- Salmorejo: A traditional tomato and bread soup from the region, often served with chopped eggs and ham.
- Tortilla de Patatas: A classic Spanish omelet with potatoes, one of the most well-known dishes in Spain.
Approximate prices:
- Salmorejo: €4-6 per portion.
- Tortilla de Patatas: €5-8 per dish.
How to get there: You can reach Seville from Malaga airport in about 2 hours by driving along the A-92 highway.
Exploring Spain by rental car from SOLO rent a car allows you not only to visit iconic landmarks but also to experience the country’s rich culinary heritage at its best markets and grocery stores. Visiting these places will give you the chance to savor new and unique flavors, while also gathering ingredients to cook traditional Spanish dishes on your own.